bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
In vitro demetalation of central magnesium in various chlorophyll derivatives using Mg-dechelatase homolog from the chloroflexi Anaerolineae
Authors: Sato Soma , Hirose Mitsuaki , Tanaka Ryouichi , Ito Hisashi , Tamiaki Hitoshi
Published: March 2024

In the metabolic pathway of chlorophylls (Chls), an enzyme called STAY-GREEN or SGR catalyzes the removal of the central magnesium ion of Chls and their derivatives to their corresponding free bases, including pheophytins. The substrate specificity of SGR has been investigated through in vitro reactions using Chl-related molecules. However, information about the biochemical properties and reaction mechanisms of SGR and its substrate specificity remains elusive. In this study, we synthesized various Chl derivatives and investigated their in vitro dechelations using an SGR enzyme. Chl-a derivatives with the C3-vinyl group on the A-ring, which is commonly found as a substituent in natural substrates, and their analogs with ethyl, hydroxymethyl, formyl, and styryl groups at the C3-position were prepared as substrates. In vitro dechelatase reactions of these substrates were performed using an SGR enzyme derived from an Anaerolineae bacterium, allowing us to investigate their specificity. Reactivity was reduced for substrates with an electron-withdrawing formyl or sterically demanding styryl group at the C3-position. Furthermore, the Chl derivative with the C8-styryl group on the B-ring was less reactive for SGR dechelation than the C3-styryl substrate. These results indicate that the SGR enzyme recognizes substituents on the B-ring of substrates more than those on the A-ring.
Patterns of tolerance: how interaction culture and community relations explain political tolerance (and intolerance) in the American libertarian movement
Authors: Marom Oded
Published: March 2024

Existing explanations of political intolerance and partisanship highlight how individuals’ ideological commitments and the homogeneity of their political environments foster intolerance toward other political groups. This article argues that cultural, interactional conditions play a crucial role in how personal and environmental factors work – or do not work – in local groups. Based on a four-year ethnographic study and 12 focus group discussions with two culturally distinct civic associations of American libertarians, I show how groups’ varying patterns of interaction, or “styles,” establish distinct cultural settings, in which different attitudes and behaviors seem sensible and appropriate, particularly regarding other political groups. Thus, when libertarian groups established a “community style” of interaction, viewing the relationship among members in terms of friendship and community bonds, they also opened their social activities to non-libertarians, collaborated with them in political projects, and viewed politics as a matter of advancing shared interests with people from other political groups. Comparisons across and within field sites show how this relationship between style and political tolerance works in different libertarian groups and different social environments. These findings highlight the role of local factors in explaining variations in groups’ levels of political tolerance and present a key mechanism—centered on interaction patterns—to supplement existing analyses of the relationship between political intolerance and changing forms of civic organizing in the US.
ROC curve analysis: a useful statistic multi-tool in the research of nephrology
Authors: Roumeliotis Stefanos , Schurgers Juul , Tsalikakis Dimitrios G. , D’Arrigo Graziella , Gori Mercedes , Pitino Annalisa , Leonardis Daniela , Tripepi Giovanni , Liakopoulos Vassilios
Published: March 2024

In the past decade, scientific research in the area of Nephrology has focused on evaluating the clinical utility and performance of various biomarkers for diagnosis, risk stratification and prognosis. Before implementing a biomarker in everyday clinical practice for screening a specific disease context, specific statistic measures are necessary to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy and performance of this biomarker. Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) Curve analysis is an important statistical method used to estimate the discriminatory performance of a novel diagnostic test, identify the optimal cut-off value for a test that maximizes sensitivity and specificity, and evaluate the predictive value of a certain biomarker or risk, prediction score. Herein, through practical examples, we aim to present a simple methodological approach to explain in detail the principles and applications of ROC curve analysis in the field of nephrology pertaining diagnosis and prognosis.
Hyperbolic Deep Learning in Computer Vision: A Survey
Authors: Mettes Pascal , Ghadimi Atigh Mina , Keller-Ressel Martin , Gu Jeffrey , Yeung Serena
Published: March 2024

Deep representation learning is a ubiquitous part of modern computer vision. While Euclidean space has been the de facto standard manifold for learning visual representations, hyperbolic space has recently gained rapid traction for learning in computer vision. Specifically, hyperbolic learning has shown a strong potential to embed hierarchical structures, learn from limited samples, quantify uncertainty, add robustness, limit error severity, and more. In this paper, we provide a categorization and in-depth overview of current literature on hyperbolic learning for computer vision. We research both supervised and unsupervised literature and identify three main research themes in each direction. We outline how hyperbolic learning is performed in all themes and discuss the main research problems that benefit from current advances in hyperbolic learning for computer vision. Moreover, we provide a high-level intuition behind hyperbolic geometry and outline open research questions to further advance research in this direction.
Diagnostic Classification Models for Testlets: Methods and Theory
Authors: Xu Xin , Fang Guanhua , Guo Jinxin , Ying Zhiliang , Zhang Susu
Published: March 2024

Diagnostic classification models (DCMs) have seen wide applications in educational and psychological measurement, especially in formative assessment. DCMs in the presence of testlets have been studied in recent literature. A key ingredient in the statistical modeling and analysis of testlet-based DCMs is the superposition of two latent structures, the attribute profile and the testlet effect. This paper extends the standard testlet DINA (T-DINA) model to accommodate the potential correlation between the two latent structures. Model identifiability is studied and a set of sufficient conditions are proposed. As a byproduct, the identifiability of the standard T-DINA is also established. The proposed model is applied to a dataset from the 2015 Programme for International Student Assessment. Comparisons are made with DINA and T-DINA, showing that there is substantial improvement in terms of the goodness of fit. Simulations are conducted to assess the performance of the new method under various settings.
Asphaltene-derived nanocomposites for the removal of emerging pollutants and its antimicrobial effects: batch and continuous column studies
Authors: Nayak Abhishek , Karkare Vaishnavi P , Sadani Kapil , Dasari Harshini , Sivasamy Arumugam , Sundarabal Nethaji
Published: March 2024

Emerging contaminants are diverse ecotoxic materials requiring unique treatment for removal. Asphaltenes are environmentally hazardous carbon-rich solid waste product of the petroleum industry. In the current work, asphaltene-derived activated carbon (AC) was loaded with silver (Ag/AC) and used to remove amoxicillin (AMX) and tetracycline (TC) from aqueous phase. The prepared Ag/AC was characterised using FESEM, FTIR, XRD and surface area analysis. The FESEM micrographs confirmed the spherical silver nanoparticle-laden porous AC, and the BET surface area was found to be 213 m2/g. Batch adsorption studies were performed, and the equilibrium data were fit into adsorption isotherm and kinetic models. The Ag/AC exhibited superior monolayer adsorption capacity of 1012 mg/g and 770 mg/g for AMX and TC, respectively. The continuous column studies were also performed to evaluate the breakthrough parameters. Furthermore, the antimicrobial activity of the adsorbent was evaluated using zone of inhibition studies. Ag/AC was found to have an 8-mm-diameter zone of microbial inhibition. The obtained results showed that Ag/AC was a promising material for the removal of antibiotics and inhibition of resistance-developed mutated microbes in effluent water.
Assessing the socio-economic impacts of tourism packages: a methodological proposition
Authors: Miralles Cristina Casals , Roura Mercè Boy , Salas Sergio Ponsá , Argelaguet Laia Llenas , Jordà Joan Colón
Published: March 2024

Purpose

The effects of tourism extend beyond purely economic considerations; they also have an impact on both the environment and people. Development of tools and procedures that foster consensus among practitioners and enable the measurement and benchmarking of impacts are required for tourism managers to be able to work on lowering and mitigating the sector’s effects, while enhancing the positive benefits. In this study a methodological proposition to assess the social impacts of tourism packages is presented.

Aim and scope

This study adapts and tests for the first time a social evaluation technique, the Product Social Impact Assessment (PSIA) method, to assess the social implications of tourism products and services. It is iteratively tested on 9 tourism packages in Mediterranean Protected Areas. Numerous parties, including managers of protected areas and private tourism stakeholders, have engaged in this process at various stages, such as developing the packages or supplying the data required for the assessment.

Conclusions

The methodology tested appears appropriate to quantify and qualify the social impacts of tourism packages and is valid for enhancing the social performance since positive progress between the two testing faces was registered. This study is a step towards standardizing the social assessment of tourism packages following a Life Cycle Assessment approach, and future developments are needed to make the approach proposed in the paper adequate to assess the social impacts of the upstream and downstream components of the system.
Remark on a theorem of Oguiso
Authors: Kaur Inder , Prendergast-Smith Artie
Published: March 2024

For a Calabi–Yau variety X, Oguiso (Math Res Lett 25(1):181–198, 2018) gave a useful criterion for primitivity of a self-map of X in terms of the associated linear map on the Néron–Severi space of X. In this short note, we prove a variant of Oguiso’s criterion and use it to verify primitivity of a certain birational automorphism of a Calabi–Yau threefold, to which Oguiso’s original criterion does not apply.
Behavioural Endocrinology in the Social Sciences
Authors: Botzet Laura Josephine , Kordsmeyer Tobias L. , Ostermann Sabine , Ruß Johannes , Penke Lars
Published: March 2024

Hormones are the endocrine system’s messengers and an important coordinating mechanism of the body’s growth, development, and functioning, with often simultaneous effects throughout the body and brain. Echoing calls for more interdisciplinary research bridging the gap between endocrinology and social sciences, we review evidence for hormones influencing human psychology (behaviour, cognition, and sociality), with a focus on health, sexuality, and further outcomes. We focus on four steroid hormones: testosterone (T), cortisol (C), estrogen (E), and progesterone (P). Embedded into life history theory as a prominent evolutionary framework, effects of T are conceptualised as modulating trade-offs between mating and parenting effort, especially when exposed to potential mates, interacting with offspring, and during competition. The challenge hypothesis suggests acute increases in T when facing challenges, with high T being linked to more competitive behaviour. The dual-hormone hypothesis postulates that C, as a measure of stress, inhibits the effects of T on status-seeking behaviour. The allostatic load framework suggests that chronic stress as indicated by high C levels could have detrimental health consequences. Various measurements of C are negatively related to socioeconomic status. The female steroid hormones E and P coordinate female reproduction by regulating the development and function of the uterus. They affect women’s sexual desire as well as self-perceived attractiveness and are influenced by endogenous (e.g. pregnancy) as well as exogenous (e.g. hormonal contraceptives) factors. We address misinterpretations of biological determinism, highlight potential challenges in measuring hormones, and discuss ways in which social scientists can continue to incorporate hormones into their research.
Tall, large-diameter trees and dense shrub layer as key determinants of the abundance and composition of bird communities in oak-dominated forests
Authors: Komlós Mariann , Botta-Dukát Zoltán , Bölöni János , Aszalós Réka , Veres Katalin , Winkler Dániel , Ónodi Gábor
Published: March 2024

Increasing human activity is altering the structure of forests, which affects the composition of communities, including birds. However, little is known about the key forest structure variables that determine the richness of bird communities in European temperate oak forests. We, therefore, aimed to identify key variables in these habitats that could contribute to the design of management strategies for forest conservation by surveying 11 oak-dominated forest sites throughout the mid-mountain range of Hungary at 86 survey points to reveal the role of different compositional and structural variables for forest stands that influence the breeding bird assemblages in the forests at the functional group and individual species levels. Based on decision tree modelling, our results showed that the density of trees larger than 30 cm DBH was an overall important variable, indicating that large-diameter trees were essential to provide diverse bird communities. The total abundance of birds, the foliage-gleaners, primary and secondary cavity nesters, residents, and five specific bird species were related to the density of high trunk diameter trees. The abundance of shrub nesters was negatively influenced by a high density of trees over 10 cm DBH. The density of the shrub layer positively affected total bird abundance and the abundance of foliage gleaners, secondary cavity nesters and residents. Analysis of the co-dominant tree species showed that the presence of linden, beech, and hornbeam was important in influencing the abundance of various bird species, e.g., Eurasian Treecreeper (Certhia familiaris), Marsh Tit (Poecile palustris) and Wood Warbler (Phylloscopus sibilatrix). Our results indicated that large trees, high tree diversity, and dense shrub layer were essential for forest bird communities and are critical targets for protection to maintain diverse and abundant bird communities in oak-dominated forest habitats.
Colonization of a Novel Host Plant Reduces Phenotypic Variation
Authors: Nilsson Kalle J. , Tsuboi Masahito , Opedal Øystein H. , Runemark Anna
Published: March 2024

Understanding the evolution of evolvability—the evolutionary potential of populations—is key to predicting adaptation to novel environments. Despite growing evidence that evolvability structures adaptation, it remains unclear how adaptation to novel environments in turn influences evolvability. Here we address the interplay between adaptation and evolvability in the peacock fly Tephritis conura, which recently underwent an adaptive change in ovipositor length following a host shift. We compared the evolvability of morphological traits, including ovipositor length, between the ancestral and the derived host race. We found that mean evolvability was reduced in females of the derived host race compared to the ancestral host race. However, patterns of multivariate evolvability (considering trait covariances) were very similar in both host races, and populations of the derived host race had diverged from the ancestral host race in directions of greater-than-average evolvability. Exploration of phenotypic integration patterns further revealed relatively high levels of independent variation in ovipositor length compared to other measured traits, allowing some degree of independent divergence. Our findings suggest that adaptation to novel environments can reduce mean evolvability without major changes in patterns of variational constraints, and that trait autonomy helps facilitate divergence of functionally important traits.
Common spaces matter: curricular experiences through mathematics with young prisoners and prospective teachers
Authors: Stathopoulou Charoula , Appelbaum Peter , Fovos Ioannis , Chrysikou Vasiliki
Published: March 2024

Mathematics teaching usually occurs in a “public space”—e.g., a classroom is a public space with rules defining student and teacher roles that cultivate hierarchic relationships. Working in prison with young inmates (18–23 years old) from marginalized populations, we promoted alternative “common spaces” (physical and symbolic) challenging established hierarchies through equal contribution. Such mathematics curriculum employs an antideficit model (Louie et al., 2021) as prisoners co-research their lives with mathematics. Common spaces empower through recognition while enabling identity transformation. Qualitative data from the CoSpIRom [Common Spaces for Integration of Roma Project (http://cospirom.sed.uth.gr).] project explores: (a) whether common spaces, recognition and equal participation can support mathematics literacy while empowering and emancipating young prisoners; and (b) if and how this framework might prepare prospective teachers within contemporary diversity. Bringing together young prisoners and prospective teachers affects both populations. Mathematics curriculum developed through collaboration meets a consistent request from prisoners that educational programs bridge with the outside world as re-entry preparation. Contrasting life stories from prospective teachers operate as alternative models motivating prisoners to rethink their own life stories and self-concepts. Prospective teachers demonstrated significant intercultural communication skill development, empathy and solidarity for marginalized people, reporting important professional identity growth.
Application of metal cored filler wire for environmental-friendly welding of low alloy steel: experimental investigation and parametric optimization
Authors: Abhishek Kumar , Prajapati Vishalkumar , Kumari Soni , Potnuru Balaji Krushna , Bandhu Din
Published: March 2024

Motivated by the crescente demand for eco-friendly and worker-safe welding techniques, this study optimizes current (A), voltage (V), and gas flow rate (GFR) for regulated metal deposition (RMD) welding of ASME SA387 Gr.11 Cl.2 steel. Employing MEGAFIL 237 M metal cored filler wire and a Taguchi L9 orthogonal array, bead-on-plate trials were conducted to evaluate heat-affected zone (HAZ), depth of penetration (DOP), and bead width (BW). A unique dual-pronged optimization approach was implemented. The utility function method, combined with Taguchi’s signal-to-noise (S/N) ratio, maximized desirable and minimized undesirable responses. Additionally, TOPSIS with Taguchi S/N ratio identified the optimal process parameters. Both optimization strategies converged on identical. A = 135 A, V = 14 V, and GFR = 13 L/min. Notably, voltage emerged as the most influential factor in the mean S/N response table, highlighting its critical role in controlling weld quality. The proposed procedures offer a robust framework for determining optimal RMD welding conditions in pipeline applications. This not only enhances weld integrity and worker safety but also paves the way for sustainable manufacturing and continuous quality improvement in the field.
A phase 1/2 study of NS-87/CPX-351 (cytarabine and daunorubicin liposome) in Japanese patients with high-risk acute myeloid leukemia
Authors: Usuki Kensuke , Miyamoto Toshihiro , Yamauchi Takuji , Ando Kiyoshi , Ogawa Yoshiaki , Onozawa Masahiro , Yamauchi Takahiro , Kiyoi Hitoshi , Yokota Akira , Ikezoe Takayuki , Katsuoka Yuna , Takada Satoru , Aotsuka Nobuyuki , Morita Yasuyoshi , Ishikawa Takayuki , Asada Noboru , Ota Shuichi , Dohi Atsushi , Morimoto Kensaku , Imai Shunji , Kishimoto Umi , Akashi Koichi , Miyazaki Yasushi ,   The Study Group for NS-87/CPX-351, Kuroda Junya , Iida Hiroatsu , Sekiguchi Naohiro , Takenaka Katsuto , Kawakita Toshiro , Imada Kazunori , Suzuki Takahiro , Miyawaki Shuichi , Usui Noriko , Asou Norio , Muta Masakazu , Tsuruda Kazuto , Taniwaki Masafumi , Fujita Masatoshi , Makishima Hideki , Nakanishi Yoko , Tajima Masaya , Masutomi Yutaka , Chiba Masahiro , Hokazomo Mayuna , Hirooka Shihomi , Mikasa Taisuke , Okamoto Moemi , Kawase Akitaka , Yamada Akane , Shimizu Yuto , Isogaya Kento , Ichikawa Tomohiko
Published: March 2024

Objectives

NS-87/CPX-351 is a dual-drug liposomal encapsulation of cytarabine and daunorubicin. NS-87/CPX-351 exerts antileukemic action by maintaining a synergistic molar ratio of cytarabine to daunorubicin of 5:1 within the liposome while in circulation. Patients with high-risk acute myeloid leukemia (AML), which includes therapy-related AML and AML with myelodysplasia-related changes (AML-MRC), have poorer outcomes than those with other AML.

Methodology

This open-label phase 1/2 (P1/2) study was conducted in 47 Japanese patients aged 60–75 years with newly diagnosed high-risk AML to evaluate the pharmacokinetics, safety, and efficacy of NS-87/CPX-351.

Results

In the 6 patients enrolled in the P1 portion, no dose-limiting toxicities (DLTs) were reported, and 100 units/m2 during the induction cycle was found to be acceptable. Cytarabine and daunorubicin had a long half-life in the terminal phase (32.8 and 28.7 h, respectively). In the 35 patients enrolled in the P2 portion, composite complete remission (CRc; defined as complete remission [CR] or CR with incomplete hematologic recovery [CRi]) was achieved in 60.0% (90% CI: 44.7–74.0) of the patients. Adverse events due to NS-87/CPX-351 were well tolerated.

Outcomes

NS-87/CPX-351 can be considered as a frontline treatment option for Japanese patients with high-risk AML.
Sedimentological and sequence-stratigraphic analyses of the Tithonian Hith Anhydrite Formation in the Dahal Hit outcrop, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Wolpert Philipp J. , Bartenbach Martin , Aigner Thomas , Wilson Augustus O. , Al-Husseini Moujahed I. , Petrovic Alexander , Dirks Heiko , Rausch Randolf
Published: March 2024

The Dahal Hit cavern in Central Saudi Arabia is the only locality where the Tithonian Hith Anhydrite Formation is exposed in the Middle East. In 2010, a 28.5-m interval in the 90-m-thick Hith Formation was logged and described in the cavern as part of a study to evaluate its sedimentological and sequence-stratigraphic architecture and to identify potential high-permeability layers within the seal of the world’s most prolific petroleum system. Seven facies types were interpreted as reflecting sabkha (subaerial) or salina (subaqueous) settings, and their vertical stacking patterns revealed that the logged interval consists of three transgressive–regressive cycles and part of a fourth cycle. The cavern was revisited in 2016 but only to find that the water level had risen by about 50 m rendering further geological studies impossible. The higher level of the water suggests that the cavern was flooded by the flow in the subsurface of treated sewage water released into a former quarry. The quarry is situated about 10 km southeast of the cavern, and the storage of water in it started in 2008. The flow pathways to the Dahal Hit cavern are apparently well-connected karsts, caverns, and high-permeability flow zones present in dolomite layers.
The duality of reputation portability: Investigating the demand effect of imported ratings across online labor markets
Authors: Tran Nhat Diana , Thäter Laura , Teubner Timm
Published: March 2024

Online labor platforms have been criticized for fueling precarious working conditions. Due to their platform-bound reputation systems, switching costs are prohibitively high and workers are locked-in to the platforms. One widely discussed approach to addressing this issue and improving workers’ position is the portability of reputational data. In this study, we conduct an online experiment with 239 participants to test the effect of introducing reputation portability and to study the demand effect of imported ratings. We find that the volume of imported ratings stimulates demand, although to a lower degree than onsite ratings. Specifically, the effect of imported ratings corresponds to about 35% of the effect of onsite ratings. The results imply the possibility of unintended cross-market demand concentration effects that especially favor workers with high rating volumes (“superstars”).
Perspectives of Women of Reproductive Age Regarding Sexuality During Their Menstruation Period
Authors: Demirtaş Fatma Aslan , Oskay Ümran
Published: March 2024

Introduction

This study aimed to determine the views and experiences of women of reproductive age regarding their sexuality and sexual life during their menstrual period.

Methods

A qualitative, interpretive, phenomenological design was used. The study sample consisted of 16 women of reproductive age (18–49), who volunteered to participate and came to gynecology outpatient clinic appointments at a research hospital in Istanbul, Turkey. Data were collected online through in-depth individual interviews.

Results

The research was composed of six themes: “symptoms of the menstruation period,” “duration and severity of symptoms during menstruation,” “effect of the menstrual period on sexual life,” “sexual desire during the menstrual period,” “opinions about sexual life during menstruation,” and “spouses’ opinions about sexual life during menstruation.”

Conclusions

The women in the study noted that they experienced physiological and psychological symptoms during their menstrual period. Although some of the women stated that they do not have changes in sexual desire during this period, most of them think that they should not engage in sexual intercourse due to the symptoms they experience during their menstrual period, religious beliefs, and sociocultural values.

Policy Implications

Nurses should counsel couples about the possible advantages and disadvantages of sexual intercourse during menstruation without displaying a judgmental attitude.
Marked Spatial Point Processes: Current State and Extensions to Point Processes on Linear Networks
Authors: Eckardt Matthias , Moradi Mehdi
Published: March 2024

Within the applications of spatial point processes, it is increasingly becoming common that events are labelled by marks, prompting an exploration beyond the spatial distribution of events by incorporating the marks in the undertaken analysis. In this paper, we first consider marked spatial point processes in$$\mathbb {R}^2$$R2, where marks are either integer-valued, real-valued, or object-valued, and review the state-of-the-art to analyze the spatial structure and type of interaction/correlation between marks. More specifically, we review cross/dot-type summary characteristics, mark-weighted summary characteristics, various mark correlation functions, and frequency domain approaches. We also propose novel cross/dot-type higher-order summary characteristics, mark-weighted summary characteristics, and mark correlation functions for marked point processes on linear networks. Through a simulation study, we show that ignoring the underlying network gives rise to erroneous conclusions about the interaction/correlation between marks. Finally, we consider two applications: the locations of two different proteins on the membranes of cells infected with the influenza virus and the locations of public trees along the street network of Vancouver, Canada, where trees are labelled by their diameters at breast height.
Influential biosorption of lead ions from aqueous solution using sand leek (Allium scorodoprasum L.) biomass: kinetic and isotherm study
Authors: Şenol Zeynep Mine , Arslanoğlu Hasan
Published: March 2024

In this study, a zero-cost, naturally effective adsorbent, sand leek (Allium scorodoprasum L.), was used for the effective removal of lead ions from an aqueous solution. This natural adsorbent was characterized by FT-IR, SEM–EDX, and PZC analyses. Batch studies were conducted at one factor at a time to explore maximum removal efficiency in terms of pH, initial lead(II) ion concentration, contact time, adsorbent dosage, and temperature for efficient adsorption. The maximum lead(II) ion uptake capacity for SAC was obtained at pH 4.5, initial lead(II) ion concentration at 1000 mg/L, operation time of 1440 min, adsorbent dosage of 10 g, and temperature of 25 °C. The adsorption data were well-fitted by the Freundlich isotherm model, with an R2 value of 1.000, indicating a good fit. The kinetic study revealed that the adsorption of lead(II) ions followed a pseudo-first-order kinetic model, with an R2 value of 0.9746. Furthermore, the thermodynamic parameters including Gibbs-free energy change (ΔG°), enthalpy change (ΔH°), and entropy change (ΔS°) were calculated to demonstrate that the adsorption of lead(II) ions onto natural adsorbent was endothermic and spontaneous.
Legume seed system performance in sub-Saharan Africa: barriers, opportunities, and scaling options. A review
Authors: Breen Caitlin , Ndlovu Noel , McKeown Peter C. , Spillane Charles
Published: March 2024

As a fundamental pillar of food security in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), ensuring seed security is critical to empowering farmers in cultivating food and livestock feed, thereby fostering income generation from agricultural outputs. Among the crops cultivated by smallholders, legumes have the potential to deliver multifaceted benefits. Legumes are nutrient-dense and enhance soil health through their nitrogen-fixing qualities. However, in many instances, the development, release, and supply of improved legume varieties are insufficient to meet the needs of smallholder farmers in SSA. Here, we systematically reviewed the literature to (i) identify and categorize existing legume seed systems, (ii) map legume varieties available to smallholders, (iii) identify barriers hindering the adoption of various legume varieties, and (iv) identify potential strategies and opportunities for strengthening legume seed systems in SSA. Our results demonstrate the coexistence of formal and informal seed systems within legume seed supply chains in SSA, each employing unique seed distribution channels. Smallholders, however, are shown to predominantly depend on the informal seed system to source most legume seeds except for commercially available varieties. We also identified a diverse range of legume varieties available to smallholders in the region, with farmers having varying trait preferences based on crop type and gender. Notably, high yield and abiotic stress tolerance were the most preferred traits. The adoption of these varieties, however, is influenced by various factors, including lack of timely access to seeds in adequate quantities from the formal seed system, high seed costs, and limited information on new varieties. The reviewed literature highlighted that utilizing improved legume varieties had a positive effect on smallholders, leading to improved welfare, food security, dietary diversity, and income. We conclude that the effective scaling of legume systems in SSA is contingent upon the presence of supportive policy frameworks and well-established technical support structures.

Graphical Abstract

Packets of legume seeds within a legume germplasm and breeding program at the University of Zambia (Photo by Caitlin Breen, 2022).
Use of nebulized liposomal amphotericin B and posaconazole as antifungal prophylaxis in patients with severe SARS-CoV2 infection in intensive care unit
Authors: Fumarola Benedetta , Signorini Liana , Lorenzotti Silvia , Lanza Paola , Saccani Barbara , Van Hauwermeiren Evelyn , Mulè Alice , Piva Simone , Rota Matteo , Zuccalà Francesco , Rasulo Francesco Antonio , Filippini Matteo , Bertazzoli Alberto , Del Fabro Giovanni , Matteelli Alberto
Published: March 2024

Purpose

COVID-19 associated pulmonary aspergillosis (CAPA) is common and linked with high fatality rates. To assess the impact on the incidence and outcome of CAPA of an antifungal prophylaxis (AFP) we compared two cohorts of COVID-19 patients admitted to intensive care units (ICU) in Brescia, Italy, from January to August 2021.

Methods

The study cohort included all mechanically ventilated patients observed between April 2021 and August 2021 with SARS-CoV-2-pneumonia, who received AFP with oral posaconazole (200 mg every 6 h) and nebulized liposomal amphotericin B (50 mg every 2 weeks) from ICU admission to 7 days after discharge or, if applicable, until tracheostomy removal. The control cohort included COVID-19 patients admitted to the same ICU between January and March 2021 who did not receive any AFP. Subjects with CAPA at ICU admission were excluded.

Results

We included 270 patients, of whom 64 (23.7%) received AFP. In patients in the study group, CAPA-related mortality was significantly reduced (29% vs. 48% p = 0.04), as well as the incidence of CAPA (3.1% vs 12.1%, p = 0.03). Patients who developed CAPA were older (mean of 70-y-old vs 63-y-old, p < 0.001). One subject discontinued posaconazole due to an adverse reaction. Among the 46 patients who received it, only one patient reached an effective plasma concentration of posaconazole.

Conclusion

AFP was associated with reduced incidence and mortality from CAPA and was well tolerated in patients with severe COVID-19. Posaconazole concentrations below the efficacy threshold in almost all patients may be attributable to drug interactions and prompt further studies to define its clinical significance.
Experiences, Perceptions and Attitudes Toward Bullying Among School-Going Adolescents: A Cross-Sectional Study from South India
Authors: Nedumpully Nayana Narayanan , Praharaj Samir Kumar , Rai Shweta
Published: March 2024

Bullying victimisation affects an estimated 30% of individuals worldwide. While the prevalence and risk factors of bullying have been studied in India, comprehensive research on the phenomenon of bullying itself remains scarce. Our objective was to study the experiences, perceptions, and attitudes towards bullying among seventh to ninth-grade students. The study included all seventh to ninth graders (N = 205) from two schools in the Udupi district of South India. To collect information on bullying, we used the Bully Survey - Student Version with appropriate modifications for our context. The mean age of the participants was 13 (1.05) years, with 58% being females. Our findings showed that almost half of the students had bullying roles. Students attending private schools and residing in urban areas were more likely to be victims, bullies, and bully-victims. Seventh and eighth graders experienced higher rates of bullying, whereas ninth graders were more likely to engage in bully behaviours or be bully-victims. Verbal bullying, including name calling, playing jokes, and making fun of others, was more prevalent. No gender differences were observed in verbal or physical bullying. School teachers, staff, and parents were unaware of bullying incidents almost half of the time. Anti-bullying programs should consider these aspects of bullying to be effective.
The discovery of archaea: from observed anomaly to consequential restructuring of the phylogenetic tree
Authors: Fry Michael
Published: March 2024

Observational and experimental discoveries of new factual entities such as objects, systems, or processes, are major contributors to some advances in the life sciences. Yet, whereas discovery of theories was extensively deliberated by philosophers of science, very little philosophical attention was paid to the discovery of factual entities. This paper examines historical and philosophical aspects of the experimental discovery by Carl Woese of archaea, prokaryotes that comprise one of the three principal domains of the phylogenetic tree. Borrowing Kuhn’s terminology, this discovery of a major biological entity was made during a ‘normal science’ project of building molecular taxonomy for prokaryotes. Unexpectedly, however, an observed anomaly instigated the discovery of archaea. Substantiation of the existence of the new archaeal entity and consequent reconstruction of the phylogenetic tree prompted replacement of a long-held model of a prokarya and eukarya bipartite tree of life by a new model of a tripartite tree comprising of bacteria, archaea, and eukarya. This paper explores the history and philosophical implications of the progression of Woese’s project from normal science to anomaly-instigated model-changing discovery. It is also shown that the consequential discoveries of RNA splicing and of ribozymes were similarly prompted by unexpected irregularities during normal science activities. It is thus submitted that some discoveries of factual biological entities are triggered by unforeseen observational or experimental anomalies.
Design Principles and Mechanistic Understandings of Non-Noble-Metal Bifunctional Electrocatalysts for Zinc–Air Batteries
Authors: Gao Yunnan , Liu Ling , Jiang Yi , Yu Dexin , Zheng Xiaomei , Wang Jiayi , Liu Jingwei , Luo Dan , Zhang Yongguang , Shi Zhenjia , Wang Xin , Deng Ya-Ping , Chen Zhongwei
Published: March 2024

Zinc–air batteries (ZABs) are promising energy storage systems because of high theoretical energy density, safety, low cost, and abundance of zinc. However, the slow multi-step reaction of oxygen and heavy reliance on noble-metal catalysts hinder the practical applications of ZABs. Therefore, feasible and advanced non-noble-metal electrocatalysts for air cathodes need to be identified to promote the oxygen catalytic reaction. In this review, we initially introduced the advancement of ZABs in the past two decades and provided an overview of key developments in this field. Then, we discussed the working mechanism and the design of bifunctional electrocatalysts from the perspective of morphology design, crystal structure tuning, interface strategy, and atomic engineering. We also included theoretical studies, machine learning, and advanced characterization technologies to provide a comprehensive understanding of the structure-performance relationship of electrocatalysts and the reaction pathways of the oxygen redox reactions. Finally, we discussed the challenges and prospects related to designing advanced non-noble-metal bifunctional electrocatalysts for ZABs.
RebL1 is required for macronuclear structure stability and gametogenesis in Tetrahymena thermophila
Authors: Hao Huijuan , Lian Yinjie , Ren Chenhui , Yang Sitong , Zhao Min , Bo Tao , Xu Jing , Wang Wei
Published: March 2024

Histone modification and nucleosome assembly play important roles in chromatin-related processes. Histone chaperones form different complexes and coordinate histone transportation and assembly. Various histone chaperone complexes have been identified in different organisms. The ciliate protozoa (ciliates) have various chromatin structures and different nuclear morphology. However, histone chaperone components and functions of different subunits remain unclear in ciliates. Tetrahymema thermophila contains a transcriptionally active macronucleus (MAC) and a transcriptionally inactive micronucleus (MIC) which exhibit multiple replication and various chromatin remodeling progresses during vegetative growth and sexual developmental stages. Here, we found histone chaperone RebL1 not only localized evenly in the transcriptionally active MAC but also dynamically changed in the MIC during vegetative growth and sexual developmental stages. REBL1 knockdown inhibited cellular proliferation. The macronuclear morphology became bigger in growing mutants. The abnormal macronuclear structure also occurred in the starvation stage. Furthermore, micronuclear meiosis was disturbed during sexual development, leading to a failure to generate new gametic nuclei. RebL1 potentially interacted with various factors involved in histone-modifying complexes and chromatin remodeling complexes in different developmental stages. REBL1 knockdown affected expression levels of the genes involved in chromatin organization and transcription. Taken together, RebL1 plays a vital role in maintaining macronuclear structure stability and gametogenesis in T. thermophila.
Recent Status of Phase I Clinical Trials for Brain Tumors: A Regulatory Science Study of Exploratory Efficacy Endpoints
Authors: Watanabe Shinya , Nonaka Takahiro , Maeda Makoto , Yamada Masanobu , Sugii Narushi , Hashimoto Koichi , Takano Shingo , Koyanagi Tomoyoshi , Arakawa Yoshihiro , Ishikawa Eiichi
Published: March 2024

Background

Appropriate exploratory efficacy data from Phase I trials are vital for subsequent phases. Owing to the uniqueness of brain tumors (BTs), use of different strategies to evaluate efficacy is warranted. We studied exploratory efficacy evaluation in Phase I trials involving BTs.

Methods

Using Clarivate’s Cortellis™, 42 Phase I trials of BT interventions conducted from 2020 to 2022 were analyzed for efficacy endpoints, which were set as primary endpoints (PEs) or secondary endpoints (SEs). Additionally, these metrics were compared in two subgroups: trials including only BTs (Group-A) and those including BTs among mixed solid tumors (Group-B).

Results

Selected studies included a median of 1.5 PEs (range, 1–6) and 5 SEs (range, 0–19). Efficacy endpoints were included as PEs and SEs in 2 (5%) and 31 (78%) trials, respectively. Among the latter 31 trials that included 94 efficacy endpoints, 24, 22, 20, 9, and 8 reflected overall response rate (ORR), progression-free survival (PFS), overall survival (OS), duration of response (DOR), and disease control rate (DCR), respectively. ORR for BT was determined using various methods; however, the Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors (RECIST) was used less frequently in Group-A than in Group-B (p = 0.0039).

Conclusions

Recent Phase I trials included efficacy endpoints as SEs, with ORR, PFS, or OS included in ~ 50% trials and DOR or DCR in ~ 25%. No established criteria exist for imaging evaluation of BTs. Phase I trials involving mixed solid tumor cohorts revealed challenges in designing methods to assess the exploratory efficacy of BTs.
AI: the future of humanity
Authors: Rawas Soha
Published: March 2024

Artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping humanity's future, and this manuscript provides a comprehensive exploration of its implications, applications, challenges, and opportunities. The revolutionary potential of AI is investigated across numerous sectors, with a focus on addressing global concerns. The influence of AI on areas such as healthcare, transportation, banking, and education is revealed through historical insights and conversations on different AI systems. Ethical considerations and the significance of responsible AI development are addressed. Furthermore, this study investigates AI's involvement in addressing global issues such as climate change, public health, and social justice. This paper serves as a resource for policymakers, researchers, and practitioners understanding the complex link between AI and humans.
Reduction in intake of discretionary foods and drinks among Danish schoolchildren: dietary results from the real-life cluster-randomised controlled trial ‘Are You Too Sweet?’
Authors: Bestle Sidse Marie Sidenius , Lassen Anne Dahl , Biltoft-Jensen Anja Pia , Matthiessen Jeppe , Gibbons Sarah Jegsmark , Christensen Bodil Just , Ersbøll Bjarne Kjær , Trolle Ellen
Published: March 2024

Objective:

To evaluate the effectiveness of the multicomponent intervention trial ‘Are You Too Sweet?’ in reducing discretionary foods and drinks intake among young schoolchildren.

Design:

The study was a 3·5-month two-arm cluster-randomised controlled trial among primary schoolchildren and their families. School health nurses provided guidance to families regarding discretionary foods and drinks for the children. Moreover, families were given a variety of knowledge- and capability-building materials to utilise at home. Dietary intake was assessed using a web-based 7-d dietary record. Linear mixed regression models were used to estimate intervention effects as changes in child intake of discretionary foods and drinks and sugar between groups.

Setting:

Six schools from a Danish municipality were randomised to the intervention group (n 4) or the control group (n 2).

Participants:

A total of 153 children aged 5–7 years.

Results:

No significant reduction in the children’s intake of total discretionary foods and drinks or discretionary foods alone was observed between the intervention and control group, while a decreased intake of discretionary drinks of 40·9 % (P = 0·045) was observed compared with control. Secondary subgroup analysis showed that children of parents with shorter educational level significantly reduced their intake of added sugar by 2·9 E% (P = 0·002).

Conclusion:

The results of this study indicate that multicomponent interventions involving school health nurses may have some effects in reducing, especially, discretionary drinks.
The Intellectual History of Milton Friedman's Criticism of Corporate Social Responsibility
Authors: Smith David Chan
Published: March 2024

This article is the first to reconstruct the intellectual history of Milton Friedman's criticism of business and its social responsibilities. Using original archival research and printed evidence, this article makes three major arguments. First, Friedman's criticisms of business and its social responsibilities evolved over time and emerged from persistent anxieties among economic liberals about monopoly, business interests, and political authority that were explicitly read from Adam Smith. Second, the article contributes to the emerging intellectual history of corporate social responsibility (CSR) by reconstructing the development of Friedman's criticisms, their transformations, and their reception within the context of American managerial thought from the 1950s to the 1980s. Finally, contextualizing Friedman's criticisms demonstrates his concern about decision-making logics within organizations, which in turn explains his belief that CSR would contribute to collectivization and enhances the understanding of neoliberal political thought.
Critical Race Theory: How Policy Language Differentially Engages Symbolic Racism and Partisanship
Authors: Carbone Mia , Harell Allison , Soroka Stuart
Published: March 2024

Recent years have seen a marked shift in the salience and politicization of any incorporation of race into teaching at the elementary and secondary levels. “Critical race theory” (CRT) has become a prominent feature of the current debate, even as there is a good deal of misunderstanding about what CRT actually is. Drawing on a pre-registered survey experiment, we consider the impact of the phrase “critical race theory” in activating both racial biases and partisan identity. Our expectation was that CRT would tend to activate partisanship independent of symbolic racism. Results suggest otherwise: where support for culturally relevant pedagogy is concerned, CRT appears to engage partisanship particularly amongst those who exhibit high levels of symbolic racism.