bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Therapie der Inflammation in der Nephrologie
Authors: Sievers Laura Katharina , Schmitt Roland
Published: February 2025

Was ist neu?

Während Nierenerkrankungen, die mit akuter nicht infektiöser Entzündung einhergehen, wie bspw. Glomerulonephritiden, bereits seit Jahrzehnten erfolgreich primär antiinflammatorisch behandelt werden, ist die Low-Grade-Inflammation in der Nephrologie bisher noch wenig beachtet.

Nun rückt jedoch die pathophysiologische Bedeutung der chronischen systemischen Low-Grade-Inflammation für die Progression der chronischen Nierenerkrankung (CKD) und die damit verbundenen kardiovaskulären Komplikationen in den Vordergrund.

Antiinflammatorische Strategien haben in klinischen Studien bereits eine Effektivität in der Sekundär- und Tertiärprävention kardiovaskulärer Ereignisse gezeigt. Aktuelle Veröffentlichungen demonstrieren, dass eine Adressierung der Low-Grade-Inflammation mittels Inhibition der Interleukin-1- und Interleukin-6-Signalwege auch bei CKD-Patienten vorteilhafte Effekte auf die renale Anämie, die Progression der Nierenerkrankung sowie auf Komplikationsraten hat, ein todesursachenunabhängiger Mortalitätsvorteil zeigte sich jedoch bisher nicht.
CT Motion-Analysis of Implant Loosening in Total Wrist Arthroplasty: A Pilot Study
Authors: Reiser Daniel , Kakar Sanj , Sandberg Olof , Wretenberg Per , Sagerfors Marcus
Published: February 2025

Introduction Total wrist arthroplasty (TWA) is a motion-preserving treatment option for wrist arthritis. High-precision measurement methods for implant migration such as computed tomography motion-analysis (CTMA) can potentially detect poor implant fixation. The aim of this pilot study was to assess CTMA as a complementary method to diagnose aseptic loosening of TWA.

Materials and Methods Three patients with a TWA and wrist pain during activity underwent induced displacement CT (CTMA) with alternated provocations as a complement to plain radiographs.

Results Two of the three patients had displacement of the carpal component on CTMA. The radial component was stable in all cases. The tool was adapted to clinical routine use.

Conclusions CT motion-analysis could be a valuable adjunct to plain radiographs in assessing component loosening in TWA.
Photoorganocatalytic Hydroacylation of Unactivated Olefins Utilizing Naphthaloylidenebenzimidazole (NBI) as the Catalyst
Authors: Michael George , Kolagkis Periklis X. , Galathri Eirini M. , Kokotos Christoforos G.
Published: February 2025

Selective C–H activation is gaining prominence as a valuable strategy in synthetic chemistry. The metal-free C–H activation of aldehydes to promote the hydroacylation of electron-deficient alkenes offers a promising approach for C–C bond formation. However, achieving selectivity, particularly with α,α-disubstituted aldehydes, remains challenging. In this study, we present a green, cost-effective, and easily reproducible method for the selective hydroacylation of alkenes. This process employs naphthaloylidenebenzimidazole (NBI) as the photocatalyst under blue LED irradiation, yielding products with excellent selectivity and efficiency.
Efficacy of water pressure method for colorectal endoscopic submucosal dissection: a propensity-score matching analysis
Authors: Kirita Kumiko , Akimoto Teppei , Niikawa Masahiro , Yoshikata Keiichiro , Nakagome Shun , Habu Tsugumi , Ishikawa Yumiko , Koizumi Eriko , Higuchi Kazutoshi , Noda Hiroto , Onda Takeshi , Omori Jun , Akimoto Naohiko , Goto Osamu , Fujimori Shunji , Iwakiri Katsuhiko
Published: February 2025

Background and study aim: The technical difficulty of endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) for colorectal neoplasms has not been resolved. Water pressure method (WPM) are helpful techniques to overcome colorectal ESD procedure. We evaluated the efficacy and safety of ESD with WPM (WPM-ESD) for colorectal neoplasms compared with conventional ESD (C-ESD).
Patients and methods: This was a single-center retrospective observational study. 311 colorectal lesions were allocated into the WPM-ESD and the C-ESD groups, which were compared before and after propensity score matching. The main outcomes were to compare the procedure time, the proportion of R0 resection, and the incidence of adverse events between the two groups.
Result: 134 and 177 lesions were allocated to the WPM-ESD and the C-ESD groups, and propensity score matching analysis created 92 matched pairs. The mean procedure time was significantly shorter in the WPM-ESD group (49 ± 26 vs. 58 ± 42 min, p = 0.032). All lesions were resected with one piece, without difference in the proportion of en bloc resection (100% vs. 100%) and R0 resection (92% vs. 96%, p = 0.536) and in incidence of intraoperative perforation (2.2% vs. 2.2%).
Conclusion: WPM for colorectal ESD may shorten the procedure time compared with C-ESD without increasing adverse events.
Synthesis of Benzo[c]isothiazole 2-Oxides via Copper-Catalyzed Cycloamidation Reation
Authors: He Yimiao , Yu Limin , Weng Jie , He Yimeng , Meng Jiefang
Published: February 2025

In this study, a modular and efficient approach towards benzo[c]isothiazole 2-oxides via copper-catalyzed intramolecular C-N cross-coupling reaction was discosed. Readily available starting materials, broad substrate scope, outstanding yields and the scalability were observed, highlighing its potential in the pharmaceuticals and chemical industries.
Interannual differences in pollinator contributions to pollen transfer are mainly driven by changes in pollinator abundance
Authors: Freudenfeld Martin , Štenc Jakub , Hadrava Jiří , Mikát Michael , Matoušková Eva , Daňková Klára , Jor Tomáš , Ryšan Tadeáš , Koupilová Klára , Simon-Pražák Jan , Dvořák Tomáš , Janovský Zdeněk
Published: February 2025

With the rising threat to insect pollinators and the upcoming pollinator crisis, it is important to know how pollinators contribute to pollen transfer. The contributions of individual pollinator taxa to pollen transfer depend both on their abundance and on how much pollen each individual can carry, with overall importance being a multiplication of these two values. Here, we quantified pollen load across a diverse spectrum of insect pollinator taxa and variation in their abundance over 11 years. We found that, while variation in pollen load was relatively small among pollinator taxa (compared to relatively high variability among individuals within each insect taxon), the visitation levels changed significantly over the years, resulting in a high degree of variation in pollinator contributions to pollen transfer of each insect taxon at the community level. Thus, we conclude that the overall importance of pollinator taxa for pollen transfer is determined further by their abundances than by their taxon-specific capability for carrying various pollen loads. As the insect abundances vary over time and may change dramatically from year to year, our results highlight the importance of diverse and species-rich pollinator communities, as the population decline of one pollinator can be buffered by an increase in another pollinator taxa.
Males differ more between developmental stages than females and plasticity to light is stage-dependent in the tropical plant, Marchantia inflexa
Authors: Moore Jonathan D , McLetchie D Nicholas
Published: February 2025

Background and Aims

Plants have evolved strategies to maintain photosynthesis and mitigate tissue-damaging high light. Sometimes, in separate sex seed plants, these strategies are sexually dimorphic and link to spatial segregation of the sexes (SSS) along light gradients. In vascular tissue-free plants (bryophytes) with separate sexes, SSS is common, but how light gradients, sexual dimorphisms, and SSS correlate is not well-understood. To test if sexual dimorphisms in vegetative or sexual stages lead to light-associated SSS in bryophytes, we used Marchantia inflexa whose males occupy a wider range of light conditions, including higher light conditions, than females. We also tested if changes in development differed between sexes.

Methods

We grew 25 males and 25 females in a glasshouse with clones in low and high light and assessed pigment and biomass allocation traits in vegetative and sexual thalli (analogous to leaves), representing non-sexual and sexually reproductive stages. We expected males to exhibit traits consistent with high light acclimation more than females and greater sex-differences in sexual thalli due to specialisation. Further, we reasoned that males would change more between stages than females.

Key Results

For sexual thalli, males had higher carotenoid/chlorophyll ratios (consistent with expectation) while females had higher chlorophyll a/b ratios and dry matter content (opposite from expectations). Vegetative thalli were not sexually dimorphic, but were more plastic to light than sexual thalli. Overall, the stages differed more for males than females, but without regard for light. However, female stages differed more for dry matter content.

Conclusions

Males generally need greater change in pigmentation and biomass allocation than females between stages, and we posit links for individual traits to sex function. Specialisation in sexual thalli constrains their plasticity to light compared to vegetative thalli. Yet, neither sexual dimorphism in sexual thalli nor greater change between stages for males than females clearly leads to light-associated SSS.
Duplex Study of the Nipple–Areola Complex Blood Supply in the Female Breast
Authors: Hosny Husam , Mansour Sahar , El-Essawy Nadeen M
Published: February 2025

Background

Although breast blood supply comes from the internal mammary, lateral thoracic, and intercostal artery perforators, the nipple–areola complex (NAC) blood supply was usually depicted as a direct continuation of those vessels rather than a true description based on anatomical research. Studies focusing on NAC vascularity are few in number, done on a limited number of subject based on microdissection, computed tomography, or MRI. The results are inconsistent and may be perplexing. Hence, the need for studies on a large number of living subject is still warranted. Because duplex proved efficient at detecting perforators, we used it to assess NAC vascularity.

Objectives

In vivo delineation of NAC blood supply by comparing this to the nipple-to-suprasternal notch (N-SN) distance and individual variation between both sides.

Methods

Female subject presenting to the Breast Imaging Unit of the institute (229 subject; 458 breasts, BIRADS I and II) were assessed by duplex for the presence of significant NAC blood supply (≥1 mm), regarding their number, source vessel, perforator level, relation to N-SN distance, and similarity between both sides.

Results

The third and fourth internal mammary artery (IMA) perforators accounted for 54.8% and 31.3%, respectively. The second IMA, lateral thoracic artery, and direct axillary branch were found in 9.2%, 3.3%, and 1.3%, respectively. The longer the N-SN distance is, the lower the supplying perforator. NAC vascularity was symmetric in 143 subject (62.4%) and asymmetric in 86 subject (37.5%).

Conclusions

The third and fourth internal mammary perforators are the main source of NAC blood supply. Right and left sides’ asymmetry is not uncommon. Finally, the longer the N-SN distance is, the lower the perforator level is anticipated.

Level of Evidence: 1 (Diagnostic)
MiNEApy: Enhancing Enrichment Network Analysis in Metabolic Networks
Authors: Pandey Vikash
Published: February 2025

Motivation

Modeling genome-scale metabolic networks (GEMs) helps understand metabolic fluxes in cells at a specific state under defined environmental conditions or perturbations. Elementary Flux Modes (EFMs) are powerful tools for simplifying complex metabolic networks into smaller, more manageable pathways. However, the enumeration of all EFMs, especially within GEMs, poses significant challenges due to computational complexity. Additionally, traditional EFM approaches often fail to capture essential aspects of metabolism, such as co-factor balancing and by-product generation.

The previously developed Minimum Network Enrichment Analysis (MiNEA) method addresses these limitations by enumerating alternative minimal networks for given biomass building blocks and metabolic tasks. MiNEA facilitates a deeper understanding of metabolic task flexibility and context-specific metabolic routes by integrating condition-specific transcriptomics, proteomics, and metabolomics data. This approach offers significant improvements in the analysis of metabolic pathways, providing more comprehensive insights into cellular metabolism.

Results

Here, I present MiNEApy, a Python package reimplementation of MiNEA, which computes minimal networks and performs enrichment analysis. I demonstrate the application of MiNEApy on both a small-scale and a genome-scale model of the bacterium E. coli, showcasing its ability to conduct minimal network enrichment analysis using minimal networks and context-specific data.

Availability

MiNEApy can be accessed at: https://github.com/vpandey-om/mineapy 

Supplementary information

Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
SpectroPipeR—a streamlining post Spectronaut® DIA-MS data analysis R package
Authors: Michalik Stephan , Hammer Elke , Steil Leif , Salazar Manuela Gesell , Hentschker Christian , Surmann Kristin , Busch Larissa M , Sura Thomas , Völker Uwe
Published: February 2025

Proteome studies frequently encounter challenges in down-stream data analysis due to limited bioinformatics resources, rapid data generation, and variations in analytical methods. To address these issues, we developed SpectroPipeR, an R package designed to streamline data analysis tasks and provide a comprehensive, standardized pipeline for Spectronaut® DIA-MS data. This novel package automates various analytical processes, including XIC plots, ID rate summary, normalization, batch and covariate adjustment, relative protein quantification, multivariate analysis, and statistical analysis, while generating interactive HTML reports for e.g. ELN systems.

Availability

The SpectroPipeR package (manual: https://stemicha.github.io/SpectroPipeR/) was written in R, and is freely available on GitHub (https://github.com/stemicha/SpectroPipeR  ).

Supplementary information

Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
Anchors Through Change: Exploring Identity Work in the Unified Probation Service for England & Wales
Authors: Robinson Gwen , Annison Harry , Burke Lawrence , Carr Nicola , Millings Matthew , Surridge Eleanor
Published: February 2025

The Probation Service for England & Wales offers an important case study for those who are interested in the impact(s) of organizational change on workers in criminal justice and, in particular, the identity work that they engage in as they move through frequent iterations of change. In this article, we draw on data from an ongoing longitudinal study of probation reform to explore identity work among a mixed sample of practitioner and management grade staff in one of 12 probation regions. Our analysis reveals the significance of both occupational and organizational sources of identification to workers of all grades, but also evidence of dis-identification with aspects of the current organization. It further reveals the importance of anchors through change in workers’ identities as they navigate paths through successive reforms. These anchors include values, places and structures that are part of probation’s legacy but which offer a sense of continuity and meaning to workers as they adapt within a turbulent field.
The Dialectics of Migration: Social Bulimia and the Deportation Pipeline in New York City
Authors: Brotherton David C , Tosh Sarah
Published: February 2025

Following the Illegal Immigration Reform and Immigrant Responsibility Act of 1996 New York City has undergone challenges to its status as a refuge to the teeming masses of the globe. Based on recent research in New York City, we trace the policing of its migrant communities as the US state has resorted to punitive measures to regulate non-citizens regarded as deportable aliens. While the city has resisted the exclusionary pressures of the security state, its criminalized black and migrant communities still produce the highest rates of removal, described as the deportation pipeline. We argue that the city, while presented as a model of immigrant integration, is a contested space caught between the forces of exclusion and inclusion and overdetermined by processes of crimmigration (Stumpf 2006). Such processes expand the criminological concept of ‘social bulimia’ (Young (1999a), a characteristic of late modern capitalistic society—examining how a broader dialectic between cultural assimilation and structural punitiveness is navigated by multilayered networks of contradicting actors, processes, and policies at the municipal level.
Dermatological Care in Muslim Patients – A Perspective on Gender and Cultural Considerations
Authors: Rijal Hibo , Helal Shaimaa , Hessami-Booshehri Morvarid , Dahlke Erin
Published: February 2025

Increasing racial, ethnic, and religious global diversity of patient populations warrants integration of culturally sensitive care by dermatologists. The Muslim population represents one of interest with traditional practices of covering the skin and scalp that often intersect with dermatological care. Recommendations based on Islamic practices followed by many Muslim men and women including providing third party chaperones, limiting exposure of preferred religiously covered regions and providing spiritually informed treatment guidelines (oral medications within fasting periods) are described here to inform dermatologists on methods to optimize treatment outcomes in this population. Allowing for dermatologists to provide culturally-inclusive and equitable care for their Muslim patients.
Doxycycline Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (DoxyPEP): A Primer for Dermatologists
Authors: Nusynowitz Jake , Woolhiser Emily , Manduca Sophia , Zampella John G , Trinidad John
Published: February 2025

Doxycycline post-exposure prophylaxis (DoxyPEP) is an effective strategy to reduce bacterial sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in high-risk populations. With its 2024 endorsement by the CDC, DoxyPEP offers timely benefits amid rising STI rates, but its broader adoption raises concerns about antimicrobial resistance and potential side effects. Dermatologists, with their extensive experience prescribing doxycycline, are well-positioned to educate patients, optimize its safe use, and contribute to holistic sexual health prevention strategies.
Work with People in Mental Distress Who Access Spirituality/Religion
Authors: Smith Stewart J , Read Julia
Published: February 2025

When social workers assist people in mental distress, complexity is added if clients self-identify as spiritual/religious. It can be challenging to know how to proceed in a helpful manner. Issues related to understanding what people are going through and how best to assist are centrally important for social workers to consider. To explore these concerns, we examine key social work ideas of social justice and holistic practice as related to spiritual/religious clients’ well-being. Following that analysis, main stream assumptions about mental illness from the medical model are reviewed. Mad Studies is then investigated with an emphasis on the term ‘mental distress’ which we have found to be a useful consideration to effectively work with people. This understanding is in harmony with holistic practice and social justice. From the insights gained from the literature, and our own experiences as counsellors, we explore constructive principles related to work with people in mental distress who are accessing spiritual/religious resources. To do this, we present a case study to review and propose strategies in working with spiritual/religious people experiencing mental distress.
‘I don’t think they look at this as an issue’. Exploring the training and development needs of practice educators in social work field education
Authors: Pascoe Katheryn Margaret
Published: February 2025

Social work field education is central to qualifying social work degrees, whereby placements support students to explore the connection between theory and practice, gain frontline experience before entering the workforce, and socialize into the profession. While research has captured student learning experiences, the perspectives of social workers supervising student placements have received less attention. This article examines the training and development needs of practice educators (PEs), also known as field educators, from across Aotearoa New Zealand, reporting on findings from a national survey. Drawing attention to desired areas for development, gaps in provision, low levels of satisfaction, and challenges to accessing training including cost, time, and visibility of opportunities, the findings suggest the current level of professional development specific to this role is variable, and PEs are interested in accessing further training. These findings reiterate the importance of resourcing and highlight considerations for establishing partnerships across education institutions, the professional association, and potentially the regulation authority to support consistency, development, and delivery.
Hyperpigmentation and social media: A cross-sectional study of content quality on TikTok
Authors: Potluru Aparna , Nikookam Yasmin , Guckian Jonathan
Published: February 2025

The article highlights TikTok as a growing source of health-related information regarding hyperpigmentation, but emphasises concerns about the accuracy and reliability of the content. An analysis of the top 100 hyperpigmentation-related videos revealed that while healthcare professionals’ content was more evidence-based, influencers and promotional videos dominated, often providing less reliable information. The study calls for dermatologists to engage more on social media to counter misinformation and promote accurate, evidence-based treatments, as the platform heavily influences public perception and treatment choices.
Serum Ammonia Screening and Donor Mollicute Detection for Hyperammonemia Syndrome Post-Lung Transplant: A Prospective Observational Study
Authors: Walti Laura N , Ng Chun Fai , Kaur Simran , Almansour Sarah , Mazzulli Tony , Bitterman Roni , Sidhu Aman , Keshavjee Shaf , Chaparro Cecilia , Martinu Tereza , Tikkanen Jussi , del Sorbo Lorenzo , Husain Shahid
Published: February 2025

Background

Hyperammonemia syndrome (HS) is a rare but potentially fatal complication of Lung Transplantation (LT). Optimal screening methods are unknown: Here we investigated serum ammonia screening (SAS) for HS and compared it with PCR for Mollicutes (ureaplasma-producing bacteria).

Methods

All LT recipients from 07/2019-02/2020 and 10/2021-11/2022 with available donor bronchial wash samples from the LT biobank were included. Mollicute-PCR was performed using two commercially available kits. Daily ammonia serum levels were measured for the first 14 days. Recipients were prospectively followed for HS for 30 days post-LT. HS was defined by new neurological symptoms and the presence of elevated serum ammonium (>1x >70 µmol/l).

Results

Of 241 LT recipients, 5 (2%) developed HS within the first month post-LT. Median time to HS was 8 days (IQR 5-10). All HS were diagnosed within the first 14 days post-LT, while daily SAS was in place.

Ammonia was confirmed elevated (>1x >70µmol/l) in 4% (9/241) during follow-up however, outside of HS, 4 were found to be liver disease-related. Donor Mollicute-PCR was positive in 8% (19/241), recipient M-PCR in 1% (1/72) at transplant. Donor Mollicute-PCR, in contrast to recipient Mollicute-PCR, was associated with HS but only in 2 of the 5 HS cases. No HS patient died within 90 days post-LT.

Conclusion

HS was a rare complication in our LT cohort. Daily post-LT SAS might add to early HS diagnosis and treatment and is potentially associated with improved outcome. Donor screening with Mollicute-PCR has limited predictive value for HS post-LT.
Primary FSGS is not associated with worse kidney outcome compared to other FSGS subtypes
Authors: Deleersnijder Dries , Cleenders Evert , Coemans Maarten , Dendooven Amélie , Koshy Priyanka , Claes Kathleen , De Vusser Katrien , Meijers Björn K , Sprangers Ben , Van Laecke Steven , Van Craenenbroeck Amaryllis H
Published: February 2025

Background

Studies that compare kidney outcomes across patients with different forms of focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS) are lacking.

Methods

This retrospective study compared annual estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) slope and kidney failure (KF) rate (eGFR < 15 mL/min/1.73 m2 or initiation of kidney replacement therapy) across patients with biopsy-proven primary, maladaptive, genetic and undetermined FSGS. Patients were included from two Belgian tertiary referral hospitals, from 2010 until 2022. Associations between covariates and KF were estimated using Cox and Fine and Gray models. eGFR slopes were estimated using linear mixed-effects models.

Results

Eighty-two patients were subdivided into primary (28.1%), maladaptive (40.2%), genetic (14.6%) and undetermined FSGS (17.1%) groups. KF occurred in 22 patients (26.8%). Primary FSGS patients exhibited higher baseline eGFR and less chronic changes on biopsy. The annual eGFR slope was -2.5 mL/min in primary, -2.5 mL/min in maladaptive, -4.6 mL/min in genetic and -4.4 mL/min in undetermined FSGS. Female sex was associated with a lower KF rate and higher eGFR slope. Higher proteinuria at biopsy was associated with a higher KF rate, lower eGFR slope and a higher mortality rate. Global sclerosis on kidney biopsy was associated with lower baseline eGFR, while a higher percentage of segmental sclerosis rather associated with more rapid eGFR decline (-1.5 mL/min/year per 10% increase, 95% CI [-2.2, -0.7]).

Conclusions

Patients with primary FSGS were biopsied earlier in their disease course and exhibited surprisingly good kidney outcome. Overall, sex, baseline eGFR, proteinuria and the degree of focal and global glomerulosclerosis play a more important role in estimating the prognosis of patients with FSGS, than merely the FSGS etiology.
Serial Dependence Robust Bootstrap Test for Cross-Sectional Correlation
Authors: Hounyo Ulrich , Kao Chihwa , Kim Min Seong
Published: February 2025

We propose a novel bootstrap-based test for cross-sectional dependence (CD) in panel models, maintaining robustness against serial dependence. While serial dependence is common in panel data, existing tests often assume serial independence. Our cluster wild bootstrap CD test procedure mirrors Pesaran’s original CD test and is very simple to implement. This procedure preserves serial dependence while testing for cross-sectional independence. Theoretical validity is established for our bootstrap-based test, with simulations highlighting its performance in finite samples. Using R&D investment panel data, we illustrate the utility of our bootstrap methods.
Effect of chlorine atoms on inhibition effect between amide herbicides and urease enzyme: molecular mechanism and structure-activity relationship
Authors: Wang Xiaoning , Wang Wenyue , Lin Jingyan , Wu Yongkun , Zhao Yuhan , Ding Jiayin , Hong Shan , Wan Ziheng , Sun Kaipeng , Chen Dong , Tang Yizhen , Xiao Yihua , Zhao Weihua , Sun Haofen , Wang Weiliang , Yang Chuanxi
Published: February 2025

Amide herbicides (AHs) were disturbed urease (UA) activity and soil microbial community, caused soil nutrient changes. Activity of UA was inhibited by AHs via groups of chlorine, benzene ring, peptide bond (-N-/-CO-). Difference of surface charge distribution were mainly derived from position to connected -Cl, distance of -O- from ether group and -N from peptide bond, difference of structure/length for hydrocarbon chain, and different regions of negative charge enrichment. Developmental toxicity (DT) for alachlor was strongest related to smaller structure and weaker steric hindrance effect, mutagenicity for propanil was weakest could be related to missing ether group. Molecular mechanism and structural activity relationship for inhibition of AHs and UA based on functional groups, amino acids with high frequency, hydrogen bonds, hydrophobic interactions, binding area (BA) of butachlor (396.3 Å2), absolute value of binding energy (|BE|) of propanil (2.93 kJ/mol) (which as highest), quantitative structural relationship between BA and |BE|, which was negative correlation. BA for AHs and UA had negatively correlation for density with correlation coefficient (r) as -0.937 (p ≤ 0.01). |BE| for AHs and UA had positively correlation for density with r as 0.847 (p ≤ 0.05), and negatively correlation for molecular weight (MW) with r as -0.973 (p ≤ 0.001). Results provided technological support and theoretical foundation for toxic effects of SEs activity, health effects, risk regulation and control of AHs.
Anther modes influence diversification rates in the animal-pollinated species-rich Didymocarpoideae
Authors: Ling Shao-Jun , Yao Xiao-Lan , Xiang Wen-Qian , Ren Ming-Xun
Published: February 2025

Stamen traits significantly influence pollen presentation patterns and play a critical role in mating systems, floral evolution, and the diversification of angiosperms. Anthers within a flower can either develop freely or be united, resulting in three primary modes: separated anthers, synandry, and paired-united anthers. The impact of these anther modes on species diversification remains inadequately understood. In this study, we employed 14 plastid and nuclear ribosomal markers from 789 species to reconstruct the phylogenetic relationships of the Old World Didymocarpoideae, which are predominantly bee pollinated. We then investigated the evolutionary patterns of anther modes and assessed their potential role in species diversification. Our findings indicate that the evolution of anther modes and associated floral traits exhibited significant trait conservatism. Paired-united anthers likely represent the ancestral form of Didymocarpoideae, characterized by four fertile stamens with exserted locations for the anthers. Notably, derived synandry was associated with relatively high rates of species diversification, particularly in the species-rich Cyrtandra, Primulina, and Streptocarpus, which could be due to enhanced pollination precision facilitated by aggregations of anthers and pollen grains. This study elucidates the evolutionary transitions of different anther modes while highlighting their influence on diversification rates within Didymocarpoideae.
Phosphatases control the duration and range of cAMP/PKA microdomains
Authors: Conca Filippo , Bayburtlu Doruk Kaan , Vismara Mauro , Surdo Nicoletta C , Tavoni Alessandra , Nogara Leonardo , Sarra Adamo , Ciciliot Stefano , Benedetto Giulietta Di , Iannucci Liliana F , Lefkimmiatis Konstantinos
Published: February 2025

The spatiotemporal interplay between the second messenger cyclic AMP (cAMP) and its main effector, Protein kinase A (PKA) is crucial for the pleiotropic nature of this cascade. To maintain a high degree of specificity, the cAMP/PKA axis is organised into functional units called microdomains, precisely distributed within the cell. While the subcellular allocation of PKA is guaranteed by a family of tethers called A-Kinase-anchoring Proteins (AKAPs), the mechanisms underlying the efficient confinement of a microdomain's functional effects are not fully understood. Here we used FRET-based sensors to detect cAMP levels and PKA-dependent phosphorylation within specific subcellular compartments. We find that cellular cAMP levels may depend on different mechanisms and are responsible for the activation of local PKA enzymes. On the other hand, the dephosphorylating actions of phosphatases dictate the duration of the microdomain's effects. To test the range of action of PKA microdomains we used rigid aminoacidic nanorulers to distance our FRET sensors from their original location for 10 or 30 nm. Interestingly, we established that cAMP levels do not affect the spatial range of the microdomain while on the contrary, phosphatase activity provides a functional boundary for phosphorylated PKA targets. Finally, using the same strategy to distance phosphatases from the mitochondria we found that enzymes close to the outer mitochondrial membrane produced a fragmented phenotype that was not observed when phosphatases were moved to 30 nm from the organelle's surface. Our findings contribute to the design of a picture where two microdomain-forming events have distinct roles. Cyclic AMP elevations trigger the initial activation of subcellular PKA moieties, while the temporal and spatial extent of the PKA's actions are regulated by phosphatases.
Association between social engagement frequency and the risk of depression in South Korea, the US, and the UK: Multinational evidence from longitudinal studies of aging
Authors: Cho Jaehyeong , Kim Tae Hyeon , Oh Jiyeon , Lee Sooji , Kim Kyeongeun , Park Jaeyu , Jo Hyesu , Jeong Yi Deun , Park Seoyoung , Son Yejun , Veronese Nicola , López Sánchez Guillermo F , Jacob Louis , Woo Selin , Yon Dong Keon , Smith Lee
Published: February 2025

Background

While greater social engagement is often associated with a reduced risk of depression, longitudinal studies that account for diverse social structures and cultural contexts among middle-aged or older are limited.

Methods

This study utilized cohort data from the Korean Longitudinal Study of Ageing (n=11,174; 2006-2020) in South Korea (KR), the Health and Retirement Study (n=42,405; 2004-2019) in the US, and the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing (n=28,624; 2002-2019) in the UK, including a total of 29,378 individuals from the population aged ≥45 years. Social engagement frequency was categorized into infrequent, intermediate, and frequent, with changes classified as unchanged, increased, or decreased. The primary outcome was the onset of depression, assessed using the CES-D Scale. Hazard ratios (HR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were estimated using a Cox proportional hazards regression model.

Results

In the KR cohort, increased social engagement significantly reduced depression risk only in the infrequent group (KR: HR, 0.20 [95% CI, 0.14-0.28]). However, decreased social engagement elevated depression risk in both the intermediate group (KR: 6.92 [3.73-12.83]; US: 1.44 [1.16-1.79]) and the frequent group (KR: 1.50 [1.30-1.74]; US: 1.24 [1.13-1.38]). Conversely, in the UK cohort, increased social engagement raised depression risk in the infrequent group (UK: 1.35 [1.01-1.79]) and intermediate group (UK: 1.63 [1.17-2.27]), while decreased engagement lowered depression risk only in the frequent group (UK: 0.80 [0.71-0.90]).

Discussion

We observed notable national variations in the association between social engagement and depression risk, influenced by cultural and political differences.
When is the best time to deliver supportive interventions to hospice family caregivers? A Multi-Method Study
Authors: Oh Oonjee , Oliver Debra Parker , Washington Karla , Demiris George
Published: February 2025

Background/Objectives

While problem-solving interventions can teach caregivers effective coping skills throughout hospice, the optimal timing for introducing such resources remains unclear. We explored how the timing of a problem-solving intervention impacts its effectiveness for hospice caregivers.

Research Design/Methods

We conducted a multi-method study analyzing quantitative and qualitative data from a randomized clinical trial of a Problem-solving Intervention to Support Caregivers in End-of-life care Settings (PISCES). Caregivers were randomly assigned to 3 intervention groups: PISCES delivered face-to-face (F2F), PISCES delivered in a hybrid format, and PISCES integrating positive appraisal elements (PISCESplus). We compared the anxiety and depressive symptoms before and after the intervention among 318 caregivers across various stages of hospice. We conducted a content analysis of 45 exit interviews to explore how caregivers perceived PISCES and their hospice experience in relation to its timing.

Results

Caregivers’ anxiety showed significant pre-post differences regardless of the intervention timing, modality, and components. The impact on depressive symptoms differed: While the PISCES F2F group showed significant changes at all timings, only bereaved caregivers had significant changes in the PISCES Hybrid group (p<0.001). In the PISCESplus group, caregivers in the midst of hospice and bereaved showed significant changes (p=0.043 and <0.001, respectively). Three themes emerged from the qualitative analysis: timing for PISCES to be most effective, emotions during various stages of hospice, and the length of PISCES.

Discussion/Implications

Strategically integrating PISCES into hospice practice can help alleviate caregivers’ distress. More work is needed to improve the real-world applicability of caregiver-focused interventions in hospice.
A Systems Approach to Homelessness Prevention for Older Adults
Authors: Van Berkum Amy , Oudshoorn Abe , Garnett Anna
Published: February 2025

An aging population and increase in the number of older adults experiencing homelessness in North America requires a more effective response to prevent and end older adult homelessness. While there are few research evidence-based policy solutions to preventing older adult homelessness, there are several promising practices that with further analysis could point to quality policy reform. Using the five-level typology by Fitzpatrick et al. (2021), this discussion paper outlines policy-oriented recommendations at varying levels of prevention: 1) Universal, 2) Upstream, 3) Crisis, 4) Emergency, and 5) Repeat. Key policy implications include intersectoral collaboration and policy design that seeks to successfully reach functionally zero homelessness by activating policy strategies at each of the five-levels of prevention. Health and housing practitioners play an essential role in policy planning, design, implementation, and evaluation and can participate in and advocate for opportunities to improve services and address older adult homelessness connected to their practice environments. Promoting research that enhances systematic evaluation of the outcomes of older adults through various housing models is critical to driving policy reform- a necessary action to promote a safe, healthy, and opportunistic future for older adults.
Amended EPC Rules Relating to Notification and Time Limits – Mere Abolition of the Ten-Day Rule?
Authors: Walder-Hartmann Lorenz
Published: February 2025

The amendment to Rules 126(2), 127(2) and 131(2) EPC is often perceived as the abolition of the ten-day rule. However, according to the view expressed here, the implications are much broader because the requirement of notification as an event triggering the time limit is affected. Since the amendments to the rules interfere with the Convention by redefining the concept of notification and contradict the Convention, they are at least partially inapplicable. Applicants who have missed a time limit before the European Patent Office under the amended rules, but not with respect to the previous legal situation, can attempt to clarify the issue by means of an appeal.
Smoothed circulant embedding with applications to multilevel Monte Carlo methods for PDEs with random coefficients
Authors: Istratuca Anastasia , Teckentrup Aretha L
Published: February 2025

We consider the computational efficiency of Monte Carlo (MC) and Multilevel Monte Carlo (MLMC) methods applied to partial differential equations with random coefficients. These arise, for example, in groundwater flow modelling, where a commonly used model for the unknown parameter is a random field. We use the circulant embedding procedure for sampling from the aforementioned coefficient. To improve the computational complexity of the MLMC estimator in the case of highly oscillatory random fields we devise and implement a smoothing technique integrated into the circulant embedding method. This allows us to choose the coarsest mesh on the first level of MLMC independently of the correlation length of the covariance function of the random field, leading to considerable savings in computational cost. We illustrate this with numerical experiments, where we see a saving of up to factor 5–10 in computational cost for accuracies of practical interest.
Predator–parasitoid interaction between Harmonia axyridis (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae) and Pyemotes zhonghuajia (Prostigmata: Pyemotidae) in aphid control
Authors: Cen Xue , Li Xuelin , Qin Hai-Xin , Zhang Long , Yang Mao-Fa , Wu Cheng-Xu , Liu Jian-Feng
Published: February 2025

Intraguild predation (IGP) is a crucial ecological interaction that influences the dynamics of natural enemies and affects the effectiveness of biological control. Harmonia axyridis (Pallas) (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae), an invasive predator, significantly impacts native predators through IGP in certain countries. Pyemotes zhonghuajia (Yu, Zhang & He) (Prostigmata: Pyemotidae), a small ectoparasitoid, parasitizes various pests from the orders Lepidoptera, Coleoptera, and Hemiptera. Although both natural enemies are essential in controlling pests like Neotoxoptera formosana (Takahashi) (Hemiptera: Aphididae), their interactions and effects on pest management remain poorly understood. The study investigates the functional response of H. axyridis to N. formosana, the lethal ability of P. zhonghuajia against N. formosana, and how intraguild interactions affect the mortality rates of both N. formosana and H. axyridis when exposed to P. zhonghuajia. Our findings revealed that H. axyridis exhibited a Holling type II functional response to N. formosana, with female adults being the most effective predators. Pyemotes zhonghuajia demonstrated significant lethality against N. formosana, particularly at higher mite densities. However, the presence of P. zhonghuajia also increased the mortality rate of H. axyridis, highlighting a parasitism-driven intraguild interaction in which the mite dominates the predator. These results challenge conventional views of predator–parasitoid dynamics and highlight the complexity of interactions among natural enemies in pest control systems.
Enhancing the IP system through Dispute System Design
Authors: Lari-Williams Seun , Rutten Stefan , van Zimmeren Esther
Published: February 2025

The effectiveness of the IP system hinges on effective enforcement, including alternative dispute resolution processes, such as mediation and arbitration. In turn, the effectiveness of the dispute resolution processes used for IP disputes hinges on the overarching system in which they are embedded—a comprehensive structure known as dispute system design (DSD). Most literature on IP dispute resolution focuses on encouraging the use of one or more dispute resolution methods, or on comparing the strengths and weaknesses of these methods. This article seeks to adopt a more systematic approach to dispute resolution, assessing the relationship between IP and DSD. Using the DSD analytic framework, it describes and analyses IP dispute systems, including specialized IP courts, small claims courts and dispute systems set up by IP offices, universities and collective management organizations. We suggest strategies from the DSD theory for designing and improving IP dispute resolution, taking these various contexts into account. Among other things, we argue that challenges such as the underutilization of ADR mechanisms for IP dispute resolution stem from design flaws in IP dispute resolution systems. Finally, we call for a DSD analysis of IP dispute resolution systems and for the integration of DSD principles into these systems
DNA damage, apoptosis and serum inflammatory marker levels, but not white blood cell counts, are related to occupational exposure to waste anesthetic gases during medical residency: a longitudinal study
Authors: Scorza Carlos E , Aun Aline G , Guedes Júlia L , Destro Maria Vitória , Golim Márjorie A , Braz Leandro G , Braz Mariana G
Published: February 2025

The objective of this longitudinal study was to jointly assess DNA damage, apoptosis, inflammatory marker levels and white blood cell (WBC) counts in physicians occupationally exposed to inhalation anesthetics during specializations. Thus, we aimed to identify a possible cause-effect relationship between occupational exposure to waste anesthetic gases (WAGs), which were measured, and genotoxic, cytotoxic and immunotoxic effects. Nineteen medical residents were evaluated at four time points: before entering medical residency (baseline) and at the beginning, middle and end of medical residency. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were investigated for DNA damage, which was detected via the comet assay, and for apoptosis, which was detected via an annexin marker (flow cytometry). High-sensitivity C-reactive protein and serum inflammatory cytokines were evaluated via flow cytometry, and total and differential WBCs were counted. In addition, the concentrations of the WAGs measured in the workplace during the study were evaluated via an infrared spectrophotometer. The WAG concentrations were far higher than the internationally recommended values. Compared with those at previous time points, we observed increased DNA damage (p = 0.008) and apoptosis (p = 0.001) in PBMCs from the middle to the end of medical residency. Significant increases (p < 0.05) in the IL-8, IL-10, IL-12p70, IL-17A, IL-18 and IL-23 levels throughout medical residency were detected. There was no effect on the WBC count (p < 0.05), and all the means were within the reference range values. Occupational exposure to high levels of WAGs induces DNA damage, apoptosis, and changes in serum inflammatory marker levels, but not in leukocyte counts, in physicians who work in surgical theaters lacking an adequate scavenging system during medical residency.
Challenging diagnosis: unusual presentation of Unicentric Castleman disease—a case report
Authors: Janoud Omran Khaled , Alok Raya Ehsan , Amer Khozama Ali , Awwad Rana Mohammad , Souliman Wessam , Alkhayer Ghuroub
Published: February 2025

Castleman’s Disease is an idiopathic rare lymphoproliferative disorder that is clinically Classified to multicentric to unicentric types. Only few cases were reported in children, with majority of them are unicentric and usually located in the mediastinum. We report a unique case of a 13-year-old boy who presented with a palpable enlarged mass in the left inguinal region without any constitutional symptoms. Surgical removal of this mass was essential to exclude worrying causes. Pathologic examination revealed proliferative changes consistent with Castleman’s disease plasma cell type which is one of the rarest forms of the disease in children. To our knowledge, this case is the first reported case of Unicentric Castleman Disease (UCD) in the inguinal area. During a 12-month-period of follow-up, no additional lymph node enlargements or other symptoms were reported. In conclusion, any isolated lymph node enlargement wherever it is, especially in a child, should impose UCD as a possible differential diagnosis.