bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Optimization of Romiplostim Biosimilar Efficacy Trial Using In Silico Clinical Trial Approach for Patients With Immune Thrombocytopenia
Authors: Petrov Aleksandr , Makarenko Igor , Belova Bella , Melikyan Anait , Saparova Valeria , Peskov Kirill , Kudryashova Nataliya , Kovalik Vladislav , Gefen Maria , Khokhlov Alexandr , Drai Roman
Published: December 2024

During biosimilar drug development, conducting a clinical trial of biosimilar efficacy in patients may become necessary in the presence of residual uncertainty regarding the biosimilarity of the drugs. In the development of the biosimilar romiplostim GP40141, we aimed to use a model‐based in silico clinical trial (ISCT) approach to optimize the planned biosimilar efficacy trial in patients with immune thrombocytopenia. The population pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic model for healthy volunteers was modified and validated to describe platelet dynamics in patients with immune thrombocytopenia. ISCTs were then conducted using the modified model for various expected scenarios of biosimilar efficacy trials. Statistical analysis of the simulation results was subsequently used to confirm the appropriateness of the chosen design for evaluating the planned efficacy end points. Since the planned trial includes both patients naïve to therapy with thrombopoietin receptor agonists and nonnaïve patients, various expected ratios of naïve to nonnaïve patients (1:1, 1:2, 1:3) and the percentage of nonnaïve patients who previously received eltrombopag (0% or 30%) were assessed across 200 ISCTs performed for each scenario. The obtained estimates of empirical power for the equivalence test of platelet response/durable platelet response by the 10th/26th week between the test and reference groups were not less than 94%, regardless of the scenario. Differences in power between the 10‐ and 26‐week end points did not exceed 4%. The analysis of ISCT results allowed for an effective reduction of uncertainty in the biosimilar development of GP40141, demonstrating the appropriateness of using the 10‐week efficacy end point as the primary one.
Early‐season floral bud loss has little impact on the maturity, yield, and lint quality of high‐yielding Bt cotton crops
Authors: Grundy Paul R. , Bell Kerry L.
Published: December 2024

Protecting floral buds (squares) from insect damage in cotton during early growth is a priority for crop managers despite unclear implications for yield potential and increased system risks from early‐season insecticide use. This study was conducted to determine the compensatory responses of high‐yielding Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) cotton, Gossypium hirsutum L. cultivars, following manual square damage across 30 experiments, spanning different seasons and environments under commercial production conditions. Square removal from the first five sympodia (fruiting branches) before flowering reduced yield by 9% in one experiment, increased yield by 9%–12% in three experiments and had no effect in the remaining experiments. The most damaging treatment, with squares removed twice across 10 sympodia, reduced yield in just nine experiments by 10%–23%. Lint strength and length remained high, exceeding Australian market preferences. Micronaire decreased with later or more severe square loss particularly in shorter season environments, but economic impact varied. Compensatory growth following pre‐flowering square loss increased fruiting site production without raising total biomass or boll proportion commensurately and caused only minor boll opening delay (<4 days). Yield compensation occurred through increased boll retention at the first position on upper canopy sympodia and more distal positions on remaining sympodia and was un‐reliant on growth of additional mainstem sympodia. Square loss impacts were greater after commencement of flowering or when pre‐flowering losses continued during the early‐flowering period. Crop managers can have confidence to reduce pre‐flowering pesticide use without jeopardizing high yields, which may produce additional systems benefits.
Cross‐cultural adaption of the computerized assessment of information processing battery (COGNITO) for an Indian longitudinal study on rural elderly
Authors: Lukose Ammu , Venkatesh Rahul Kodihalli , Joseph Mino Susan , Sivakumar Palanimuthu T. , Rao Girish N. , Gangadhar Bangalore N. , Ritchie Karen , Balakrishnan Aditi , Ravindranath Vijayalakshmi , Rao Naren P.
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Testing cognitive functions in Indians with low literacy and linguistic diversity is challenging. We describe the adaptation process of a comprehensive neurocognitive test battery to suit both literate and illiterate aging rural Indians.

Methods

Following the International Test Commission (ITC) guidelines for cross‐cultural adaptation, we adapted the COGNITO battery. This involved translating instructions, linguistic elements, and stimuli of each test from the original English version with the help of bilingual experts. Five stimuli across eight subtests were adapted to maintain construct equivalence and cultural relevance.

Results

The Kannada version of COGNITO, a digitally administered tool, was feasible and effective measure for assessing cognitive functions in Kannada‐speaking aging individuals from a rural Indian population.

Discussion

We emphasize the importance of maintaining semantic and theoretical construct equivalence with the source tool, and ensuring cultural and socioeconomic congruence for the cross‐cultural adaptation of computerized cognitive batteries.

HIGHLIGHTS

Assessed cognitive functions in rural elderly with low literacy and high linguistic diversity.

Followed International Test Commission (ITC) guidelines for cross‐cultural adaptation to suit literate and illiterate aging rural Indians.

Maintained semantic and theoretical construct equivalence with the source tool, ensuring cultural and socioeconomic congruence for cross‐cultural adaptation of cognitive batteries.
Clinical and demographic factors modify the association between plasma phosphorylated tau‐181 and cognition
Authors: Bolton Corey J. , Steinbach Marilyn , Khan Omair A. , Liu Dandan , O'Malley Julia , Dumitrescu Logan , Peterson Amalia , Jefferson Angela L. , Hohman Timothy J. , Zetterberg Henrik , Gifford Katherine A. ,   for the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative
Published: December 2024

INTRODUCTION

Plasma phosphorylated tau‐181 (p‐tau181) associations with global cognition and memory are clear, but the link between p‐tau181 with other cognitive domains and subjective cognitive decline (SCD) across the clinical spectrum of Alzheimer's disease (AD) and how this association changes based on genetic and demographic factors is poorly understood.

METHODS

Participants were drawn from the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative (ADNI) and included 1185 adults >55 years of age with plasma p‐tau181 and neuropsychological test data. Linear regression models related plasma p‐tau181 to neuropsychological composite and SCD scores with follow‐up models examining plasma p‐tau181 interactions with cognitive diagnosis, apolipoprotein E (APOE) ε4 carrier status, age, and sex on cognitive outcomes.

RESULTS

Higher plasma p‐tau181 level was associated with worse memory, executive functioning, and language abilities, and greater informant‐reported SCD. Visuospatial abilities and self‐report SCD were not associated with plasma p‐tau181. Associations were generally stronger in mild cognitive impairment (MCI) or dementia, APOE ε4 carriers, women, and younger participants.

DISCUSSION

Higher levels of plasma p‐tau181 are associated with worse neuropsychological test performance across multiple cognitive domains; however, these associations vary based on disease stage, genetic risk status, age, and sex.

Highlights

Greater plasma p‐tau181 was associated with lower cognition across most domains.

Associations between p‐tau181 and cognition were modified by age and sex.

Level of p‐tau181 was more strongly associated with cognition in people with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and apolipoprotein E (APOE) ε4.
Characterization of Human CD8αβ Interaction With Classical and Unconventional MHC Molecules
Authors: de Wet Ben , Simmons Robert Alan , Suckling Richard J. , Szoke‐Kovacs Rita , Mansour Salah , Lepore Marco , Cole David K. , Jaworski Jakub , Chapman Alexandra L. , Aleksic Milos
Published: December 2024

The CD8 co‐receptor exists as both an αα homodimer, expressed on subsets of specialized lymphoid cells, and as an αβ heterodimer, which is the canonical co‐receptor on cytotoxic T‐cells, tuning TCR thymic selection and antigen‐reactivity in the periphery. However, the biophysical parameters governing human CD8αβ interactions with classical MHC class I (MHCI) and unconventional MHC‐like molecules have not been determined. Using hetero‐dimerized Fc‐fusions to generate soluble human CD8αβ, we demonstrate similar weak binding affinity to multiple different MHCI alleles compared with CD8αα. We observed that both forms of CD8 bound to certain alleles with stronger affinity than others and found that the affinity of thymically selected TCRs was inversely associated with the affinity of the CD8 co‐receptor for the different alleles. We further demonstrated the binding of CD8αα and CD8αβ to the unconventional MHC‐like molecule, MHCI‐related protein 1, with a similar affinity as for classical MHCI, but no interaction was observed for the other unconventional MHC‐like molecules, CD1a, b, c, or d. In summary, this is the first characterization of human CD8αβ binding to MHCI and MHC‐like molecules that revealed an intriguing relationship between CD8 binding affinity for different MHCI alleles and the selection of TCRs in the thymus.
Cold Plasma Treatment of Quinoa Grains: Changes in Phytic Acid, Saponin, Content, and Antioxidant Capacity
Authors: Arjmand Sanaz , Sadrabad Elham Khalili , Ramroudi Fereshteh , Mollakhalili‐meybodi Neda
Published: December 2024

The impact of atmospheric cold plasma (ACP) treatment (at 50 and 60 kV for 5 and 10 min) on nutritional (total phenolic and flavonoids contents, antioxidant capacity, and TBARs) and antinutritional (saponin and phytic acid) characteristics of quinoa grains has been investigated at this study. Results indicated that ACP treatment is significantly effective to reduce the antinutritional compounds compared with the control sample (p ≤ 0.05), among which S4 (i.e., treated at 60 kV for 10 min) and S2 (i.e., treated at 50 kV for 10 min) samples showed the highest decrease in saponin and phytic acid content, respectively. Also, total phenolic content and antioxidant capacity (DPPH and FRAP) of ACP‐treated samples have decreased compared with the control sample. The flavonoid content of ACP‐treated samples has been increased compared with the control sample (p ≤ 0.05). In general, the S4 (at 60 kV for 10 min) samples had the highest amount of flavonoid and phenolic content compared with the other samples. A significant reduction in TBAR values has been observed by ACP treatment with the maximum reduction at S4 (i.e., treated at 60 kV for 10 min) samples. Results indicated that ACP treatment at 60 KV for 10 min is effective to reduce the antinutritional compounds and maintain the antioxidant compounds of quinoa grains as well. Considering the necessity of keeping the nutritional characteristics of grains through processing, it needs to be monitored and optimized the condition in a way that nutritional characteristics are preserved.
Assessment of ComBat Harmonization Performance on Structural Magnetic Resonance Imaging Measurements
Authors: Tassi Emma , Bianchi Anna Maria , Calesella Federico , Vai Benedetta , Bellani Marcella , Nenadić Igor , Piras Fabrizio , Benedetti Francesco , Brambilla Paolo , Maggioni Eleonora
Published: December 2024

Data aggregation across multiple research centers is gaining importance in the context of MRI research, driving diverse high‐dimensional datasets to form large‐scale heterogeneous sample, increasing statistical power and relevance of machine learning and deep learning algorithm. Site‐related effects have been demonstrated to introduce bias in MRI features and confound subsequent analyses. Although Combating Batch (ComBat) technique has been recently reported to successfully harmonize multi‐scale neuroimaging features, its performance assessments are still limited and largely based on qualitative visualizations and statistical analyses. In this study, we stand out by using a robust cross‐validation approach to assess ComBat performances applied on volume‐ and surface‐based measures acquired across three sites. A machine learning approach based on Multi‐Class Gaussian Process Classifier was applied to predict imaging site based on raw and harmonized brain features, providing quantitative insights into ComBat effectiveness, and verifying the association between biological covariates and harmonized brain features. Our findings showed differences in terms of ComBat performances across measures of regional brain morphology, demonstrating tissue specific site effect modeling. ComBat adjustment of site effects also varied across regional level of each specific volume‐based and surface‐based measures. ComBat effectively eliminates unwanted data site‐related variability, by maintaining or even enhancing data association with biological factors. Of note, ComBat has demonstrated flexibility and robustness of application on unseen independent gray matter volume data from the same sites.
Predicting Subject Traits From Brain Spectral Signatures: An Application to Brain Ageing
Authors: Jarne Cecilia , Griffin Ben , Vidaurre Diego
Published: December 2024

The prediction of subject traits using brain data is an important goal in neuroscience, with relevant applications in clinical research, as well as in the study of differential psychology and cognition. While previous prediction work has predominantly been done on neuroimaging data, our focus is on electroencephalography (EEG), a relatively inexpensive, widely available and non‐invasive data modality. However, EEG data is complex and needs some form of feature extraction for subsequent prediction. This process is sometimes done manually, risking biases and suboptimal decisions. Here we investigate the use of data‐driven Kernel methods for prediction from single channels using the EEG spectrogram, which reflects macro‐scale neural oscillations in the brain. Specifically, we introduce the idea of reinterpreting the spectrogram of each channel as a probability distribution, so that we can leverage advanced machine learning techniques that can handle probability distributions with mathematical rigour and without the need for manual feature extraction. We explore how the resulting technique, Kernel mean embedding regression, compares to a standard application of Kernel ridge regression as well as to a non‐Kernelised approach. Overall, we found that the Kernel methods exhibit improved performance thanks to their capacity to handle nonlinearities in the relation between the EEG spectrogram and the trait of interest. We leveraged this method to predict biological age in a multinational EEG data set, HarMNqEEG, showing the method's capacity to generalise across experiments and acquisition setups.
Flexible and Adaptive Behavioral Strategies: A Personal Journey
Authors: Mizumori Sheri J. Y.
Published: December 2024

The ground‐breaking research of patient H.M. brought to light the importance of the hippocampus for our memories of everyday and special events. Three quarters of a century of intense neurobiological and neuropsychological research would follow as scientists sought to understand why the hippocampus is such an important memory structure in the brain. Navigating a career during this time required adaptive research strategies as new evidence emerged. Although exciting progress has been made, complex challenges remain.
Distinct Social Factors Are Linked to Epistemic Curiosity and Digital Information‐Seeking Among Adolescents: Generalizability Across 41 Countries
Authors: Ali Farhan
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Curiosity, the intrinsic motivation to sense, know, and experience the unknown, plays important roles in adolescent achievement and well‐being. Theoretical considerations and empirical research suggest the contribution of social relationships in fostering curiosity. However, curiosity is expressed in different forms and contexts. Here, we investigated the social predictors of general epistemic curiosity, and of different forms of digital information‐seeking in adolescents.

Methods

Nationally representative cross‐sectional data from Programme for International Student Assessment 2022 were used (N = 327,778 from 41 countries, 15.8 years, 49.6% female). Multiple regression was implemented using four different types of social relationships—teacher relationship, school belonging, bullying victimization, family relationship—as predictors of three forms of curiosity and information‐seeking—general epistemic curiosity, and digital information‐seeking for formal learning and for informal learning purposes.

Results and Conclusion

Teacher–student relationship was linked to general epistemic curiosity but less so, or not at all, to digital information‐seeking. Instead, family relationship and bullying victimization were more important drivers of digital information‐seeking for formal and informal learning purposes respectively. These distinctions were largely generalizable across 41 countries examined. The findings paint a complex picture of how figures in different adolescent social spheres matter for different forms of epistemic curiosity and information‐seeking, with practical and theoretical implications.
Workshop on the Latest Advances in Biomedical Applications of Octacalcium Phosphate
Authors: Döbelin Nicola , Suzuki Osamu , Drouet Christophe , Ločs Jānis , Insley Gerard , Procter Philip
Published: December 2024

The first workshop on the “latest advances in biomedical applications of octacalcium phosphate (OCP)” was organized as a satellite symposium to the Bioceramics33 conference in Solothurn, Switzerland, in October 2023. The event brought together leading researchers and industry representatives to present and discuss their latest groundbreaking research aimed at developing and commercializing advanced OCP‐based biomaterials for bone regeneration. The topics presented by the six invited speakers ranged from a fundamental understanding of the OCP crystal chemistry to advanced processing and characterization methods, functionalization, biomineralization, and commercialization. With this summary report, we are laying the foundation for a continuation of a series of workshops on the subject of OCP biomaterials in order to promote the exchange between researchers and industry representatives and to drive forward the development and commercialization of new improved synthetic bone substitute materials.
Classifying Alzheimer's Disease Using a Finite Basis Physics Neural Network
Authors: Dhavamani Logeshwari , Joshi Sagar Vasantrao , Kothapalli Pavan Kumar Varma , Elangovan Muniyandy , Putchanuthala Ramesh Babu , Senthamil Selvan Ramasamy
Published: December 2024

The disease amyloid plaques, neurofibrillary tangles, synaptic dysfunction, and neuronal death gradually accumulate throughout Alzheimer's disease (AD), resulting in cognitive decline and functional disability. The challenges of dataset quality, interpretability, ethical integration, population variety, and picture standardization must be addressed using deep learning for the functional magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) classification of AD in order to guarantee a trustworthy and practical therapeutic application. In this manuscript Classifying AD using a finite basis physics neural network (CAD‐FBPINN) is proposed. Initially, images are collected from AD Neuroimaging Initiative (ADNI) dataset. The images are fed to Pre‐processing segment. During the preprocessing phase the reverse lognormal Kalman filter (RLKF) is used to enhance the input images. Then the preprocessed images are given to the feature extraction process. Feature extraction is done by Newton‐time‐extracting wavelet transform (NTEWT), which is used to extract the statistical features such as the mean, kurtosis, and skewness. Finally the features extracted are given to FBPINNs for Classifying AD such as early mild cognitive impairment (EMCI), AD, mild cognitive impairment (MCI), late mild cognitive impairment (LMCI), normal control (NC), and subjective memory complaints (SMCs). In General, FBPINN does not express adapting optimization strategies to determine optimal factors to ensure correct AD classification. Hence, sea‐horse optimization algorithm (SHOA) to optimize FBPINN, which accurately classifies AD. The proposed technique implemented in python and efficacy of the CAD‐FBPINN technique is assessed with support of numerous performances like accuracy, precision, Recall, F1‐score, specificity and negative predictive value (NPV) is analyzed. Proposed CAD‐FBPINN method attain 30.53%, 23.34%, and 32.64% higher accuracy; 20.53%, 25.34%, and 29.64% higher precision; 20.53%, 25.34%, and 29.64% higher NP values analyzed with the existing for Classifying AD Stages through Brain Modifications using FBPINNs Optimized with sea‐horse optimizer. Then, the effectiveness of the CAD‐FBPINN technique is compared to other methods that are currently in use, such as AD diagnosis and classification using a convolution neural network algorithm (DC‐AD‐AlexNet), Predicting diagnosis 4 years before Alzheimer's disease incident (PDP‐ADI‐GCNN), and Using the DC‐AD‐AlexNet convolution neural network algorithm, diagnose and classify AD.
Comparative study of paleoflood slackwater deposits in the Yarlung Zangbo and Hanjiang Rivers, China
Authors: Wu Shuaihu , Fu Xudong , Pang Jiangli , Huang Chunchang
Published: December 2024

Paleoflood slackwater deposits have recently been investigated in small to moderately sized rivers. However, our understanding of the characteristics of paleoflood slackwater deposits in large rivers remains limited, which poses a notable obstacle to accurately predicting the magnitude, frequency and force of extraordinary floods. To address this research gap, this study compares the characteristics of paleoflood slackwater deposits in the middle Yarlung Zangbo River (YZR) and the upper Hanjiang River in China. Paleoflood slackwater deposits and aeolian deposits (e.g. loess, paleosol S0 and aeolian sand) were investigated and sampled from these locations. For the paleoflood slackwater deposits and aeolian deposits, sedimentology (e.g. grain size distribution, magnetic susceptibility and geochemical elements) was analyzed in the laboratory. The macroscopic features of the paleoflood slackwater deposits in the middle YZR valley are very similar to those of the upper Hanjiang River valley. The paleoflood slackwater deposits were dominated by sand and silt in the middle YZR and by silt and sand in the upper Hanjiang River; this implied that the paleoflood slackwater deposits were suspended sediments of floodwater from different source regions. Compared with the paleoflood slackwater deposits in the upper Hanjiang River and other large rivers in China (e.g. the Yellow and Yangtze Rivers), the paleoflood slackwater deposits contained more coarse particles in the middle YZR; this result may be closely related to the particular hydrogeologic and geomorphic conditions (e.g. rich sandy sediment, high riverbed slope and narrow valley) in the southeastern Tibetan Plateau. Compared with the paleoflood slackwater deposits in the upper Hanjiang River, the paleoflood slackwater deposits presented considerably worse sorting in the middle YZR; this may be closely related to the short transport distance in the middle YZR. The magnetic susceptibility values of the paleoflood slackwater deposits were relatively higher in the middle YZR and the upper Hanjiang River, suggesting that these slackwater deposits with minimal pedogenesis may contain a relatively high ferromagnetic mineral content because of the formation process of slackwater deposits. The sediment provenance of the paleoflood slackwater deposits may be closely related to that of the loess in the middle YZR valley, which implies that the sediment provenance of deposits of different genetic types may be greatly affected by the particular hydrologic–climatic and geomorphic conditions in the southeastern Tibetan Plateau.
Effect of Ocimum basiicum L. essential oil microemulsion on the quality of snakehead (Channa argus) under different dipping conditions during cold storage
Authors: Li Yanhan , Xie Yao , Mei Jun , Xie Jing
Published: December 2024

Background

Ocimum basiicum L. essential oil (OBEO) is an herbal essential oil that inhibits microbial activity during food preservation. However, preservation of aquatic products is susceptible to environmental factors. The efficacy of different impregnation techniques was evaluated. In this study, we investigated the application of OBEO in the cold storage process of snakehead fish fillets.

Results

In terms of microbiological and ammonia content, the best freshness of snakehead fillets was observed under normal impregnation. On the 18th day, the essential oil impregnated group without ultrasonic and vacuum treatment showed a reduction in trimethylamine content by 5.14 mg/100 g, total volatile base nitrogen by 16.32 mg N/100 g, K value by 50.82%, and H2S content by 134.73 mmol/g, as compared to the control group. Similarly, the indexes such as the pH value, free amino acid (FAA) value and ammonia content reflected the bacteriostatic properties of OBEO and the degree of spoilage of snakeheads. In a word, the results showed that although the homogeneity of the emulsion was improved after ultrasonic treatment, it tends to destabilize the snakehead fillets.

Conclusion

Therefore, this study demonstrated that snakehead fillets exhibited better preservation under normal or vacuum conditions in combination with OBEO impregnation.
Understanding the Supramolecular Chemistry of Lutein with Gelatin, Octenyl Succinic Anhydride‐Modified Starch Polymers in Simulated Gastro‐Intestinal Buffers: A Molecular Dynamics Study
Authors: Das Rontu , Kundu Debashis
Published: December 2024

Lutein, a carotenoid with significant health benefits, faces challenges in delivery due to its poor solubility and low bioavailability in the human body. Experimental methods are used to deliver lutein but it has limitations in providing detailed molecular‐level insights into lutein interactions within delivery systems. Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations offer a powerful tool to overcome this knowledge gap by providing an atomic‐level understanding of lutein behavior in various physiological conditions. This study employs MD simulations to investigate the binding of lutein in a hydrogel composed of gelatin and octenyl succinic anhydride (OSA)‐modified starch across different gastro‐intestinal buffers. The analysis of the simulation trajectory reveals that while both gelatin and OSA‐starch form hydrogel networks, OSA‐starch maintains better structural integrity in all buffers. Autodock scores indicate a higher binding affinity of lutein for OSA‐starch compared to gelatin, which is further validated by hydrogen bonding and radial distribution function analyses. The mean square displacement results demonstrate the subdiffusive behavior of lutein. These results provide valuable insights into the interactions of lutein with hydrogel components and solvents, contributing to the rational design of improved lutein delivery systems. Future research can focus on optimizing the hydrogel composition to enhance lutein stability and bioavailability in various physiological environments.
The Relationship Between BRI and Depressive Symptoms in Chinese Older Adults: A CLHLS‐Based Study
Authors: Wang Yan , Yang Yuting , Wang Wanning , Chen Qiao , Jia Wangping , Li Ling
Published: December 2024

Background

There is a lack of research examining the association between obesity and depressive symptoms in relation to mental health. This study aimed to examine the correlation between Body Roundness Index (BRI) and depressive symptoms in elderly Chinese individuals.

Methods

The study sample consisted of 11,842 individuals aged 65 years or older from the 2018 Chinese Longitudinal Health Longevity Survey (CLHLS) database. A multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to investigate how BRI affects the likelihood of experiencing depressive symptoms, with restricted cubic spline (RCS) curves illustrating this impact. BRI values were calculated using a predefined formula for each participant, and depressive status was assessed using the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (CES‐D‐10).

Results

The mean age of the participants was 83.1 ± 10.9 years. A non‐linear relationship was identified between the BRI score and the risk of depressive symptoms. The analysis showed that for BRI scores below 5.17, there was a significant 9% increase in the risk of depressive symptoms for every 1‐point decrease in BRI score. Conversely, when the BRI was 5.17 or higher, a decrease in the BRI score did not lead to a significant increase in the risk of depressive symptoms.

Conclusion

The study demonstrated a significant association between BRI and depressive symptoms in elderly Chinese individuals. Furthermore, it was noted that older adults classified as overweight and mildly obese had a lower likelihood of experiencing depressive symptoms and demonstrated improved mental health.
Relationship of Sex and Diagnosis With Symptoms and Illness Impact in Urologic Chronic Pelvic Pain; A Mapp Network Analysis
Authors: Naliboff Bruce D. , McWilliams Tara , Clemens J. Quentin , Pontari Michael A. , Stephens‐Shields Alisa J. , Moldwin Robert , Sutcliffe Siobhan , Mullins Chris , Landis J. Richard
Published: December 2024

Objective

To assess differences in clinical presentation and illness impact in men and women presenting with urologic chronic pelvic pain syndrome (UCPPS) and between men diagnosed with interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome (IC/BPS) or chronic prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome (CP/CPPS).

Methods

356 men and 605 women from six sites across the United States were assessed using a comprehensive set of demographic, symptom, and illness impact measures. Multivariable regression analyses examined differences between men and women and between men previously diagnosed with CP/CPPS or IC/BPS. In a stepwise manner, analyses tested group differences, controlling for demographic variables including symptom duration and presence of bladder pain that varied with filling and voiding.

Results

Men diagnosed with IC/BPS had the most severe UCPPS symptoms, followed by women with IC/BPS, and then men with CP/CPPS only. While men and women showed similar patterns of symptoms across most of the variables, women had increased widespread non‐pelvic pain, greater pelvic floor tenderness on exam, and higher self‐reported sensory sensitivity compared to men. About 60% of men diagnosed with CP/CPPS only reported bladder symptoms of painful filling or relief with voiding.

Conclusions

A generally shared symptom pattern was found across men and women irrespective of diagnostic labels suggesting the use of key marker symptoms, such as severity of bladder symptoms and widespread pain, to better identify subgroups of UCPPS rather than diagnostic category. Women may have an increased likelihood of increased sensitivity and central sensitization than men, including those men with IC/BPS.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02514265 ‐ MAPP Research Network: Trans‐MAPP Study of Urologic Chronic Pelvic Pain: Symptom Patterns Study (SPS).
Noninvasive Grading of Liver Fibrosis Based on Texture Analysis From MRI‐Derived Radiomics
Authors: Gotta Jennifer , Gruenewald Leon D. , Reschke Philipp , Booz Christian , Mahmoudi Scherwin , Stieltjes Bram , Choi Moon Hyung , D'Angelo Tommaso , Bernatz Simon , Vogl Thomas J. , Sinkus Ralph , Grimm Robert , Strecker Ralph , Haberkorn Sebastian , Koch Vitali
Published: December 2024

Given the increasing global prevalence of metabolic syndrome, this study aimed to assess the potential of MRI‐derived radiomics in noninvasively grading fibrosis. The study included 79 prospectively enrolled participants who had undergone MRE due to known or suspected liver disease between November 2022 and September 2023. Among them, 48 patients were diagnosed with histopathologically confirmed liver fibrosis. A total of 107 radiomic features per patient were extracted from MRI imaging. The dataset was then divided into training and test sets for model development and validation. Stepwise feature reduction was employed to identify the most relevant features and subsequently used to train a gradient‐boosted tree model. The gradient‐boosted tree model, trained on the training cohort with identified radiomic features to differentiate fibrosis grades, exhibited good performances, achieving AUC values from 0.997 to 0.998. In the independent test cohort of 24 patients, the radiomics model demonstrated AUC values ranging from 0.617 to 0.830, with the highest AUC of 0.830 (95% CI 0.520–0.830) for classifying fibrosis grade 2. Incorporating ADC values did not improve the model's performance. In conclusion, our study emphasizes the significant promise of using radiomics analysis on MRI images for noninvasively staging liver fibrosis. This method provides valuable insights into tissue characteristics and patterns, enabling a retrospective liver fibrosis severity assessment from nondedicated MRI scans.
The Many Indicators of Nonprofit Success as Seen by Nonprofit Leaders
Authors: Maier Florentine , Zheng Wenjuan , Brandtner Christof , Cornips Leila
Published: December 2024

Nonprofit organizations are increasingly compelled to demonstrate their success to stakeholders, drawing scholarly interest toward systematizing indicators of their success. But what best indicates success is in the eye of the beholder, as success is socially constructed. This paper examines the multifaceted success indicators used by nonprofit leaders in practice and explores how they align with scholarly conceptions of nonprofit success. We develop a framework of nonprofit success from the perspective of nonprofit leaders that is more comprehensive and generalizable than previous ones by analyzing responses from leaders of 861 randomly sampled nonprofit organizations in three metropolitan regions representing different institutional contexts—Vienna (Austria), Shenzhen (China), and San Francisco (USA). Despite contextual differences, leaders' understandings have much in common across settings. The indicators overlap with existing scholarly understandings of nonprofit performance and effectiveness, focusing on internal actions and external stakeholder relationships. However, our findings also uncover two practically relevant groups of indicators that are under‐appreciated in scholarly discourse: relationships within the organization (cohesiveness and social inclusion), and the uptake behavior of external stakeholders (engagement with the organization's offerings). Our findings categorize these indicators in terms of whether they manifest inside or outside the organization and whether they emphasize actions or relationships. The two‐dimensional framework thereby maps common ground among nonprofit leaders across diverse national and organizational contexts, noting how the priority of success aspects varies. Our comparative data underscore the wide‐ranging applicability of the proposed framework, illuminating new directions for research on nonprofit success.
Characterisation of GPR17‐expressing oligodendrocyte precursors in human ischaemic lesions and correlation with reactive glial responses
Authors: Raffaele Stefano , Clausen Bettina Hjelm , Mannella Francesca Carolina , Wirenfeldt Martin , Marangon Davide , Tidgen Sarah Boe , Corradini Silvia , Madsen Kirsten , Lecca Davide , Abbracchio Maria Pia , Lambertsen Kate Lykke , Fumagalli Marta
Published: December 2024

White matter damage and subsequent demyelination significantly contribute to long‐term functional impairment after ischaemic stroke. Identifying novel pharmacological targets to restore myelin integrity by promoting the maturation of oligodendrocyte precursor cells (OPCs) into new myelinating oligodendrocytes may open new perspectives for ischaemic stroke treatment. In this respect, previous studies highlighted the role of the G protein‐coupled membrane receptor 17 (GPR17) as a key regulator of OPC differentiation in experimental models of brain injury, including ischaemic stroke. To determine the translational value of GPR17 as a possible target in the context of human disease, we exploited immunohistochemistry to characterise the distribution of GPR17‐expressing cells in brain tissue samples from ischaemic stroke cases and correlated it with the reactive state of neighbouring glial cells. The results showed that GPR17 specifically decorates a subpopulation of differentiation‐committed OPCs, labelled by the peculiar marker breast carcinoma‐amplified sequence 1 (BCAS1), that accumulates in the peri‐infarct region in the later stages after the ischaemic event. Interestingly, the response of GPR17‐expressing cells appears to be paralleled by the switch of reactive microglia/macrophages from a phagocytic to a dystrophic phenotype and by astrocytic scar formation. A negative correlation was found between GPR17‐expressing OPCs and reactive microglia/macrophages and astrocytes surrounding chronic ischaemic lesions in female subjects, while the same relationship was less pronounced in males. These results were reinforced by bioinformatic analysis of a publicly available transcriptomic dataset, which implicated a possible role of inflammation and defective neuron‐to‐OPC communication in remyelination failure after ischaemic damage. Hence, these data strengthen the relevance of GPR17‐based remyelinating therapies for the treatment of ischaemic stroke. © 2024 The Author(s). The Journal of Pathology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of The Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland.
Magnetic field‐enhanced anisotropic electrorheological elastomer with magnetic/electric dual‐responsive rod particles
Authors: Zhao Xinye , Niu Chenguang , Jia Zhaomin , Dong Xufeng , Xiong Xiaoyan
Published: December 2024

As a type of field‐responsive smart material, electrorheological elastomers (EREs) have an adjustable modulus that is significantly affected by the orientation of the pre‐structures formed by dispersed particles. However, the imperfect orientation of the particles in the matrix under an external electric field limits the electrorheological (ER) performance of EREs. To solve this problem, rod‐shaped Fe3O4@TiO2 magnetic/electric dual‐responsive particles were fabricated and used to prepare novel EREs that were cured under a magnetic field, and EREs cured under an electric field served as a control group. Compared with the control group, more robust and denser particle chain structures were observed in the EREs cured under a magnetic field, and the initial modulus and relative electrorheological effect (ER) were superior to those of the control group. This method can be used to prepare high‐performance EREs with strong zero‐field mechanical properties and a wide modulus adjustment range suitable for engineering applications.

Highlights

The magnetic/electric dual‐responsive rod‐shaped Fe3O4@TiO2 particles were prepared.

EREs filled with Fe3O4@TiO2 particles were prepared under magnetic or electric field.

More robust and denser particle chains were formed in the EREs cured under a magnetic field.

The EREs solidified under a magnetic field have higher relative ER effects.
Systematic mapping of experimental approaches to studying common mycorrhizal networks in arbuscular mycorrhiza
Authors: Lehmann Anika , Rillig Matthias C.
Published: December 2024

Societal Impact Statement

Common mycorrhizal networks (CMN) capture the imagination of researchers and the public alike and have played a large role in communicating about mycorrhiza in general. With many of the claims about the functional importance of CMN recently under intense scrutiny, it becomes important to assess the literature on this topic. We systematically map experimental approaches, uncovering large data gaps, with evidence from field studies and data on ecosystem processes lacking. Very few studies meet the strictest recommended criteria, limiting our understanding of CMN‐mediated effects on plants and soils. A renewed research effort needs to unravel the contribution of CMNs under global environmental change.

Common mycorrhizal networks (CMN) are a research area within mycorrhizal ecology, studying the effects of mycorrhizal fungi linking plant roots. Experimentally studying the functioning of such networks is challenging because of the presence of many different types of network links that give rise to potentially confounding effects.

Here, we collect, collate, and describe the research evidence for common mycorrhizal networks, specifically for arbuscular mycorrhiza (AM), using a systematic mapping approach.

We find that not all studies tested networks formed exclusively by AM fungi, but that other filamentous fungi were present and that very few articles report on experiments fulfilling the current stringent definition (demanding hyphal continuity between plant roots). Furthermore, most research is limited to controlled environmental conditions with certain plant, fungal, and resource‐transfer variables measured, while microbial community responses or ecosystem processes are neglected.

Given the broad interest in this topic, we see a need to strengthen the evidence base on “common mycorrhizal networks” in AM fungi, necessitating a renewed research effort focusing on a range of levels of mechanistic resolution (from simple to complex networks with and without hyphal continuity). Additionally, neglected experimental situations (e.g., field studies in general) and microbial community or ecosystem‐level responses should be included in future research.
Papilledema in Children With Cystic Fibrosis Receiving Elexacaftor/Tezacaftor/Ivacaftor: A Multicenter Case Series
Authors: Kam Charissa W. , McKinzie Cameron J. , Omecene Nicole E. , Peters Stacy , Pettit Rebecca S. , Poisson Margaret O. , Witte Jennifer
Published: December 2024

Following the approval of elexacaftor/tezacaftor/ivacaftor (ETI), there have been post‐marketing reports and published cases of papilledema and intracranial hypertension in children with cystic fibrosis (CF) taking ETI. In those reports, the patients often presented with marked symptoms and concomitant hypervitaminosis A. In this multicenter case series, we report eight cases of papilledema in children with CF taking ETI that were diagnosed via routine eye exam, the majority of whom presented with minimal to no symptoms and all had normal serum Vitamin A levels.
Gynocentric concerns in the choreopoems of Ntozake Shange
Authors: Kanagavalli C.
Published: December 2024

Choreopoetry is a unique form of artistic expression that combines poetry, music, and dance to create a multi‐dimensional performance art form. Shange's choreopoems challenged societal norms around gender, sexuality, and race, and helped to pave the way for feminist and African‐American literature. This research paper analyzes the gynocentric concerns in Ntozake Shange's choreopoems, which are a combination of poetry, music, and dance. Through the lens of gynocentrism, the paper explores how Shange's works prioritize the experiences and perspectives of Black women and challenge societal norms around gender and sexuality. The findings of the study, are organized thematically and supported with quotes and examples from the choreopoems. The paper discusses the themes and content of Shange's two most famous choreopoems, “ For Colored Girls Who Have Considered Suicide/When the Rainbow Is Enuf”, “Spell No. 7,” and “Boogie Woogie Landscape” and compares the gynocentric concerns in each. Additionally, the paper examines the reception of Shange's choreopoems by audiences and critics and the impact of her work on feminist and African‐American literature. Overall, this research contributes to the understanding of Shange's choreopoems as feminist literature and highlights the importance of using gynocentrism as a framework for analyzing works that prioritize women's experiences and perspectives.
Hole‐Transport‐Layer‐Free Organic Solar Cells with Enhanced Efficiency Upon Halogenated Solvent Treatment
Authors: Wu Weiwei , Huang Pengru , Gao Yuan , Wan Ji , Sun Rui , Min Jie
Published: December 2024

Typical PEDOT:PSS hole‐transporting layers frequently present some issues, including mismatched energy levels, high acidity, severe hygroscopicity, etc., all of which significantly weaken device performance. Herein, an approach of halogenated solvent treatment to modulate the physical properties of indium tin oxide (ITO) substrates is employed. Four halogenated‐ITO anodes (named ITO‐F, ITO‐Cl, ITO‐Br and ITO‐I) are achieved by ITO substrates immersed in hydrogen peroxide co‐solvents mixed with 1,2‐difluorobenzene, 1,2‐dichlorobenzene, 1,2‐dibromobenzene and 1,2‐diiodobenzene, respectively, and upon UV illumination. The work functions of the ITO‐F/Cl/Br/I anodes increase from 4.63 eV for ITO to 5.30, 5.32, 5.24, and 5.28 eV, respectively, which are close to 5.22 eV for ITO/PEDOT:PSS. Additionally, the investigated PM6:L8‐BO:BTP‐eC9 devices based on various anodes showed power conversion efficiencies (PCEs) of 17.81% for ITO‐F, 19.48% for ITO‐Cl, 17.05% for ITO‐Br, 17.34% for ITO‐I and 18.70% for ITO/PEDOT:PSS, respectively. In particular, a comprehensive experimental analysis is conducted to establish connections between theoretical calculations, blend morphology and physical dynamics, and further elucidate the factors that cause differences in device efficiencies. This work manifests the advantages of the proposed halogenated ITO for realizing highly efficient organic photovoltaics.
Enhancing the Chemical Reactivity of Graphene through Substrate Engineering
Authors: Tu Jia , Yan Mingdi
Published: December 2024

Covalent functionalization of pristine graphene can modify its properties, enabling applications in optoelectronics, biomedical fields, environmental science, and energy. However, the chemical reactivity of pristine graphene is relatively low, and as such, methods have been developed to increase the reactivity of graphene. This review focuses on substrate engineering as an effective strategy to enhance the reactivity of graphene through strain and charge doping. Nanoparticles, metals with different crystal orientations, and stretchable polymers are employed to introduce strains in graphene, leading to enhanced chemical reactivity and increased degree of functionalization. Charge doping through orbital hybridization with metals and charge puddles induced by oxide substrates generally enhance the reactivity of graphene, while alkyl‐modified surfaces and 2D materials often reduce graphene reactivity via charge screening and van der Waals interactions that increase the stability of the graphene layer, respectively. This review summarizes methods for creating and characterizing strains and charge doping in graphene and discusses their effects on the chemical functionalization of graphene in various reactions.