bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The effects of blueberry and cranberry supplementation on blood pressure in patients with cardiovascular diseases: A systematic review and meta‐analysis of randomized clinical trials
Authors: Delpino Felipe Mendes , dos Santos Francine Silva , Flores Thaynã Ramos , Cerqueira Henrique S. , Santos Heitor O.
Published: November 2023

Blueberries and cranberries are berry fruits with the highest number of randomized clinical trials (RCTs) focusing on blood pressure (BP). This systematic review and meta‐analysis of RCTs analyzed the effects of blueberry and cranberry supplementation alone and in concert with systolic BP (SBP) and diastolic BP (DBP) in patients with cardiometabolic diseases. The searches were performed until August 2023 in the following databases: PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Cochrane, and Embase. Studies that examined the effects of blueberry or cranberry intake/supplementation were included. The risk of bias was evaluated using the Rob 2 scale. A meta‐analysis was performed to estimate the effects of blueberry and cranberry supplementation on BP levels in patients with cardiometabolic diseases. A total of 17 articles were included, from which two found significant results from blueberry and/or cranberry supplementation in reducing BP. Pooled results revealed statistically non‐significant reductions of −0.81 mm Hg for SBP (95% confidence interval [CI]: −2.26, 0.63; I2 = 0%) and −0.15 mm Hg for DBP (95% CI: −1.36, 1.05; I2 = 27%). Blueberry and/or cranberry supplementation had neutral effects on SBP and DBP in patients with cardiometabolic diseases, regardless of duration or age. Further high‐quality studies are needed to firmly establish clinical efficacy.
How does financial openness affect pollution emission of industrial enterprises?—Empirical evidence from the entry of foreign banks in China
Authors: Liu Bei , Bao Xing , Qiu Zhaoxuan , Zhang Yunyun , Xia Qiu
Published: November 2023

Currently, the effects of financial openness (FO) on the environment have not been assessed at the micro level of enterprises. This article uses the difference‐in‐differences method to explore the pollution abatement effect of FO. The results show that FO can effectively promote pollution abatement with a significant environmental performance enhancement effect. In addition, the pollution abatement effect of FO is stronger in large, heavy industrial, and state‐owned enterprises. Besides, FO significantly alleviates financing constraints and promotes the pollution abatement by driving R&D investment and strengthening the intensity of end‐of‐pipe treatment. Policy recommendations are given to steadily expand the FO pattern, improve the financial disclosure system of small and medium‐sized enterprises, and optimize subsidies for increased R&D investment to stimulate pollution abatement. A reference for other emerging economies, especially transitioning economies, is provided to fully utilize the financial system under construction or improvement to realize the value of pollution control.
Advances and opportunities in unraveling cold‐tolerance mechanisms in the world's primary staple food crops
Authors: Jan Sofora , Rustgi Sachin , Barmukh Rutwik , Shikari Asif B. , Leske Brenton , Bekuma Amanuel , Sharma Darshan , Ma Wujun , Kumar Upendra , Kumar Uttam , Bohra Abhishek , Varshney Rajeev K. , Mir Reyazul Rouf
Published: November 2023

Temperatures below or above optimal growth conditions are among the major stressors affecting productivity, end‐use quality, and distribution of key staple crops including rice (Oryza sativa), wheat (Triticum aestivum), and maize (Zea mays L.). Among temperature stresses, cold stress induces cellular changes that cause oxidative stress and slowdown metabolism, limit growth, and ultimately reduce crop productivity. Perception of cold stress by plant cells leads to the activation of cold‐responsive transcription factors and downstream genes, which ultimately impart cold tolerance. The response triggered in crops to cold stress includes gene expression/suppression, the accumulation of sugars upon chilling, and signaling molecules, among others. Much of the information on the effects of cold stress on perception, signal transduction, gene expression, and plant metabolism are available in the model plant Arabidopsis but somewhat lacking in major crops. Hence, a complete understanding of the molecular mechanisms by which staple crops respond to cold stress remain largely unknown. Here, we make an effort to elaborate on the molecular mechanisms employed in response to low‐temperature stress. We summarize the effects of cold stress on the growth and development of these crops, the mechanism of cold perception, and the role of various sensors and transducers in cold signaling. We discuss the progress in cold tolerance research at the genome, transcriptome, proteome, and metabolome levels and highlight how these findings provide opportunities for designing cold‐tolerant crops for the future.
Characterization of the CMS genetic regulation through comparative complete mitochondrial genome sequencing in Nicotiana tabacum
Authors: He Dongli , Li Yifan , Yuan Cheng , Pei Xiaoxiong , Damaris Rebecca N. , Yu Haiqin , Qian Bao , Liu Yong , Yi Bin , Huang Changjun , Zeng Jianmin
Published: November 2023

Mitochondrial genomes (mitogenomes) of flowering plants vary greatly in structure and size, which can lead to frequent gene mutation, rearrangement, or recombination, then result in the cytoplasmic male sterile (CMS) mutants. In tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum), suaCMS lines are widely used in heterosis breeding; however, the related genetic regulations are not very clear. In this study, the cytological observation indicated that the pollen abortion of tobacco suaCMS(HD) occurred at the very early stage of the stamen primordia differentiation. In this study, the complete mitochondrial genomes of suaCMS(HD) and its maintainer HD were sequenced using the PacBio and Illumina Hiseq technology. The total length of the assembled mitogenomes of suaCMS(HD) and HD was 494,317 bp and 430,694 bp, respectively. Comparative analysis indicated that the expanded 64 K bases in suaCMS(HD) were mainly located in noncoding regions, and 23 and 21 big syntenic blocks (>5000 bp) were found in suaCMS(HD) and HD with a series of repeats. Electron transport chain‐related genes were highly conserved in two mitogenomes, except five genes (ATP4, ATP6, COX2, CcmFC, and SDH3) with substantial substitutions. Three suaCMS(HD)‐specific genes, orf261, orf291, and orf433, were screened. Sequence analysis and RT‐PCR verification showed that they were unique to suaCMS(HD). Further gene location analysis and protein property prediction indicated that all the three genes were likely candidates for suaCMS(HD). This study provides new insight into understanding the suaCMS mechanism and is useful for improving tobacco breeding.
Exploring the interplay between PARP1 and circRNA biogenesis and function
Authors: Dhahri Hejer , Fondufe‐Mittendorf Yvonne N.
Published: November 2023

PARP1 (poly‐ADP‐ribose polymerase 1) is a multidomain protein with a flexible and self‐folding structure that allows it to interact with a wide range of biomolecules, including nucleic acids and target proteins. PARP1 interacts with its target molecules either covalently via PARylation or non‐covalently through its PAR moieties induced by auto‐PARylation. These diverse interactions allow PARP1 to participate in complex regulatory circuits and cellular functions. Although the most studied PARP1‐mediated functions are associated with DNA repair and cellular stress response, subsequent discoveries have revealed additional biological functions. Based on these findings, PARP1 is now recognized as a major modulator of gene expression. Several discoveries show that this multifunctional protein has been intimately connected to several steps of mRNA biogenesis, from transcription initiation to mRNA splicing, polyadenylation, export, and translation of mRNA to proteins. Nevertheless, our understanding of PARP1's involvement in the biogenesis of both coding and noncoding RNA, notably circular RNA (circRNA), remains restricted. In this review, we outline the possible roles of PARP1 in circRNA biogenesis. A full examination of the regulatory roles of PARP1 in nuclear processes with an emphasis on circRNA may reveal new avenues to control dysregulation implicated in the pathogenesis of several diseases such as neurodegenerative disorders and cancers.

This article is categorized under:

RNA Interactions with Proteins and Other Molecules > Protein‐RNA Interactions: Functional Implications

Regulatory RNAs/RNAi/Riboswitches > Regulatory RNAs

RNA Processing > Splicing Regulation/Alternative Splicing
Introduction
Authors: Perloff Jeffrey M. , Berck Cyndi S.
Published: November 2023

Peter Berck was born on April 26, 1950, and died on August 10, 2018. He thoroughly enjoyed his life, work, family, and friends. He was married twice and had three children and four grandchildren. He was a passionate outdoorsman and an enthusiastic world traveler.
Peter Berck’s Contribution to the Environment for Development Initiative and Sustainable Development
Authors: Köhlin Gunnar , Berck Cyndi
Published: November 2023

Peter Berck made major contributions to the Environment for Development Initiative (EfD). This Swedish-based initiative brings together environmental economics research centers all over the Global South in pursuit of sustainable development. Funded by the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (Sida), it is based at the University of Gothenburg, with research institution partners in Asia, Africa, and Latin America. EfD focuses on policy-relevant research, policy engagement, and capacity development, with a vision of “Inclusive sustainable development in the Global South founded on evidence-based management of the environment, natural resources, and climate change impacts.”
Environmental Attitudes in Developing Countries in Light of COVID-19
Authors: Toledo Chantal
Published: November 2023

Environmental attitudes have the potential to affect environmental behaviors, which in turn can affect action toward current and future global environmental targets. Recent large-scale surveys find that developing countries, which account for most of the growth in greenhouse gas emissions, have high levels of pro-environmental attitudes. Respondents from developing countries state that they perceive climate change as a major global threat, that climate change directly influences their voting decisions, and that they consider climate change as big a risk as COVID-19. Respondents from developing countries with lower per capita emissions, more educated respondents, and those who have been exposed to extreme weather events tend to have more pro-environmental attitudes. However, high levels of pro-environmental attitudes do not translate into high levels of environmental performance for developing countries, as measured by a comprehensive environmental performance index. Respondents report changes in individual actions to limit their effect on climate change but tend to focus on easier behavioral changes that have a relatively low environmental impact.
A Public Economist at a Public University
Authors: Berck Cyndi Spindell
Published: November 2023

Peter Berck was a forestry economist, an environmental economist, an agricultural economist, an energy economist, and eventually a development economist. He summed it up as a “public economist.” He also loved teaching at a public university and used his position to open doors for students and colleagues. The chapters that follow illustrate the breadth of his engagement in research, teaching, and service.
Peter Berck’s Impacts on Gender Equity in Environmental Economics
Authors: McCluskey Jill J.
Published: November 2023

Peter Berck’s research on topics in natural resources, environmental economics, and agricultural economics was impactful both in academia and in the policy realm. His research inspired its researchers and provided insights on problems in multiple sectors. Many others have discussed Peter’s research impacts. I will focus on how Peter impacted people. He built people up and inspired them, especially his students.
Recycling Behavior and Convenience
Authors: Berck Peter , Blundell Marshall , Englander Gabriel , Gold Samantha , He Yulei , Horsager Janet , Kaplan Scott , Van Dop Sears Molly , Stevens Andrew , Trachtman Carly , Taylor Rebecca , Villas-Boas Sofia B. , Berck Cyndi Spindell
Published: November 2023

This chapter provides a comprehensive review of the current state of California’s recycling policies. Specifically, we focus on the demand side of the recycling system and summarize some of the evidence around the efficacy of the California Department of Recycling’s (CalRecycle) deposit-refund recycling program – in conjunction with other recycling alternatives, such as curbside recycling pickup – in providing convenient recycling options to consumers. In Sect. 2, we provide some relevant background on recycling policy in California. In Sect. 3, we discuss the findings in Berck et al. (2021), which uses survey data to empirically assess who recycles and how the public defines convenience in recycling opportunities. Next, in Sect. 4, we present the main takeaways from Berck et al. (2020), which focuses on the consumer survey evidence to estimate California residents’ preferences and willingness to pay (WTP) for current beverage container recycling methods, including curbside pickup services, drop-off at government-subsidized recycling centers, and drop-off at non-subsidized centers. Finally, in Sect. 5, we discuss avenues for future research.
Challenging Conventional Wisdom in Defense and National Security
Authors: Lipow Jonathan
Published: November 2023

Over a 20-year period, Peter Berck and Jonathan Lipow coauthored six papers that focused on defense and national security, including three that can be regarded as influential contributions. The first of the important contributions responded to the argument that conscription is a suboptimal use of human resources and showed that conscription can be more efficient than an all-volunteer army under many, and perhaps even most, circumstances. The second contended that the real appreciation of the Iraqi dinar relative to other currencies, rather than the “surge” of coalition forces to Iraq in 2008–2009, explained the defeat of the insurgency, because the insurgents depended on foreign funding. The third showed that African-Americans were far less likely to be deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan and explored various explanations for this—concluding that the most likely cause was not racial discrimination within the military but continued racial discrimination in the civilian labor market.
Hedging with a Housing Start Futures Contract
Authors: Berck Peter , Rosen Kenneth T.
Published: November 2023

This chapter was originally prepared in 1984 as California University Department of Agricultural and Resource Economics (CUDARE) Working Paper 321, Giannini Foundation of Agricultural Economics Working. It is posted at the eScholarship Repository, University of California. http://repositories.cdlib.org/areucb/321. It is also a Center for Real Estate and Urban Economics Working Paper, Number 84–76, March 1984.
How Is Farm Income Affected When Each Farm Has To Produce Its Own Animal Feed?
Authors: Berck Peter , Berck Cyndi Spindell , Gebreegziabher Zenebe , Teklewold Hailemariam
Published: November 2023

One of the questions that Peter proposed for his memorial conference was “What happens to agricultural yields when farms are relatively autarkic and use animals? For instance, how is yield affected when each farm has to produce its own animal feed? How can this help explain why African yields are so much lower than American?”
Estimating Agricultural Acreage Responses to Input Prices: Groundwater in California
Authors: Stevens Andrew W.
Published: November 2023

Water is arguably the most important input in California agriculture, and its importance has been highlighted by recent droughts. Farmers and researchers both have long been interested in the marginal value of agricultural water and its impact on production. However, due to a patchwork of legal doctrines, historic water rights, and the absence of any reliable market for agricultural water, estimates of water’s value in California agriculture have been challenging to come by (Buck et al., 2014). However, producers in California generally have the option to pump groundwater as a source of last resort. This pumping is largely unregulated, and only recently has California’s 2014 Sustainable Groundwater Management Act begun to impact farmers’ behavior. Producers who rely on groundwater use energy (electricity or fuel) to pump water up from an underlying aquifer. Therefore, the cost structure for groundwater is straightforward: the deeper the well, the more expensive the water.
Definitorische, theoretische und methodische Grundlagen
Authors: Wan Shujun
Published: November 2023

Dieses Kapitel beschäftigt sich mit den definitorischen, theoretischen und methodischen Grundlagen der vorliegenden Studie. Dabei wird zunächst der Begriff „Argumentationsstrategie“ erklärt, bevor eine Auseinandersetzung mit der Anwendbarkeit unterschiedlicher Modelle zur Beschreibung der Argumentationsstrategien für diese Studie erfolgt. Anschließend wird die „Kontrastive Rhetorik“, die dieser Studie einen konzeptuellen Rahmen gibt, vorgestellt: Der Abschnitt 2.2.1 gibt einen Überblick über die grundlegenden Ansätze der kontrastiven Rhetorik.
Argumentationsstrategien
Authors: Wan Shujun
Published: November 2023

Basierend auf den Ergebnissen der Datenauswertung der RST-Analyse werden in diesem Kapitel die von den chinesischen Deutschlerner/-innen und den deutschen L1-Sprecher/-innen in den argumentativen Texten eingesetzten Schreibstrategien verglichen. Dabei werden der strukturelle, der inhaltliche sowie der sprachliche Aufbau jeder Textregion analysiert. Abschnitt 5.1 befasst sich hauptsächlich mit der Konstruktion der Einleitung.
Diskussion
Authors: Wan Shujun
Published: November 2023

In diesem Kapitel geht es um drei Themen, die mich im Laufe der Forschung zum Nachdenken angeregt haben und die ich gerne in dieser Arbeit beleuchten möchte. Anhand dreier konkreter Beispiele beschreibt Abschnitt 6.1 die inter- und intra-individuellen Variationen, die in den CMN- und DEU-Texten entdeckt wurden. Abschnitt 6.2 befasst sich mit möglichen Faktoren, die bei den chinesischen Deutschlerner/-innen dieser Studie einen Einfluss auf das Schreiben der deutschsprachigen argumentativen Texte ausüben können.
Integration naturwissenschaftlicher und medizinischer Grundlagen im Hamburger Modellstudiengang Zahnmedizin iMED DENT
Authors: Bender Roland , Bruhn Natascha , Eisenbarth Sophie , Lemke Rüdiger , Pantke Chiara-Fabienne , Hampe Wolfgang , Schwoerer Alexander Peter
Published: November 2023

Im Oktober 2019 startete in Hamburg mit dem Studiengang iMED DENT erstmals in Deutschland ein integrierter Modellstudiengang der Zahnmedizin. Mit diesem Studiengang werden Lehrkonzepte wie integrierte Lehre, früher Patient:innenkontakt und früher Wissenschaftsbezug, die in den vergangenen Jahren in der Humanmedizin erfolgreich getestet wurden, auf die Zahnmedizin übertragen. Der Studienabschnitt „Normalfunktion“ im ersten Jahr des Studiengangs orientiert sich im Wesentlichen am gesunden Menschen. Ein wesentliches Augenmerk wurde in diesem Abschnitt auf die Integration der naturwissenschaftlichen und medizinischen Grundlagen der Zahnmedizin sowie auf einen frühen praktischen Bezug gelegt.

Aus den Erfahrungen der ersten 4 Kohorten lassen sich erste Rückschlüsse über diesen Studienabschnitt ziehen. Seine modulare Struktur sorgt im Allgemeinen für eine Straffung der Lehrinhalte, das Angebot der integrierten Lehre wird insgesamt sehr gut angenommen. So wird beispielsweise die Präsentation naturwissenschaftlicher Grundlagen im Kontext von zahnmedizinischer Relevanz von den Studierenden des Modellstudienganges deutlich positiver bewertet als die analogen Lehrangebote von Studierenden des Regelstudienganges. In ähnlicher Weise werden der integrierte Unterricht zahnmedizinischer und medizinischer Grundlagenfächer und die frühe Einbeziehung klinischer Aspekte in den Lehrevaluationen geschätzt. Die Integration naturwissenschaftlicher und medizinischer Grundlagen findet ihre Grenzen beispielsweise in der starken Praxisorientierung des Zahnmedizinstudiums, die häufig nur wenige unmittelbare Anknüpfungspunkte für nicht-zahnmedizinische Inhalte bietet. Eine iterative Abstimmung der beteiligten Fächer lässt hier eine weiter zunehmende Verzahnung der Lehrinhalte erwarten.
Rezidivierende E.-coli-Meningitis in der Neonatalperiode
Authors: Dierl Alexander , Hanslik Gregor
Published: November 2023

Hintergrund

Aufgrund einer heterogenen Datenlage, kleiner Fallstudien und unterschiedlicher klinischer Konstellationen ist eine generell gültige Aussage über die Dauer einer antibakteriellen Therapie bei neonataler Meningitis schwierig. Einzelne Erfahrungsberichte können hier in der Entscheidungsfindung zur Optimierung der antibakteriellen Therapie hilfreich sein.

Ziel der Arbeit

In dieser Arbeit wird von einem weiblichen Frühgeborenen mit rezidivierenden Episoden einer neonatalen Meningitis nach initialer Sepsis mit E. coli berichtet. Mögliche Risikofaktoren und Optimierungspunkte der Therapie sowie verschiedene diagnostische Optionen zum Ausschluss anatomischer oder immunologischer Risikofaktoren werden dargelegt.

Material und Methoden

Fallbericht über ein weibliches Frühgeborenes der 35 + 3 Schwangerschaftswoche mit 3 Episoden einer Escherichia-coli(E. coli)-Meningitis.

Ergebnisse

In unserem Fall war eine Anwendungsdauer von 6 Wochen zur erfolgreichen Infektionstherapie notwendig. Es lagen weder eine anatomische Anomalie noch ein Immundefekt als Risikofaktor für die 3 Episoden einer E.-coli-Meningitis mit Sepsis vor. In den Magnetresonanztomographie (MRT)- und Positronenemissionstomographie/Computertomographie (PET-CT)-Untersuchungen sowie in wiederholten Ultraschalluntersuchungen konnte die Diagnose bildmorphologisch dargestellt werden.

Diskussion

Die optimale Therapiedauer bei neonataler Meningitis muss auch weiterhin anhand der patientenbezogenen Risikofaktoren sowie des Ergebnisses der mikrobiellen Untersuchung gewählt werden. In unserem Fall konnte der auslösende Erreger (E. coli) als maßgeblicher Risikofaktor für die rezidivierende Meningitis und die Notwendigkeit einer prolongierten antibakteriellen Therapie eruiert werden.
Limited evidence in support of bone marrow aspirate concentrate as an additive to the bone marrow stimulation for osteochondral lesions of the talus: a systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Klein Chiel , Dahmen Jari , Emanuel Kaj S. , Stufkens Sjoerd , Kerkhoffs Gino M. M. J.
Published: November 2023

Purpose

Bone marrow aspirate concentrate can be used as an additive to surgical treatment of osteochondral lesions of the talus. This systematic literature review aims to study the effect of the additional use of bone marrow aspirate concentrate on top of a surgical treatment for osteochondral lesions of the talus on clinical outcomes compared to surgical treatment alone.

Methods

An online literature search was conducted using PubMed (Medline), Embase (Ovid), and the Cochrane library for all studies comparing a surgical intervention with bone marrow aspirate concentrate, with a surgical intervention without bone marrow aspirate concentrate. The methodological quality was rated according to the methodological index for non‐randomised studies checklist. The primary outcome measure were clinical outcomes. Secondary outcome measures consisted of revision rate, complication rate, radiographic outcome measures and histological analyses. Subgroups were created based on type of surgical intervention used in the studies. If multiple articles were included in a subgroup, a linear random‐effects model was used to compare the bone marrow aspirate concentrate‐augmented group with the control group.

Results

Out of 1006 studies found, eight studies with a total of 718 patients were included. The methodological quality, assessed according to the methodological index for non‐randomised studies checklist, was weak. A significantly better functional outcome measures (p < 0.05) was found in the subgroup treated with bone marrow stimulation + bone marrow aspirate concentrate compared to the group treated with bone marrow stimulation alone, based on three non‐blinded studies. No significant differences regarding clinical outcomes were found in the subgroups comparing matrix‐induced autologous chondrocyte implantation with matrix‐induced bone marrow aspirate concentrate, osteochondral autologous transplantation alone with osteochondral autologous transplantation + bone marrow aspirate concentrate and autologous matrix‐induced chondrogenesis plus peripheral blood concentrate vs. matrix‐associated stem cell transplantation bone marrow aspirate concentrate.

Conclusion

There is insufficient evidence to support a positive effect on clinical outcomes of bone marrow aspirate concentrate as an additive to surgical treatment of osteochondral lesions of the talus. However, based on the safety reports and initial results, sufficiently powered, patient‐ and researcher‐blinded, prospective randomised controlled trials are justified and recommended. Until then, we advise not to implement a therapy (addition of bone marrow aspirate concentrate) without clinical evidence that justifies the additional costs involved.

Level of evidence

Level III.
Disentangling the Computational Complexity of Network Untangling
Authors: Froese Vincent , Kunz Pascal , Zschoche Philipp
Published: November 2023

We study the network untangling problem introduced by Rozenshtein et al. (Data Min. Knowl. Disc. 35(1), 213–247, 2021), which is a variant of Vertex Coveron temporal graphs–graphs whose edge set changes over discrete time steps. They introduce two problem variants. The goal is to select at mostktime intervals for each vertex such that all time-edges are covered and (depending on the problem variant) either the maximum interval length or the total sum of interval lengths is minimized. This problem has data mining applications in finding activity timelines that explain the interactions of entities in complex networks. Both variants of the problem are NP-hard. In this paper, we initiate a multivariate complexity analysis involving the following parameters: number of vertices, lifetime of the temporal graph, number of intervals per vertex, and the interval length bound. For both problem versions, we (almost) completely settle the parameterized complexity for all combinations of those four parameters, thereby delineating the border of fixed-parameter tractability.
The Conflict over Białowieża Forest in the Light of Philip Kitcher’s Ideal Deliberation
Authors: Kula Ewa , Wróblewski Zbigniew , Starościc Anna
Published: November 2023

Environmental conflicts involve many participants in the social life: citizens, foresters, the media, activists, politicians, officials and scientists. In this paper we pay special attention to scientists who provide the others with expert knowledge and proposals for solutions to ecological problems. Using the example of the ecological conflict around the strategy of protection of Białowieża Forest against the invasion of the spruce bark beetle (Ips typographus), we will present how these scientific functions were performed as well as what communication mistakes were made, and formulate a postulate to enrich forest management with a participatory model of social debate involving scientists representing all possible approaches to the problem. Our proposal applies Kitcher’s framework giving a ground for different stakeholders to come together to address complex environmental issues. Fitting into the trend of deliberative democracy, the paper provides an insight from philosophy that can be applied to controversial issues of policy and management, and how to influence an environmental change.
Brain age predicted using graph convolutional neural network explains neurodevelopmental trajectory in preterm neonates
Authors: Liu Mengting , Lu Minhua , Kim Sharon Y. , Lee Hyun Ju , Duffy Ben A. , Yuan Shiyu , Chai Yaqiong , Cole James H. , Wu Xiaotong , Toga Arthur W. , Jahanshad Neda , Gano Dawn , Barkovich Anthony James , Xu Duan , Kim Hosung
Published: November 2023

Objectives

Dramatic brain morphological changes occur throughout the third trimester of gestation. In this study, we investigated whether the predicted brain age (PBA) derived from graph convolutional network (GCN) that accounts for cortical morphometrics in third trimester is associated with postnatal abnormalities and neurodevelopmental outcome.

Methods

In total, 577 T1 MRI scans of preterm neonates from two different datasets were analyzed; the NEOCIVET pipeline generated cortical surfaces and morphological features, which were then fed to the GCN to predict brain age. The brain age index (BAI; PBA minus chronological age) was used to determine the relationships among preterm birth (i.e., birthweight and birth age), perinatal brain injuries, postnatal events/clinical conditions, BAI at postnatal scan, and neurodevelopmental scores at 30 months.

Results

Brain morphology and GCN-based age prediction of preterm neonates without brain lesions (mean absolute error [MAE]: 0.96 weeks) outperformed conventional machine learning methods using no topological information. Structural equation models (SEM) showed that BAI mediated the influence of preterm birth and postnatal clinical factors, but not perinatal brain injuries, on neurodevelopmental outcome at 30 months of age.

Conclusions

Brain morphology may be clinically meaningful in measuring brain age, as it relates to postnatal factors, and predicting neurodevelopmental outcome.

Clinical relevance statement

Understanding the neurodevelopmental trajectory of preterm neonates through the prediction of brain age using a graph convolutional neural network may allow for earlier detection of potential developmental abnormalities and improved interventions, consequently enhancing the prognosis and quality of life in this vulnerable population.

Key Points

•Brain age in preterm neonates predicted using a graph convolutional network with brain morphological changes mediates the pre-scan risk factors and post-scan neurodevelopmental outcomes.

•Predicted brain age oriented from conventional deep learning approaches, which indicates the neurodevelopmental status in neonates, shows a lack of sensitivity to perinatal risk factors and predicting neurodevelopmental outcomes.

•The new brain age index based on brain morphology and graph convolutional network enhances the accuracy and clinical interpretation of predicted brain age for neonates.
Transorbital point-of-care ultrasound versus fundoscopic papilledema to support treatment indication for potentially elevated intracranial pressure in children
Authors: Kerscher Susanne Regina , Zipfel Julian , Haas-Lude Karin , Bevot Andrea , Tellermann Jonas , Schuhmann Martin Ulrich
Published: November 2023

Purpose

To compare transorbital point-of-care ultrasound techniques —optic nerve sheath diameter (US-ONSD) and optic disc elevation (US-ODE)— with fundoscopic papilledema to detect potentially raised intracranial pressure (ICP) with treatment indication in children.

Methods

In a prospective study, 72 symptomatic children were included, 50 with later proven disease associated with raised ICP (e.g. pseudotumour cerebri, brain tumour, hydrocephalus) and 22 with pathology excluded. Bilateral US-ONSD and US-ODE were quantified by US using a 12-MHz-linear-array transducer. This was compared to fundoscopic optic disc findings (existence of papilledema) and, in 28 cases, invasively measured ICP values.

Results

The sensitivity and specificity of a cut-off value of US-ONSD (5.73 mm) to detect treatment indication for diseases associated with increased ICP was 92% and 86.4%, respectively, compared to US-ODE (0.43 mm) with sensitivity: 72%, specificity: 77.3%. Fundoscopic papilledema had a sensitivity of 46% and a specificity of 100% in this context. Repeatability and observer-reliability of US-ODE examination was eminent (Cronbach’s α = 0.978–0.989). Papilledema was detected fundoscopically only when US-ODE was > 0.67 mm; a US-ODE > 0.43 mm had a positive predictive value of 90% for potentially increased ICP.

Conclusion

In our cohort, transorbital point-of-care US-ONSD and US-ODE detected potentially elevated ICP requiring treatment in children more reliably than fundoscopy. US-ONSD and US-ODE indicated the decrease in ICP after treatment earlier and more reliably than fundoscopy. The established cut-off values for US-ONSD and US-ODE and a newly developed US-based grading of ODE can be used as an ideal first-line screening tool to detect or exclude conditions with potentially elevated ICP in children.
Newly emerging type B insulin resistance (TBIR) during treatment with eculizumab for AQP4-IgG-positive neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD): fatal outcome
Authors: Doubrovinskaja S. , Korporal-Kuhnke M. , Jarius S. , Haas J. , Wildemann B.
Published: November 2023

Background

Aquaporin-4 immunoglobulin G (AQP4-IgG) antibody-positive neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders (NMOSD) are frequently associated with other autoimmune disorders, including systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Eculizumab (ECU) is a highly effective long-term treatment for NMOSD. However, ECU is known to increase significantly the risk of infection with encapsulated bacteria and sepsis. Recently, increased insulin resistance (IR) in patients with NMOSD has been suggested. Type B IR (TBIR) is a rare autoimmune condition often accompanying or preceding SLE. TBIR has not yet been reported in NMOSD. Objective: To report an ECU-treated patient with AQP4-IgG-positive NMOSD who developed fatal septic complications after the emergence of TBIR. Methods: Description of the clinical course over a period of 8 years. Results: A female patient was diagnosed with NMOSD at the age of 16 years. A variety of disease-modifying drugs failed to achieve sufficient disease control, resulting in severe tetraparesis. Treatment with ECU was started 6 years after NMOSD diagnosis and stabilized the disease. The patient developed TBIR 8 months after initiation of ECU therapy. Following high-dose intravenous methylprednisolone therapy for a clinical relapse and three further courses of ECU, the patient was admitted with severe pneumonia caused by the encapsulated bacteriumKlebsiella pneumoniaeand hypoglycemia. Despite multimodal therapy, the patient died from sepsis-related multiorgan failure 18 months after initiation of ECU. Conclusions: TBIR should be considered as differential diagnosis in patients with NMOSD presenting with disturbed glucose metabolism, irrespective of the presence of SLE. More real-world data are needed on the risk/benefit ratio of ECU treatment in patients who have co-existing autoimmune comorbidities that may compromise immune function. Strategies to mitigate the risk of serious infection in patients treated with ECU are discussed.
Implementing cancer symptom management interventions utilizing patient-reported outcomes: a pre-implementation evaluation of barriers and facilitators
Authors: Minteer Sarah A. , Cheville Andrea , Tesch Nathan , Griffin Joan M. , Austin Jessica D. , Mitchell Sandra , Leppin Aaron L. , Ridgeway Jennifer L.
Published: November 2023

Purpose

Symptoms can negatively impact quality of life for patients with a history of cancer. Digital, electronic health record (EHR)-integrated approaches to routine symptom monitoring accompanied by evidence-based interventions for symptom management have been explored as a scalable way to improve symptom management, particularly between clinic visits. However, little research has evaluated barriers and facilitators to implementing these approaches in real-world settings, particularly during the pre-implementation phase. Pre-implementation assessment is critical for informing the selection and sequencing of implementation strategies and intervention adaptation. Thus, this study sought to understand pre-implementation perceptions of a remote cancer symptom monitoring and management intervention that uses electronic patient-reported outcome measures for symptom assessment.

Methods

We interviewed 20 clinical and administrative stakeholders from 4 geographic regions within an academic medical center and its affiliated health system during the months prior to initiation of a stepped-wedge, cluster randomized pragmatic trial. Transcripts were coded using the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research [CFIR] 2.0. Two study team members reviewed coded transcripts to understand how determinants were relevant in the pre-implementation phase of the trial and prepared analytic memos to identify themes.

Results

Findings are summarized in four themes: (1) ability of the intervention to meet patient needs [recipient characteristics], (2) designing with care team needs in mind [innovation design and adaptability], (3) fit of the intervention with existing practice workflows [compatibility], and (4) engaging care teams early [engaging deliverers].

Conclusion

Attention to these aspects when planning intervention protocols can promote intervention compatibility with patients, providers, and practices thereby increasing implementation success.
Determining the source water and active root depth of woody plants using a deuterium tracer at a Savannah site in northern Stampriet Basin, Namibia
Authors: Uugulu Shoopala , Wanke Heike , Koeniger Paul
Published: November 2023

Woody plants play a significant role in the global water cycle through water uptake by roots and evapotranspiration. A deuterium tracer was used to assess the active root depths for Salvia mellifera and Boscia albitrunca in the Ebenhaezer area (western Namibia). The tracer was inserted at different soil depths in December 2016. Xylem cores were obtained using an increment borer, and transpired water was collected using transpiration bags zipped around the plants’ leaves. Groundwater was collected from boreholes. Soil samples were collected after the rainy season using a hand auger. Xylem and soil water were extracted using a cryogenic vacuum extraction method and analysed for stable water isotopes. Only one S. mellifera transpiration sample showed a high deuterium content (516‰) where the tracer was inserted at 2.5-m soil depth. Elevated deuterium contents were observed in two S. mellifera xylem samples; tracer had been applied at 2.5 and 3 m depth (yielding 35 and 31‰ deuterium, respectively), which constitutes a possible active-root depth range for S. mellifera. At the end of the study period (May 2017), the average δ18O value for B. albitrunca xylem samples was similar to that of groundwater. The δ18O value for S. mellifera was between that of soil water and groundwater, indicating that this species uses groundwater and soil water available for groundwater recharge. Determination of the active root depth and source water for these species would help improve hydrological modelling by incorporating the influence of woody plants on groundwater recharge.
Trastuzumab deruxtecan in patients with locally advanced or metastatic HER2-positive gastric cancer: a multicenter, open-label, expanded-access study
Authors: Shitara Kohei , Yamaguchi Kensei , Muro Kei , Yasui Hisateru , Sakai Daisuke , Oshima Takashi , Fujimura Masahiro , Sato Yuta , Yamazaki Shunsuke , Wakabayashi Tatsuya , Sugihara Masahiro , Kamio Takahiro , Shoji Hirokazu
Published: November 2023

Background

Trastuzumab deruxtecan (T-DXd) is an antibody–drug conjugate that consists of an anti-human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) antibody bound by a cleavable tetrapeptide-based linker to a cytotoxic topoisomerase I inhibitor. Prior to marketing approval in Japan in September 2020, this expanded-access study was conducted to provide T-DXd to previously treated patients with locally advanced or metastatic HER2-positive gastric or gastroesophageal junction adenocarcinomas.

Methods

This multicenter, open-label, expanded-access study was conducted between March 25 and September 25, 2020 at 17 Japanese sites. Previously treated patients with locally advanced or metastatic HER2-positive gastric or gastroesophageal junction adenocarcinomas received T-DXd 6.4 mg/kg via intravenous infusions at 3-week intervals. Serious adverse events (SAEs), all potential cases of interstitial lung disease (ILD)/pneumonitis, all liver-related events potentially meeting Hy’s Law criteria, and all cases of overdose were reported on the case report forms.

Results

A total of 64 patients were treated with T-DXd. Among the 17 (26.6%) patients with reported SAEs, 10 (15.6%) had SAEs related to T-DXd treatment. Febrile neutropenia was the most common SAE (n = 6). SAEs led to death in six patients; drug-related SAEs (sepsis and febrile neutropenia) led to death in one patient. Drug-related ILD, as determined by the external Adjudication Committee, occurred in three patients (Grade 1, Grade 2, and Grade 3: all n = 1).

Conclusion

This expanded-access study provided T-DXd to a broader population of Japanese patients prior to marketing approval in Japan, bridging the gap between clinical trials and drug approval. No new safety concerns were identified.
Vicious and virtuous relationships between procrastination and emotions: an investigation of the reciprocal relationship between academic procrastination and learning-related anxiety and hope
Authors: Gadosey Christopher K. , Schnettler Theresa , Scheunemann Anne , Bäulke Lisa , Thies Daniel O. , Dresel Markus , Fries Stefan , Leutner Detlev , Wirth Joachim , Grunschel Carola
Published: November 2023

Although cross-sectional studies depict (negative) emotions as both antecedents and consequences of trait procrastination, longitudinal studies examining reciprocal relationships between procrastination and emotions are scant. Yet, investigating reciprocal relationships between procrastination and emotions within long-term frameworks can shed light on the mechanisms underlying these relationships. Additionally, the role of positive emotions concerning procrastination is largely unattended to in the procrastination–emotion research; albeit, this perspective can inform preventive and intervention measures against procrastination. In the present study, we explored reciprocal associations between trait academic procrastination on the one hand and trait-like learning-related anxiety and hope on the other hand over one semester. Overall, N = 789 students in German universities participated in a three-wave online panel study. Participants responded to questions on academic procrastination as well as learning-related anxiety and hope at the beginning (T1), middle (T2), and end (T3) of the lecture period of the semester in approximately 6-week measurement intervals. A latent cross-lagged panel model was used to test the hypotheses. After accounting for autoregressive effects, our results showed that academic procrastination at T1 positively predicted learning-related anxiety at T2. In contrast, academic procrastination at T1 negatively predicted learning-related hope at T2, which in turn negatively predicted academic procrastination at T3. Our results highlight positive emotions (e.g., hope) as also significant factors for procrastination and suggest them as possible “protective factors” against procrastination. Boosting positive emotions as part of interventions against procrastination could potentially help reduce the tendency to procrastinate.
Nudging the Food Basket Green: The Effects of Commitment and Badges on the Carbon Footprint of Food Shopping
Authors: Panzone Luca A. , Auch Natasha , Zizzo Daniel John
Published: November 2023

We use an incentive-compatible experimental online supermarket to test the role of commitment and badges in reducing the carbon footprint of grocery shopping. In the experiment, some participants had the opportunity to voluntarily commit to a low carbon footprint basket before their online grocery shopping; the commitment was forced upon other participants. We also study the impact of an online badge as a soft reward for the achievement of a low carbon footprint basket. Participants from the general population shopped over two weeks, with the experimental stimuli only in week 2; and received their shopping baskets and any unspent budget. Results indicate that requesting a commitment prior to entering the store leads to a reduction in carbon footprint of 9–12%. When the commitment is voluntary, reductions are driven by consumers who accept the commitment. Commitments also reduced the consumption of fats and, for forced commitments, that of salt by 18%. Badges did not significantly impact consumer behaviour. Commitment mechanisms, either forced or voluntary, appear effective in motivating an environmental goal and search for low-carbon options, particularly in those accepting the commitment.
Interpolation, Satellite-Based Machine Learning, or Meteorological Simulation? A Comparison Analysis for Spatio-temporal Mapping of Mesoscale Urban Air Temperature
Authors: Hassani Amirhossein , Santos Gabriela Sousa , Schneider Philipp , Castell Núria
Published: November 2023

Fine-resolution spatio-temporal maps of near-surface urban air temperature (Ta) provide crucial data inputs for sustainable urban decision-making, personal heat exposure, and climate-relevant epidemiological studies. The recent availability of IoT weather station data allows for high-resolution urban Ta mapping using approaches such as interpolation techniques or machine learning (ML). This study is aimed at executing these approaches and traditional numerical modeling within a practical and operational framework and evaluate their practicality and efficiency in cases where data availability, computational constraints, or specialized expertise pose challenges. We employ Netatmo crowd-sourced weather station data and three geospatial mapping approaches: (1) Ordinary Kriging, (2) statistical ML model (using predictors primarily derived from Earth Observation Data), and (3) weather research and forecasting model (WRF) to predict/map daily Ta at nearly 1-km spatial resolution in Warsaw (Poland) for June–September and compare the predictions against observations from 5 meteorological reference stations. The results reveal that ML can serve as a viable alternative approach to traditional kriging and numerical simulation, characterized by reduced complexity and higher computational speeds within the domain of urban meteorological studies (overall RMSE = 1.06 °C and R2 = 0.94, compared to ground-based meteorological stations). The results have implications for identifying the urban regions vulnerable to overheating and evidence-based urban management in response to climate change. Due to the open-sourced nature of the applied predictors and input parsimony, the ML method can be easily replicated for other EU cities.
How to Do Empirical Political Philosophy: A Case Study of Miller’s Argument for Needs-Based Justice
Authors: Pölzler Thomas
Published: November 2023

In recent years an increasing number of political philosophers have begun to ground their arguments in empirical evidence. I investigate this novel approach by way of example. The object of my case study is David Miller’s renewed empirical argument for a needs-based principle of justice. First, I introduce Miller’s argument. Then I raise four worries about the application of his methodology that give rise to corresponding general recommendations for how to do empirical political philosophy. Proponents of this approach should take care to (1) check for inappropriately narrow (and broad) samples, (2) verify studies’ relevance for their empirical hypotheses, (3) adjust their confidence to the available empirical evidence, and (4) properly integrate their hypotheses into their philosophical theorizing.