bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Neuron‐derived extracellular vesicles as a liquid biopsy for brain insulin dysregulation in Alzheimer's disease and related disorders
Authors: Cleary Jacob Alexander , Kumar Ashish , Craft Suzanne , Deep Gagan
Published: January 2025

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) have emerged as novel blood‐based biomarkers for various pathologies. The development of methods to enrich cell‐specific EVs from biofluids has enabled us to monitor difficult‐to‐access organs, such as the brain, in real time without disrupting their function, thus serving as liquid biopsy. Burgeoning evidence indicates that the contents of neuron‐derived EVs (NDEs) in blood reveal dynamic alterations that occur during neurodegenerative pathogenesis, including Alzheimer's disease (AD), reflecting a disease‐specific molecular signature. Among these AD‐specific molecular changes is brain insulin‐signaling dysregulation, which cannot be assessed clinically in a living patient and remains an unexplained co‐occurrence during AD pathogenesis. This review is focused on delineating how NDEs in the blood may begin to close the gap between identifying molecular changes associated with brain insulin dysregulation reliably in living patients and its connection to AD. This approach could lead to the identification of novel early and less‐invasive diagnostic molecular biomarkers for AD.

Highlights

Neuron‐derived extracellular vesicles (NDEs) could be isolated from peripheral blood.

NDEs in blood reflect the molecular signature of Alzheimer's disease (AD).

Brain insulin‐signaling dysregulation plays a critical role in AD.

NDEs in blood could predict brain insulin‐signaling dysregulation.

NDEs offer novel early and less‐invasive diagnostic biomarkers for AD.
Usage patterns of cognitive assessments during Medicare's Annual Wellness Visit: A national survey
Authors: Liu Ying , Ozawa Tabasa , Mattke Soeren
Published: January 2025

INTRODUCTION

Medicare's Annual Wellness Visit (AWV) is a logical opportunity for early detection of cognitive impairment, but recent data for uptake and cognitive assessments during it are lacking.

METHODS

We surveyed Medicare beneficiaries of a nationally representative panel about use of AWV and cognitive assessments and analyzed associations between uptake and beneficiaries’ characteristics.

RESULTS

Of 1871 participants, 80% had an AWV, among whom 31% underwent formal cognitive testing, 35% were asked about memory problems, including 15% having both. Males, rural residents, non‐Hispanic Black beneficiaries, and those having subjective memory problems or a usual source of care were more likely to be probed, but no characteristics were associated with the probability of undergoing cognitive testing.

DISCUSSION

Use of structured cognitive assessments did not increase with higher AWV uptake. Concerningly, individuals at higher risk of cognitive impairment were not more likely to be assessed, calling for policy interventions to increase assessment rates.

Highlights

Data are lacking on use of cognitive test during Medicare's Annual Wellness Visit (AWV).

Use of structured cognitive tests did not increase with the uptake of the AWV.

Individuals at higher risk of cognitive impairment did not receive more testing.

More high‐risk patients were asked about memory problems despite lack of testing.
Entanglement Routing and Bottlenecks in Grid Networks
Authors: Mannalath Vaisakh , Pathak Anirban
Published: January 2025

Distributing entangled states among users is a fundamental problem in quantum networks. Existing protocols like protocol introduced in [npj Quantum Inf. 2019, 5, 76] use graph theoretic tools like local complementation to optimize the number of measurements required to extract any Bell pair among the network users. Such a protocol relies on finding the shortest path between the users. Here, it is established that, in general, the most optimal path to perform the protocol is not along the shortest path. Specific examples of this advantage are provided on networks of size as small as 12 qubits. Bottlenecks in establishing simultaneous Bell pairs in nearest‐neighbor architectures are also explored. Recent results suggesting the unsuitability of the line and ring networks for the implementation of quantum networks due to the bottlenecks are revisited, and using local equivalency relations from graph theory, it's hinted that even grid graphs are not exempted from bottleneck issues. Finally, bottlenecks are simulated in grid graphs of sizes up to . Analysis reveals relative positions within a grid graph that are more susceptible to bottlenecks. It demonstrates the superiority of the protocol along paths that are not shortest paths while avoiding bottlenecks for simultaneous communication requests.
Bio‐Based Mono‐ and Difunctional Phthalonitrile Resin Foams
Authors: Bunton Caleb M. , Sitter James D. , Richardson Tyler J. , Dysart Jennifer L. , Daniels Grant C. , Atoyebi Olufolasade F. , Laskoski Matthew
Published: January 2025

The development of two new bio‐based phthalonitrile (PN) resin foams with intrinsic blowing agents is reported. The resins were characterized via attenuated total reflectance‐Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (ATR‐FTIR), nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), pycnometry, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), rheometry, and compression testing. The porosity of 3‐[4‐(3,4‐Dicyanophenoxy)phenyl]‐2‐propenoic acid‐phthalonitrile CAPN and 3‐[3,4‐di(3,4‐Dicyanophenoxy)phenyl]‐2‐propenoic acid‐phthalonitrile CFPN were calculated to be 0.610 and 0.437 respectively. Thermal and thermooxidative stability was determined for both resins under nitrogen and air environments. CAPN and CFPN displayed final char yields of 67% and 69% under nitrogen environments while the T
d,5% under air environments were 200°C and 360°C respectively. Finally, compression analysis shows the CAPN to be a stiffer material than the larger CFPN foam resin.
Abnormal Demographic Structures May Preclude Population Viability in Isolated Populations of Freshwater Turtles
Authors: Renet Julien , Astruc Guillelme , Priol Pauline , Roy Cédric , Boca François , Besnard Aurélien
Published: January 2025

Freshwater turtles are one of the most threatened vertebrate groups in the world, mainly due to the degradation of their habitats. Some species, including the European pond turtle (Emys orbicularis), have been the subject of long‐term monitoring programmes carried out within large, well‐preserved wetlands and based on robust capture–mark–recapture (CMR) protocols. Yet demographic studies of small isolated populations are very scarce. In this study, a highly isolated population of E. orbicularis was intensively monitored in the Durance River Valley in southeastern France over five consecutive years (2013–2017). In total, 153 adult individuals were used to estimate demographic parameters using two different CMR Robust Design model formulations. These models estimated a relatively constant adult population size, annual survival and seniority probability over time, similar for both sexes, but a highly unbalanced sex ratio in favour of females (0.24 male per female on average). The results showed that this isolated population exhibits atypical and little‐known demographic parameters in this species. The highly unbalanced sex ratio in favour of females could be the result of factors impacting sexual determinism during embryonic development. This imbalance could ultimately reduce the reproductive output and increase the risk of extinction of the population. These results highlight the need for both a better understanding of the mechanisms underlying the origin of such an imbalance, and in identifying the critical thresholds that must not be crossed to guarantee the viability of sex‐biased populations.
The Unusual Mesophases and Properties Exhibited by a Family of Glycosteroids
Authors: Ali‐Rachedi Fahima , Xavier Nuno M. , Yue Xiaoyang , Chambert Stéphane , Liu Feng , Abbott Laurence C. , Moore John N. , Zeng Xiangbing , Cowling Stephen J. , Queneau Yves , Goodby John W.
Published: January 2025

In this article we describe research on the synthesis and characterization of a family of “Janus” amphiphiles composed of disaccharide head groups and alkaloid units joined together via a methylene linker, and bearing a lateral aliphatic chain of varying length. The condensed phases formed by self‐organization of the products as a function of temperature were characterized by differential scanning calorimetry, thermal polarized light microscopy, and small angle X‐ray scattering, allied with computational modelling and simulations. Structural studies on heating specimens from the solid showed that some homologues exhibited lamellar, columnar and bicontinuous mesophases, whereas the same homologues revealed different phase sequences on cooling from the amorphous liquid. We explore these unusual results, which are revealed via supercooling.
Accurate Reconstruction of Right Heart Shape and Motion From Cine‐MRI for Image‐Driven Computational Hemodynamics
Authors: Renzi Francesca , Vergara Christian , Fedele Marco , Giambruno Vincenzo , Quarteroni Alfio , Puppini Giovanni , Luciani Giovanni Battista
Published: January 2025

Accurate reconstruction of the right heart geometry and motion from time‐resolved medical images is crucial for diagnostic enhancement and computational analysis of cardiac blood dynamics. Commonly used segmentation and/or reconstruction techniques, exclusively relying on short‐axis cine‐MRI, lack precision in critical regions of the right heart, such as the ventricular base and the outflow tract, due to its unique morphology and motion. Furthermore, the reconstruction procedure is time‐consuming and necessitates significant manual intervention for generating computational domains. This study introduces an end‐to‐end hybrid reconstruction method specifically designed for computational simulations. Integrating information from various cine‐MRI series (short/long‐axis and 2/3/4 chambers views) with minimal user contribution, our method leverages registration‐ and morphing‐based algorithms to accurately reconstruct crucial cardiac features and complete cardiac motion. The reconstructed data enable the creation of patient‐specific computational fluid dynamics models, facilitating the analysis of the hemodynamics in healthy and clinically relevant scenarios. We assessed the accuracy of our reconstruction method against ground truth and a standard method. We also evaluated volumetric clinical parameters and compared them with the literature values. The method's adaptability was investigated by reducing the number of cine‐MRI views, highlighting its robustness with varying imaging data. Numerical findings supported the reliability of the approach for simulating hemodynamics. Combining registration‐ and morphing‐based algorithms, our method offers accurate reconstructions of the right heart chambers' morphology and motion. These reconstructions can serve as valuable tools as domain and boundary conditions for computational fluid dynamics simulations, ensuring seamless and effective analysis.
Enhancing Biomechanical Simulations Based on a Posteriori Error Estimates: The Potential of Dual‐Weighted Residual‐Driven Adaptive Mesh Refinement
Authors: Bui Huu Phuoc , Duprez Michel , Rohan Pierre‐Yves , Lejeune Arnaud , Bordas Stéphane P. A. , Bucki Marek , Chouly Franz
Published: January 2025

The finite‐element method (FEM) is a well‐established procedure for computing approximate solutions to deterministic engineering problems described by partial differential equations. FEM produces discrete approximations of the solution with a discretisation error that can be quantified with a posteriori error estimates. The practical relevance of error estimates for biomechanics problems, especially for soft tissue where the response is governed by large strains, is rarely addressed. In this contribution, we propose an implementation of a posteriori error estimates targeting a user‐defined quantity of interest, using the dual‐weighted residual (DWR) technique tailored to biomechanics. The proposed method considers a general setting that encompasses three‐dimensional geometries and model nonlinearities, which appear in hyperelastic soft tissues. We take advantage of the automatic differentiation capabilities embedded in modern finite‐element software, which allows the error estimates to be computed generically for a large class of models and constitutive laws. First, we validate our methodology using experimental measurements from silicone samples and then illustrate its applicability for patient‐specific computations of pressure ulcers on a human heel.
Contextual Information Aggregation and Multi‐Scale Feature Fusion for Single Image De‐Raining in Generative Adversarial Networks
Authors: Zhao Jia , Chen Ming , Pan Jeng‐Shyang , Han Longzhe , Qiu Shenyu , Nie Zhaoxiu
Published: January 2025

Aiming to address issues such as non‐uniform rain density and misjudgment caused by noise in image de‐raining, we propose a single‐image de‐raining method based on a generative adversarial network with contextual information aggregation and multi‐scale feature fusion. First, we design a generator composed of encoding, context information aggregation, and decoding stages. Features are extracted using convolution, while expansion convolution effectively aggregates context information. Transposition convolution is then used to restore the image, enhancing the model's ability to perceive image details and achieve accurate image information judgment and content reconstruction. Second, we design a multi‐scale feature fusion discriminator structure to capture different image details using convolution kernels of different scales and connect feature maps from different scales. This improves the model's ability to understand image details and differentiate between authentic and fake images. Finally, we propose a new refinement loss function to reduce grid artifact generation and add Lipschitz constraints to further minimize the imaging gap. In this paper, peak signal‐to‐noise ratio and structural similarity are used as evaluation criteria, and experiments conducted on real and synthesized rain maps demonstrate the superior rain removal performance of the proposed method.
Enhanced IPv6 Addressing Scheme: Irreversible Elegant Pairing for Reconnaissance Attack Prevention
Authors: Pragya  , Kumar Bijendra
Published: January 2025

In scenarios where network resources are restricted, IPv6 addresses are frequently allocated to devices via SLAAC‐based EUI‐64 addressing to ensure their uniqueness. The consistent interface identifier (IID) resulting from this approach across networks poses a vulnerability to diverse reconnaissance attacks, encompassing activities like tracking locations, correlating network actions, scanning addresses, and targeting specific devices and so on. In response to this concern, our study introduces an innovative addressing strategy by utilizing the elegant pairing function. This technique ensures the creation of IPv6 addresses that are both nonpredictable and unique and effectively counteracts various reconnaissance attacks. Through empirical assessment, our proposed method achieves a 100% address success rate (ASR), effectively mitigating reconnaissance attacks without introducing additional communication overhead or heightened energy consumption.
Comprehensive Review and Meta‐Analysis of Psychological and Pharmacological Treatment for Intermittent Explosive Disorder: Insights From Both Case Studies and Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Liu Fangqing , Yin Xiaoshan , Jiang Wenting
Published: January 2025

Intermittent explosive disorder (IED) is characterized by sudden, disproportionate outbursts of anger that can severely impact individuals' quality of life, causing difficulties in maintaining relationships, issues at work or school and potential legal troubles. This study aimed to systematically review and meta‐analyse the effectiveness of psychological and pharmacological treatments for IED, drawing insights from both case studies and randomized controlled trials (RCTs). A total of 12 RCTs and 14 case studies were included in this comprehensive analysis. The meta‐analysis revealed that psychological treatments, particularly cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), showed significant effectiveness in reducing aggression and achieving full remission compared to pharmacological treatments. However, the latter, notably fluoxetine, demonstrated notable efficacy in managing irritability and achieving treatment response. Subgroup analysis identified follow‐up time and intervention type as significant moderators of treatment outcomes. The systematic review of case studies highlighted the successful application of deep brain stimulation (DBS) and various off‐label medications, including SSRIs and mood stabilizers, in managing IED symptoms. Despite these insights, the study emphasizes the need for more robust evidence‐based treatment protocols and further research into the underlying mechanisms of IED to develop targeted treatments.
Omnidirectional to Directional Pattern Switching Patch Antenna for Wireless Sensor Nodes at Nuclear Reactor Containment Building
Authors: Kumar Pratap , Suseela Sreeja Balakrishnapillai , Sankararajan Radha , Ebenezer Jemimah
Published: January 2025

The novel design, prototyping, and characterization of an omnidirectional to directional radiation pattern switching planar antenna system are presented. The incorporation of the Yagi‐Uda antenna with an Alford loop antenna is proposed. The antenna is formed by a dipole, driver, reflector, and two directors. In a DC bias switching circuit with a combination of eight SMD PIN diodes and two parasitic elements, the antenna's radiation patterns can be shaped to concentrate energy in an omnidirectional radiation pattern. The introduction of switches using an SMD PIN diode at the arms of the driver element produces two switchable frequencies at 915 MHz and 2.45 GHz. Switches at the directors and reflector control the radiation pattern and can be configured to omnidirectional pattern to directional radiation pattern at those resonance frequencies. The radiation patterns as well as the simulated and measured reflection coefficients (S11) are illustrated and analyzed. Return loss (S11) is observed to be −36.36 dB at resonance frequency of 2.45 GHz (2.35–2.69 GHz) with bandwidth 340 MHz and impedance bandwidth 21.1%, and −24.45 dB at resonance frequency of 915 MHz (854–1006 MHz) with bandwidth 152 MHz and impedance bandwidth 16.61%. When compared with the omnidirectional pattern while maintaining the horizontal polarization, the gain of the antenna increases from 4.6 dBi with 90.02% efficiency to 5.1 dB with 87.77% efficiency in a directional pattern. The developed antenna system's final dimensions are 2.45 λ × 1.80 λ × 0.01 λ. The antenna system is tested in a nuclear reactor containment building equipped with a wireless sensor node. The signal transmission indicates the zero (0) invalid frames with 100 dBm received signal strength indication (RSSI). The printable nature of the antenna architecture and successful transmission of signals across the nuclear reactor containment building make the antenna a good candidate for the wireless sensor node (WSN) in the nuclear reactor.
Transforming Dermatopathology With AI: Addressing Bias, Enhancing Interpretability, and Shaping Future Diagnostics
Authors: Kakish Diala Ra'Ed Kamal , AlSamhori Jehad Feras , Fajardo Andy Noel Ramirez , Qaqish Lana N. , Jaber Layan Ahmed , Abujudeh Rawan , Al‐Zuriqat Mohammad Hathal Mahmoud , Mohammed Amina Yahya , Nashwan Abdulqadir J.
Published: January 2025

Background

Artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming dermatopathology by enhancing diagnostic accuracy, efficiency, and precision medicine. Despite its promise, challenges such as dataset biases, underrepresentation of diverse populations, and limited transparency hinder its widespread adoption. Addressing these gaps can set a new standard for equitable and patient‐centered care. To evaluate how AI mitigates biases, improves interpretability, and promotes inclusivity in dermatopathology while highlighting novel technologies like multimodal models and explainable AI (XAI).

Results

AI‐driven tools demonstrate significant improvements in diagnostic precision, particularly through multimodal models that integrate histological, genetic, and clinical data. Inclusive frameworks, such as the Monk scale, and advanced segmentation methods effectively address dataset biases. However, challenges such as the “black box” nature of AI, ethical concerns about data privacy, and limited access to advanced technologies in low‐resource settings remain.

Conclusion

AI offers transformative potential in dermatopathology, enabling equitable, and innovative diagnostics. Overcoming persistent challenges will require collaboration among dermatopathologists, AI developers, and policymakers. By prioritizing inclusivity, transparency, and interdisciplinary efforts, AI can redefine global standards in dermatopathology and foster patient‐centered care.
Contrasting Seasonal Distribution Patterns of Two Boreal Aerial Hawking Bat Species in Finland
Authors: Lundberg Piia , Kotila Miika , Meramo Katarina , Suominen Kati M. , Suutari Miina , Pietikäinen Tia‐Marie , Vasko Ville , Lilley Thomas M.
Published: January 2025

Climate change poses significant consequences for temperate bat species, potentially altering their distribution ranges and generating novel interactions among species sharing similar ecological niches. Recent observations suggest distribution range expansion in the Palearctic aerial hawking bat, Pipistrellus nathusii, prompting an investigation into its interaction with Eptesicus nilssonii, a northern Palearctic species overlapping with the previous in many ecological characteristics. This study examines the spatiotemporal variations between the two boreal bat species to form an evidence‐based background onto which future research on, e.g., resource competition, can be built. A comprehensive community science project engaged over 470 participants from 45 high schools to collect acoustic data on bat echolocation calls across Finland, in northern Europe, during the summers of 2019–2020. Our modelling approach reveals distinct spatiotemporal patterns for each species. In early summer, E. nilssonii activity is concentrated in the southern region, whereas by late summer, observations are distributed across our study area, though predominantly in the south. This pattern suggests that E. nilssonii could exhibit post‐breeding vagrant behaviour, an observation only recently evidenced in bats. Conversely, the activity of P. nathusii remains notably low throughout the season, with observations concentrated along the south coast during both early and late seasons, making it challenging to fully model its distribution. Despite initial expectations of overlap given their similar foraging behaviour and habitat preferences, the limited activity and coastal association of P. nathusii suggest low competitive interaction with E. nilssonii. These findings contribute to our understanding of bat spatial ecology amid changing environmental conditions, emphasising the necessity for ongoing monitoring to ascertain the long‐term implications of shifting species distributions.
Interspecific Variations in Interplant Communication and Ecological Characteristics in Trees
Authors: Yamawo Akira , Hagiwara Tomika , Yoshida Satomi , Ohno Misuzu , Nakajima Riku , Mori Yusuke , Hayashi Tamayo , Yamagishi Hiroki , Shiojiri Kaori
Published: January 2025

Plants evolve diverse communication systems in adapting to complex and variable environments. Here, we examined the relationship between plant architecture, population density and inter‐plant communication within tree species. We tested the hypothesis that trees of species with complex architecture or high population density (high population density: HPD) communicate among conspecifics via volatiles. In addition, we hypothesize that states of mycorrhizal symbiosis (arbuscular mycorrhizal or ectomycorrhiza) which relation to population density can predict the development of interplant communication in trees. We tested induced defense as an indicator of communication in saplings of nine tree species with various complexities of architecture (number of leaves per shoot) and either low (low population density: LPD) or HPD, either exposed for 10 days to volatiles from a damaged conspecific or not exposed. We evaluated the number of insect‐damaged leaves and the area of leaf damage on these trees after 1 and 2 months in the field. Most exposed HPD trees had less leaf damage than controls. However, LPD trees did not differ in leaf damage between treatments. These results are partially supported by plant hormone analysis. In addition, the presence of inter‐plant communication was positively correlated with both the number of leaves per shoot (complexity of plant architecture) and population density. The analysis which combined results of previous studies suggests that states of mycorrhizal symbiosis predict the development of interplant communication; interplant communication is common in ectomycorrhiza species. These results suggest the importance of plant architecture and population density as well as state of mycorrhizal symbiosis in the development of interplant communications within tree species.
Current and novel biomarkers in cardiogenic shock
Authors: Galusko Victor , Wenzl Florian A. , Vandenbriele Christophe , Panoulas Vasileios , Lüscher Thomas F. , Gorog Diana A.
Published: January 2025

Cardiogenic shock (CS) carries a 30–50% in‐hospital mortality rate, with little improvement in outcomes in the last decade. Challenges in improving outcomes are closely linked to the frequent late presentation or diagnosis of CS where the ‘point of no return’ has often passed, leading to haemodynamic dysregulation, progressive myocardial depression, hypotension, and a downward spiral of hypoperfusion, organ dysfunction and decreasing myocardial function, driven by inflammation and metabolic derangements. Novel therapeutic interventions may have varying efficacy depending on the type and stage of shock in which they are applied. Biomarkers that aid prediction and early detection of CS, provide early signs of organ dysfunction and define prognosis could help optimize management. Temporal change in such biomarkers, particularly in response to pharmacological interventions and/or mechanical circulatory support, can guide management and predict outcome. Several novel biomarkers enhance the prediction of mortality in CS, compared to conventional parameters such as lactate, with some, such as adrenomedullin and circulating dipeptidyl peptidase 3, also able to predict the development of CS. Some biomarkers reflect systemic inflammation (e.g. interleukin‐6, angiopoietin 2, fibroblast growth factor 23 and suppressor of tumorigenicity 2) and are not specific to CS, yet inform on the activation of important pathways involved in the downward shock spiral. Other biomarkers signal end‐organ hypoperfusion and could guide targeted interventions, while some may serve as novel therapeutic targets. We critically review current and novel biomarkers that guide prediction, detection, and prognostication in CS. Future use of biomarkers may help improve management in these high‐risk patients.
Catalyst‐Free Depolymerization of Aromatic and Aliphatic Polyesters Using Me3SiI
Authors: Liu Xin , Kobylarski Marie , Berthet Jean‐Claude , Cantat Thibault
Published: January 2025

Iodotrimethylsilane (Me3SiI) promotes the depolymerization of a variety of alkyl and aromatic polyesters, such as poly(ethylene succinate) (PES), polylactic acid (PLA) as well as polyethylene and polybutylene terephthalates (PET, PBT), in the absence of catalyst. The monomer products, e. g. the silylester monomers and/or their value‐added derivatives, involving reactive iodo groups (alkyl iodides and acyl iodides), are obtained in high yields. The reaction outcomes are influenced by the solvent (e. g. CH2Cl2, CH3CN), temperature (25 °C to 200 °C) and the amount of Me3SiI. The depolymerization of PES gives the corresponding silylester which then cyclizes into succinic anhydride. With PLA, the ester CH3CH2CO2SiMe3 and propionyl iodide (CH3CH2COI) are formed. They can be selectively obtained by adjusting the reaction conditions. As expected, the decomposition of aromatic polymers PET and PBT affords the bis(trimethylsilyl) terephthalate compound (1,4‐{CO2SiMe3}2C6H4). In the case of PET, the formation of the latter species is hampered by the I2, released by the decomposition of the generated diiodoethane. The initial addition of an iodine trap (1‐pentyne) avoids these side reactions. This work demonstrates that the length of the carbon chain linking the carboxylic acid units is a crucial factor influencing the ease of the reaction and the nature of the products.
Counterfactual Based Approaches for Feature Attributions of Stress Factors Affecting Rice Yield
Authors: Shetty Nisha P. , Muniyal Balachandra , Sriyans Ketavarapu , Garg Kunyalik , Pratap Shiv , Priyanshu Aman , Kumar Dhruthi
Published: January 2025

Agriculture is a crucial sector in many countries, particularly in India, where it significantly influences the economy, food supply, and rural livelihoods. The increased integration of Deep Learning (DL) and Machine Learning (ML) into agriculture has enabled substantial advancements in predicting crop yields and analyzing factors affecting them. The counterfactual reasoning framework of DICE outperforms LIME and DICE in offering finer insights into feature importance and the relative impact of different factors on yield prediction. DICE provided the clearest causal insights, demonstrating how adjustments to attributes like sandy alfisols and surface texture could lead to significant changes in crop yield by affecting water retention and nutrient availability. SHAP ranked features like phosphate and potash based on their average importance across the dataset, offering a global view of influential factors but lacking in‐depth causal understanding. LIME provided localized insights on immediate influences, such as average rainfall and nitrogen content, although it fell short in revealing broader causal interactions essential for targeted agricultural interventions. The findings highlight the significance of counterfactual explanations in agricultural ML models, as they provide a robust understanding of causal relationships, going beyond correlation‐based attributions. The study provides understandable and practical insights, allowing for focused actions to enhance productivity and adaptability in agriculture. By improving the interpretability of agricultural machine learning models, the research ultimately supports the creation of predictive systems that strengthen sustainable practices and economic development within the agricultural industry.
Adsorption of Safranin‐O Dye Onto Almond Shell Sustainable Activated Carbon: Identifying Key Process Factors and Their Effects
Authors: Jassim Nawras J. , Younis Fitna H. , Alshamkhani Maher T.
Published: January 2025

Water pollution is a critical issue requiring urgent action to minimize contamination and ensure a sustainable future for humanity. Dyes are widely utilized in many industries, generating worries about water contamination. This study aimed to develop an inexpensive and sustainable process for safranin dye removal from polluted water using biomass waste. Almond shells were carbonized at a temperature of 500°C and then chemically activated using phosphoric acid to produce activated carbon. The activated carbon samples were analyzed using (XRD), (SEM), (EDX), N2‐adsorption–desorption isotherms, and (FTIR) analysis. Activated carbon was selected and evaluated for its ability to adsorb safranin dye from simulated wastewater. A definitive screening design DSC was utilized to quickly examine the impact of six adsorption process factors (initial dye concentration, pH, ionic strength, adsorbent dose, contact time, and ultrasonic power) on the adsorption capacity of safranin dye. A mathematical model was developed to determine the effect of each factor and the contribution and interactions between the factors on the adsorption capacity of safranin dye. The experimental results showed that the initial dye concentration, adsorbent dose, pH, and ultrasonic power effects were most important. In contrast, the contact time and ionic strength do not have a clear and significant impact. The outcomes were promising, wherein the maximum adsorption capacity of safranin‐O dye was 57.4 mg/g (25°C), 300 mg/L initial dye concentration,100 mg adsorbent dose, pH in the range 7–10, and 228‐W ultrasonic power. The adsorption experimental equilibrium data show that the Langmuir model is suitable for safranin‐O adsorption behavior. Kinetic experimental data showed that the adsorption processes followed pseudo‐second‐order. The reported results revealed that the DSD experimental design can be utilized to determine the essential and non‐essential factors in the batch adsorption process of safranin‐O by reducing time, cost, and number of experiments.
Approach to backyard poultry. Part 1: seeing pet chickens in general first‐opinion practice
Authors: Elven Heather
Published: January 2025

Background: Backyard poultry numbers in the UK have increased rapidly over the past few years. Despite this rise, there is still a perceived level of reservation among owners keeping chickens as pets in approaching their local first‐opinion veterinary practice for help and advice, and from veterinarians in providing advice as they feel ill prepared to manage poultry cases within practice. Although undergraduate courses have improved over the years to include some teaching of poultry cases, there are still multiple factors that can lead to reduced confidence in dealing with backyard poultry, including cases frequently being sent to specialist veterinarians reducing exposure in first‐opinion practice, difficult species‐specific husbandry‐related issues, and fears of not being well enough equipped to deal with such cases. With further clinical resources and signposting, handling a poultry case and managing preventive medicine and emergency situations can be transformative for poultry welfare, and is becoming an essential part of clinical practice as backyard poultry clients present themselves more frequently to first‐opinion companion animal practice.

Aim of the article: This two‐part series provides vets with a starting point to feel more confident with examining backyard poultry cases in practice, and be able to provide advice to clients to improve patient experience and long‐term chicken welfare. These articles will primarily focus on pet chickens and aim to encourage companion animal clinicians to get involved with further poultry learning and poultry clients. This article covers the general approach to seeing pet chickens in first‐opinion practice. Part two, to be published in a subsequent issue of In Practice, focuses on improving welfare and management of backyard poultry.
Managing obesity and metabolic disease in donkeys
Authors: Sullivan Rebekah , Boocock Hannah
Published: January 2025

Background: There are many donkeys kept in the UK, occupying a variety of roles from companion animal and show donkey to working in small industries, such as beach donkeys. Both mixed practice and equine vets may be called upon by donkey owners to provide clinical guidance and expertise. Donkeys may also be seen within the context of welfare concerns. As for many companion animal species, obesity is a common finding in donkeys and can represent a welfare problem. It is vital that any vet or registered veterinary nurse that may be involved with veterinary care of donkeys is able to recognise an obese donkey, provide dietary guidance and understand and manage the clinical implications of obesity.

Aim of the article: This article outlines the nutritional needs of donkeys and their background physiology, which may contribute to a propensity towards obesity. It also discusses metabolic diseases and the management of obesity and associated clinical conditions.
What does the Autumn Budget mean for you?
Authors: Downs Ruth
Published: January 2025

This article examines the key measures introduced in the 2024 Autumn Budget and their potential effects on individuals, households, businesses and investors. The Budget reflects the government's priorities following the recent election, with significant updates to taxation, benefits and wages. The aim of the article is to empower you to evaluate how these reforms might impact your financial plans and strategies, enabling you to effectively incorporate them into your future planning. By staying informed about new policies you can better navigate upcoming financial challenges and opportunities.
Physiological and morphological scaling enables gigantism in pelagic protists
Authors: Burke Janet E. , Elder Leanne E. , Maas Amy E. , Gaskell Daniel E. , Clark Elizabeth G. , Hsiang Allison Y. , Foster Gavin L. , Hull Pincelli M.
Published: January 2025

Planktonic foraminifera are pelagic protists frequently used to study paleoenvironmental change. Many planktonic foraminifera, like other taxa in Rhizaria, reach gigantic proportions relative to other pelagic protists (> 600 μm), placing them in a size class dominated by metazoans. Here, we combine new and existing respiration rate measurements, micro‐CT scans, and test size measurements to investigate allometric scaling of metabolic rates, relative biomass density, and mixotrophy in contributing to the ability of planktonic foraminifera to reach large sizes. Respiration rate increases with foraminiferal biovolume with a slope of 0.51 ± 0.18. This allometric scaling slope is lower than those reported in other plankton. Further, the basal respiration rates for planktonic foraminifera exceed those of other organisms in their size class when probable biomass, rather than test volume, is considered. Using the allometric regression on a published database of modern planktonic foraminifera from the Atlantic Ocean, we estimate that gigantic individuals account for 15.3–26.1% of foraminiferal community respiration in temperate and tropical/subtropical latitudes, despite making up only 4.5–8.3% of individuals. We hypothesize that shallow scaling of test size with metabolism and of test size to actual biomass is the key factor allowing for gigantism in planktonic foraminifera. Having a large test and broadcasting rhizopodial networks increases the functional volume of the organism, allowing higher passive prey encounter rates to support the elevated metabolic rates in planktonic foraminifera. Mixotrophy may act as a mitigating factor for metabolic challenges at low latitudes, accounting for the presence of large populations of giant, predominately mixotrophic Rhizarians in these assemblages.
Effect of Drying on the Corrosion of Carbon Steel, Zinc, Aluminium and AZ31B Magnesium Alloy During Cyclic Accelerated Corrosion Tests
Authors: Popova Kateryna , Prošek Tomáš
Published: January 2025

In cyclic atmospheric accelerated corrosion tests used in the automotive industry, drying is usually simulated by reducing the relative humidity (RH) to 50% or 70%, which is significantly higher than during real vehicle operation. This study investigated the effect of RH in dry phases of a cyclic corrosion test on the corrosion of carbon steel, zinc, aluminium and AZ31B magnesium alloy. Three modifications of a test with the drying RH of 30%, 50% and 70% were carried out, and average and real‐time corrosion rates, corrosion morphologies and composition of corrosion products were evaluated. The drying RH had a specific effect on the corrosion of each metal. The corrosion rate of carbon steel was the highest in the test with the highest drying RH while zinc and aluminium showed a decrease in corrosion rates with increasing drying RH. The mechanism of magnesium alloy corrosion was influenced by electrolyte distribution with the highest corrosion rate in the test with drying at 50% RH. Drying at 30% RH was found to provide the best correlation to the real‐world performance of the metals.
Vascular endothelial cell injury: causes, molecular mechanisms, and treatments
Authors: Xia Tian , Yu Jiachi , Du Meng , Chen Ximeng , Wang Chengbin , Li Ruibing
Published: January 2025

Vascular endothelial cells form a single layer of flat cells that line the inner surface of blood vessels, extending from large vessels to the microvasculature of various organs. These cells are crucial metabolic and endocrine components of the body, playing vital roles in maintaining circulatory stability, regulating vascular tone, and preventing coagulation and thrombosis. Endothelial cell injury is regarded as a pivotal initiating factor in the pathogenesis of various diseases, triggered by multiple factors, including infection, inflammation, and hemodynamic changes, which significantly compromise vascular integrity and function. This review examines the causes, underlying molecular mechanisms, and potential therapeutic approaches for endothelial cell injury, focusing specifically on endothelial damage in cardiac ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury, sepsis, and diabetes. It delves into the intricate signaling pathways involved in endothelial cell injury, emphasizing the roles of oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, inflammatory mediators, and barrier damage. Current treatment strategies—ranging from pharmacological interventions to regenerative approaches and lifestyle modifications—face ongoing challenges and limitations. Overall, this review highlights the importance of understanding endothelial cell injury within the context of various diseases and the necessity for innovative therapeutic methods to improve patient outcomes.
CHADD weighs in on new ADHD research examining trends
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: January 2025

The resident expert at the Children and Adults with Attention‐Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (CHADD) said he was not surprised by the fluctuations evident in new ADHD (attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder) research that highlights trends in ADHD and published online in Psychiatric Research and Clinical Practice (see related story, beginning on page 3).
Impact of Lookback Duration on the Performance of a Claims‐Based Frailty Proxy in Women With Stage I–III Breast Cancer
Authors: Duchesneau Emilie D. , Stürmer Til , Reeder‐Hayes Katherine , Kim Dae Hyun , Edwards Jessie K. , Faurot Keturah R. , Lund Jennifer L.
Published: January 2025

Background

Frailty is an important prognostic indicator in older women with breast cancer. The Faurot frailty index, a validated claims‐based frailty proxy measure, uses healthcare billing codes during a user‐specified ascertainment window to predict frailty. We assessed how the duration of frailty ascertainment affected the ability of the Faurot frailty index to predict one‐year mortality in women with stage I–II breast cancer.

Methods

We included 128 857 women (66+ years) with stage I–III breast cancer in the SEER‐Medicare database (2003–2019). The Faurot frailty index was calculated using 3‐, 6‐, 8‐, and 12‐month ascertainment windows prior to diagnosis or using all‐available lookback. Associations between the Faurot frailty index using each window and one‐year all‐cause mortality were estimated using Kaplan–Meier curves. Discrimination of one‐year mortality risk was assessed using C‐statistics.

Results

Five percent of women died during the year following diagnosis. Higher Faurot scores were associated with increased mortality risk for all frailty ascertainment windows. Differences in one‐year mortality risk for women with high vs. low Faurot frailty scores were reduced when using all‐available lookback (16% vs. 2%, difference = 15%, 95% CI 0.14–0.15) compared to shorter windows (e.g., 8 months: 25% vs. 2%, difference = 23%, 95% CI 0.22–0.24). C‐statistics ranged from 0.758 (all‐available lookback) to 0.770 (12 months) and were robust in subgroups defined by age, race, ethnicity, region, stage, and cancer subtype.

Conclusions

The Faurot frailty index performed well across 3‐ to 12‐month frailty ascertainment windows in women with breast cancer. Researchers should employ this index to address confounding by frailty in studies of cancer populations.
Generative Design of Thermoset Shape Memory Polymers Driven by Chemical Group: A Conditional Variational Autoencoder Approach
Authors: Das Borun , Peters Andrew , Li Guoqiang , Hei Xiali
Published: January 2025

The discovery of novel thermoset shape memory polymers (TSMPs) for additive manufacturing can be accelerated through the use of a deep‐generative algorithm, minimizing the need for laborious traditional laboratory experiments. This study is the first to introduce an innovative approach that uses a deep generative learning model, namely the conditional variational autoencoder (CVAE), to discover novel TSMPs with lower glass transition temperature () and high recovery stress values (). In this study, specific chemical groups, such as epoxy, amine, thiol, and vinyl, are integrated as constraints to generate novel TSMPs while preserving the essential reaction properties. To address the challenges posed by a small dataset, the CVAE model is used with graph‐extracted features. Unlike previous studies focused on single‐polymer systems, this research extends to two‐monomer samples, discovering 22 novel TSMPs. This approach has practical implications in additive manufacturing, biomedical devices, aerospace, and robotics for the discovery of novel samples from limited data.
Evidence for Bxy‐npr‐21 on controlling juveniles’ growth and modulating male sexual arousal: from molecules to behaviors
Authors: Shao Hudie , Liu Wenyi , Hong Huan , Guo Kai , Chen Jing , Li Quan , Su Miao , Huang Xiaofang , Hu Jiafu
Published: January 2025

BACKGROUND

Bursaphelenchus xylophilus is considered a quarantine plant nematode species, that causes major damage to pine ecosystems globally. However, there are few reports on the identification and function of the sex pheromone receptors involved in mating. The function of Bxy‐npr‐21 as a potential sex pheromone receptor gene was verified from molecules to behaviors in this study.

RESULTS

Here, we firstly report that Bxy‐npr‐21 is a receptor gene involved in sexual attraction. The bioinformatic analysis indicated that the Bxy‐npr‐21 gene in B. xylophilus encodes a GPCR. The expression characterization for Bxy‐npr‐21 showed that it is widely expressed in whole body of larvae and sex organs of adults. The RNAi results suggested that the Bxy‐npr‐21 gene was involved mainly in movement, feeding, and mating. Sexual arousal experiments further validated that the Bxy‐npr‐21 gene was involved in the activation of males by female chemical signaling.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results strongly suggest that the Bxy‐npr‐21 gene is a key gene that regulates nematode growth, development and reproduction. The results of this study lay the foundation for revealing the molecular mechanisms of growth and reproduction of B. xylophilus. It can also provide an important basis for further control of B. xylophilus. © 2025 Society of Chemical Industry.