bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Probing the structural transformation of ZIF-L to ZnO for sustainable congo red dye removal
Authors: Priyananda Singh Konthoujam , Wareppam Boris , Singh Ningthoujam Joseph , Pal Subhadip , Singh Ningthoujam Somorjit , Singh Loushambam Herojit
Published: February 2024

Severe water pollution due to industrial dye effluents has alarmed the scientific world to unravel a suitable technique and appropriate catalysts for dye removal and wastewater management. In the present work, the adsorbent capacity of ZnO was tuned by calcining ZIF-L, a class of Metal Organic Framework (MOF) at temperatures ranging from 300 °C–600 °C. XRD, FTIR, FESEM-EDX and XPS analysis shows the decomposition of ZIF-L and the nucleation of ZnO at the higher calcining temperatures above 350 °C. The ZIF-L derived ZnO obtained at 420 °C–500 °C exhibited higher CR removal capacity than ZIF-L and ZnO obtained through co-precipitation. The optimized calcining temperature was observed at 480 °C with a maximum Congo Red (CR) dye removal percentage of 94.8%. The adsorption capacities increased from 24.88 mg g−1 to 117.07 mg g−1 as the initial adsorbent dosage decreased from 0.5 g l−1 to 0.1 g l−1. Further, the Langmuir and Freundlich isotherm studies predict the increase in adsorption capacity from 49.09 mg g−1 to 183.98 mg g−1as the initial dye concentration increases from 5 mg l−1 to 50 mg l−1 at the optimal Z480 adsorbent dose of 0.1 g l−1. The result shows that the dye adsorption kinetics and isotherm are well fitted with the Pseudo second order model and the Fruendlich model. The plausible mechanism of dye interaction with the surface of ZnO nanoparticles at different calcining temperatures is also discussed.
Non-singular complexiton, singular complexiton and complex N-soliton solutions of the new extended (3+1)-dimensional Boiti-Leon-Manna-Pempinelli equation
Authors: Wang Kang-Jia , Shi Feng
Published: February 2024

The central target of this work is to extract some novel exact solutions of the new extended (3+1)-dimensional Boiti-Leon-Manna-Pempinelli equation (BLMPE) for the incompressible fluid. By applying the weight algorithm (WA) and linear superposition principle (LSP), we construct two sets of the complexiton solutions, which are the non-singular complexiton and singular complexiton solution via introducing the pairs of the conjugate parameters. In addition, we also explore the complex N-soliton solutions (CNSSs) via the Hirota bilinear equation (HBE) that is developed by the Cole-Hopf transform (CHT). The outlines of the corresponding exact solutions are presented graphically. As far as the information currently available, the derived solutions in this exploration are all new and are expected to enable us to investigate the dynamic characteristics of the considered equation better.
Number count of gravitational waves and supernovae in luminosity distance space for ΛCDM and scalar-tensor theories
Authors: Balaudo Anna , Pantiri Mattia , Silvestri Alessandra
Published: February 2024

The clustering of gravitational waves in luminosity distance space is emerging as a promising probe of the growth of structure. Just like for galaxies, its observation is subject to a number of relativistic corrections that affect the measured signal and need to be accounted for when fitting theoretical models to the data. We derive the full expression for the number count of gravitational waves in luminosity distance space, including all relativistic corrections, in ΛCDM and in scalar-tensor theories with luminal propagation of tensors. We investigate the importance of each relativistic effect and the detectability of the total signal by current and planned GW detectors. We consider also supernovae in luminosity distance space, highlighting the differences with gravitational waves in the case of scalar-tensor theories. We carry out a thorough comparison among the number count of gravitational waves and supernovae in luminosity distance space, and that of galaxies in redshift space. We show how the relativistic corrections contain useful complementary information on the growth of perturbations and on the underlying theory of gravity, highlighting the synergy with other cosmological probes.
GFRP continuous RC beams having web openings and externally strengthened with CFRP composites
Authors: Abdulrahman Bassam Qasim
Published: February 2024

With the enormous development of modern buildings, it is highly required to accommodate web openings in continuous reinforced concrete (RC) beams for passing utility service equipment. A wide range of studies had been conducted with regard to this subject. wtCurrent study examined numerically the major effect of the large rectangular web openings in (GFRP) reinforced concrete continuous beams under concentrated loads. Moreover, it investigated the effects of different CFRP strengthening schemes that would retrieve the ultimate capacity of the solid beam. Based on that, the main parameters that had been utilized here are the opening size, opening location and the strengthening scheme. Results showed that openings reduced the ultimate load capacity of the beams and increased the overall deflections. Furthermore, using CFRP sheets to strengthen continuous RC beams including opening retrieved (70%) of the ultimate capacity of continuous RC solid beams especially beams with openings near the external support or midspan. Likewise, using CFRP composites retrieved (48%) of the ultimate capacity of continuous RC solid beams with openings near the interior support. Furthermore, the optimum location for constructing web openings was near the external supports, which was subjected to the lowest values of shear forces and sagging moments and leaded to accommodate greater ultimate loads (85.18 kN) than other beams of other openings location.
Regression transients modeling of solid rocket motor burning surfaces with physics-guided neural network
Authors: Sun XueQin , Li Yu , Li YiHong , Wang SuKai , Li Xuan , Lu Ming , Chen Ping
Published: February 2024

Monitoring the burning surface regression in ground static ignition tests is crucial for predicting the internal ballistic performance of solid rocket motors (SRMs). A previously proposed ultra-sparse computed tomography imaging method provides a possibility for real-time monitoring. However, sample shortages of SRMs highlights the need for monitoring accuracy, especially given the high cost associated with the design and development of SRM systems. Therefore, constructing datasets via regression simulations to compensate for SRM sample shortages is critical. To address this issue, we recommend adopting the level-set method to dynamically track the burning surface by solving partial differential equations (PDEs). The computational cost of numerical solution is prohibitive for scientific applications involving large-scale spatiotemporal domains. The physics-informed neural network (PINN) and neural operator have been used to accelerate the solution of PDE, showing satisfactory prediction performance and high computational efficiency. We designed a physics-guided network, named LS-PhyNet, that couples the potential physical mechanisms of burning surface regression into the deep learning framework. The proposed method is capable of encoding well-established traditional numerical discretization methods into the network architecture to leverage prior knowledge of underlying physics, thus providing the model with enhanced expressive power and interpretability. Experimental results prove that LS-PhyNet can better reproduce the burning surfaces obtained by numerical solution with only small data regimes, providing a new paradigm for real-time monitoring of burning surface regression transients during static ignition tests.
Recent progress in undoped group-IV heterostructures for quantum technologies
Authors: Tai Chia-Tse , Li Jiun-Yun
Published: February 2024

Silicon has been a core material for digital computing owing to its high mobility, stability oxide interface, mature manufacturing technologies for more than half a century. While Moore’s law seems to further advance via various technologies to extend its expiration date, some intractable problems that requires processing times growing exponentially cannot be solved in a reasonable scale of time. Meanwhile, quantum computing is a promising tool to perform calculations much more efficiently than classical computing for certain types of problems. To realize a practical quantum computer, quantum dots on group-IV semiconductor heterostructures are promising due to the long decoherence time, scalability, and compatibility with the Si very-large-scale integrated technology. In this review, we start with the advancement of group-IV undoped heterostructures since 2000 and review carrier transport properties in these undoped heterostructure. We also review the hole effective masses, spin-orbit coupling, and effective g-factors in the Ge-based heterostructures and conclude with a brief summary.
Kinetic Theory for the Low-Density Lorentz Gas
Authors: Marklof Jens , Strömbergsson Andreas
Published: February 2024

The Lorentz gas is one of the simplest and most widely-studied models for particle transport in matter. It describes a cloud of non-interacting gas particles in an infinitely extended array of identical spherical scatterers. The model was introduced by Lorentz in 1905 who, following the pioneering ideas of Maxwell and Boltzmann, postulated that in the limit of low scatterer density, the macroscopic transport properties of the model should be governed by a linear Boltzmann equation. The linear Boltzmann equation has since proved a useful tool in the description of various phenomena, including semiconductor physics and radiative transfer. A rigorous derivation of the linear Boltzmann equation from the underlying particle dynamics was given, for random scatterer configurations, in three seminal papers by Gallavotti, Spohn and Boldrighini-Bunimovich-Sinai. The objective of the present study is to develop an approach for a large class of deterministic scatterer configurations, including various types of quasicrystals. We prove the convergence of the particle dynamics to transport processes that are in general (depending on the scatterer configuration) not described by the linear Boltzmann equation. This was previously understood only in the case of the periodic Lorentz gas through work of Caglioti-Golse and Marklof-Strömbergsson. Our results extend beyond the classical Lorentz gas with hard sphere scatterers, and in particular hold for general classes of spherically symmetric finite-range potentials. We employ a rescaling technique that randomises the point configuration given by the scatterers’ centers. The limiting transport process is then expressed in terms of a point process that arises as the limit of the randomised point configuration under a certain volume-preserving one-parameter linear group action.
Effects of pulsed electrical stimulation on α-smooth muscle actin and type I collagen expression in human dermal fibroblasts
Authors: Urabe Hiroya , Akimoto Ryuji , Kamiya Shohei , Hosoki Katsu , Ichikawa Hideyuki , Nishiyama Toshio
Published: February 2024

Pulsed electrical stimulation (PES) is known to affect cellular activities. We previously found PES to human dermal fibroblasts (HFs) promoted platelet-derived growth factor subunit A (PDGFA) gene expression, which enhanced proliferation. In this study, we investigated PES effects on fibroblast collagen production and differentiation into myofibroblasts. HFs were electrically stimulated at 4800 Hz and 5 V for 60 min. Imatinib, a specific inhibitor of PDGF receptors, was treated before PES. After 6 h of PES, PDGFA, α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), and collagen type I α1 chain gene expressions were upregulated in PES group. Imatinib suppressed the promoted expression except for PDGFA. Immunofluorescence staining and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay showed the production of α-SMA and collagen I was enhanced in PES group but suppressed in PES + imatinib group at 48 h after PES. Therefore, PES promotes the production of α-SMA and collagen I in fibroblasts, which is triggered by PDGFA that is upregulated early after PES.
PipeVal: light-weight extensible tool for file validation
Authors: Patel Yash , Beshlikyan Arpi , Jordan Madison , Kim Gina , Holmes Aaron , Yamaguchi Takafumi N , Boutros Paul C
Published: February 2024

Motivation

The volume of biomedical data generated each year is growing exponentially as high-throughput molecular, imaging and mHealth technologies expand. This rise in data volume has contributed to an increasing reliance on and demand for computational methods, and consequently to increased attention to software quality and data integrity.

Results

To simplify data verification in diverse data-processing pipelines, we created PipeVal, a light-weight, easy-to-use, extensible tool for file validation. It is open-source, easy to integrate with complex workflows, and modularized for extensibility for new file formats. PipeVal can be rapidly inserted into existing methods and pipelines to automatically validate and verify inputs and outputs. This can reduce wasted compute time attributed to file corruption or invalid file paths, and significantly improve the quality of data-intensive software.

Availability and implementation

PipeVal is an open-source Python package under the GPLv2 license and it is freely available at https://github.com/uclahs-cds/package-PipeVal. The docker image is available at: https://github.com/uclahs-cds/package-PipeVal/pkgs/container/pipeval.
NFTest: automated testing of Nextflow pipelines
Authors: Patel Yash , Zhu Chenghao , Yamaguchi Takafumi N , Bugh Yuan Zhe , Tian Mao , Holmes Aaron , Fitz-Gibbon Sorel T , Boutros Paul C
Published: February 2024

Motivation

The ongoing expansion in the volume of biomedical data has contributed to a growing complexity in the tools and technologies used in research with an increased reliance on complex workflows written in orchestration languages such as Nextflow to integrate algorithms into processing pipelines. The growing use of workflows involving various tools and algorithms has led to increased scrutiny of software development practices to avoid errors in individual tools and in the connections between them.

Results

To facilitate test-driven development of Nextflow pipelines, we created NFTest, a framework for automated pipeline testing and validation with customizability options for Nextflow features. It is open-source, easy to initialize and use, and customizable to allow for testing of complex workflows with test success configurable through a broad range of assertions. NFTest simplifies the testing burden on developers by automating tests once defined and providing a flexible interface for running tests to validate workflows. This reduces the barrier to rigorous biomedical workflow testing and paves the way toward reducing computational errors in biomedicine.

Availability and implementation

NFTest is an open-source Python framework under the GPLv2 license and is freely available at https://github.com/uclahs-cds/tool-NFTest. The call-sSNV Nextflow pipeline is available at: https://github.com/uclahs-cds/pipeline-call-sSNV.
Impact of age and comorbid heart failure on the utility of smart voice-assistant devices
Authors: Marques Pedro , Emami Anahita , Zhang Guang , Lopes Renato D , Razaghizad Amir , Avram Robert , Sharma Abhinav
Published: February 2024

Aims

The accuracy of voice-assisted technologies, such as Amazon Alexa, to collect data in patients who are older or have heart failure (HF) is unknown. The aim of this study is to analyse the impact of increasing age and comorbid HF, when compared with younger participants and caregivers, and how these different subgroups classify their experience using a voice-assistant device, for screening purposes.

Methods and results

Subgroup analysis (HF vs. caregivers and younger vs. older participants) of the VOICE-COVID-II trial, a randomized controlled study where participants were assigned with subsequent crossover to receive a SARS-CoV2 screening questionnaire by Amazon Alexa or a healthcare personnel. Overall concordance between the two methods was compared using unweighted kappa scores and percentage of agreement. From the 52 participants included, the median age was 51 (34–65) years and 21 (40%) were HF patients. The HF subgroup showed a significantly lower percentage of agreement compared with caregivers (95% vs. 99%, P = 0.03), and both the HF and older subgroups tended to have lower unweighted kappa scores than their counterparts. In a post-screening survey, both the HF and older subgroups were less acquainted and found the voice-assistant device more difficult to use compared with caregivers and younger individuals.

Conclusion

This subgroup analysis highlights important differences in the performance of a voice-assistant–based technology in an older and comorbid HF population. Younger individuals and caregivers, serving as facilitators, have the potential to bridge the gap and enhance the integration of these technologies into clinical practice.

Study Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT04508972.
Sex differences in population versus in-hospital use of aortic valve replacement procedures in Spain
Authors: Rosillo Nicolás , Vicent Lourdes , Moreno Guillermo , Vélez Jorge , Sarnago Fernando , Bernal Jose Luis , Bueno Héctor
Published: February 2024

Aims

It is not well known if sex differences in the use and results of aortic valve replacement (AVR) are changing. The aim of the study is to assess the time trends in the differences by sex in the utilization of AVR procedures in hospitals and in the community.

Methods and Results

Retrospective observational analysis using data from the Spanish National Hospitalizations Administrative Database. All hospitalizations between 2016 and 2021 with a main diagnosis of aortic stenosis (International Classification of Diseases-10 codes: I35.0 and I35.2) were included. Time trends in hospitalization, AVRs, and hospital outcomes were analysed. Crude utilization and population-standardized rates were calculated. During the study period, 64 384 hospitalizations in 55 983 patients (55.5% men) with 36 915 (65.9%) AVR were recorded. Of these, 15 563 (42.2%) were transcatheters and 21 432 (58.0%) were surgical. At the hospital level, transcatheter procedures were more frequently performed in women (32.3% vs. 24.2%, P < 0.001), and surgical in men (42.9% vs. 32.5%, P < 0.001) but at the population level, surgical and transcatheter aortic valve replacements (TAVRs) were used more frequently in men (12.6 surgical and 8.0 transcatheter per 100 000 population) vs. women (6.4 and 5.8, respectively; P < 0.001 for both comparisons). Transcatheter procedures shifted from 17.3% in 2016 to 38.0% in 2021, overtaking surgical procedures in 2018 for women and 2021 for men.

Conclusions

TAVR has displaced surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR) as the most frequent AVR procedure in Spain by 2020. This occurred earlier in women, who, despite the greater weight of their age group in the older population, received fewer AVRs, both SAVR and TAVR.
Surgical strategies for benign acquired tracheoesophageal fistula
Authors: Zeng Ao , Liu Xiaogang , Shaik Mohammed Saud , Jiang Gening , Dai Jie
Published: February 2024

OBJECTIVES

Tracheoesophageal fistula (TEF) is characterized by abnormal connectivity between the posterior wall of the trachea or bronchus and the adjacent anterior wall of the oesophagus. Benign TEF can result in serious complications; however, there is currently no uniform standard to determine the appropriate surgical approach for repairing TEF.

METHODS

The PubMed database was used to search English literature associated with TEF from 1975 to October 2023. We employed Boolean operators and relevant keywords: ‘tracheoesophageal fistula’, ‘tracheal resection’, ‘fistula suture’, ‘fistula repair’, ‘fistula closure’, ‘flap’, ‘patch’, ‘bioabsorbable material’, ‘bioprosthetic material’, ‘acellular dermal matrix’, ‘AlloDerm’, ‘double patch’, ‘oesophageal exclusion’, ‘oesophageal diversion’ to search literature. The evidence level of the literature was assessed based on the GRADE classification.

RESULTS

Nutritional support, no severe pulmonary infection and weaning from mechanical ventilation were the 3 determinants for timing of operation. TEFs were classified into 3 levels: small TEF (<1 cm), moderate TEF (≥1 but <5 cm) and large TEF (≥5 cm). Fistula repair or tracheal segmental resection was used for the small TEF with normal tracheal status. If the anastomosis cannot be finished directly after tracheal segmental resection, special types of tracheal resection, such as slide tracheoplasty, oblique resection and reconstruction, and autologous tissue flaps were preferred depending upon the site and size of the fistula. Oesophageal exclusion was applicable to refractory TEF or patients with poor conditions.

CONCLUSIONS

The review primarily summarizes the main surgical techniques employed to repair various acquired TEF, to provide references that may contribute to the treatment of TEF.
Cross-talk between immunity and behavior: insights from entomopathogenic fungi and their insect hosts
Authors: Zhang Wei , Chen Xuanyu , Eleftherianos Ioannis , Mohamed Amr , Bastin Ashley , Keyhani Nemat O
Published: February 2024

Insects are one of the most successful animals in nature, and entomopathogenic fungi play a significant role in the natural epizootic control of insect populations in many ecosystems. The interaction between insects and entomopathogenic fungi has continuously coevolved over hundreds of millions of years. Many components of the insect innate immune responses against fungal infection are conserved across phyla. Additionally, behavioral responses, which include avoidance, grooming, and/or modulation of body temperature, have been recognized as important mechanisms for opposing fungal pathogens. In an effort to investigate possible cross-talk and mediating mechanisms between these fundamental biological processes, recent studies have integrated and/or explored immune and behavioral responses. Current information indicates that during discrete stages of fungal infection, several insect behavioral and immune responses are altered simultaneously, suggesting important connections between the two systems. This review synthesizes recent advances in our understanding of the physiological and molecular aspects influencing cross-talk between behavioral and innate immune antifungal reactions, including chemical perception and olfactory pathways.
A novel location classification system for Crohn’s disease based on small bowel involvement: a better predictor of disease progression
Authors: Guo Huili , Tang Jian , Qin Xiusen , Lin Minzhi , Li Miao , Yang Qingfan , Huang Zicheng , Gao Xiang , Chao Kang
Published: February 2024

Background

Small bowel involvement is related to poor prognosis in Crohn’s disease (CD), which may be a potential marker to stratify patients with a high risk of progression. This study aimed to establish a novel location classification system for CD and to develop a predictive model for disease progression.

Methods

Consecutive patients with non-stricturing/non-penetrating CD were retrospectively included in the Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University (Guangzhou, P. R. China) between January 2012 and January 2018. Patients were classified into two groups according to disease location: small bowel involvement group and isolated colon group. The primary outcome was disease progression to stricturing or penetrating phenotypes. Progression-free survival was estimated using Cox proportional hazards regression analysis and Kaplan–Meier method.

Results

A total of 463 patients were analysed, with a median follow-up time of 55.3 months. Patients with small bowel involvement had a higher risk of disease progression than those with isolated colon disease (hazard ratio = 1.998, P = 0.007), while no differences were found between Montreal location classification and disease progression. Median progression-free survival was higher in the isolated colon group than in the small bowel involvement group (84.5 vs 77.3 months, P = 0.006). Four independent factors associated with disease progression were identified: small bowel involvement, duration of onset of >1 year, deep mucosal ulcer, and C-reactive protein levels of ≥10 mg/L (all P < 0.05). The nomogram model based on these factors showed good performance in predicting disease progression, with a C-index of 0.746 (95% confidence interval, 0.707–0.785).

Conclusions

Classifying CD based on small bowel involvement and isolated colon was superior to the Montreal location classification for predicting disease progression.
Remagnetization of the Upper Permian–Lower Triassic limestones in the western Lhasa Terrane and its tectonic implications
Authors: Bian Weiwei , Jiao Xianwei , Wang Suo , Liang Jiacheng , Ma Jiahui , Ding Jikai , Zhao Hanqing , Yang Tianshui , Zhang Shihong , Wu Huaichun , Li Haiyan , Deng Chenglong
Published: February 2024

The drift history of the Lhasa terrane plays an essential role in understanding the tectonic evolution of the Bangong-Nujiang Tethyan Ocean and the Neo-Tethyan Ocean, as well as the evolutionary history of the Tibetan Plateau. Here, a combined rock magnetic, petrographic, and palaeomagnetic study is performed on the Upper Permian–Lower Triassic limestones (∼259–251 Ma) in the western Lhasa terrane. The site-mean direction for the 28 sites is Dg = 32.1°, Ig = 50.3°, kg = 47.9 and α95 = 4.0° in situ and Ds = 342.9°, Is = 32.7°, ks = 43.2 and α95 = 4.2° after tilt-correction, yielding a palaeopole at 68.9°N, 314.4°E with A95 = 4.3°, corresponding to a palaeolatitude of 18.0° ± 4.3°N. The fold tests are not significant because the sampling section shows monoclinic features with minor variations in their bedding attitudes. The palaeopoles for the directions before and after tilt-correction are compared with reliable Late Permian–Palaeogene palaeopoles obtained from the Lhasa terrane. Based on these comparisons, the studied limestones were remagnetized prior to tilting and this remagnetization most likely occurred during the Early Cretaceous. The depositional environment of the limestones may have changed from anoxic to suboxic and oxic during the Early Cretaceous, leading to the oxidation of iron sulphide to authigenic magnetite. Meanwhile, the Late Jurassic–Early Cretaceous convergence between the western Lhasa and Qiangtang terranes may have resulted in tectonic fluid migration and the formation of calcite veins and stylolites in the limestones. This is supported by the presence of small calcite veins and stylolites in some samples, as well as the fact that the framboidal oxides were formerly sulphides (mostly pyrite), implying that the majority of the iron oxides observed in the limestones were authigenic. These processes indicate that chemical remanent magnetization caused by the growth of magnetic minerals related to tectonic fluid migration was most likely the mechanism for the limestone remagnetization.
Siderophore of plant growth promoting rhizobacterium origin reduces reactive oxygen species mediated injury in Solanum spp. caused by fungal pathogens
Authors: Kumar Ravinsh , Singh Ashutosh , Shukla Ekta , Singh Pratika , Khan Azmi , Singh Naveen Kumar , Srivastava Amrita
Published: February 2024

Aims

The study aims to explore antifungal properties of bacillibactin siderophore produced by the plant growth-promoting rhizobacterium (PGPR) Bacillus subtilis against fungal phytopathogens Alternaria porri and Fusarium equiseti isolated from Solanum lycopersicum and Solanum melongena plants.

Methods and results

Alternaria porri and F. equiseti were isolated from infected plants of eggplant and tomato, respectively. A plate assay was employed to assess the effect of bacillibactin against the phytopathogens. The antifungal potential of the PGPR was evaluated by estimation of dry fungal biomass, visualization of cellular deformity using compound and scanning electron microscopy, antioxidative enzyme assay and analysis of membrane damage via using lipid peroxidation. Inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectroscopy (ICP-AES) analysis was employed to investigate changes in intracellular iron content. The impact of bacillibactin on pathogenesis was evaluated by infecting detached leaves of S. lycopersicum and S. melongena plants with both the pathogens and treating the infected leaves with bacillibactin. Leaves were further investigated for ROS accumulation, extent of necrosis and cell death. Our findings revealed significant damage to the hyphal structure of A. porri and F. equiseti following treatment with bacillibactin. Biomass reduction, elevated antioxidative enzyme levels, and membrane damage further substantiated the inhibitory effects of the siderophore on fungal growth. ICP-AES analysis indicates an increase in intracellular iron content suggesting enhanced iron uptake facilitated by bacillibactin. Moreover, application of 1500 µg ml−1 bacillibactin on infected leaves demonstrated a substantial inhibition of ROS accumulation, necrosis, and cell death upon bacillibactin treatment.

Conclusions

This study confirms the potent antagonistic activity of bacillibactin against both the phytopathogens A. porri and F. equiseti growth, supporting its potential as a promising biological control agent for fungal plant diseases. Bacillibactin-induced morphological, physiological, and biochemical alterations in the isolated fungi and pathogen-infected leaves highlight the prospects of bacillibactin as an effective and sustainable solution to mitigate economic losses associated with fungal infections in vegetable crops.
Artificial intelligence predictive analytics in heart failure: results of the pilot phase of a pragmatic randomized clinical trial
Authors: Sideris Konstantinos , Weir Charlene R , Schmalfuss Carsten , Hanson Heather , Pipke Matt , Tseng Po-He , Lewis Neil , Sallam Karim , Bozkurt Biykem , Hanff Thomas , Schofield Richard , Larimer Karen , Kyriakopoulos Christos P , Taleb Iosif , Brinker Lina , Curry Tempa , Knecht Cheri , Butler Jorie M , Stehlik Josef
Published: February 2024

Objectives

We conducted an implementation planning process during the pilot phase of a pragmatic trial, which tests an intervention guided by artificial intelligence (AI) analytics sourced from noninvasive monitoring data in heart failure patients (LINK-HF2).

Materials and methods

A mixed-method analysis was conducted at 2 pilot sites. Interviews were conducted with 12 of 27 enrolled patients and with 13 participating clinicians. iPARIHS constructs were used for interview construction to identify workflow, communication patterns, and clinician’s beliefs. Interviews were transcribed and analyzed using inductive coding protocols to identify key themes. Behavioral response data from the AI-generated notifications were collected.

Results

Clinicians responded to notifications within 24 hours in 95% of instances, with 26.7% resulting in clinical action. Four implementation themes emerged: (1) High anticipatory expectations for reliable patient communications, reduced patient burden, and less proactive provider monitoring. (2) The AI notifications required a differential and tailored balance of trust and action advice related to role. (3) Clinic experience with other home-based programs influenced utilization. (4) Responding to notifications involved significant effort, including electronic health record (EHR) review, patient contact, and consultation with other clinicians.

Discussion

Clinician’s use of AI data is a function of beliefs regarding the trustworthiness and usefulness of the data, the degree of autonomy in professional roles, and the cognitive effort involved.

Conclusion

The implementation planning analysis guided development of strategies that addressed communication technology, patient education, and EHR integration to reduce clinician and patient burden in the subsequent main randomized phase of the trial. Our results provide important insights into the unique implications of implementing AI analytics into clinical workflow.
In-person, video conference, or audio conference? Examining individual and dyadic information processing as a function of communication system
Authors: Han Jingjing , Cores-Sarría Lucía , Zhou Han
Published: February 2024

The wide use of virtual communication has raised a need to understand its effect on communication effectiveness and the ways its different forms influence users’ information processing. To that end, this study proposes the Dynamical Interpersonal Communication Systems Model and posits that the amount of information directly perceived affects individual and dyadic information processing. This proposition is tested by examining how visual information influences physiological patterns, known to underlie information processing, during in-person, video, and audio-only conferences. Results indicate that while audio-only communication sustained emotional intensity better, visual-based communication required less initial cognitive effort. Visual information in combination with physical presence (in-person communication) resulted in consistently lower cognitive effort and stronger synchronization of positive emotions, compared to contexts involving visual but without embodied information (video communication). This study shows the importance of investigating interpersonal communication simultaneously across multiple systems and at the intra- and inter-personal levels.
Lipoleiomyoma: a potential mimic of an ovarian dermoid cyst on MRI—a case report
Authors: El Hassouni Fatima , El Graini Soumaya , Sassi Samia , El Haddad Siham , Rouas Lamiaa , El Youssfi Mounia
Published: February 2024

Uterine lipoleiomyomas are rare variants of uterine leiomyomas which is composed of adipocytes and smooth muscle cells. In this report, we describe the case of a 39-year-old patient who presented with persistent, isolated pelvic pain. Ultrasonography showed an oval, well-defined left ovarian mass. Computed tomography (CT) scanning showed a predominantly-fatty mass with tissular components, no calcifications and heterogeneously enhanced after injection, suggesting initially a mature teratoma. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings revealed a latero-uterine mass, suggesting the presence of a left ovarian dermoid cyst with a potentially-malignant fleshy component. A subsequent pathology report revealed a lipoleiomyoma with cartilaginous metaplasia. Most notably, despite the fatty nature of the tumour and the use of MRI, the pedunculated appearance of the lipoleiomyoma observed intraoperatively mimicked a dermoid tumour even on imaging. Improved understanding of leiomyoma variants and secondary degenerative changes can help prevent misdiagnosis.
Influence of sources with a spectral peak in the detection of Cosmic Dawn and Epoch of Reionization
Authors: He Mengfan , Zheng Qian , Guo Quan , Shan Huanyuan , Zhu Zhenghao , Xie Yushan , Huang Yan , Zhao Feiyu
Published: February 2024

Foreground removal is one of the biggest challenges in the detection of the Cosmic Dawn (CD) and Epoch of Reionization (EoR). Various foreground subtraction techniques have been developed based on the spectral smoothness of foregrounds. However, the sources with a spectral peak (SP) at megahertz may break down the spectral smoothness at low frequencies (<1000 MHz). In this paper, we cross-match the GaLactic and Extragalactic All-sky Murchison Widefield Array (GLEAM) extragalactic source catalogue with three other radio source catalogues, covering the frequency range 72 MHz–1.4 GHz, to search for sources with spectral turnover. 4423 sources from the GLEAM catalogue are identified as SP sources, representing ≈3.2 per cent of the GLEAM radio source population. We utilize the properties of SP source candidates obtained from real observations to establish simulations and test the impact of SP sources on the extraction of CD/EoR signals. We statistically compare the differences introduced by SP sources in the residuals after removing the foregrounds with three methods, which are polynomial fitting, principal component analysis, and fast independent component analysis. Our results indicate that the presence of SP sources in the foregrounds has a negligible influence on extracting the CD/EoR signal. After foreground subtraction, the contribution from SP sources to the total power in the two-dimensional power spectrum within the EoR window is approximately 3–4 orders of magnitude lower than the CD/EoR signal.
A comparison of next-generation turbulence profiling instruments at Paranal
Authors: Griffiths R , Bardou L , Butterley T , Osborn J , Wilson R , Bustos E , Tokovinin A , Le Louarn M , Otarola A
Published: February 2024

A six-night optical turbulence monitoring campaign has been carried at Cerro Paranal observatory in 2023 February and March to facilitate the development and characterization of two novel atmospheric site monitoring instruments – the ring-image next-generation scintillation sensor (RINGSS) and 24-h Shack Hartmann image motion monitor (24hSHIMM) in the context of providing optical turbulence monitoring support for upcoming 20–40 m telescopes. Alongside these two instruments, the well-characterized Stereo-SCIDAR and 2016-MASS-DIMM were operated throughout the campaign to provide data for comparison. All instruments obtain estimates of optical turbulence profiles through statistical analysis of intensity and wavefront angle-of-arrival fluctuations from observations of stars. Contemporaneous measurements of the integrated turbulence parameters are compared and the ratios, bias, unbiased root mean square error, and correlation of results from each instrument assessed. Strong agreement was observed in measurements of seeing, free atmosphere seeing, and coherence time. Less correlation is seen for isoplanatic angle, although the median values agree well. Median turbulence parameters are further compared against long-term monitoring data from Paranal instruments. Profiles from the three small-telescope instruments are compared with the 100-layer profile from the stereo-SCIDAR. It is found that the RINGSS and SHIMM offer improved accuracy in characterization of the vertical optical turbulence profile over the MASS-DIMM. Finally, the first results of continuous optical turbulence monitoring at Paranal are presented which show a strong diurnal variation and predictable trend in the seeing. A value of 2.65 arcsec is found for the median daytime seeing.
Management of adult patients with podocytopathies: an update from the ERA Immunonephrology Working Group
Authors: Mirioglu Safak , Daniel-Fischer Lisa , Berke Ilay , Ahmad Syed Hasan , Bajema Ingeborg M , Bruchfeld Annette , Fernandez-Juarez Gema M , Floege Jürgen , Frangou Eleni , Goumenos Dimitrios , Griffith Megan , Moran Sarah M , van Kooten Cees , Steiger Stefanie , Stevens Kate I , Turkmen Kultigin , Willcocks Lisa C , Kronbichler Andreas
Published: February 2024

The histopathological lesions, minimal change disease (MCD) and focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS) are entities without immune complex deposits which can cause podocyte injury, thus are frequently grouped under the umbrella of podocytopathies. Whether MCD and FSGS may represent a spectrum of the same disease remains a matter of conjecture. Both frequently require repeated high-dose glucocorticoid therapy with alternative immunosuppressive treatments reserved for relapsing or resistant cases and response rates are variable. There is an unmet need to identify patients who should receive immunosuppressive therapies as opposed to those who would benefit from supportive strategies. Therapeutic trials focusing on MCD are scarce, and the evidence used for the 2021 Kidney Disease: Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO) guideline for the management of glomerular diseases largely stems from observational and pediatric trials. In FSGS, the differentiation between primary forms and those with underlying genetic variants or secondary forms further complicates trial design. This article provides a perspective of the Immunonephrology Working Group (IWG) of the European Renal Association (ERA) and discusses the KDIGO 2021 Clinical Practice Guideline for the Management of Glomerular Diseases focusing on the management of MCD and primary forms of FSGS in the context of recently published evidence, with a special emphasis on the role of rituximab, cyclophosphamide, supportive treatment options and ongoing clinical trials in the field.
Effects of community-based educational video interventions on nutrition, health, and use of health services in low- and middle-income countries: systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Boynito Wanzahun Godana , Pauwels Nele S , Otayto Kusse , De Henauw Stefaan , Abbeddou Souheila
Published: February 2024

Context

Health education using videos has been promoted for its potential to enhance community health by improving social and behavior change communication.

Objective

To provide stakeholders in maternal and child health with evidence that can inform policies and strategies integrating video education to improve maternal, newborn, and child health.

Data sources

Five databases (MEDLINE, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science, and CENTRAL) were searched on January 28, 2022, and November 10, 2022 (updated search). Quantitative and qualitative studies conducted in low- and middle-income countries on the effects of video-based interventions on nutrition, health, and health service use were eligible. There was no restriction on time or language. Study selection was done in 2 stages and in duplicate.

Data extraction

A total of 13 710 records were imported to EndNote. Of these, 8226 records were screened by title and abstract using Rayyan, and 76 records were included for full-text evaluation.

Results

Twenty-nine articles (n = 12 084 participants) were included in this systematic review, and 7 were included in the meta-analysis. Video interventions improved knowledge about newborn care (n = 234; odds ratio [OR], 1.20; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.04–1.40), colostrum feeding (n = 990; OR, 60.38; 95%CI, 18.25–199.78), continued breastfeeding (BF; n = 1914; OR, 3.79; 95%CI, 1.14–12.64), intention to use family planning (FP) (n = 814; OR, 1.57; 95%CI, 1.10–2.23), and use of FP (n = 864; OR, 6.55; 95%CI, 2.30–18.70). Video interventions did not result in reduced prelacteal feeding or improvement in early initiation of BF. The qualitative studies showed that video interventions were acceptable and feasible, with perceived impacts on communities.

Conclusion

This systematic review and meta-analysis indicated that video interventions improved knowledge of newborn care, colostrum feeding, and continuing BF, and the intention to use FP. Given the high levels of heterogeneity and inconsistency in reporting, more research with stronger designs is recommended.

Systematic review registration

PROSPERO registration no. CRD42022292190.
Association of the clinical components in the distal interphalangeal joint synovio-entheseal complex and subsequent response to ixekizumab or adalimumab in psoriatic arthritis
Authors: McGonagle Dennis , Kavanaugh Arthur , McInnes Iain B , Kristensen Lars Erik , Merola Joseph F , Strober Bruce , Bolce Rebecca , Lisse Jeffrey , Pustizzi Jennifer , Sapin Christophe , Ritchlin Christopher
Published: February 2024

Objectives

To assess the frequency of simultaneous distal interphalangeal (DIP) joint disease and adjacent nail psoriasis (finger unit) among patients with psoriatic arthritis (PsA) and compare the efficacy of the IL-17A antagonist ixekizumab (IXE) and the TNF-α inhibitor adalimumab (ADA).

Methods

This post hoc analysis evaluated the simultaneous occurrence of DIP joint involvement (tenderness and/or swelling) and adjacent nail psoriasis among patients with PsA from the SPIRIT-H2H (NCT03151551) trial comparing IXE to ADA. Among patients with simultaneous DIP joint involvement and adjacent nail psoriasis in ≥1 digit at baseline, treatment effects were assessed through week 52 for each affected finger unit; ‘finger unit’ defines the connected DIP joint and adjacent nail of an individual digit.

Results

A total of 354 patients had simultaneous DIP joint involvement and adjacent nail psoriasis in ≥1 finger unit at baseline. Among them, 1309 (IXE: 639; ADA: 670) finger units had baseline DIP joint tenderness and/or swelling and adjacent nail psoriasis. Proportions of affected finger units achieving complete resolution were significantly higher with IXE vs ADA as early as week 12 (38.8% vs 28.4%, P < 0.0001) and at all post-baseline assessments through week 52 (64.9% vs 57.5%, P = 0.0055).

Conclusion

In this study cohort, patients with DIP joint involvement almost always had adjacent nail psoriasis. Greater resolution of DIP joint tenderness, swelling and adjacent nail psoriasis was achieved at all time points over 52 weeks through targeting IL-17A with IXE than TNF-α with ADA, which is noteworthy given prior comparable musculoskeletal outcomes for both drug classes.
Yield curve momentum
Authors: Sihvonen Markus
Published: February 2024

I analyze time series momentum along the Treasury term structure. Yield curve momentum is primarily due to changes in the level factor of yields. Because yield changes are partly induced by changes in the federal funds rate, yield curve momentum is related to post-FOMC (Federal Open Market Committee) announcement drift. The momentum factor is unspanned by the information in the term structure today and is hence inconsistent with standard term structure, macrofinance, and behavioral models. I argue that the results are consistent with a model with unpriced longer term dependencies.
Factors Associated with Israeli Social Workers’ Intention to Stay in the Profession
Authors: Nebenzahl-Elitzur Naama , Kagan Maya , Zychlinski Ester
Published: February 2024

The phenomenon of social workers leaving the profession occurs frequently, underscoring the importance of understanding factors contributing to the intention to stay (ITS) in the profession. Based on the job demands–resources theory (JD-R), this study examined selected social worker workplace “demands” (i.e., their organizational sector of employment and level of work–family conflict) and “resources” (i.e., levels of meaning, locus of control, and salary satisfaction at work). Online survey data were obtained from 407 Israeli social workers. The findings showed that higher levels of meaning and salary satisfaction at work, greater professional seniority, and lower levels of work–family conflict were associated with greater ITS in the profession. Data were gathered during the COVID-19 pandemic, enabling examination of variables contributing to the ITS during times of crisis. These findings confirm that meaning at work is the main factor that motivates social worker ITS in the profession. Salary satisfaction was also found to be an essential factor, highlighting the recent escalation in social worker demands for fair compensation in Israel. Greater work–family balance also contributed to ITS. These findings should be considered by governmental decision makers and welfare service providers wishing to preserve this essential workforce, not just in Israel but also in other countries.
News from the Hague Conference on Private International Law (HCCH)
Authors:   Permanent Bureau of the HCCH
Published: February 2024

Over the past year, the HCCH, supported by its Permanent Bureau (PB), has continued its work for the progressive unification of the rules of private international law (PIL). This annual contribution to the Uniform Law Review provides an overview of the activities of the HCCH from 1 December 2022 to 30 November 2023, and anticipates some upcoming events, encompassing the HCCH’s three main areas of work: international family and child protection law, transnational litigation and Apostille, and international commercial, digital, and financial law.