bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Cortical activations in cognitive task performance at multiple frequency bands
Authors: Gong Zhu-Qing , Zuo Xi-Nian 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Neural oscillations are fundamental for brain function and govern various cognitive processes. Recent functional magnetic resonance imaging advances offer the opportunity to study frequency-specific properties of blood-oxygen-level-dependent oscillations at multiple frequency bands. However, most have focused on spontaneous brain activity in the resting state, leaving a gap in direct evidence regarding the specific activations of cognitive tasks across different frequency bands. We aim to address this gap by exploring the role of blood-oxygen-level-dependent oscillations across multiple frequency bands in cognitive processes. We used task-functional magnetic resonance imaging data of 339 healthy young adults from the Human Connectome Project to map the activation patterns of performing seven cognitive tasks at multiple frequency bands (ie slow-1 to slow-6). Our findings revealed that different frequency bands are associated with distinct task-activation patterns. Specifically, slow-1/2/3 oscillations primarily contribute to local sensory information processing, while slow-4 is crucial for various fundamental cognitive functions. Slow-5 is involved in cognitive processes that require greater memory load, integrated cognitive processing, and attention maintenance. This underscores the importance of analyzing a broad frequency range to capture the full spectrum of cognitive function, highlighting the diverse roles of different frequency bands in brain activity, shedding light on the underlying mechanism of brain–behavior associations.
Impact of a smartphone-connected remote monitoring system on self-management continuity and health awareness in cardiovascular outpatients: an exploratory survey
Authors: Ishii Masanobu , Yamamoto Masahiro , Otsuka Yasuhiro , Ikebe So , Yamanouchi Yoshinori , Tsujita Kenichi , Nakamura Taishi 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Aims
Cardiovascular diseases are a leading cause of death globally, and effective self-management is critical for patient outcomes. Integrating Internet of Things-enabled devices with smartphone applications presents a novel approach to enhancing self-management, yet challenges with digital literacy and device usability persist, especially among the elderly. This study aimed to evaluate the adherence, ease of use, and impact on health awareness of a smartphone-connected remote monitoring system among cardiovascular outpatients in Japan.

Methods and results
We conducted a single-centre, prospective survey at Kumamoto University Hospital involving 10 cardiovascular outpatients (median age: 72.5 years) including heart failure (n = 2), hypertension (n = 3), post-cardiac surgery (n = 2), and others (n = 3). Participants received Bluetooth-enabled monitoring devices and a smartphone app for automatic data synchronization. Adherence, ease of use, and changes in health awareness were assessed through a structured questionnaire. The study found that 8 of 10 participants adhered to daily monitoring, with an average usage period of 48 days. Nine of 10 required minimal support with device use and 8 of 10 reported increase in health awareness. Seven of 10 indicated they could continue using it long term. The average recommendation score was 8.8/10. The timely detection of asymptomatic paroxysmal atrial fibrillation in one patient highlighted the system's potential clinical benefits.

Conclusion
This pilot study suggests that a smartphone-connected remote monitoring system may enhance self-management practices and health awareness among cardiovascular outpatients. While the findings are promising, larger studies with longer follow-up periods are needed to confirm these results and evaluate the system's impact on clinical outcomes.
Spotlight on the 2024 ESC/EACTS management of atrial fibrillation guidelines: 10 novel key aspects
Authors: Rienstra Michiel , Tzeis Stylianos , Bunting Karina V , Caso Valeria , Crijns Harry J G M , De Potter Tom J R , Sanders Prashanthan , Svennberg Emma , Casado-Arroyo Ruben , Dwight Jeremy , Guasti Luigina , Hanke Thorsten , Jaarsma Tiny , Lettino Maddalena , Løchen Maja-Lisa , Lumbers R Thomas , Maesen Bart , Mølgaard Inge , Rosano Giuseppe M C , Schnabel Renate B , Suwalski Piotr , Tamargo Juan , Tica Otilia , Traykov Vassil , Kotecha Dipak , Van Gelder Isabelle C 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Atrial fibrillation (AF) remains the most common cardiac arrhythmia worldwide and is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. The European Society of Cardiology (ESC)/European Association for Cardio-Thoracic Surgery (EACTS) have recently released the 2024 guidelines for the management of AF. This review highlights 10 novel aspects of the ESC/EACTS 2024 Guidelines. The AF-CARE framework is introduced, a structural approach that aims to improve patient care and outcomes, comprising of four pillars: [C] Comorbidity and risk factor management, [A] Avoid stroke and thromboembolism, [R] Reduce symptoms by rate and rhythm control, and [E] Evaluation and dynamic reassessment. Additionally, graphical patient pathways are provided to enhance clinical application. A significant shift is the new emphasis on comorbidity and risk factor control to reduce AF recurrence and progression. Individualized assessment of risk is suggested to guide the initiation of oral anticoagulation to prevent thromboembolism. New guidance is provided for anticoagulation in patients with trigger-induced and device-detected sub-clinical AF, ischaemic stroke despite anticoagulation, and the indications for percutaneous/surgical left atrial appendage exclusion. AF ablation is a first-line rhythm control option for suitable patients with paroxysmal AF, and in specific patients, rhythm control can improve prognosis. The AF duration threshold for early cardioversion was reduced from 48 to 24 h, and a wait-and-see approach for spontaneous conversion is advised to promote patient safety. Lastly, strong emphasis is given to optimize the implementation of AF guidelines in daily practice using a patient-centred, multidisciplinary and shared-care approach, with the simultaneous launch of a patient version of the guideline.
IK Channel Confers Fine-tuning of Rod Bipolar Cell Excitation and Synaptic Transmission in the Retina
Authors: Park Yong Soo , Sung Ki-Wug , Kim In-Beom 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
During retinal visual processing, rod bipolar cells (RBC) transfer scotopic signals from rods to AII amacrine cells as second-order neurons. Elucidation of the RBC’s excitation/inhibition is essential for understanding the visual signal transmission. Excitation mechanisms via mGluR6 and voltage-gated Ca2+ channels in the RBCs and GABAergic inhibitory synaptic inputs have been studied in previous studies. However, its intrinsic inhibitory mechanisms like K+ and Cl− channels remain unclear. We focused on RBC’s prominent K+ current, which exhibits voltage and Ca2+ dependence. We isolated and confirmed the expression of intermediate-conductance Ca2+-activated K+ channels (IK) in RBCs using the patch-clamp method with IK inhibitors (clotrimazole and TRAM34) and immunohistochemistry. The regulation of the IK channel primarily relies on Ca2+ influx via low-threshold Ca2+ channels during RBC’s excitation. Additionally, IK mediates late repolarization and suppresses excessive oscillation of the membrane potential in the RBCs, enabling fast and transient synaptic transmission to AII amacrine cells. Our findings highlight the unique role of the IK channel in RBCs, suggesting that it plays a critical role in the scotopic pathway by fine-tuning RBC activity.
Associations between breastfeeding and breast cancer risk through mammographic breast density in a cohort of Korean women
Authors: Kim Soyeoun , Tran Thi Xuan Mai , Kim Mi Kyung , Chung Min Sung , Lee Eun Hye , Lee Woojoo , Park Boyoung 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Background
Mammographic breast density has been suggested to play a role as a mediator between the risk factors for breast cancer (BC) and BC risk. We investigated the extent to which never breastfeeding is a risk factor for BC and how this risk is further mediated by increased mammographic breast density.

Methods
This retrospective cohort study included 4 136 723 women aged ≥40 years who underwent mammographic screening between 2009 and 2010 and were followed up until 31 December 2020. Breastfeeding information was obtained by using a self-administered questionnaire. Mammographic breast density was extracted from national BC screening results, which were assessed by trained radiologists and categorized into dense and fatty breasts. We estimated the hazard ratios (HRs) and the proportion of the associations between breastfeeding and BC risk mediated by breast density.

Results
The HR of never breastfeeding on BC risk was 1.34 (95% CI, 1.32–1.37) when adjusted for only parity, body mass index and smoking status, which were selected as covariates through a directed acyclic graph and 1.21 (95% CI, 1.19–1.23) when breast density was additionally adjusted. The proportion of the association between never breastfeeding and BC risk mediated by breast density in total, pre- and post-menopausal women was 35.48%, 17.86% and 24.0%, respectively (all P &lt; 0.001). The HR of never breastfeeding on BC risk was 1.10 (95% CI, 1.08–1.12) when adjusted for nine known breast cancer risk factors and 1.09 (95% CI, 1.07–1.12) when breast density was additionally adjusted. The proportion of the association between never breastfeeding and BC risk mediated by breast density in the total, pre- and post-menopausal women was 7.50%, 3.71% and 12.21%, respectively (all P &lt; 0.001).

Conclusions
Our findings suggest that the association between never breastfeeding and BC risk may be mediated by breast density. However, the HR and proportion of medications varied according to the adjusted covariates, highlighting that variables for adjustment should be selected based on directed acyclic graphs.
Education and Transitional Justice: Como, Para, Sobre
Authors: Russell S Garnett , Mantilla-Blanco Paula , Romero-Amaya Daniela , Cordero-Romero Tatiana 
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACT
Education systems play an important role in social transformation and in promoting transitional justice initiatives. While most studies on transitional justice focus on the legal or political aspects of transition, fewer studies focus on social aspects, and particularly the role of education. We examine pedagogical approaches to transitional justice and how this concept enters school spaces. Through a mixed methods study with students, teachers and school staff in 12 secondary schools in Colombia, we examine how local actors engage with ideas about transitional justice. We propose the CPS (como [as a modality], para [for the purpose of], sobre [about]) framework, which seeks to understand the nuanced and complex relationship between education and transitional justice. We find that although students and educators may not always be familiar with the language around transitional justice, many of the actions, pedagogy and activities already ongoing are in line with transitional justice goals and values.
Socioeconomic Inequities in the Age-Specific Burden of Severe Respiratory Syncytial Virus in Canada, 2016–2019
Authors: Alessandrini Jenna , Smith Brendan T , Fitzpatrick Tiffany , Buchan Sarah A 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Background
Limited attention has been given to social inequities in respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), particularly beyond childhood and neighborhood-level measures. This study aimed to quantify the burden of severe RSV disease across the age continuum by individual-level socioeconomic status (SES) indicators.

Methods
We conducted a longitudinal descriptive study of Canadians (excluding Québec) ≥6 months of age using the 2016 Canadian Census Health and Environment Cohort (2016–2019). International Classification of Diseases, 10th Revision–coded RSV-related hospitalization rates, rate ratios (RRs), and rate differences (RDs) per 100 000 person-years were estimated using Poisson regression.

Results
Rates of RSV-related hospitalization were greatest among Canadians with lower compared to higher SES, as indicated through income (RD, 11.7 [95% confidence interval {CI}, 10.1–13.3]; RR, 2.8 [95% CI, 2.4–3.2]), education (RD, 18.7 [95% CI, 16.6–20.9]; RR, 3.3 [95% CI, 2.9–3.7]), and measures of poorer housing conditions including unaffordable housing and apartment living. Inequities varied by measure and age group; while rates were highest among 6- to 59-month-olds and ≥80-year-olds overall, some of the greatest relative SES inequities were among other ages.

Conclusions
Understanding SES factors’ role in RSV-related hospitalization risk is necessary to inform equitable prevention efforts, including delivery of emerging RSV immunizations.
Mogroside V protects lipopolysaccharides-induced lung inflammation chicken via suppressing inflammation mediated by the Th17 through the gut-lung axis
Authors: Li Yuan , Wang Kai , Shen Dan , Liu Junze , Li Sheng , Liu Luyao , Nagaoka Kentaro , Li Chunmei 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) exposure triggers pulmonary inflammation, leading to compromised lung function in broiler. As amplified by policy restrictions on antibiotic usage, seeking antibiotic alternatives has become imperative. Mogroside V (MGV) has been reported to have a beneficial role in livestock and poultry production due to its remarkable antiinflammatory effects. Despite evidence showcasing MGV’s efficacy against LPS-triggered lung inflammation, its precise mechanism of action remains elusive. In this study, we transplanted normal fecal microbiota (CF), fecal microbiota modified by MGV (MF), and sterile fecal filtrate (MS) into broiler with LPS-induced pneumonia. The results showed that through fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT), transplanting MGV-induced microbial populations significantly mitigated tissue damage induced by LPS and enhanced the mRNA level of pulmonary tight junction proteins and mucoprotein (P &lt; 0.01). The expression levels of RORα (P &lt; 0.001), Foxp3 (P &lt; 0.01), and PD-L1 (P &lt; 0.01) were significantly increased in the MF group than CF group. The concentrations of IL-6 and IL-17 in broilers lung tissue of MF group were lower than those in broilers of CF group (P &lt; 0.05). Furthermore, the concentration of TGF-β in broilers serum of MS and MF groups was higher than those in broilers of CF group (P &lt; 0.05). Microbial community analysis demonstrated that at genus level, the harmful bacterial populations Escherichia-Shigella and Helicobacter following FMT treatment were significantly reduced in MF group (P &lt; 0.05), potentially mediating its protective effects. Compared with CF group, valerate content and FFAR2 mRNA expression levels in MF group were significantly increased (P &lt; 0.05). The study suggests that MGV via the gut-lung axis, attenuates Th17-mediated inflammation, offering promise as a therapeutic strategy against LPS-induced lung inflammation in chickens.
Genetic investigations into the use of sensory evaluation: the case of boar taint discrimination in Pietrain sired crossbreds
Authors: Markey Alice , Groβe-Brinkhaus Christine , Mörlein Daniel , Mörlein Johanna , Wilmot Hélène , Tholen Ernst , Gengler Nicolas 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Using genetic selection for raising intact boars, which improves growth and feed efficiency, is a promising alternative to castration for mitigating boar taint. Selective breeding has the potential to help to identify and select genetic lines with a reduced risk of boar taint. Common phenotypes are laboratory measurements of skatole (SKA) and androstenone (ANON) i.e., the major compounds responsible for boar taint, in backfat. However, an alternative exists: sensory evaluation by human assessors. The objectives of this study were (1) to estimate the genetic relationships among sensory scores (SENS) obtained by different assessors, (2) to correlate these scores with SKA and ANON, (3) to establish the independence of SENS from the causal traits, here SKA and ANON, by recursive modeling, holding those constant, and (4) to combine different assessors to allow an efficient selection against boar taint. Data included up to 1,016 records of SKA, ANON, and SENS (0–5) from 10 trained assessors on the backfat of intact males reared at least until puberty at three performance testing stations testing the products of Pietrain × commercial crossbred sows. Genetic parameters were estimated using restricted estimate maximum likelihood. Traits SKA and ANON were log10 transformed (SKAt and ANONt) and SENS traits were Snell transformed SENS (SENSt). Heritability estimates were 0.52 for SKAt and 0.53 for ANONt, those for SENSt ranged from 0.07 to 0.30. Moderate to high genetic correlations between some SENSt and SKAt (up to 0.87) and ANONt (up to 0.61) were found. Heritabilities and correlations indicated that some SENSt could be used to select against boar taint. Studying the independence of SENSt from SKAt and ANONt based on a posteriori recursive model revealed a large range of reductions of genetic variance: up to 71.08%. However, some SENSt remained moderately heritable (0.04–0.19) indicating independent genetic variance from SKAt and ANONt. This reflects that some heritable compounds potentially not related to SKA or ANON are perceived. Finally, the combination of assessors allowed, here shown with three assessors, to obtain a high heritability of 0.40, associated to high genetic and phenotypic correlations. Moreover, these results demonstrate the potential of using the sensory scores of several trained assessors for selection against boar taint.
FBBVA Lecture 2024: The Uncharted Waters of International Trade
Authors: Antràs Pol 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
The field of international trade has undergone significant theoretical and empirical advancements over the last 25 years. A key breakthrough has been the emergence of firm-level approaches to studying exporting, importing, and global value chains. The field has also experienced a quantitative revolution, driven by medium-scale models that rapidly assess the implications of trade cost shocks on real income. Additionally, a branch of the empirical literature has unshackled itself from the discipline of theoretical frameworks and from traditional data sources. Yet, several underexplored areas, or “uncharted waters,” remain in international trade research. I outline new potential areas for theoretical research, including incorporating oligopolistic (strategic) behavior into core models, and fostering greater cross-disciplinary collaboration with other fields in economics and social sciences, such as behavioral economics or political science. I also discuss potential uncharted waters for empirical trade economists, while identifying potential new sources of data and ways in which official trade statistics could be improved. Finally, I explore how big data and artificial intelligence could reshape the design of international trade policy in coming years.
International Criminal Justice
Authors: Ba Oumar 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
The selectivity at the heart of the international legal order is not indicative of hypocrisy, but rather the consistency with which the International Criminal Justice regime operates. The international legal order has always been predicated on a state of exception and exemption. The denial of humanity and the meting out of violence against the racialized ‘other’ is central to the liberal internationalist project. Ukraine and Gaza show that the future of International Criminal Justice in fact lies in its past.
Queer refugees and human rights: on the limits of recognition
Authors: Dixson Tina Nina 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
This article draws from the author’s lived experience of queer displacement and involvement in international advocacy for LGBTIQ+ refugees, focusing on key policy developments from 2016 to 2021. Central to this analysis is the Global Compact on Refugees (GCR), which, despite its potential, ultimately failed to specifically address the needs of LGBTIQ+ refugees. Through a lived-experience lens, the GCR’s text is critically examined, revealing its limitations in recognizing LGBTIQ+ refugees. Further analysis of UNHCR’s Global Roundtable on Protection and Solutions for LGBTIQ+ People in Forced Displacement exposes the power imbalances that hinder meaningful participation in spaces purportedly inclusive of LGBTIQ+ refugees. The author contends that mere visibility is insufficient for recognition; a redistribution of power is essential. Grounded in feminist and intersectional frameworks, the article advocates for a paradigm shift in refugee policy towards full inclusion, human rights protection, justice and social equity for LGBTIQ+ refugees.
Synergistic antimicrobial effects of thiamine dilauryl sulphate combined with the heartwood extract of Pterocarpus marsupium and antifungal mechanism in their combination
Authors: Inoue Moe Manbo , Kurotaki Hideki , Mizuhara Naoko , Ogita Akira , Matsumoto Kazuyori , Fujita Ken-ichi 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Thiamine dilauryl sulphate (TDS) exerts a bacteriostatic effect against Gram-positive bacteria and is used as a food additive. The heartwood extract of the Indian kino tree (Pterocarpus marsupium), a medicinal tree native to India, shows weak antimicrobial effects against bacteria and superficial dermatophyte-infective fungi. Herein, we report that the combination of TDS and P. marsupium extract exerts an additive or synergistic antimicrobial effect against various food spoilage microorganisms. Among the 13 species tested, this combination showed synergistic antimicrobial effects against Bacillus subtilis, Lactococcus lactis, Lactobacillus plantarum, and Candida albicans in an agar dilution method. We also found that the combination promoted the production of reactive oxygen species against a model yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae using a fluorescnt 2′,7′-dichlorofluorescein diacetate. Furthermore, the combination restricted drug efflux from yeast cells via efflux pumps in an efflux assay using a fluorescent rhodamine 6 G. These results suggest that the antifungal effect of TDS is improved in combination with P. marsupium extract via oxidative stress induction and drug efflux restriction. The combination of TDS and P. marsupium extract has a low environmental impact and toxicity when used in foods; therefore, it is also expected to be used in food and industrial products in the future.
Bayesian Sequential Experimental Design for Planning Series of Police Lineups
Authors: Zane Andy , Cohen Andrew , Jensen David , Starns Jeffrey , Tuttle Michael , Witty Sam 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
To differentiate between guilty and innocent suspects during a criminal case, investigators often query eyewitness memory with a series of police lineups. Most current research on lineup efficacy, however, focuses almost exclusively on individual lineups—perhaps because the literature lacks analytic tools for the multi-lineup setting. In this article, we develop the first general formalism for evaluating the configurations of series of police lineups, thereby equipping the lineup research community to more fully understand these important cases. To accomplish this, we ground the problem of configuring police lineups in the theory of Bayesian sequential experimental design. Using both synthetic data and publicly available data from human-subjects studies, we find that a well-configured series can yield information greater than the sum of its parts. Evidentiary value increases when lineups are configured in light of what has been learned from past lineups and what might be learned from future lineups. Strikingly, some naive approaches reduce the information gained about the suspect’s guilt or innocence to a degree comparable to losing an entire witness in a multi-witness investigation.