bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
YOLO-based CAD framework with ViT transformer for breast mass detection and classification in CESM and FFDM images
Authors: Hassan Nada M. , Hamad Safwat , Mahar Khaled
Published: January 2024

Breast cancer detection is considered a challenging task for the average experienced radiologist due to the variation of the lesions’ size and shape, especially with the existence of high fibro-glandular tissues. The revolution of deep learning and computer vision contributes recently in introducing systems that can provide an automated diagnosis for breast cancer that can act as a second opinion for doctors/radiologists. The most of previously proposed deep learning-based Computer-Aided Diagnosis (CAD) systems mainly utilized Convolutional Neural Networks (CNN) that focuses on local features. Recently, vision transformers (ViT) have shown great potential in image classification tasks due to its ability in learning the local and global spatial features. This paper proposes a fully automated CAD framework based on YOLOv4 network and ViT transformers for mass detection and classification of Contrast Enhanced Spectral Mammography (CESM) images. CESM is an evolution type of Full Field Digital Mammography (FFDM) images that provides enhanced visualization for breast tissues. Different experiments were conducted to evaluate the proposed framework on two different datasets that are INbreast and CDD-CESM that provides both FFDM and CESM images. The model achieved at mass detection a mean Average Precision (mAP) score of 98.69%, 81.52%, and 71.65% and mass classification accuracy of 95.65%, 97.61%, and 80% for INbreast, CE-CESM, and DM-CESM, respectively. The proposed framework showed competitive results regarding the state-of-the-art models in INbreast. It outperformed the previous work in the literature in terms of the F1-score by almost 5% for mass detection in CESM. Moreover, the experiments showed that the CESM could provide more morphological features that can be more informative, especially with the highly dense breast tissues.
Platelet-rich fibrin for rehydration and pre-vascularization of an acellular, collagen membrane of porcine origin
Authors: Schröger Saskia-Vanessa , Blatt Sebastian , Sagheb Kawe , Al-Nawas Bilal , Kämmerer Peer W. , Sagheb Keyvan
Published: January 2024

Objectives

Pre-vascularization of the collagen membranes with autologous platelet concentrates is a standard procedure in oral and maxillofacial surgery. This study analyzed the possible interaction of an acellular collagen membrane of porcine origin (NM) with platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) regarding its rehydration protocol with differences in pH values and effect on angiogenesis.

Materials and methods

NM was analyzed alone and combined with solid PRF by plotting or co-culturing with injectable PRF. Different media (venous blood, buffer solution with a fixed pH value of 7, saline solution, and injectable PRF) were used to analyze the influence on pH value during rehydration. Chorion allantois membrane assay (CAM) was applied to check pro-angiogenic effects after 24, 48, and 72 h, followed by immunohistochemical analysis.

Results

Rehydration in injectable PRF showed acidity over time (p < 0.05). A definite pro-angiogenic effect of NM alone was found regarding neo-vessel formation supported by the respective light microscopically analysis without significant differences to PRF alone (p > 0.005). This pro-angiogenic effect could not be exaggerated when NM was combined with liquid/solid PRF (each p > 0.005).

Conclusions

Rehydration with liquid PRF of the collagen membrane results in acidity compared to a saline solution or patient’s blood. The significant pro-angiogenic potential of the membrane alone resulted in enhanced neo-vessel formation that could not be optimized with the addition of PRF.

Clinical relevance statement

Using injectable PRF for rehydration protocol of the collagen membrane leads to acidosis that can ultimately optimize wound healing. Differences in the physio-mechanical interplay of collagen matrices and autologous platelet concentrates must result in clinical algorithms if pre-vascularization can maximize outcomes.
MAD risk parity portfolios
Authors: Ararat Çağın , Cesarone Francesco , Pınar Mustafa Çelebi , Ricci Jacopo Maria
Published: January 2024

In this paper, we investigate the features and the performance of the risk parity (RP) portfolios using the mean absolute deviation (MAD) as a risk measure. The RP model is a recent strategy for asset allocation that aims at equally sharing the global portfolio risk among all the assets of an investment universe. We discuss here some existing and new results about the properties of MAD that are useful for the RP approach. We propose several formulations for finding MAD-RP portfolios computationally, and compare them in terms of accuracy and efficiency. Furthermore, we provide extensive empirical analysis based on three real-world datasets, showing that the performances of the RP approaches generally tend to place both in terms of risk and profitability between those obtained from the minimum risk and the Equally Weighted strategies.
Endosomal recycling inhibitors downregulate estrogen receptor-alpha and synergise with endocrine therapies
Authors: Fletcher Kelsey A. , Alkurashi Mai H. , Lindsay Andrew J.
Published: January 2024

Purpose

Breast cancer (BC) accounts for roughly 30% of new cancers diagnosed in women each year; thus, this cancer type represents a substantial burden for people and health care systems. Despite the existence of effective therapies to treat BC, drug resistance remains a problem and is a major cause of treatment failure. Therefore, new drugs and treatment regimens are urgently required to overcome resistance. Recent research indicates that inhibition of the endosomal recycling pathway, an intracellular membrane trafficking pathway that returns endocytosed proteins back to the plasma membrane, may be a promising strategy to downregulate clinically relevant cell surface proteins such as HER2 and HER3, and to overcome drug resistance.

Methods

To investigate the molecular mechanism of action of an endosomal recycling inhibitor (ERI) called primaquine, we performed a reverse-phase protein array (RPPA) assay using a HER2-positive breast cancer cell line. The RPPA findings were confirmed by Western blot and RT-qPCR in several BC cell lines. Novel drug combinations were tested by MTT cell viability and clonogenic assays.

Results

Among the signalling molecules downregulated by ERIs were estrogen receptor-alpha (ER-α) and androgen receptor. We confirmed this finding in other breast cancer cell lines and show that downregulation occurs at the transcriptional level. We also found that ERIs synergise with tamoxifen, a standard-of-care therapy for breast cancer.

Discussion

Our data suggest that combining ERIs with hormone receptor antagonists may enhance their efficacy and reduce the emergence of drug resistance.
Levels and sources of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) near hospitals and schools using leaves and barks of Sambucus nigra and Acacia melanoxylon
Authors: Alexandrino Katiuska , Sánchez Nazly E. , Viteri Fausto
Published: January 2024

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are among the most studied organic compounds in urban environments, due to their known threat to human health. This study extends the current knowledge regarding the ability of different vegetative parts of different tree species to accumulate PAHs. Moreover, exposure intensity to PAHs in areas frequented by population susceptible to adverse health effects of air pollution is evaluated. For this, leaves and barks of Sambucus nigra (S. nigra) and Acacia melanoxylon (A. melanoxylon) were collected at urban areas in the Andean city of Quito, at seven points near hospitals and schools. A methodology, previously developed, for the extraction, purification, and quantification of PAHs associated with the leaves and bark of S. nigra was employed and also validated for leaves and bark of A. melanoxylon. The total PAH level varied from 119.65 ng g−1 DW (dry weight) to 1969.98 ng g−1 DW (dry weight) with naphthalene (Naph), fluoranthene (Flt), pyrene (Pyr), chrysene (Chry), and benzo[a]pyrene (BaP) predominating in all samples. The results indicate that the leaves and bark of tree species studied have certain abilities to bio-accumulate PAH according to their molecular weight. The leaves of S. nigra and bark of A. melanoxylon showed the highest ability to accumulate PAHs, mainly those with high and medium molecular weight, respectively. The highest incidence of light molecular weight PAHs was found in the leaves of A. melanoxylon. Furthermore, coal combustion, biomass burning, and vehicle emissions were identified as the main PAHs sources. Concentrations of PAHs associated with tree species suggest an affectation in areas frequented by populations susceptible to air pollution. This fact shows the importance of regulatory scheme to significantly improve the air quality in the city integrating a knowledge-based decision-making.
The role of institutional contexts for social inequalities in study abroad intent and participation
Authors: Entrich Steve R. , Netz Nicolai , Matsuoka Ryoji
Published: January 2024

We contribute to research on social inequalities in educational attainment by examining the role of institutional contexts for students’ study abroad (SA) intent and participation. To do so, we extend the individual-level rational choice model predicting SA intent and participation depending on students’ socioeconomic status (SES) into a multi-level model emphasizing the importance of context effects. We test our model based on unique micro-level student data, which we supplement with context data. Examining 18,510 students nested in 69 universities, we provide the first in-depth multi-level analyses of SA intent and participation of students from Japan. In line with findings from many Western countries, our results show that higher-SES students are more likely to (intend to) study abroad. Regarding the role of institutional contexts, we find that programs designed to improve SA opportunity structures hardly affect students’ SA intent but significantly positively affect SA participation above and beyond other university-level and student-level characteristics. Importantly, both lower- and higher-SES students benefit from favorable SA opportunity structures. These findings suggest that Japan’s recent push toward internationalization of higher education has created relevant SA opportunities for students from different social backgrounds. Still, higher-SES students are currently overrepresented among those studying abroad because they are more likely to select into universities offering favorable SA opportunity structures. Our analysis calls for more research combining individual-level with contextual-level theories and data to better understand the conditions shaping SES-specific SA intent and participation.
Locked into a permanent position of vulnerability? Farmers’ trust and social capital with the government from Critical Disaster Studies perspectives
Authors: Nguyen-Trung Kien , Uekusa Shinya , Matthewman Steve
Published: January 2024

In disaster scholarship, there is limited understanding about how vulnerability is socially constructed by a convergence of varying social structural and historical processes that predispose certain vulnerable groups to disasters even before a hazard event occurs. This article aims to fill this void by using Critical Disaster Studies perspectives to explore the root causes of why crop farmers in the coastal region of the Vietnamese Mekong Delta have been locked in a permanent position of vulnerability. In order to develop more sustainable food supply chains, this exploration aims to shed light on the socio-cultural interpretations, experiences, and needs of disaster-affected farmers—the most important but vulnerable actors in the crop production hierarchy in Vietnam. Following a historic disaster between late 2015 and early 2016, local governments deliberately organised farmers into an agricultural cooperative in an attempt to support farmers in enhancing economic resilience and disaster preparedness. However, this intervention has failed since farmers refused to participate in the organisation’s activities. While this reaction may seem irrational, it reflects farmers’ distrust in the government, which was largely a result of their collective trauma from the state’s agricultural collectivisation policy implemented between 1976 and 1985. Farmers chose to cling to their individual working routines out of concern about government supervision, forcing them to take bigger risks and pay for the food supply chains’ catastrophic damage. Our findings show that a strained relationship between farmers and the government can jeopardise disaster recovery and resilience building. Our paper adds to the Critical Disaster Studies literature by revisiting the concepts of vulnerability and resilience, emphasising the importance of addressing socio-cultural vulnerability before improving disaster resilience.
Microbial activity of lactic acid bacteria and hydrogen producers mediated by pH and total solids during the consolidated bioprocessing of agave bagasse
Authors: Dudek Karol , Guzmán Cecilia Lizeth Álvarez , Valdez-Vazquez Idania
Published: January 2024

Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) coexist with Clostridium spp. in hydrogen production processes from complex substrates; however, the role of LAB is still unclear. This study analyzed the fermentation products in a wide range of initial pH (pHi, 5.5–6.9) and total solids (TS%, 8–22%) to determine the activity of these two microbial groups over time (from 24 to 120 h). Agave bagasse served as the feedstock for hydrogen production via consolidated bioprocess (CBP), while the inoculum source was the indigenous mature microbiota. In the early stage of the CBP, hydrogen production from lactic acid occurred only at pHi ≥ 6.0 (ρ = 0.0004) with no effect of TS%; lactic acid accumulated below this pHi value. In this stage, lactic acid production positively correlated with a first cluster of LAB represented by Paucilactobacillus (r = 0.64) and Bacillus (r = 0.81). After 72 h, hydrogen production positively correlated with a second group of LAB led by Enterococcus (r = 0.71) together with the hydrogen producer Clostridium sensu stricto 1 (r = 0.8) and the acetogen Syntrophococcus (r = 0.52) with the influence of TS% (ρ < 0.0001). A further experiment showed that buffering the pH to 6.5 increased and lengthened the lactic acid production, doubling the hydrogen production from 20 to 41 mL H2/gTSadded. This study confirmed the prevalence of distinct groups of LAB over time, whose microbial activity promoted different routes of hydrogen production.
Expanding Access to Comprehensive Geriatric Evaluation via Telehealth: Development of Hybrid-Virtual Home Visits
Authors: Schubert Cathy C. , Penney Lauren S. , Schwartzkopf Ashley L. , Damush Teresa M. , Preddie Alaina , Flemming Soyna , Myers Jennifer , Myers Laura J. , Perkins Anthony J. , Zhang Ying , Bravata Dawn M.
Published: January 2024

Background

In response to the aging population, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) seeks to expand access to evidence-based practices which support community-dwelling older persons such as the Geriatric Resources for Assessment and Care of Elders (GRACE) program. GRACE is a multidisciplinary care model which provides home-based geriatric evaluation and management for older Veterans residing within a 20-mile drive radius from the hospital. We sought to expand the geographic reach of VA-GRACE by developing a hybrid-virtual home visit (TeleGRACE).

Objectives

The objectives were to: (1) describe challenges encountered and solutions implemented during the iterative, pre-implementation program development process; and (2) illustrate potential successes of the program with two case examples.

Design

Quality improvement project with longitudinal qualitative data collection.

Program Description

The hybrid-virtual home visit involved a telehealth technician travelling to patients’ homes and connecting virtually to VA-GRACE team members who participated remotely.

Approach & Participants

We collected multiple data streams throughout program development: TeleGRACE staff periodic reflections, fieldnotes, and team meeting notes; and VA-GRACE team member interviews.

Key Results

The five program domains that required attention and problem-solving were: telehealth connectivity and equipment, virtual physical examination, protocols and procedures, staff training, and team integration. For each domain, we describe several challenges and solutions. An example from the virtual physical examination domain: several iterations were required to identify the combination of telehealth stethoscope with dedicated headphones that allowed remote nurse practitioners to hear heart and lung sounds. The two cases illustrate how this hybrid-virtual home visit model provided care for patients who would not otherwise have received timely healthcare services.

Conclusions

These results provide a blueprint to translate an in-person home-based geriatrics program into a hybrid-virtual model and support the feasibility of using hybrid-virtual home visits to expand access to comprehensive geriatric evaluation and ongoing care for high-risk, community-dwelling older persons who reside geographically distant from the primary VA facility.

Graphical Abstract
Trumps Massenwirkung aus sozioanalytischer und psychoanalytischer Perspektive. Zur Triangulation beider Konzepte
Authors: König Hans-Dieter
Published: January 2024

Aufgrund von Pierre Bourdieus Einschätzung, dass die Sozioanalyse das komplementäre Gegenstück zur Psychoanalyse bildet, wird die Frage aufgeworfen, ob und wie man in der empirischen Forschung Sozioanalyse und Psychoanalyse miteinander kombinieren kann. Diese methodologische Fragestellung wird anhand von Trumps populistischen Inszenierungen untersucht. Zunächst wird Trumps politisches Handeln aus der epistemischen Perspektive der Sozioanalyse im Rückgriff auf Bourdieus Schriften zur Politik untersucht. Dabei wird fassbar, dass der manifeste Sinn seiner Worte, dass er für das Volk gegen das Establishment kämpfe, auch deshalb wirksam ist, weil er zugleich gesellschaftliche Machtverhältnisse unbewusst macht und auf ein soziales Unbewusstes zurückgreift, das seit Hunderten von Jahren gesellschaftlich reproduziert wird. Sodann werden Trumps Masseninszenierungen aus der epistemischen Perspektive der Psychoanalyse untersucht. Dabei wird eine exemplarisch ausgewählte Textpassage aus seiner im Januar 2021 gehaltenen Rede zum Sturm auf das Kapitol analysiert. Die auf dem Forschungsfeld der psychoanalytischen Sozialpsychologie stattfindende Untersuchung wird mit Hilfe der von Alfred Lorenzer entwickelten tiefenhermeneutischen Kulturanalyse durchgeführt, die den verborgenen Sinn der Ansprache über deren Wirkung auf eine Gruppe von Forschenden erschließt. Während der manifeste Sinn der Rede darauf abhebt, dass es eine Schande sei, dass die Demokraten Trump die Wahl gestohlen hätten, weckt der latente Sinn der Worte, dass die Amerikaner nach der Wahl wie kopflose Hühner herumrennen würden, tiefe Ängste und Wut auslösende Ohnmachtsgefühle. Schließlich wird erörtert, wie sich die Forschungsergebnisse der sozioanalytischen und der psychoanalytischen Rekonstruktion auf einer sozialisationstheoretischen Bedeutungsebene aufeinander beziehen lassen.
Toward a Standard Data Architecture for Additive Manufacturing
Authors: Li Shengyen , Feng Shaw , Kuan Alexander , Lu Yan
Published: January 2024

To advance additive manufacturing (AM), a scalable architecture is needed to structure, curate and access the data from AM R&D projects that are conducted to evaluate new materials, processes and technologies. Effective project metadata management enables the sharing of AM domain knowledge. This work introduces an AM data modeling architecture to capture pedigree information from AM projects which enables the traceability of the material. This overall AM model includes five modules covering information about (1) project management, (2) feedstock materials, (3) AM building and post processing, (4) microstructure and properties measurements and (5) computer simulations. The objective of this design is to ease the integration of the heterogeneous datasets from different sources and allow for extensions, for example, to incorporate sub-models from other efforts. As a proof of concept, the material and process models defined in the paper capture the major metadata elements for laser powder bed fusion AM. To demonstrate the effectiveness of the architecture, the models are implemented using extensible markup language and preliminarily tested using the project data from America Makes. Additional data sub-models can be integrated in this architecture without affecting the existing structure.
More than the Infinite Monkey Theorem: NHP Models in the Development of a Pediatric HIV Cure
Authors: Fonseca Jairo A. , King Alexis C. , Chahroudi Ann
Published: January 2024

Purpose of Review

An HIV cure that eliminates the viral reservoir or provides viral control without antiretroviral therapy (ART) is an urgent need in children as they face unique challenges, including lifelong ART adherence and the deleterious effects of chronic immune activation. This review highlights the importance of nonhuman primate (NHP) models in developing an HIV cure for children as these models recapitulate the viral pathogenesis and persistence.

Recent Findings

Several cure approaches have been explored in infant NHPs, although knowledge gaps remain. Broadly neutralizing antibodies (bNAbs) show promise for controlling viremia and delaying viral rebound after ART interruption but face administration challenges. Adeno-associated virus (AAV) vectors hold the potential for sustained bNAb expression. Therapeutic vaccination induces immune responses against simian retroviruses but has yet to impact the viral reservoir. Combining immunotherapies with latency reversal agents (LRAs) that enhance viral antigen expression should be explored.

Current and future cure approaches will require adaptation for the pediatric immune system and unique features of virus persistence, for which NHP models are fundamental to assess their efficacy.
Gingerol and/or sorafenib attenuates the DAB-induced HCC and hepatic portal vein dilatation via ATG4/CASP3 and COIIV/COX-2/NF-κB expression
Authors: Salama Afrah Fatthi , El-Far Ali H. , Anbar Esraa Ali , El-Naggar Sabry Ali , Elshazli Rami M. , Elmetwalli Alaa
Published: January 2024

Ginger (Gin) has numerous therapeutic properties. One of Gin’s most potent components is 6-gingerol, a naturally occurring phenol. This study aimed to investigate the therapeutic impact of gingerol and/or sorafenib on the ATG4/CASP3 and COIIV/COX-2/NF-B Expression as a potential therapy for DAB-induced HCC. Gin was administered to HCC mice induced by p-Dimethylaminoazobenzene (DAB) alone or combined with sorafenib (Sor). Superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and oxidative stress malondialdehyde (MDA), as well as biochemical markers including AST, ALT, ALP, Albumin, and Bilirubin, were examined. The expression of oncogenes (COIIV, COX-2, NF-κB, and survivin) and tumor suppressor genes (ATG4 and CASP3) was evaluated using qPCR. According to the results, the levels of MDA have been markedly decreased, while SOD and CAT have been increased. Further, the expression levels of tumor suppressor genes were upregulated, whereas the expression levels of oncogene genes were downregulated. Furthermore, in a dose-dependent manner, gingerol has shown the potential to alleviate hepatic portal vein (PV) dilatation and could offer a reliable therapy for HCC. This suggests combining the two compounds may be more effective than alone and that Gin could be a promising therapeutic option for HCC. The binding of Gin and Sor to the active sites of the target genes prevents them from functioning normally, which in turn stops the pathways from carrying out their oncogenic functions. Additionally, COX-2 inhibition reduces the production of certain pro-inflammatory compounds, which further averts oncogenesis. Conclusively, this study indicated that Gin has cytoprotective properties and anti-cancer activity that may be related to controlling oxidative stress. This effect may be achieved by suppressing the COIIV/COX-2/NF-κB pathway and upregulating the ATG4 /CASP3 pathways.

Graphical abstract
Exosomal noncoding RNAs as noninvasive biomarkers in bladder cancer: a diagnostic meta-analysis
Authors: Zhao Liming , Li Jun , Xue Zhongguang , Wang Jinfeng
Published: January 2024

Background

In view of discordance consisting in different reports, a meta-analysis was conducted to comprehensively evaluate the diagnostic efficacy of exosomal noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs) in blood and urine in the detection of bladder cancer.

Methods

Eligible studies were acquired by systematic retrieval through PubMed, Cochrane Library, and Embase. The pooled diagnostic efficacy was appraised by reckoning the area under the summary receiver operating characteristic (SROC) curve. The latent sources of heterogeneity were probed by subgroup analyses and meta-regression. STATA 12.0, Meta-DiSc 1.4, and RevMan 5.3 were applied to carry out all statistical analyses and plots.

Results

A total of 46 studies from 15 articles comprising 2622 controls and 3015 bladder cancer patients were included in our meta-analysis. Exosomal ncRNAs in blood and urine represented relatively satisfactory diagnostic efficacy in detecting bladder cancer, with a pooled sensitivity of 0.75, a specificity of 0.79, and an area under the SROC curve (AUC) of 0.84. Exosomal microRNAs (miRNAs) exhibited better diagnostic value with a pooled AUC of 0.91 than that of exosomal long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs). To some extent, the heterogeneity among studies was induced by exosomal ncRNA types (miRNA or lncRNA), exosomal ncRNA profiling (single- or multiple-ncRNA), sample size, specimen types, and ethnicity.

Conclusion

Exosomal ncRNAs in blood and urine may play a vital role in diagnosing bladder cancer as prospective noninvasive biomarkers; nonetheless, their clinical performance needs to be confirmed by further massive proactive researches.
A qualitative study exploring psychotherapy recipients’ perspectives on positive mental health
Authors: Vaingankar Janhavi Ajit , Sambasivam Rajeswari , Chang Sherilyn , Seow Esmond , Lu Sharon Huixian , Assudani Hanita Ashok , Tan Geoffrey Chern-Yee , Chong Siow Ann , Subramaniam Mythily
Published: January 2024

Traditionally, psychotherapy aims to address distressing emotions, thoughts, and behaviours in individuals, but it can also foster positive mental health (PMH) and earlier recovery by including salutogenic approaches in clinical practice. This study aimed to understand psychotherapy recipients’ perspectives on the meaning of PMH and how therapy could help them achieve it. A qualitative study was conducted among fifteen psychotherapy recipients seeking care at a mental health institute in Singapore. Their experiences were explored through semi-structured interviews. Inductive thematic analysis was conducted to identify key themes. Six themes on the meaning of PMH emerged – (i) acceptance of themselves and their emotions; (ii) positivity, which related to having a positive and optimistic outlook in different situations; (iii) resilience to bounce back from problems using healthy coping mechanisms; (iv) purpose in life which meant envisioning personal goals and working towards these; (v) social participation referred to having compassion, openness, and social skills to build supportive relationships; and (vi) euthymia represented being in a state without depression or anxiety and having better symptom management. Participants also narrated the ways in which psychotherapy had helped / can help them achieve their PMH goals. In this study, individuals receiving psychotherapy identified six key aspects of PMH as being relevant to them. By recognizing these unique perspectives around PMH, integrative and complementary therapy approaches can be designed to benefit people with mental health problems more effectively.
Scattering of diatomic molecules from graphite
Authors: Rutigliano Maria , Pirani Fernando
Published: January 2024

In the last years, state-to-state molecular dynamics simulations of some basic elementary processes, occurring at the gas–surface interface in a wide range of temperatures and collision energies, have been performed by adopting new potential energy surfaces. In this contribution, our attention is mostly addressed to the role of long-range forces, determining the physisorption of gaseous molecules on the surface. Such forces, formulated in terms of the improved Lennard–Jones interaction potential model, control the formation of precursor or pre-reactive state that plays a crucial role in the dynamical evolution of molecules impinging on the surface in the range of low–intermediate collision kinetic energies. The study focuses on the collisions of H2, O2, N2 and CO, initially in their ground and excited vibro-rotational levels, on a graphite surface. The resulting dispersion coefficients, which control the capture of impinging molecules, are compared and found in good agreement with those available in the literature. New selectivity and peculiarities of scattered molecules, crucial to control the kinetics of elementary chemical processes occurring at the gas–surface interfaces under thermal and sub-thermal conditions, of interest in different applied fields, are highlighted.

Graphic abstract
Design of a three-level evaluation of the Dutch Healthy School program
Authors: Vennegoor Gerjanne , Vonk Lisanne , van Assema Patricia , Huijts Tim , Eekhout Iris , Molleman Gerard R. M. , Levels Mark , Jansen Maria W. J.
Published: January 2024

An increasing number of schools obtained a Healthy School certificate, yet little is known about factors, characteristics, and processes, i.e. conditions, influencing the effectiveness of the Healthy School program. Therefore, a mixed methods evaluation study will be conducted on three levels: the student, the school, and the region. The research questions are focused on: 1) conditions for student outcomes, 2) conditions for implementation in schools, and 3) conditions for regional support. For the evaluation, the school and region are considered complex adaptive systems. Conditions for intended outcomes on student lifestyle, health, and academic achievement will be examined using a combination of existing datasets including school codes. Based on student outcomes, best and worst performing schools will be selected for predominantly qualitative analysis to further explain differences. To get insight into conditions for implementation in schools and regional support in nine regions, the degree of implementation will be determined with a questionnaire to select schools for predominantly qualitative analysis. Combined, this study will not only provide insight into the current situation on the three levels, but also explain differences between regions, schools, and students. Consequently, it will be possible to provide concrete advice to strengthen implementation of the Healthy School program.
Novel integrative data for Indomalayan echiniscids (Heterotardigrada): new species and old problems
Authors: Gąsiorek Piotr , Michalczyk Łukasz
Published: January 2024

The Malay Archipelago comprises thousands of islands that house a variety of biomes, from tropical rainforests of Borneo, Sumatra and Celebes to the Lesser Sundas deciduous forests. In this paper, we present an extensive genetic and morphological dataset for the genus Kristenseniscus, demonstrating the presence of the walteri complex that contains several pseudocryptic species. One of them, Kristenseniscus exanthema sp. nov., is described from Ambon and Seram (the Moluccas). First genetic data are released for two potentially pantropical Echiniscus species: E. africanus Murray, 1907 and E. pusae Marcus, 1928. Furthermore, Echiniscus minutus sp. nov. (Sulawesi Tengah), exhibiting trunk spines and contrasting dorsal sculpturing that comprise both pores and epicuticular granules, is found to constitute a separate evolutionary lineage within the Echiniscus spinulosus morphogroup (epicuticular granules are typically absent in the spinulosus group). Based on the phylogenetic reconstructions involving ca. 80 spp. of echiniscids representing the Echiniscus evolutionary line, we hypothesise that the tropical and subtropical regions served as the main radiation zone for this heterotardigrade clade. Finally, Pseudechiniscus (Meridioniscus) celebesiensis sp. nov. (Sulawesi Tengah) is a characteristic species with an apomorphic lack of claw spurs and intricate dorsal cuticular sculpturing. Our findings suggest that the tropical areas of the globe harbour a phylogenetically important but yet mostly uncovered portion of Earth’s tardigrade diversity.
The Effect of Sedentary Behaviour on Cardiorespiratory Fitness: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Prince Stephanie A. , Dempsey Paddy C. , Reed Jennifer L. , Rubin Lukas , Saunders Travis J. , Ta Josephine , Tomkinson Grant R. , Merucci Katherine , Lang Justin J.
Published: January 2024

Background

Cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) is an important indicator of current and future health. While the impact of habitual physical activity on CRF is well established, the role of sedentary behaviour (SB) remains less understood.

Objective

We aimed to determine the effect of SB on CRF.

Methods

Searches were conducted in MEDLINE, Embase, PsycINFO, CINAHL and SPORTDiscus from inception to August 2022. Randomised controlled trials, quasi-experimental studies and cohort studies that assessed the relationship between SB and CRF were eligible. Narrative syntheses and meta-analyses summarised the evidence, and Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) certainty was based on evidence from randomised controlled trials.

Results

This review included 18 studies that focused on youth (four randomised controlled trials, three quasi-experimental studies, 11 cohort studies) and 24 on adult populations (15 randomised controlled trials, five quasi-experimental studies, four cohort studies). In youth and adults, evidence from randomised controlled trials suggests mixed effects of SB on CRF, but with the potential for interventions to improve CRF. Quasi-experimental and cohort studies also support similar conclusions. Certainty of evidence was very low for both age groups. A meta-analysis of adult randomised controlled trials found that interventions targeting reducing SB, or increasing physical activity and reducing SB, had a significant effect on post-peak oxygen consumption (mean difference = 3.16 mL.kg–1.min–1, 95% confidence interval: 1.76, 4.57).

Conclusions

Evidence from randomised controlled trials indicates mixed associations between SB and CRF, with the potential for SB to influence CRF, as supported by meta-analytical findings. Further well-designed trials are warranted to confirm the relationship between SB and CRF, explore the effects of SB independent from higher intensity activity, and investigate the existence of such relationships in paediatric populations.

Clinical Trial Registration

PROSPERO CRD42022356218.
The mitogen-activated protein kinase module CcSte11-CcSte7-CcPmk1 regulates pathogenicity via the transcription factor CcSte12 in Cytospora chrysosperma
Authors: Yu Lu , Yang Yuchen , Qiu Xiaolin , Xiong Dianguang , Tian Chengming
Published: January 2024

The pathogen Cytospora chrysosperma is the causal agent of poplar canker disease and causes considerable economic losses in China. Mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) cascades play a crucial role in mediating cellular responses and Pmk1-MAPKs are indispensable for pathogenic related processes in plant pathogenic fungi. In previous studies, we demonstrated that the CcPmk1 acts as a core regulator of fungal pathogenicity by modulating a small number of master downstream targets, such as CcSte12. In this study, we identified and characterized two upstream components of CcPmk1: MAPKKK CcSte11 and MAPKK CcSte7. Deletion of CcSte11 and CcSte7, resulted in slowed growth, loss of sporulation and virulence, similar to the defects observed in the CcPmk1 deletion mutant. In addition, CcSte11, CcSte7 and CcPmk1 interact with each other, and the upstream adaptor protein CcSte50 interact with CcSte11 and CcSte7. Moreover, we explored the global regulation network of CcSte12 by transcriptional analysis between CcSte12 deletion mutants and wild-type during the simulated infection process. Two hydrolase activity GO terms (GO:0004553 and GO:0016798) and starch and sucrose metabolism (mgr00500) KEGG pathway were significantly enriched in the down-regulated genes of CcSte12 deletion mutants. In addition, a subset of glycosyl hydrolase genes and putative effector genes were significantly down-regulated in the CcSte12 deletion mutant, which might be important for fungal pathogenicity. Especially, CcSte12 bound to the CcSp84 promoter region containing the TGAAACA motif. Moreover, comparison of CcSte12-regulated genes with CcPmk1-regulated genes revealed 116 overlapping regulated genes in both CcSte12 and CcPmk1, including some virulence-associated genes. Taken together, the protein complexes CcSte11-CcSte7-CcPmk1 receive signals transmitted by upstream CcSte50 and transmit signals to downstream CcSte12, which regulates hydrolase, effectors and other genes to promote virulence. Overall, these results indicate that the CcPmk1-MAPK signaling pathway of C. chrysosperma plays a key role in the pathogenicity.
Multifunctional Nanocomposite Membranes Containing TiO2 Developed by Air-Jet-Spun Fibers for Tissue Engineering
Authors: Vázquez-Vázquez Febe Carolina , Núñez-Tapia Israel Alfonso , Guerrero-Benítez Víctor Iván , Ortiz-Magdaleno Marine , Chanes-Cuevas Osmar Alejandro , Álvarez-Pérez Marco Antonio
Published: January 2024

The incorporation of inorganic nanoparticles (NP) into nanofibrous polymeric membranes (NPM) is an attractive approach to developing multifunctional nanocomposites. The purpose of this study was to incorporate titanium dioxide (TiO2) NP into NPM to enhance the overall properties. Polycaprolactone (PCL) membranes with TiO2-NP (0.2 wt%) was fabricated by means of the Air-Jet Spinning (AJS) technique. The physicochemical characterization of the PCL-TiO2-NPM was performed by X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), the morphology was observed under scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and tensile strength and Young’s moduli were evaluated using an INSTRON Universal Testing Machine. In-vitro biocompatibility was evaluated in terms of cell adhesion and cell proliferation using human fetal osteoblasts. The results obtained demonstrated that TiO2-NP added to the PCL-NPM increases the values of tensile strength and Young’s moduli (p < 0.008 and p < 0.043) with respect to PCL-NPM without TiO2-NP. XRD exhibited the characteristic peaks of PCL at 21.3° and 23.7° and of TiO2 at 36°. The SEM micrographs revealed a random distribution with interconnected micropores. Cell adhesion and proliferation increased according to the time of the culture; only after the first period of cell culture was there a significant difference in cell proliferation (p < 0.05). The possible potential application of this PCL-PNM by Air-Jet Spinning (AJS) in tissue engineering could favor bone regeneration due that the addition of TiO2-NP.
Foreign Relations Law as a Method of Private International Law's Theoretical Self-Reflection and Critique
Authors: Stybnarova Nicole
Published: January 2024

In this essay, I think with Karen Knop about the heuristic and critical potential of the framework of Foreign Relations Law (FRL) for Private International Law (PrIL). I apply the framework of FRL to the recognition of foreign marriages in Denmark to study how PrIL is operationalized by domestic authorities. FRL helps us see how PrIL's operationalization engages a wide array of legal fields, including Public International Law (PIL), domestic administrative law, and immigration law, as well as the domains of foreign service and foreign policy. In doing so, PrIL in this context draws upon all these fields’ rationales and implicit assumptions. I argue that a FRL perspective not only contributes to PrIL's theoretical self-reflection, but also enhances PrIL's capacity for subversiveness—“its ability to unsettle by showing a given legal system's assumptions and approaches to be a matter of choice rather than simply common sense.”1
Temporal trends of carbonated soft-drink consumption among adolescents aged 12–15 years from eighteen countries in Africa, Asia and the Americas
Authors: Smith Lee , López Sánchez Guillermo Felipe , Tully Mark A , Rahmati Masoud , Oh Hans , Kostev Karel , Butler Laurie T. , Barnett Yvonne , Keyes Helen , Shin Jae Il , Koyanagi Ai
Published: January 2024

Carbonated soft-drink consumption is detrimental to multiple facets of adolescent health. However, little is known about temporal trends in carbonated soft-drink consumption among adolescents, particularly in non-Western countries. Therefore, we aimed to examine this trend in representative samples of school-going adolescents from eighteen countries in Africa, Asia and the Americas. Cross-sectional data from the Global School-based Student Health Survey 2009–2017 were analysed. Carbonated soft-drink consumption referred to drinking carbonated soft-drinks at least once per day in the past 30 d. The prevalence of carbonated soft-drink consumption was calculated for each survey, and crude linear trends were assessed by linear regression models. Data on 74 055 students aged 12–15 years were analysed (mean age 13·9 (sd 1·0) years; 49·2 % boys). The overall mean prevalence of carbonated soft-drink consumption was 42·1 %. Of the eighteen countries included in the study, significant decreasing, increasing and stable trends of carbonated soft-drink consumption were observed in seven, two and nine countries, respectively. The most drastic decrease was observed in Kuwait between 2011 (74·4 %) and 2015 (51·7 %). Even in countries with significant decreasing trends, the decrease was rather modest, while some countries with stable trends had very high prevalence across time (e.g. Suriname 80·5 % in 2009 and 79·4 % in 2016). The prevalence of carbonated soft-drink consumption was high in all countries included in the present analysis, despite decreasing trends being observed in some. Public health initiatives to reduce the consumption of carbonated soft-drink consumption among adolescents are urgently required.
Inflammatory recruitment of healthy hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells in the acute myeloid leukemia niche
Authors: Chen Ding-Wen , Fan Jian-Meng , Schrey Julie M. , Mitchell Dana V. , Jung Seul K. , Hurwitz Stephanie N. , Perez Empar B. , Muraro Mauro J. , Carroll Martin , Taylor Deanne M. , Kurre Peter
Published: January 2024

Inflammation in the bone marrow (BM) microenvironment is a constitutive component of leukemogenesis in acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Current evidence suggests that both leukemic blasts and stroma secrete proinflammatory factors that actively suppress the function of healthy hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPCs). HSPCs are also cellular components of the innate immune system, and we reasoned that they may actively propagate the inflammation in the leukemic niche. In two separate congenic models of AML we confirm by evaluation of the BM plasma secretome and HSPC-selective single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-Seq) that multipotent progenitors and long-lived stem cells adopt inflammatory gene expression programs, even at low leukemic infiltration of the BM. In particular, we observe interferon gamma (IFN-γ) pathway activation, along with secretion of its chemokine target, CXCL10. We show that AML-derived nanometer-sized extracellular vesicles (EVAML) are sufficient to trigger this inflammatory HSPC response, both in vitro and in vivo. Altogether, our studies indicate that HSPCs are an unrecognized component of the inflammatory adaptation of the BM by leukemic cells. The pro-inflammatory conversion and long-lived presence of HSPCs in the BM along with their regenerative re-expansion during remission may impact clonal selection and disease evolution.
Age of onset of obsessive-compulsive disorder differentially affects white matter microstructure
Authors: Vriend Chris , de Joode Niels T. , Pouwels Petra J. W. , Liu Feng , Otaduy Maria C. G. , Pastorello Bruno , Robertson Frances C. , Ipser Jonathan , Lee Seonjoo , Hezel Dianne M. , van Meter Page E. , Batistuzzo Marcelo C. , Hoexter Marcelo Q. , Sheshachala Karthik , Narayanaswamy Janardhanan C. , Venkatasubramanian Ganesan , Lochner Christine , Miguel Euripedes C. , Reddy Y. C. Janardhan , Shavitt Roseli G. , Stein Dan J. , Wall Melanie , Simpson Helen Blair , van den Heuvel Odile A.
Published: January 2024

Previous diffusion MRI studies have reported mixed findings on white matter microstructure alterations in obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), likely due to variation in demographic and clinical characteristics, scanning methods, and underpowered samples. The OCD global study was created across five international sites to overcome these challenges by harmonizing data collection to identify consistent brain signatures of OCD that are reproducible and generalizable. Single-shell diffusion measures (e.g., fractional anisotropy), multi-shell Neurite Orientation Dispersion and Density Imaging (NODDI) and fixel-based measures, were extracted from skeletonized white matter tracts in 260 medication-free adults with OCD and 252 healthy controls. We additionally performed structural connectome analysis. We compared cases with controls and cases with early (<18) versus late (18+) OCD onset using mixed-model and Bayesian multilevel analysis. Compared with healthy controls, adult OCD individuals showed higher fiber density in the sagittal stratum (B[SE] = 0.10[0.05], P = 0.04) and credible evidence for higher fiber density in several other tracts. When comparing early (n = 145) and late-onset (n = 114) cases, converging evidence showed lower integrity of the posterior thalamic radiation —particularly radial diffusivity (B[SE] = 0.28[0.12], P = 0.03)—and lower global efficiency of the structural connectome (B[SE] = 15.3[6.6], P = 0.03) in late-onset cases. Post-hoc analyses indicated divergent direction of effects of the two OCD groups compared to healthy controls. Age of OCD onset differentially affects the integrity of thalamo-parietal/occipital tracts and the efficiency of the structural brain network. These results lend further support for the role of the thalamus and its afferent fibers and visual attentional processes in the pathophysiology of OCD.