bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Neuronal complexity tracks changes of epileptic activity and identifies epilepsy patients independent of interictal epileptiform discharges
Authors: Kienitz Ricardo , Strüber Michael , Merkel Nina , Süß Annika , Spyrantis Andrea , Strzelczyk Adam , Rosenow Felix 
Published: December 2024

AbstractObjectiveTo date, the identification of objective biomarkers of neural epileptic activity (EA) remains challenging. We therefore investigated whether neuronal complexity could serve as an interictal electroencephalographic measure of EA, independent of interictal epileptiform discharges (IEDs). By tapering anti‐seizure medication (ASM) during video‐EEG (electroencephalography) monitoring (VEM), we studied whether changes in neuronal complexity could reliably indicate the increase in EA and identify patients with epilepsy.MethodsThe study included 27 patients with unilateral mesial temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) and 24 control patients with non‐epileptic episodes (NEEs) only, each undergoing ASM reduction during VEM. Thirteen additional patients undergoing intracranial recordings during VEM were included to study the relation of surface EEG complexity to intracranial IED. Neuronal complexity was quantified using sample entropy. Delta power served as a control parameter. Receiver‐operating characteristic (ROC) analysis was used to evaluate diagnostic performance.ResultsAs ASM was reduced, patients with epilepsy showed a significant decrease in neuronal complexity over consecutive days (p = .0008). In contrast, patients with NEE showed no significant change in neuronal complexity (p = .78). Delta power in contrast increased and did not differ significantly between patients with TLE and patients with NEE (p = 1). ROC analysis demonstrated that neuronal complexity effectively distinguished between patients with epilepsy and patients with NEE (area under the curve [AUC] = .76), whereas delta power performed at chance level (AUC = .5). Analysis of simultaneously recorded surface and intracranial EEG showed that hippocampal IEDs are followed by an increase in surface EEG delta power (p = 1.8 × 10−18) without any significant change in complexity (p = .39).SignificanceAn increase in EA caused by ASM reduction resulted in a loss of neuronal complexity in surface EEG recordings of patients with epilepsy, independent of IEDs. These findings suggest that neuronal complexity could serve as a potential biomarker to differentiate between epilepsy patients and those with NEEs only. This holds promise for improving the clinical evaluation of EA in epilepsy, addressing the limitations of seizure frequency and IED identification.
Fragrant Attraction: Aromatics in Premodern Chinese History
Authors: Liu Yan 
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACTThis essay surveys the history of aromatics in China from antiquity to the 17th‐century. Compared to the extensive study of the spice trade that has shaped world history, much less has been explored on the movement of these fragrant substances from their natural habitats in South, Southeast, and West Asia to China. By reviewing both early and recent scholarship on the topic, the essay demonstrates the wide circulation of these materials along the Silk Roads enabled by multiethnic traders, religious practitioners, and diplomats. Once imported into China, they acquired diverse uses in healing, food culture, and religious practices that generated new knowledge and transformed Chinese society. Their unique smells could also alter the ways of prescribing medicines and relishing food, and enhance the bodily experience of the devoted. An in‐depth study of aromatics using a multidisciplinary approach will not only deepen our understanding of premodern Chinese society but also offer an alternative worldview of aromatics that counteracts the one habituated by the “rise of the West” in early modern times.
Temperature and tree number drive tree crown‐dwelling arthropod diversity in Brazilian semi‐arid cities
Authors: Viana‐Junior Arleu Barbosa , Silva Luiz Filipe Santos , Pinheiro‐Júnior Edíson Cardoso , Santos Edna Karolyne do Nascimento , Araújo Matheus Carvalho , Alves Ítalo Emmanuel Costa , Martins Bruno da Silva , Pereira Joselice da Silva , Santana‐Santos Rafaella , Santos Bráulio Almeida , Bezerra‐Gusmão Maria Avany 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Urbanisation is one of the most severe land use changes with significant negative impacts on several biological groups. However, the response of arthropods to this process is still unclear, especially in cities located in arid regions, which represent an important part of global urban ecosystems.
Here, we examined variations in abundance, richness, diversity and taxonomic composition of the tree crown‐dwelling arthropods in 10 Brazilian cities of semiarid climate located in the dry forest region (Caatinga), taking into account temperature gradients and number of street trees along the cities. We expected that cooler (in a hot range of temperature) and more forested cities would present richer, more abundant and distinct communities than warmer cities. This hypothesis is supported by the large amount of evidence showing the negative effects of temperature on the local structuring of biological communities. We used the method of the arboreal arthropod collector to sample the arthropod community inhabiting trees crowns up to 10 m in height.
We collected a total of 22,911 arthropod specimens belonging to two classes (Insecta and Arachnida) and 24 orders. As expected, temperature (min 21.7°C, max 26.8°C) proved to be a significant predictor of arthropod diversity in semiarid cities. Cities with higher temperatures reduce taxonomic unit richness (0D) by 33% and diversity (1D and 2D) in up to 75% and affect composition of arthropod orders composition. On the other hand, the effect of tree numbers showed distinct responses among the sampled orders, positively contributing to the abundance of Psocoptera, while exerting a negative effect on the abundance of Thysanoptera.
Overall, our findings highlight the importance of temperature and number of trees in determining urban arthropod fauna.
Assessing the longitudinal association between sleep, diet quality and BMIz‐score among Black adolescent girls
Authors: Trude Angela C. B. , Covington Lauren B. , Armstrong Bridget , Vedovato Gabriela M. , Black Maureen M. 
Published: December 2024

SummaryBackgroundCross‐sectional research has suggested associations between diet, sleep and obesity, with sparse longitudinal research.ObjectivesTo identify longitudinal mechanistic associations between sleep, diet and obesity.MethodsWe used longitudinal data from a sample of Black adolescent girls. At T1 (enrolment), 6 months (T2) and 18 months (T3), we estimated sleep duration and quality (7‐day accelerometry), diet quality (Healthy Eating Index [HEI‐2020]) and body mass z‐scores (zBMI) from measured height and weight. Longitudinal mediation using structural equation models examined the mechanistic roles of sleep, diet quality and zBMI.ResultsAt enrolment, girls (n = 441) were mean age 12.2 years (±0.71), 48.3% had overweight/obesity, and mean HEI 55.8 (±7.49). The association between sleep and diet quality did not vary over time. Sleep duration at T1 was not associated with diet quality at T2 nor was diet associated with zBMI at T3. The bootstrapped indirect effect was not significant. Sleep quality at T1 was not associated with diet quality at T2 nor was diet associated with zBMI at T3. The bootstrapped indirect effect was not significant.ConclusionsDiet was not a mediator between sleep and obesity. Study strengths are the longitudinal design and direct measures of sleep and zBMI among a homogeneous sample.
Brexit, what Brexit? Euro area portfolio exposures to the United Kingdom since the Brexit referendum
Authors: Carvalho Daniel , Schmitz Martin 
Published: December 2024

AbstractWe study euro area investors' portfolio adjustment since the Brexit referendum in terms of securities issued in the UK or denominated in pound sterling, in the context of heightened policy uncertainty surrounding the exit process of the UK from the EU. Our sector‐level analysis ‘looks‐through’ holdings of investment fund shares to gauge euro area sectors' full exposures. Our key finding is the absence of a negative ‘Brexit‐effect’, rendering UK‐issued and pound‐denominated securities less attractive. Instead, we observe that all euro area sectors increased their absolute and relative exposures to UK‐issued and pound‐denominated debt securities since the Brexit referendum, as well as to listed shares issued by UK nonfinancial corporations, while the exposures to shares issued by UK banks declined. These findings should be seen against the backdrop of low yields on euro area debt securities and a strong recovery in UK share prices since the Brexit referendum.
Unveiling the glass‐forming ability of MOF: A high‐throughout simulation and data mining
Authors: Shi Zuhao , Liu Bin , Wang Hao , Arramel Arramel , Li Wei , Yue Yuanzheng , Li Neng 
Published: December 2024

AbstractThe correlation between the glass‐forming ability (GFA) of Metal–Organic Frameworks (MOFs) and their structural characteristics remains poorly understood. To address this gap, we analyze over 20,000 MOFs from the MOF database, comparing geometric and electronic order parameters between zeolitic imidazolate frameworks (ZIFs) and other MOFs. Our findings reveal a set of order parameters that effectively capture the thermal stability, and GFA of MOFs, acting as structural genes to predict glass formation. Through molecular dynamics simulations on representative ZIFs structures, we validate the reliability of these order parameters, particularly the total bond‐order density (TBOD) and the largest cavity diameter (LCD), for screening potential melt‐quenched MOFs. Furthermore, we predict that external pressure and electric fields can control the TBOD of MOFs, expanding our understanding of their thermal stability. This work identifies structural genes associated with the melt stability of MOFs, and contributes valuable insights into the prediction and understanding of MOFs glass‐forming ability.
Does charge trapping affect subcritical crack growth behavior of yttria‐stabilized zirconia?
Authors: Andričević P. , Johansen N. F‐J. , Erives R. I. , Vasiljević M. , Norby P. , Sørensen B. F. , Jain M. 
Published: December 2024

AbstractExposure to ionizing radiation has been known to affect the mechanical properties of solids; however, the exact mechanisms remain debated. In this study, we test the hypothesis that long lived metastable states formed by trapping of charges within defects influence subcritical cracking (SCC). Crack propagation rates were measured in 5 mol% Yttria‐stabilized zirconia samples, with and without prior exposure to Co‐60 gamma radiation (10 kGy absorbed dose). Crack growth was followed in situ by employing a double cantilever beam specimen inside an environmental scanning electron microscope (ESEM). In comparison with the unirradiated samples, an increased energy release rate of ∼10 J/m2 was required to maintain SCC in the irradiated samples conforming to an increase in SCC fracture resistance. Raman and x‐ray studies preclude any phase transformation and volume change due to irradiation; however, there was a significant change in optical absorption characteristics observed as the darkening of the irradiated sample. Thermally and optically stimulated luminescence measurements suggest that sample darkening is caused by metastable states that form due to charge trapping during radiation exposure. A closer examination of the SEM images demonstrates an increased number of microcracks ahead of the main crack in the irradiated specimens. We conclude that charge trapping in defects due to irradiation, and subsequent detrapping during crack propagation by mechanical stresses, initiate the formation of these microcracks. Consequently, energy is consumed during the interactions between the main crack and the developing microcracks, ultimately ensuing an overall increase in fracture resistance in the SCC regime.
First‐principle calculations of Hf2S1−xTexB${\rm Hf}_{2}{\rm S}_{1-x}{\rm Te}_{x}{\rm B}$ (0≤x≤1$0 \le x \le 1$) with a Cr2AlC-type${\rm Cr}_{2}{\rm AlC\text{-}type}$ MAX‐phase crystal structure
Authors: Zhang Fengjuan , Cao Lei , Zeng Ying , Hu Chunfeng , Ekholm Marcus , Feng Qingguo 
Published: December 2024

AbstractThe widely recognized MAX‐phase materials consist of an early transition metal (M), an A‐group element, and carbon or nitrogen (X) in a hexagonal layered crystal structure. Recently, materials known as MAB phase materials have been developed by substituting boron (B) for the carbon or nitrogen. We have studied an MAB phase alloy system, , by mixing the elements on the A site in the prototypical MAX‐phase crystal structure instead of the more common M site. We have considered thermodynamic, mechanical and electronic properties of the resulting alloy system in the entire composition range, . With increasing Te content, the modulus of elasticity and hardness show a decreasing trend, while the material retains its electrical conductivity. Further analysis of the optical properties shows that the studied solid solutions are good candidates for effective absorbing materials in the UV region. Our study indicates that strategic alloying within the A site of MAB phases can selectively tailor certain material properties while preserving their favorable electrical and mechanical performance.
The beneficial and detrimental effects of prolactin hormone on metabolic syndrome: A double‐edge sword
Authors: Zaidalkilani Ayah Talal , Al‐Kuraishy Hayder M. , Al‐Gareeb Ali I. , Alexiou Athanasios , Papadakis Marios , AL‐Farga Ammar , Alghamdi Othman A. , Bahaa Mostafa M. , Alrouji Mohammed , Alshammari Mohammed S. , Batiha Gaber El‐Saber 
Published: December 2024

AbstractThe metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a clustering of abdominal obesity, hypertension, hyperglycaemia, hypertriglyceridemia and low high‐density lipoprotein (HDL) level. MetS development is affected by endocrine hormones such as prolactin (PRL) hormone which induce insulin resistance and central obesity because PRL is implicated in the pathogenesis of MetS. Pituitary PRL controls mammary gland, however extra‐pituitary PRL is highly intricate in the regulation of adipose tissue function. In addition, cAMP activators enhance expression and release of PRL which involved in the control of lipogenesis and energy homeostasis. Consequently, hyperprolactinaemia may be associated with the development of MetS. However, normal physiological level of PRL is essential for insulin sensitivity and regulation of adipose tissue function and energy metabolism. Therefore, PRL has dual effects on the components of MetS. Hence, the present review aims to discuss the modulatory mechanistic role of PRL on MetS regarding its beneficial and detrimental effects.
Identifying Risk Factors of Major Adverse Cardiac Events in Patients With Ulcerative Colitis: A Retrospective Japanese Claims Data Analysis
Authors: Takagi Tomohisa , Xu Linghua , Hoshi Masato , Arai Shoko 
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACTBackground and AimWe conducted a retrospective study to identify incidence rates and potential risk factors of major adverse cardiac events (MACE) in Japanese patients with ulcerative colitis (UC), as existing data are scarce, inconsistent, and provide limited representation of the real‐world situation of MACE in Japan.MethodsWe utilized administrative claims data, collected between January 2013 and December 2022, from Medical Data Vision, Japan. Patients (aged ≥ 20 years) diagnosed with UC within ± 1 month of the prescription date during the study period were included in the incident cohort. Exclusions comprised patients diagnosed with UC in the first 365 days or with myocardial infarction, heart failure, stroke, or other ischemic heart diseases within 30 days pre‐index. The cumulative incidence rate of MACE was calculated using the Kaplan–Meier method. Multivariate Cox regression models were used to calculate hazard ratios (HRs) for all relevant potential risk factors.ResultsOf 11 407 patients in the incident cohort, 91 (0.8%) experienced incident MACE. Over 120 months, the cumulative incidence rate of MACE was 2.86% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.89–4.32). Significant HRs (95% CI) were found for age category (≥ 65 years) (4.557 [2.786–7.452]), diabetes (1.709 [1.030–2.835]), and atrial fibrillation (AF) (2.759 [1.188–6.405]) (all p < 0.05). Patients with a history of stroke showed numerically increased risk (1.871 [0.508–6.886]) of MACE.ConclusionsThe cumulative incidence rate of MACE was 2.86% over 120 months. Age, comorbidities of diabetes and AF, and history of stroke were the major risk factors for MACE in Japanese UC patients.
Gastrointestinal: Direct Visualization of Biliary Tuberculosis
Authors: Saleepol Aniwat , Chulroek Thitinan , Vimonsuntirungsri Thanrada , Luangsukrerk Thanawat 
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACTBackgroundBiliary tuberculosis is a rare type of hepatobiliary tuberculosis. Clinical presentation, imaging, or cholangiogram are difficult to distinguish from other common causes of cholangiopathy or malignancy. Direct visualization of bile duct via cholangioscopy and targeted biopsy was introduced as one of effective investigations for tissue acquisition and diagnosis.Case ReportWe present a case of biliary tuberculosis presented with pruritus, progressive painless jaundice and significant weight loss. Laboratory findings showed an obstructive jaundice. MRI showed multifocal bile duct stricture and intrahepatic duct stone. Single operator cholangioscopy revealed ductal stricture with papillary projection at common hepatic duct and pigmented stone. Targeted biopsy was performed, which showed non‐necrotizing granulomatous inflammation and detection of Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex DNA.ConclusionDirect visualization via cholangioscopy can aid and increase diagnostic yield of biliary tuberculosis.
Naming and Navigating Matters: Family Therapists' Perspectives Facilitating Ethnic–Racial Socialization Practices With Latino Parents
Authors: Yzaguirre Melissa M. , Holtrop Kendal 
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACTPersistent ethnic–racial discrimination in the lives of minoritized clients requires a better understanding of effective practices for family therapists working with Latino families. Ethnic–racial socialization (ERS) can help mitigate the adverse effects of discrimination; however, ERS practices are less known as a therapeutic tool, resulting in a critical gap in the existing literature and limiting the support that family therapists can provide to Latino families. In response, the current study investigated family therapists' lived experiences facilitating ERS practices with Latino parents in therapy. Semi‐structured interviews with family therapists (n = 20) from 10 US states were conducted. A rigorous thematic analysis revealed two key themes related to the approaches used by family therapists for explicitly naming and navigating ERS‐related conversations when working with Latino parents and families. The results can inform recommendations for promoting conversations related to race, ethnicity, culture, ethnic–racial discrimination, and immigration with Latino parents in family therapy.
Treatment of Acne Vulgaris With a 650‐ms, 1064‐nm Nd:YAG Laser: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Olugbade Idowu D. , Petty Anna C. , Imahiyerobo‐Ip Joyce 
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACTBackgroundThe 650‐ms, 1064‐nm Nd:YAG laser device may provide superior efficacy and tolerability for the treatment of acne vulgaris over conventional treatments.AimTo evaluate the efficacy and tolerability of a 650‐ms laser for the treatment of mild to severe facial acne vulgaris.Patients/MethodsRecords of 225 subjects with mild to severe facial acne vulgaris and treated with a 650‐ms laser were reviewed.ResultsSubjects required a median of 3 treatments to achieve clearance. Clearance was achieved in 108/225 (48%) subjects. Adverse effects were limited to acne flare‐ups and dryness. Treatment with isotretinoin was not required in 180/209 (80%) of subjects. A variety of topical and oral medications and non‐laser procedures may be used in conjunction with the 650‐ms laser without adverse effects. At the 6‐month follow‐up visit, the median Investigator Global Scale (IGA) score was 1.0 (almost clear). For most IGA‐rated parameters differences between white patients and patients with skin of color were not statistically significant.ConclusionThe 650‐ms, 1064‐nm Nd:YAG laser provides a safe and efficacious treatment of mild to severe acne in patients with white skin and skin of color.
Pseudomonas aeruginosa bloodstream infections in children in Queensland, Australia, 2000–2019
Authors: Slack Mary P E , Grimwood Keith , Tuzel Elcin , Kim Hansoo , Edwards Felicity , Laupland Kevin B 
Published: December 2024

AimTo investigate the incidence, risk factors and outcomes of Pseudomonas aeruginosa bloodstream infections (P‐BSI) in Queensland children aged 0–18 years.MethodsA retrospective data‐linkage study was conducted of P‐BSI identified by Pathology Queensland laboratories from resident Queensland children admitted to publicly‐funded Queensland Hospitals between 2000 and 2019. We estimated age‐standardised incidence of P‐BSI and case fatality ratios (48 h, 7‐, 30‐ and 90‐day all‐cause mortality from the date of the blood culture collection). Data on underlying co‐morbidities related to the episode of P‐BSI were collected from statewide databases.ResultsOverall, 297 episodes of P‐BSI were identified in 265 children, with an overall incidence of 1.14 infections/100 000 child‐years. The median age of children with P‐BSI was 3.7 years [interquartile range 1.2–10.7 years]. Almost 90% (n = 266/297) of infections were healthcare‐associated. There were 36 (36 episodes) neonates (31 preterm <37 weeks gestation), of whom 12 (33.3%) and 15 (41.7%) neonates died within 48 h and 7 days of the P‐BSI, respectively. The remaining 229 (261 episodes) children were aged 1 month to 18 years, and 234/261 (89.7%) episodes were associated with underlying co‐morbidities, especially haematological malignancies. Eleven, 15 and 24 of the 229 children beyond the neonatal age group died within 48 h (4.8%), 7 days (6.6%) and 30 days (10.5%), respectively of the index blood culture. Neonates, healthcare‐associated hospital onset infections, cardiovascular co‐morbidity, and multi‐drug resistance were significantly associated with early mortality.ConclusionsP‐BSI occurs predominantly in vulnerable, hospitalised children with underlying comorbidities, especially in preterm neonates and those with haematological malignancies, and is associated with substantial mortality.