bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Spectral libraries from nucleobases and deoxyribonucleosides facilitate the identification of ribonucleosides by nano‐flow liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry
Authors: Espadas Guadalupe , Llovera Laia , Ollivier Alexane , Tuorto Francesca , Novoa Eva Maria , Sabidó Eduard
Published: April 2024

Rationale

The study addresses the challenge of identifying RNA post‐transcriptional modifications when commercial standards are not available to generate reference spectral libraries. It proposes employing homologous nucleobases and deoxyribonucleosides as alternative reference spectral libraries to aid in identifying modified ribonucleosides and distinguishing them from their positional isomers when the standards are unavailable.

Methods

Complete sets of ribonucleoside, deoxyribonucleoside and nucleobase standards were analyzed using high‐performance nano‐flow liquid chromatography coupled to an Orbitrap Eclipse Tribrid mass spectrometer. Spectral libraries were constructed from homologous nucleobases and deoxyribonucleosides using targeted MS2 and neutral‐loss‐triggered MS3 methods, and collision energies were optimized. The feasibility of using these libraries for identifying modified ribonucleosides and their positional isomers was assessed through comparison of spectral fragmentation patterns.

Results

Our analysis reveals that both MS2 and neutral‐loss‐triggered MS3 methods yielded rich spectra with similar fragmentation patterns across ribonucleosides, deoxyribonucleosides and nucleobases. Moreover, we demonstrate that spectra from nucleobases and deoxyribonucleosides, generated at optimized collision energies, exhibited sufficient similarity to those of modified ribonucleosides to enable their use as reference spectra for accurate identification of positional isomers within ribonucleoside families.

Conclusions

The study demonstrates the efficacy of utilizing homologous nucleobases and deoxyribonucleosides as interchangeable reference spectral libraries for identifying modified ribonucleosides and their positional isomers. This approach offers a valuable solution for overcoming limitations posed by the unavailability of commercial standards, enhancing the analysis of RNA post‐transcriptional modifications via mass spectrometry.
Saturated stabilization of feed‐forward systems subject to lower‐order perturbations
Authors: Liu Jun , Ye Huawen , Chen Zilong
Published: April 2024

This article revisits saturated stabilization of the feed‐forward systems that are subject to lower‐order perturbations, with the purpose of providing new analysis approaches. To carry out the saturation reduction analysis, we do not use the existing time‐interval based contradiction approach, but propose a Lyapunov function method; to deal with the reduced system (the closed‐loop system that does not contain saturation any longer), we do not use the “adding a power integrator” backstepping scheme, but propose an approach which is established by jointly using the vector Lyapunov function theory, a matrix measure stability theory and the switching systems theory. As a result, a quite number of inequality computations can be avoided, and the stability conditions summarized in two analysis procedures can be expressed by directly using the system parameters. This article also shows that the established approaches are applicable to the uncertain feedforward systems subject to linear input perturbation and consequently, allows to present new stabilizing control laws for several intractable under‐actuated systems.
Cover crops and poultry litter impact on soil structural stability in dryland soybean production in southeastern United States
Authors: Dai Wei , Feng Gary , Huang Yanbo , Tewolde Haile , Shankle Mark W. , Jenkins Johnie N.
Published: April 2024

This study explored the efficacy of soil aggregate indices in quantifying soil structural development, utilizing 5‐year field experiment data from the Southeastern United States. The experiment utilized a split‐plot design with cover crops (native vegetation as control, cereal rye (Secale cereale L.), winter wheat (Triticum aestivum), hairy vetch (Vicia villosa), and mustard (Brassica rapa) plus cereal rye as the main factor and fertilizer source (no fertilizer as control, inorganic fertilizer with phosphorus, potassium, and elemental sulfur, and poultry litter) as the secondary factor. Aggregate size fractions were determined using the wet‐sieving method, and aggregate stability index (ASI), mean weight diameter (MWD), geometric mean diameter (GMD), and fractal dimension (FD) were calculated to assess soil structural stability. Main effects results indicated that cereal rye (55.11%) and poultry litter (50.97%) exhibited the highest ASI values. The highest MWD, GMD, and FD were observed under mustard plus cereal rye (1.187 mm), cereal rye (0.462 mm), and hairy vetch (2.573), respectively. Principal component analysis revealed that cover crops significantly improved soil aggregate structure and stability, overcoming limitations of sole fertilization practices. Regression analysis suggested that ASI, MWD, and GWD positively correlated with soil organic carbon, whereas FD negatively correlated with MWD, GMD, and ASI. Principal component analysis exhibited that FD decreased with increasing soil organic carbon, ASI, MWD, and GMD, demonstrating that lower FD values indicate enhanced soil aggregation and structure. Assessed indices, FD included, effectively gauged soil structural stability. These metrics should be prioritized in managerial decisions to support soil productivity and health in agricultural systems.
Well‐being in the context of Indigenous heritage management: A Hach Winik perspective from Metzabok, Chiapas, Mexico
Authors: Hernandez Christopher , Valenzuela Gómez Armando
Published: April 2024

In this article, we examine what local well‐being means in the contexts of collaborative heritage management and national development in Mexico. Driven by the request of Lacandon Mayas (including the second author) who live in Puerto Bello Metzabok, Chiapas, Mexico, in 2018, we engaged in archeological consolidation and heritage management to promote local tourism and sustainable economic development. This collaboration raised a series of ethical and practical questions of how to engage with the Eurocentric project of development. Addressing these issues has become critical, as the Mexican president's signature infrastructure project, Tren Maya (Maya Train), is designed to promote nationwide development via increased cultural heritage tourism in Chiapas and southern Mexico. Through critical reflection on experiences with Metzabok community members, we address Eurocentrism and colonialism by enacting a Lacandon (i.e., Hach Winik) buen vivir. This form of well‐being is relational and communal and creates a common good that includes more‐than‐humans. Via this critical perspective, we argue that a decolonial project can use the tools of development as an initial step in creating Indigenous well‐being.
A Bioinspired Single‐Atom Fe Nanozyme with Excellent Laccase‐Like Activity for Efficient Aflatoxin B1 Removal
Authors: Wang Lei , Liu Zixuan , Yao Lili , Liu Shuai , Wang Qiuping , Qu Hao , Wu Yuen , Mao Yu , Zheng Lei
Published: April 2024

The applications of natural laccases are greatly restricted because of their drawbacks like poor biostability, high costs, and low recovery efficiency. M/NC single atom nanozymes (M/NC SAzymes) are presenting as great substitutes due to their superior enzyme‐like activity, excellent selectivity and high stability. In this work, inspired by the catalytic active center of natural enzyme, a biomimetic Fe/NC SAzyme (Fe‐SAzyme) with O2‐Fe‐N4 coordination is successfully developed, exhibiting excellent laccase‐like activity. Compared with their natural counterpart, Fe‐SAzyme has shown superior catalytic efficiency and excellent stability under a wide range of pH (3.0–9.0), temperature (4–80 °C) and NaCl strength (0–300 mm). Interestingly, density functional theory (DFT) calculations reveal that the high catalytic performance is attributed to the activation of O2 by O2‐Fe‐N4 sites, which weakened the O─O bonds in the oxygen‐to‐water oxidation pathway. Furthermore, Fe‐SAzyme is successfully applied for efficient aflatoxin B1 removal based on its robust laccase‐like catalytic activity. This work provides a strategy for the rational design of laccase‐like SAzymes, and the proposed catalytic mechanism will help to understand the coordination environment effect of SAzymes on laccase‐like catalytic processes.
Integrating Machine Learning in Metabolomics: A Path to Enhanced Diagnostics and Data Interpretation
Authors: Xu Yudian , Cao Linlin , Chen Yifan , Zhang Ziyue , Liu Wanshan , Li He , Ding Chenhuan , Pu Jun , Qian Kun , Xu Wei
Published: April 2024

Metabolomics, leveraging techniques like NMR and MS, is crucial for understanding biochemical processes in pathophysiological states. This field, however, faces challenges in metabolite sensitivity, data complexity, and omics data integration. Recent machine learning advancements have enhanced data analysis and disease classification in metabolomics. This study explores machine learning integration with metabolomics to improve metabolite identification, data efficiency, and diagnostic methods. Using deep learning and traditional machine learning, it presents advancements in metabolic data analysis, including novel algorithms for accurate peak identification, robust disease classification from metabolic profiles, and improved metabolite annotation. It also highlights multiomics integration, demonstrating machine learning's potential in elucidating biological phenomena and advancing disease diagnostics. This work contributes significantly to metabolomics by merging it with machine learning, offering innovative solutions to analytical challenges and setting new standards for omics data analysis.
Construction and evaluation of a metabolic correlation diagnostic model for diabetes based on machine learning algorithms
Authors: Xu Qiong , Zhou Yina , Lou Jianfen , Fu Yanhua , Lu Yunzhu , Xu Mengli
Published: April 2024

Background

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a prevalent chronic disease marked by significant metabolic dysfunctions. Understanding its molecular mechanisms is vital for early diagnosis and treatment strategies.

Methods

We used datasets GSE7014, GSE25724, and GSE156248 from the GEO database to build a diagnostic model for DM using Random Forest (RF) and LASSO regression models. GSE20966 served as a validation cohort. DM patients were classified into two subtypes for functional enrichment analysis. Expression levels of key diagnostic genes were validated using quantitative real‐time PCR (qRT‐PCR) on Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells (PBMCs) from DM patients and healthy controls, focusing on CXCL12 and PPP1R12B with GAPDH as the internal control.

Results

After de‐batching the datasets, we identified 131 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between DM and control groups, with 70 up‐regulated and 61 down‐regulated. Enrichment analysis revealed significant down‐regulation in the IL‐12 signaling pathway, JAK signaling post‐IL‐12 stimulation, and the ferroptosis pathway in DM. Five genes (CXCL12, MXRA5, UCHL1, PPP1R12B, and C7) were identified as having diagnostic value. The diagnostic model showed high accuracy in both the training and validation cohorts. The gene set also enabled the subclassification of DM patients into groups with distinct functional traits. qRT‐PCR results confirmed the bioinformatics findings, particularly the up‐regulation of CXCL12 and PPP1R12B in DM patients.

Conclusion

Our study pinpointed seven energy metabolism‐related genes differentially expressed in DM and controls, with five holding diagnostic value. Our model accurately diagnosed DM and facilitated patient subclassification, offering new insights into DM pathogenesis.
Eosinophils and risk of ulcerative colitis in European population: Evidence from Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Shao Yijia , Liu Cong , Wang Xiuqi , Zhou Wei
Published: April 2024

Background

Observational studies have indicated that peripheral blood eosinophil count is elevated in individuals diagnosed with ulcerative colitis (UC) and correlates with the disease activity of UC. However, this conclusion contradicts with findings from other studies. Therefore, we employed Mendelian randomization (MR) method to assess the genetic link between eosinophil count and UC.

Method

This MR study utilized summary data from genome‐wide association studies (GWAS) on eosinophil count and UC. The main approach used for conducting MR analysis was the inverse variance weighted (IVW) method. Meta‐analysis of the IVW results was performed alongside multiple sensitivity analyses to confirm the robustness of the MR analysis results.

Results

The IVW method unveiled a causal relationship between eosinophil count and UC (OR = 1.18, 95% CI: 1.04–1.33, p = .01) in the discovery cohort. This finding was further corroborated by the replication cohorts (OR = 1.16, 95% CI: 1.04–1.29, p = .01; OR = 1.12, 95% CI: 1.01–1.24, p = .03). The meta‐analysis indicated that the overall odds ratio (OR) for all studies was 1.15 (common effect model, 95% CI: 1.08–1.23, p < .01). Sensitivity analysis suggested the absence of heterogeneity and horizontal pleiotropy in all MR analyses.

Conclusion

Based on bidirectional two‐sample MR analysis, there is an indication that elevated eosinophil count may increase the risk of UC. However, potential confounding factors cannot be ruled out, and further research is necessary to explore how eosinophils contribute to the onset and progression of UC.
Hungary, the EU and Russia’s War Against Ukraine: The Changing Dynamics of EU Foreign Policymaking
Authors: Müller Patrick , Slominski Peter
Published: April 2024

The Hungarian government led by the populist radical right (PRR) Fidesz party, which came to power in 2010, soon gained a reputation for reorganizing domestic state institutions in line with its illiberal political agenda. This triggered a process of democratic backsliding that brought Hungary in growing conflict with the EU, which cumulated in the Commission triggering the EU’s new conditionality mechanism against Hungary in April 2022. Applying a model of cross-sectoral bargaining, this article argues that the EU’s conflict with Hungary over democratic backsliding and rule of law issues has increasingly been linked to foreign policy matters, most notably the EU’s aid package to Ukraine. While negotiations in the EU’s Common Foreign and Security Policy (CFSP) have long been considered as taking place in an ‘insulated setting’, our findings point to a growing instrumentalization of foreign policy for achieving gains in intra-EU politics. On a more general level, this speaks to broader arguments related to the populist ‘domestication’ of foreign policy.
Still Normative Power Europe? The Perception of the EU in Ukraine Amidst the Russian War of Aggression
Authors: Zarembo Kateryna
Published: April 2024

While the EU still seems to possess considerable normative power in Ukraine, i.e. the power to define what is normal and set certain standards in various domains, it has not been unchallenged in the history of EU-Ukraine relations. This chapter explores the extent to which “Normative Power Europe” has been reappraised in Ukraine in the wake of the Russian full-scale invasion of 2022. Based on interviews with Ukrainian civil society representatives, this chapter embraces the constructivist worldview and traces the perception of “Normative Power Europe” through three categories: affinity, authority and legitimacy.
Keywords
Authors: Moreno-Ortiz Antonio
Published: April 2024

This chapter tackles the task of keyword extraction from corpora. Keywords are extremely helpful to quickly identify the terms (and their associated concepts) that somehow define what a corpus is about. After a quick revision of the concept of keyword, I focus on the different methods that have been proposed to extract keywords effectively and efficiently. A key distinction is made between the reference-corpus method traditionally employed in corpus linguistics and the various methods that have been proposed in Natural Language Processing research. Through several experiments, the CCTC is explored using some of the most outstanding methods proposed to date, and a contrastive description of the results is offered.
Erratum to: Soft-collinear gravity beyond the leading power
Authors: Beneke Martin , Hager Patrick , Szafron Robert
Published: April 2024

A correction to this paper has been published: https://doi.org/10.1007/JHEP03(2022)080
Tyrosine kinase 2 modulates splenic B cells through type I IFN and TLR7 signaling
Authors: Bodega-Mayor Irene , Delgado-Wicke Pablo , Arrabal Alejandro , Alegría-Carrasco Estíbaliz , Nicolao-Gómez Ana , Jaén-Castaño Marta , Espadas Cristina , Dopazo Ana , de Luis Enrique Vázquez , Martín-Gayo Enrique , Gaspar María Luisa , de Andrés Belén , Fernández-Ruiz Elena
Published: April 2024

Tyrosine kinase 2 (TYK2) is involved in type I interferon (IFN-I) signaling through IFN receptor 1 (IFNAR1). This signaling pathway is crucial in the early antiviral response and remains incompletely understood on B cells. Therefore, to understand the role of TYK2 in B cells, we studied these cells under homeostatic conditions and following in vitro activation using Tyk2-deficient (Tyk2−/−) mice. Splenic B cell subpopulations were altered in Tyk2−/− compared to wild type (WT) mice. Marginal zone (MZ) cells were decreased and aged B cells (ABC) were increased, whereas follicular (FO) cells remained unchanged. Likewise, there was an imbalance in transitional B cells in juvenile Tyk2−/− mice. RNA sequencing analysis of adult MZ and FO cells isolated from Tyk2−/− and WT mice in homeostasis revealed altered expression of IFN-I and Toll-like receptor 7 (TLR7) signaling pathway genes. Flow cytometry assays corroborated a lower expression of TLR7 in MZ B cells from Tyk2−/− mice. Splenic B cell cultures showed reduced proliferation and differentiation responses after activation with TLR7 ligands in Tyk2−/− compared to WT mice, with a similar response to lipopolysaccharide (LPS) or anti-CD40 + IL-4. IgM, IgG, IL-10 and IL-6 secretion was also decreased in Tyk2−/− B cell cultures. This reduced response of the TLR7 pathway in Tyk2−/− mice was partially restored by IFNα addition. In conclusion, there is a crosstalk between TYK2 and TLR7 mediated by an IFN-I feedback loop, which contributes to the establishment of MZ B cells and to B cell proliferation and differentiation.
Neueste Entwicklungen bei der akuten Nierenschädigung
Authors: Mayerhöfer Timo , Perschinka Fabian , Joannidis Michael
Published: April 2024

Die akute Nierenschädigung (AKI) ist v. a. bei kritisch kranken Patient:innen ein häufiges Problem, das mit einer deutlich erhöhten Morbidität und Mortalität einhergeht. Definiert ist die AKI seit 2012 nach den Leitlinien der Initiative Kidney Disease: Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO). Da mittlerweile einige Biomarker verfügbar sind, die nützliche klinische Informationen liefern können, wurde von einer Expert:innen-Gruppe der Acute Disease Quality Initiative (ADQI) eine neue Definition unter Einbeziehung eines neuen Stadiums 1S vorgeschlagen. In diesem Stadium sind die klassischen AKI-Kriterien noch nicht erfüllt, jedoch Biomarker im Sinne eines subklinischen AKI bereits positiv, was wiederum – unabhängig vom gewählten Biomarker – bereits mit einem schlechteren Outcome assoziiert ist. In der PrevAKI- und PrevAKI-Multicenter-Studie konnte zudem gezeigt werden, dass durch eine Risikoeinstufung mithilfe eines Biomarkers und eine daran geschaltete konsequente Umsetzung des sog. KDIGO-Bündels (in der Hochrisikogruppe) die Rate an moderater und schwerer AKI reduziert werden kann. Im Bereich der Therapie steht mangels erfolgreicher klinischer Studien weiterhin das konservative Management im Vordergrund. Hier ist v. a. eine Optimierung der Hämodynamik sowie ein individuelles (eher restriktives) Flüssigkeitsmanagement zu nennen. Im Bereich der Nierenersatztherapie hat die STARRT-AKI-Studie gezeigt, dass ein beschleunigter Beginn keine Vorteile bringt. Ein zu langes Hinauszögern könnte für die Patient:innen jedoch mit einem potenziellen Schaden verbunden sein, wie in der AKIKI2-Studie gezeigt wurde. Inwiefern auch bei der AKI künstliche Intelligenz in Zukunft eine Rolle spielt, bei Therapieentscheidungen unterstützen und somit auch das Outcome von AKI-Patient:innen verbessern kann, muss noch in prospektiven Studien gezeigt werden.
Knowledge and competences in hematological malignancies amongst radiation oncology residents in Germany—results from a national survey
Authors: Rehn Stephan , Oertel Michael , Linde Philipp , Mäurer Matthias , Elsayad Khaled , Pepper Niklas B. , Rolf Daniel , Kahn Jenna M. , Plastaras John P. , Gunther Jillian R. , Eich Hans T.
Published: April 2024

Introduction

Radiation oncology is a pivotal modality in the treatment of hematologic malignancies. To enable state-of-the-art patient care, structured education during residency is essential. However, given the lack of detailed data, the scope of educational opportunities available to trainees remains elusive. This prompted our group to perform a national survey amongst radiation oncology residents in Germany assessing the status quo of competences in the treatment of lymphoma and leukemia patients. Furthermore, areas of potential improvement were identified to further the goal of competence-based education for residents.

Methods

A survey-based analysis was conducted to assess the knowledge and competence of radiation oncology residents in Germany regarding hematological malignancies. A decisive questionnaire covering demographics, self-assessment of competences, and areas for improvement was developed in adaption of a survey by the Association of Residents in Radiation Oncology and distributed amongst 1439 members of the German Society of Radiation Oncology. Responses were collected anonymously via an online survey tool and analyzed using descriptive statistics and chi-square tests.

Results

A total of 59 complete and 22 partial responses were collected, yielding a 5.6% response rate. Participants’ competence varied, with notable experience gaps in pediatric cases, proton therapy, and large-field techniques like total-skin irradiation or pediatric total body irradiation. While participants felt confident in treatment planning and patient counseling, they showed deficiencies in the definition of the planning target volume for modern involved site radiotherapy. Resources for education included national and international guidelines, scientific reviews, and textbooks. Board-certified radiation oncologists and physicians from specialized lymphoma centers demonstrated higher overall competence levels.

Conclusion

This survey highlights the diversity of resident education regarding hematological malignancies in German radiation oncology programs. Knowledge gaps exist in key areas, including pediatric cases and specialized techniques. Competence-based education, interactive teaching formats, and rotations to specialized centers are potential strategies to address these gaps. The study contributes to the understanding of the federal educational landscape, underscoring the need for standardized and comprehensive training to ensure optimal patient care in hematological malignancies within the context of radiation oncology. Further research and collaborations are warranted to enhance training and expertise in this critical domain.
Grundlagen für die wissenschaftliche Nutzung umfangreicher Versorgungsdaten in Deutschland – Ergebnisse der AG Data Sharing der Medizininformatik-Initiative
Authors: Kirsten Toralf , Kleinert Philip , Gebhardt Marie , Drepper Johannes , Andreeff Anne-Katrin , Prasser Fabian , Kohlbacher Oliver
Published: April 2024

Versorgungsdaten stellen eine wichtige Ressource in der angewandten medizinischen Forschung dar. Sie liegen multizentrisch vor. Es bleibt jedoch eine Herausforderung, standardisierte Datenaustauschprozesse zwischen Bundesländern und ihren individuellen Gesetzen und Vorschriften zu ermöglichen. Die Medizininformatik-Initiative (MII) wurde im Jahr 2016 gegründet, um Prozesse zu implementieren, die einen klinikübergreifenden Zugriff auf Versorgungsdaten in Deutschland ermöglichen. Mehrere eingerichtete Arbeitsgruppen konzipieren standardisierte Datenstrukturen (AG Interoperabilität), Patienteninformationen und Einwilligungserklärungen (AG Consent) sowie Regelungen zum Datenaustausch (AG Data Sharing). Hier stellen wir die wichtigsten Ergebnisse der Arbeitsgruppe Data Sharing vor, die unter anderem abgestimmte Nutzungsbedingungen, rechtliche Regelung und Datenzugriffsprozesse enthalten. Diese werden bereits von den etablierten „Datenintegrationszentren“ (DIZ) und „Use and Access Committees“ (UACs) umgesetzt. Wir beschreiben die Dienste, die notwendig sind, um Forschenden einen standardisierten Datenzugang zu ermöglichen. Sie werden u. a. mit dem Forschungsdatenportal für Gesundheit (FDPG) umgesetzt. Auf dieser Basis wurden seit der Pilotphase die Prozesse von 406 aktiven Forschenden verwendet, was zum Stand April 2024 zu 19 registrierten Projekten und 31 eingereichten Forschungsanträgen geführt hat.
Pregnancy complications and childhood mental health: is the association modified by sex or adverse social circumstances? Findings from the ‘growing up in Ireland’ national infant cohort study
Authors: Butler Emma , Clarke Mary , Spirtos Michelle , Keeffe Linda M O’ , Dooley Niamh
Published: April 2024

Specific pregnancy complications, socioeconomic position and sex have all been independently associated with child mental health outcomes, but their combined effects remain unclear. We examined whether total number of complications experienced in the pregnancy associated with mental health at 5 and 9-years, and whether this varied by sex or adverse social circumstances. Pregnancy complications were self-reported at 9-months post-natally from a list of 16 complications. Parents completed the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ) when their child was 5 and 9-years. The primary outcome was the SDQ-total and scoring in the clinical range (> 16) was a secondary outcome. We applied generalized linear mixed models to a large nationally representative Irish cohort (GUI; n = 11,134). Analyses were adjusted for sex, adverse social circumstances (at 9-months), and gestational smoking. We included an interaction term between pregnancy complications and each variable respectively in separate models to examine if associations varied by sex or adverse circumstances.

After controlling for covariates, total complications associated with mental health at 5 and 9-years. Each additional pregnancy complication conferred a 10% higher total-SDQ score (exponentiated co-efficient 1.10 [95%CI 1.06–1.14], 1.20 [1.15–1.26], 1.20 [1.12–1.29] and 1.34 [1.21–1.48] for 1, 2, 3 and 4 + complications respectively). For the dichotomised outcome, generally increasing odds for clinical levels of mental health difficulties were observed (OR 1complication = 1.89, 95%CI [1.37–2.59]; OR 2complications = 2.31, 95%CI [1.53–3.50]; OR 3complications = 1.77, 95%CI [0.89–3.52]; OR 4 + complications = 6.88, 95%CI [3.29–14.40]). Females had significantly lower odds of exhibiting clinically significant mental health difficulties than males (OR = 0.43, 95%CI[0.32–0.57]).

There was no evidence that the association between pregnancy complications and child’s mental health varied by sex or social circumstances at 5 or 9-years. Males exposed to numerous pregnancy complications in the context of adverse social circumstances had the highest predicted probability of having mental health difficulties in middle childhood.
Creative evolution in economics
Authors: Devereaux Abigail , Koppl Roger , Kauffman Stuart
Published: April 2024

We develop a representation of creative evolution in economics based on the theory of the adjacent possible. We start by introducing an epistemological framework for economic theorizing that copes with unknowability and the unlistability of possibility spaces. From this framework, we discuss the use of knowledge in creatively evolving systems and derive four main results: that local knowledge is itself a mechanism of movement through the adjacent possible; that all action is entrepreneurial action; that causality is ambiguous; and that individuals can agree to disagree. We then apply these results to decision-making, innovation, and the emergence of institutions and commons in creatively evolving systems.
A unified approach to inequalities for K-functionals and moduli of smoothness
Authors: Gogatishvili Amiran , Opic Bohumír , Tikhonov Sergey , Trebels Walter
Published: April 2024

The paper provides a detailed study of crucial inequalities for smoothness and interpolation characteristics in rearrangement invariant Banach function spaces. We present a unified approach based on Holmstedt formulas to obtain these estimates. As examples, we derive new inequalities for moduli of smoothness and K-functionals in various Lorentz spaces.
Spiced-marinating injection brine effect on the entire pork quality
Authors: Zapata Elvira , Egea Macarena , Peñaranda Irene , Garrido María Dolores , Linares María Belén
Published: April 2024

Searching for new alternatives to commercialize pork from entire male pigs that could be affected by a boar taint sensory defect would be adequate. In this study, two different marinade mixtures (additives, salt, white wine plus different spices for mixture 1 and 2) were injected into pork loin pieces from castrated (C1 and C2) and entire male pigs (E1 and E2) with a high boar taint level (5.51 µg.g−1 AND and 0.73 µg.g−1 SKA) to evaluate their effect on the physicochemical and sensory quality of pork, and to assess their boar taint masking properties. To achieve this, physicochemical and sensory analyses with trained panellists were carried out. Marinated meat showed some differences in colour and a reduction in cooking losses. Mixture 2 achieved the best boar taint masking effect, due to spices content mainly nutmeg and ginger, and other ingredients such as white wine. In conclusion, marinating pork from entire male pigs can contribute to achieving an acceptable quality standard.
Improved adherence to statin treatment and differences in results between men and women after pictorial risk communication—a sub-study of the VIPVIZA RCT
Authors: Holmberg Henrik , Glader Eva-Lotta , Näslund Ulf , Carlberg Bo , Sönnerstam Eva , Norberg Margareta , Själander Anders
Published: April 2024

Background

People with intermediate CVD risk constitute most of the population. Within this group, the proportion of events is lower compared to the high-risk group, but they contribute with the largest absolute number of events. Atherosclerosis is a dynamic process and progression can be slowed or even reversed with medication and lifestyle changes, but adherence to prescribed treatment is crucial.

Aim

To investigate the long-term effects of interventions with pictorial risk communication of cardiovascular (CVD) risk on average adherence in a group of statin users. Compare response in adherence over time between men and women after intervention.

Methods

Participants on active statin treatment were followed up to 5 years after being randomly assigned to an intervention program aimed at raising CVD risk awareness among participants and their physicians. Merging prescribed medication databases with VIPVIZA study to study adherence over time. A moving average adherence was used to compare groups.

Results

Generally, the average adherence to statins among the 512 participants was high. Men had a higher average adherence over time, while women had a sharper increase in adherence in conjuncture with the intervention program.

Conclusions

Both men and women were receptive to pictorial information regarding CVD risk, but the intervention effect was more pronounced in women. Sex differences are important when considering risk communication strategies. Periodically repeating the intervention was beneficial for maintaining the intervention effect over time.

Trial registration

The VIPVIZA study is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, May 8, 2013, number NCT01849575.
Hitching a Ride in the Phyllosphere: Surfactant Production of Pseudomonas spp. Causes Co-swarming of Pantoea eucalypti 299R
Authors: Kunzler Michael , Schlechter Rudolf O. , Schreiber Lukas , Remus-Emsermann Mitja N. P.
Published: April 2024

Here, we demonstrate the beneficial effect of surfactant-producing pseudomonads on Pantoea eucalypti 299R. We conducted a series of experiments in environments of increasing complexity. P. eucalypti 299R (Pe299R), and Pseudomonas sp. FF1 (Pff1) or Pe299R and surfactant-production deficient Pseudomonas sp. FF1::ΔviscB (Pff1ΔviscB) were co-inoculated in broth, on swarming agar plates, and on plants. In broth, there were no differences in the growth dynamics of Pe299R when growing in the presence of Pff1 or Pff1ΔviscB. By contrast, on swarming agar plates, Pe299R was able to co-swarm with Pff1 which led to a significant increase in Pe299R biomass compared to Pe299R growing with Pff1ΔviscB or in monoculture. Finally in planta, and using the single-cell bioreporter for reproductive success (CUSPER), we found a temporally distinct beneficial effect of Pff1 on co-inoculated Pe299R subpopulations that did not occur in the presence of Pff1ΔviscB. We tested three additional surfactant-producing pseudomonads and their respective surfactant knockout mutants on PE299R on swarming agar showing similar results. This led us to propose a model for the positive effect of surfactant production during leaf colonization. Our results indicate that co-motility might be common during leaf colonization and adds yet another facet to the already manyfold roles of surfactants.
Using multi-omics to explore the effect of Bacillus velezensis SAAS-63 on resisting nutrient stress in lettuce
Authors: Bai Yinshuang , Song Ke , Gao Mengxiang , Ma Juan , Zhou Yifan , Liu Hua , Zeng Haijuan , Wang Jinbin , Zheng Xianqing
Published: April 2024

To avoid the unreasonable use of chemical fertilizer, an environmentally friendly means of improving soil fertility is required. This study explored the role of the plant growth-promoting rhizosphere bacteria (PGPR) strain Bacillus velezensis SAAS-63 in improving nutrient stress in lettuce. Compared with no inoculation, B. velezensis SAAS-63 inoculants exhibited significantly increased fresh weight, root length, and shoot height under nutrient deficiency, as well as improved antioxidant activities and proline contents. The exogenous addition of B. velezensis SAAS-63 also significantly increased the accumulation of macroelements and micronutrients in lettuce. To elucidate the resistance mechanisms induced by B. velezensis SAAS-63 under nutrient stress, high-throughput sequencing and multi-omics analysis were performed. Inoculation with B. velezensis SAAS-63 altered the microbial community of the rhizosphere and increased the relative abundances of Streptomyces, Actinoallomurus, Verrucomicrobia, and Chloroflexi. It is worth noting that the inoculant SAAS-63 can affect plant rhizosphere metabolism. The inoculant changed the metabolic flow of phenylpropanoid metabolic pathway under nutrient deficiency and promoted phenylalanine to participate more in the synthesis of lignin precursors and coumarin substances by inhibiting the synthesis of flavone and isoflavone, thus improving plant resistance. This study showed that the addition of inoculant SAAS-63 could help plants recruit microorganisms to decompose and utilize trehalose and re-established the carbon metabolism of the plant rhizosphere. Additionally, microbes were found to be closely related to the accumulation of metabolites based on correlation analysis. The results indicated that the addition of PGPRs has an important role in regulating soil rhizosphere microbes and metabolism, providing valuable information for understanding how PGPRs affect complex biological processes and enhance plant adaptation to nutrient deficiency.

Key points

• Inoculation with SAAS-63 significantly promoted plant growth under nutrient-deficient conditions

• Inoculation with SAAS-63 affected rhizosphere microbial diversity and community structure

• Inoculation with SAAS-63 affected plant rhizosphere metabolism and induced plants to synthesize substances that resist stress

Graphical abstract
Characterization of a novel GH30 non-specific endoxylanase AcXyn30B from Acetivibrio clariflavus
Authors: Šuchová Katarína , Fathallah Walid , Puchart Vladimír
Published: April 2024

The xylanolytic enzymes Clocl_1795 and Clocl_2746 from glycoside hydrolase (GH) family 30 are highly abundant in the hemicellulolytic system of Acetivibrio clariflavus (Hungateiclostridium, Clostridium clariflavum). Clocl_1795 has been shown to be a xylobiohydrolase AcXbh30A releasing xylobiose from the non-reducing end of xylan and xylooligosaccharides. In this work, biochemical characterization of Clocl_2746 is presented. The protein, designated AcXyn30B, shows low sequence similarity to other GH30 members and phylogenetic analysis revealed that AcXyn30B and related proteins form a separate clade that is proposed to be a new subfamily GH30_12. AcXyn30B exhibits similar specific activity on glucuronoxylan, arabinoxylan, and aryl glycosides of linear xylooligosaccharides suggesting that it is a non-specific xylanase. From polymeric substrates, it releases the fragments of degrees of polymerization (DP) 2-6. Hydrolysis of different xylooligosaccharides indicates that AcXyn30B requires at least four occupied catalytic subsites for effective cleavage. The ability of the enzyme to hydrolyze a wide range of substrates is interesting for biotechnological applications. In addition to subfamilies GH30_7, GH30_8, and GH30_10, the newly proposed subfamily GH30_12 further widens the spectrum of GH30 subfamilies containing xylanolytic enzymes.

Key points

Bacterial GH30 endoxylanase from A. clariflavus (AcXyn30B) has been characterized

AcXyn30B is non-specific xylanase hydrolyzing various xylans and xylooligosaccharides

Phylogenetic analysis placed AcXyn30B in a new GH30_12 subfamily
A new 3D-printed temporal bone: ‘the SAPIENS’—specific anatomical printed-3D-model in education and new surgical simulations
Authors: Iannella Giannicola , Pace Annalisa , Mucchino Alessandro , Greco Antonio , De Virgilio Armando , Lechien Jerome R. , Maniaci Antonino , Cocuzza Salvatore , Perrone Tiziano , Messineo Daniela , Magliulo Giuseppe
Published: April 2024

Purpose

Otology and neuro-otology surgeries pose significant challenges due to the intricate and variable anatomy of the temporal bone (TB), requiring extensive training. In the last years 3D-printed temporal bone models for otological dissection are becoming increasingly popular. In this study, we presented a new 3D-printed temporal bone model named 'SAPIENS', tailored for educational and surgical simulation purposes.

Methods

The 'SAPIENS' model was a collaborative effort involving a multidisciplinary team, including radiologists, software engineers, ENT specialists, and 3D-printing experts. The development process spanned from June 2022 to October 2023 at the Department of Sense Organs, Sapienza University of Rome.

Acquisition of human temporal bone images; temporal bone rendering; 3D-printing; post-printing phase; 3D-printed temporal bone model dissection and validation.

Results

The 'SAPIENS' 3D-printed temporal bone model demonstrated a high level of anatomical accuracy, resembling the human temporal bone in both middle and inner ear anatomy. The questionnaire-based assessment by five experienced ENT surgeons yielded an average total score of 49.4 ± 1.8 out of 61, indicating a model highly similar to the human TB for both anatomy and dissection. Specific areas of excellence included external contour, sigmoid sinus contour, cortical mastoidectomy simulation, and its utility as a surgical practice simulator.

Conclusion

We have designed and developed a 3D model of the temporal bone that closely resembles the human temporal bone. This model enables the surgical dissection of the middle ear and mastoid with an excellent degree of similarity to the dissection performed on cadaveric temporal bones.
Two-headed UNetEfficientNets for parallel execution of segmentation and classification of brain tumors: incorporating postprocessing techniques with connected component labelling
Authors: Rai Hari Mohan , Yoo Joon , Dashkevych Serhii
Published: April 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to develop accurate and automated detection and segmentation methods for brain tumors, given their significant fatality rates, with aggressive malignant tumors like Glioblastoma Multiforme (GBM) having a five-year survival rate as low as 5 to 10%. This underscores the urgent need to improve diagnosis and treatment outcomes through innovative approaches in medical imaging and deep learning techniques.

Methods

In this work, we propose a novel approach utilizing the two-headed UNetEfficientNets model for simultaneous segmentation and classification of brain tumors from Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) images. The model combines the strengths of EfficientNets and a modified two-headed Unet model. We utilized a publicly available dataset consisting of 3064 brain MR images classified into three tumor classes: Meningioma, Glioma, and Pituitary. To enhance the training process, we performed 12 types of data augmentation on the training dataset. We evaluated the methodology using six deep learning models, ranging from UNetEfficientNet-B0 to UNetEfficientNet-B5, optimizing the segmentation and classification heads using binary cross entropy (BCE) loss with Dice and BCE with focal loss, respectively. Post-processing techniques such as connected component labeling (CCL) and ensemble models were applied to improve segmentation outcomes.

Results

The proposed UNetEfficientNet-B4 model achieved outstanding results, with an accuracy of 99.4% after postprocessing. Additionally, it obtained high scores for DICE (94.03%), precision (98.67%), and recall (99.00%) after post-processing. The ensemble technique further improved segmentation performance, with a global DICE score of 95.70% and Jaccard index of 91.20%.

Conclusion

Our study demonstrates the high efficiency and accuracy of the proposed UNetEfficientNet-B4 model in the automatic and parallel detection and segmentation of brain tumors from MRI images. This approach holds promise for improving diagnosis and treatment planning for patients with brain tumors, potentially leading to better outcomes and prognosis.
Systematic assessment of the influence of quality of studies on mistletoe in cancer care on the results of a meta-analysis on overall survival
Authors: Hofinger Jorina , Kaesmann Lukas , Buentzel Jens , Scharpenberg Martin , Huebner Jutta
Published: April 2024

Purpose

Mistletoe treatment in cancer patients is controversial, and a Cochrane review concluded that due to heterogeneity, performing a meta-analysis was not suitable. However, several systematic reviews included meta-analyses in favor of mistletoe. The aim of this work was to assess the influence of the methodological quality of controlled studies on the results of a meta-analysis regarding overall survival.

Methods

Between April and August 2022, Medline, Embase, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), PsycINFO, CINAHL and Web of Science were systematically searched. In addition, reference lists of previously published meta-analyses were checked for relevant publications. A random effects meta-analysis with clustering was performed. The risk of bias within the studies was assessed using ROB 2.0 and ROBINS-I.

Results

The search identified 4685 hits, and 28 publications reporting on 28 298 patients were included in the quantitative analysis. Overall, the analysis led to a significant result in favor of mistletoe therapy (overall HR = 0.61 with 95% CI [0.53;0.7]). According to our subgroup analysis of randomized studies, studies of higher quality (lower risk of bias) did not lead to a significant result in favor of mistletoe therapy (HR = 0.78; CI = [0.30; 2.00]).

Conclusions

In the case of mistletoe therapy, the results of the meta-analysis strongly depended on the methodological quality of the included studies. Calculating meta-analyses that include low-quality studies may lead to severe misinterpretation of the data.
Survivorship care for people affected by advanced or metastatic cancer: MASCC-ASCO standards and practice recommendations
Authors: Hart Nicolas H. , Nekhlyudov Larissa , Smith Thomas J. , Yee Jasmine , Fitch Margaret I. , Crawford Gregory B. , Koczwara Bogda , Ashbury Fredrick D. , Lustberg Maryam B. , Mollica Michelle , Smith Andrea L. , Jefford Michael , Chino Fumiko , Zon Robin , Agar Meera R. , Chan Raymond J.
Published: April 2024

Purpose

People with advanced or metastatic cancer and their caregivers may have different care goals and face unique challenges compared to those with early-stage disease or those nearing the end-of-life. These MASCC-ASCO standards and practice recommendations seek to establish consistent provision of quality survivorship care for people affected by advanced or metastatic cancer.

Methods

An expert panel comprising MASCC and ASCO members was formed. Standards and recommendations relevant to the provision of quality survivorship care for people affected by advanced or metastatic cancer were developed through conducting: (1) a systematic review of unmet supportive care needs; (2) a scoping review of cancer survivorship, supportive care, and palliative care frameworks and guidelines; and (3) an international modified Delphi consensus process.

Results

A systematic review involving 81 studies and a scoping review of 17 guidelines and frameworks informed the initial standards and recommendations. Subsequently, 77 experts (including 8 people with lived experience) across 33 countries (33% were low-to-middle resource countries) participated in the Delphi study and achieved ≥ 94.8% agreement for seven standards (1. Person-Centred Care; 2. Coordinated and Integrated Care; 3. Evidence-Based and Comprehensive Care; 4. Evaluated and Communicated Care; 5. Accessible and Equitable Care; 6. Sustainable and Resourced Care; 7. Research and Data-Driven Care) and ≥ 84.2% agreement across 45 practice recommendations.

Conclusion

Standards of survivorship care for people affected by advanced or metastatic cancer are provided. These MASCC-ASCO standards will support optimization of health outcomes and care experiences by providing guidance to stakeholders in cancer care (healthcare professionals, leaders, and administrators; governments and health ministries; policymakers; advocacy agencies; cancer survivors and caregivers. Practice recommendations may be used to facilitate future research, practice, policy, and advocacy efforts.