bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Optimal taxation under status consumption and preferences for equality
Authors: Aronsson Thomas , Sjögren Tomas , Yadav Sonal 
Published: September 2024

Abstract
This article analyses optimal taxation when (1) a fraction of people has positional preferences, and (2) concerns for relative consumption and preferences for equality are operative simultaneously. We show that incentive compatibility motivates a regressive marginal tax structure, which in the end implies that people with positional preferences are taxed at a lower marginal rate than people without such preferences. A counteracting mechanism arises if those who are not concerned with their relative consumption have preferences for income-equality, even if people with positional preferences should still be taxed at a lower marginal rate than motivated by their contributions to externalities.
Identification and analysis of imprinted genes in wild strawberry uncover a regulatory pathway in endosperm development
Authors: Joldersma Dirk , Guo Lei , Alger Elizabeth I , Ippoliti Christina , Luo Xi , Platts Adrian E , Edger Patrick P , Liu Zhongchi 
Published: September 2024

Abstract
Fertilization is a fundamental process that triggers seed and fruit development, but the molecular mechanisms underlying fertilization-induced seed development are poorly understood. Previous research has established AGamous-Like62 (AGL62) activation and auxin biosynthesis in the endosperm as key events following fertilization in Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) and wild strawberry (Fragaria vesca). To test the hypothesis that epigenetic mechanisms are critical in mediating the effect of fertilization on the activation of AGL62 and auxin biosynthesis in the endosperm, we first identified and analyzed imprinted genes from the endosperm of wild strawberries. We isolated endosperm tissues from F1 seeds of 2 wild strawberry F. vesca subspecies, generated endosperm-enriched transcriptomes, and identified candidate Maternally Expressed and Paternally Expressed Genes (MEGs and PEGs). Through bioinformatic analyses, we identified 4 imprinted genes that may be involved in regulating the expression of FveAGL62 and auxin biosynthesis genes. We conducted functional analysis of a maternally expressed gene FveMYB98 through CRISPR-knockout and over-expression in transgenic strawberries as well as analysis in heterologous systems. FveMYB98 directly repressed FveAGL62 at stage 3 endosperm, which likely serves to limit auxin synthesis and endosperm proliferation. These results provide an inroad into the regulation of early-stage seed development by imprinted genes in strawberries, suggest the potential function of imprinted genes in parental conflict, and identify FveMYB98 as a regulator of a key transition point in endosperm development.
The microRNA399d-PHOSPHATE2 module alters rice sensitivity to rice ragged stunt virus by manipulating phosphate uptake
Authors: Lü Shaoyuan , Yu Xiyuan , Wu Xiaoqing , Hu Qiong , Zhu Xiao , Wu Ming , Hu Qun , Zhao Shanshan , Hu Jie , Wu Jianguo , Zhang Shuai 
Published: September 2024

Abstract
Rice (Oryza sativa L.) production frequently faces threats from biotic and abiotic stressors, with rice ragged stunt virus (RRSV) as a substantial biotic factor. The relationship between inorganic phosphorus content and susceptibility to RRSV is crucial yet poorly understood. This study investigates how phosphorus metabolism influences rice resistance to RRSV, focusing on genetic manipulations that modulate this relationship. The RRSV infection increased phosphate (Pi) content in the aerial parts of rice plants by enhancing Pi uptake and transport. Furthermore, the upregulation of microRNA399d (miR399d) and the suppression of its target gene OsPHOSPHATE2 (OsPHO2) enhanced Pi accumulation, increasing rice susceptibility to RRSV infection. Additionally, elevated Pi levels, which are associated with altered reactive oxygen species (ROS) dynamics, reduced ROS activity and potentially dampened the plant's innate immune response to viral infection. The miR399d-PHOSPHATE2 module was identified as pivotal in mediating phosphate uptake and influencing susceptibility to RRSV through modulations in the phosphorus and ROS pathways. This study shed light on the regulatory mechanisms of phosphorus nutrition in rice, revealing a critical interaction between phosphorus metabolism, ROS dynamics, and viral defense. The findings suggest potential strategies for manipulating Pi levels to enhance plant resistance against viruses, opening avenues for agricultural improvements and disease management in rice.
Positivity and Entanglement of Polynomial Gaussian Integral Operators
Authors: Balka Richárd , Csordás András , Homa Gábor 
Published: September 2024

Abstract
Positivity preservation is an important issue in the dynamics of open quantum systems: positivity violations always mark the border of validity of the model. We investigate the positivity of self-adjoint polynomial Gaussian integral operators $\widehat{\kappa }_{\operatorname{PG}}$; i.e. the multivariable kernel $\kappa _{\operatorname{PG}}$ is a product of a polynomial $P$ and a Gaussian kernel $\kappa _G$. These operators frequently appear in open quantum systems. We show that $\widehat{\kappa }_{\operatorname{PG}}$ can only be positive if the Gaussian part is positive, which yields a strong and quite easy test for positivity. This has an important corollary for the bipartite entanglement of the density operators $\widehat{\kappa }_{\operatorname{PG}}$: if the Gaussian density operator $\widehat{\kappa }_G$ fails the Peres–Horodecki criterion, then the corresponding polynomial Gaussian density operators $\widehat{\kappa }_{\operatorname{PG}}$ also fail the criterion for all $P$; hence they are all entangled. We prove that polynomial Gaussian operators with polynomials of odd degree cannot be positive semidefinite. We introduce a new preorder $\preceq$ on Gaussian kernels such that if $\kappa _{G_0}\preceq \kappa _{G_1}$ then $\widehat{\kappa }_{\operatorname{PG}_0}\ge 0$, implying that $\widehat{\kappa }_{\operatorname{PG}_1}\ge 0$ for all polynomials $P$. Therefore, deciding the positivity of a polynomial Gaussian operator determines the positivity of a lot of other polynomial Gaussian operators having the same polynomial factor, which might improve any given positivity test by carrying it out on a much larger set of operators. We will show an example that this really can make positivity tests much more sensitive and efficient. This preorder has implications for the entanglement problem, too.
The Impact of Crisis-Period Interest Rate Declines on Distressed Borrowers
Authors: Gabriel Stuart , Lutz Chandler 
Published: September 2024

Abstract
We measure the causal impact of reductions in benchmark interest rates on the renegotiation and performance of distressed loans, using 2000s subprime mortgages as a laboratory. Subprime borrowers treated with larger benchmark rate reductions benefited from increased debt-renegotiation probabilities and lower debt-service payments. Modification rates were similar among current and delinquent borrowers but higher for real estate investors, highlighting the role of financial acumen in renegotiation. Renegotiations also reduced longer-run foreclosures, but treated borrowers who lingered in delinquency offset these benefits. Findings suggest monetary easing can spur debt renegotiation but alone may not lead to longer-run curative outcomes.
Efficacy and safety of filgotinib in patients with moderately active rheumatoid arthritis and an inadequate response to methotrexate
Authors: Buch Maya H , Walker David , Edwards Christopher J , Barry Jane , Akroyd Laura , Ekoka Omoruyi Edmund V , Taylor Peter C 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Objectives
Clinical trials restricted to moderately active RA are limited. Filgotinib is approved for treating moderate to severe active RA. This post hoc analysis assessed the efficacy and safety of filgotinib in moderately active RA.

Methods
In FINCH 1, patients with active moderate to severe RA and inadequate response to methotrexate received filgotinib 200 mg or 100 mg (FIL200/FIL100) once daily, adalimumab 40 mg every 2 weeks or placebo, all with methotrexate (N = 1755). This subgroup analysis was conducted in patients with a moderate baseline Disease Activity Score in 28 joints using C-reactive protein [DAS28-CRP; &gt;3.2 to ≤5.1; n = 425 (24.2%)].

Results
A higher proportion of patients achieved DAS28-CRP &lt;2.6, Clinical Disease Activity Index (CDAI) remission (≤2.8), low disease activity (LDA) (DAS28-CRP ≤3.2 or CDAI ≤10) and American College of Rheumatology (ACR20/50/70) responses with FIL200 and FIL100 vs placebo at weeks 12 and 24. Week 12 ACR20 response rates (primary end point) were 77.9%, 67.8% and 43.8%, respectively. A total of ∼75% of patients achieved DAS28-CRP LDA by week 24 with either filgotinib dose. FIL200 and FIL100 elicited greater improvements in patient-reported outcomes than placebo. The efficacy of filgotinib, maintained through week 52, was comparable to that of adalimumab. Frequency of adverse events (AEs) was similar with filgotinib and adalimumab. Infections were the most common AEs; incidence rates were 40–53% in active treatment groups.

Conclusion
In this subpopulation with moderately active RA, the efficacy and safety of filgotinib were similar to those in the overall FINCH 1 population (patients with active moderate to severe RA).

Trial registration
ClinicalTrials.gov, http://clinicaltrials.gov, NCT02889796.
Vessel wall MRI in giant cell arteritis: standardized protocol and scoring approach developed by an international working group
Authors: Rhee Rennie L , Bathla Girish , Rebello Ryan , Kurtz Robert M , Junek Mats , Warrington Kenneth J , Khalidi Nader , Merkel Peter A , Guggenberger Konstanze V , Tamhankar Madhura A , Bley Thorsten A ,   for the Vasculitis Clinical Research Consortium, Cuthbertson David , Borchin Renée L , Grayson Peter C , Khalidi Nader , Krischer Jeffrey P , Langford Carol A , McAlear Carol A , Merkel Peter A , Pagnoux Christian , Specks Ulrich , Warrington Kenneth J 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Objectives
There are an increasing number of centres performing research on high-resolution vessel wall magnetic resonance imaging (VW-MRI) in GCA. However, harmonized approaches to VW-MRI in GCA are lacking and are essential to performing multicentre studies. Using a data-driven, consensus-based approach, an international expert group developed a standardized MRI protocol and scoring system to advance multi-centred research in cranial GCA.

Methods
A targeted literature review of VW-MRI in cranial GCA was conducted. A working group comprised of radiologists, rheumatologists and ophthalmologists with expertise in VW-MRI and GCA reviewed the results of the literature search, presented relevant data and images from their respective centres, and then reached consensus on recommendations related to key MRI structures, MRI sequences, scoring system and other important considerations.

Results
A total of 21 relevant articles were identified and reviewed. Based on published literature, structures to be evaluated on MRI were categorized based on anatomic location (extradural cranial, intradural cranial and orbits) and prioritization (core vs elective). Essential and elective sequences to comprehensively image cranial and orbital structures while minimizing scan time were determined along with scoring systems to grade contrast enhancement.

Conclusion
This report describes a standardized approach to facilitate research of VW-MRI in cranial GCA that is the result of a multidisciplinary, international collaboration of experts in VW-MRI and/or GCA.
Effects of mixed metal exposure on MRI metrics in basal ganglia
Authors: Kim Juhee , Kim Byoung-Gwon , Hong Young-Seoub , Lee Eun-Young 
Published: September 2024

Abstract
Welding fumes contain various metals. Past studies, however, mainly focused on Manganese (Mn)-related neurotoxicity. This study investigated welding-related mixed metal exposure effects on MRI metrics in the basal ganglia (BG) and their dose–response relationship. Subjects with (N = 23) and without (N = 24) a welding exposure history were examined. Metal exposure was estimated with an exposure history questionnaire and whole blood metal levels. T1 (weighted-intensity and relaxation time; estimates of brain Mn accumulation), diffusion tensor imaging (axial [AD], mean [MD], radial diffusivity, and fractional anisotropy [FA]; estimates of microstructural differences) metrics in BG (caudate nucleus, putamen, and globus pallidus [GP]), and voxel-based morphometry (for volume) were examined and related with metal exposure measures. Compared with controls, welders showed higher GP R1 (1/T1; P = 0.034) but no differences in blood metal and T1-weighted (T1W) values in any ROIs (P’s &gt; 0.120). They also had higher AD and MD values in the GP (P’s &lt; 0.033) but lower FA values in the putamen (P = 0.039) with no morphologic differences. In welders, higher blood Mn and Vanadium (V) levels predicted higher BG R1 and T1W values (P’s &lt; 0.015). There also were significant overall metal mixture effects on GP T1W and R1 values. Moreover, GP AD and MD values showed nonlinear associations with BG T1W values: They increased with increasing T1W values only above certain threshold of T1 values. The current findings suggest that Mn and V individually but also metal mixtures jointly predict GP T1 signals that may in turn contribute to altered DTI metrics in the BG after certain exposure threshold levels.
Dormancy characteristics of lammas-growth seedlings of subtropical trees and their phenological responses to experimental warming
Authors: Zheng Jinbin , He Yi , Wang Fucheng , Zheng Rujing , Wu Jiasheng , Hänninen Heikki , Zhang Rui 
Published: September 2024

Abstract
Lammas growth of trees means the additional growth of the shoot after the growth cessation and bud set in late summer. In temperate tree species, lammas growth occurs irregularly and is often regarded as abnormal, disturbed growth. In subtropical tree species, however, lammas growth is a prevalent phenomenon, possibly due to the prolonged occurrence of high temperatures in the autumn. The occurrence of lammas growth extends the growing season of trees, but its influence on subsequent dormancy phenomena and bud burst phenology remains largely unexplored. By comparing seedlings showing lammas growth with others not showing it, we carried out an experimental study of how lammas growth affects the bud burst phenology and the underlying dormancy phenomena under both ambient and controlled chilling, forcing and warming conditions in four subtropical tree species: Carya illinoinensis, Cinnamomum japonicum, Phoebe chekiangensis and Torreya grandis. With the exception of C. illinoinensis, lammas growth delayed bud burst in all the species under ambient conditions. In the chilling experiment, the delayed bud burst appeared to be due to higher minimum forcing requirement, higher dormancy depth, and in T. grandis, also due to lower chilling sensitivity in the lammas-growth seedlings than in the non-lammas-growth ones. However, a spring warming experiment showed that the sensitivity of bud burst to spring temperatures was higher in the lammas-growth seedlings than in the non-lammas-growth ones. Because of this, the difference between the two phenotypes in the timing of bud burst vanished with increasing warming. Our findings elucidate the significant impact of lammas growth on the dormancy dynamics of subtropical tree species, highlighting the necessity to better understand how the physiological phenomena causing lammas growth change the trees’ subsequent environmental responses under changing climatic conditions.
Timing of Radiographic Healing for Distal Femur Fractures Treated With Intramedullary Nails
Authors: Brodke Dane , Devana Sai , Hernandez Adolfo , O'Hara Nathan , Burke Cynthia , Gupta Jayesh , McKibben Natasha , O'Toole Robert , Morellato John , Gillon Hunter , Walters Murphy , Barber Colby , Perdue Paul , Dekeyser Graham , Steffenson Lillia , Marchand Lucas , Fairres Marshall James , Black Loren , Roddy Erika , El Naga Ashraf , Hogue Matthew , Gulbrandsen Trevor , Atassi Omar , Mitchell Thomas , Shymon Stephen , Working Zachary , Lee Christopher 
Published: September 2024

OBJECTIVES:
The aim of this study was to profile modified Radiographic Union Scale for Tibia (mRUST) scores over time in distal femur fractures treated with intramedullary nails and identify predictors of radiographic union timing and delayed progression.

METHODS:

Design:
Multicenter retrospective cohort study.

Setting:
Ten Level I Trauma Centers.

Patient Selection Criteria:
The inclusion criteria were patients with distal femur fractures (OTA/AO 33A and 33 C) treated with intramedullary nails, with a minimum follow-up of 1 year or until radiographic union or reoperation. The exclusion criteria were fractures treated with combination nail-plate constructs, pathologic fractures, and patients younger than 18 years old.

Outcome Measures and Comparisons:
The primary outcome was the mRUST score at 3, 6, and 12 months postoperatively. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis identified the optimal 3-month mRUST score predicting reoperation. Multivariable models were used to identify predictors of radiographic union timing and delayed progression.

RESULTS:
The study included 155 fractures in 152 patients, with a mean patient age of 51 and a mean follow-up of 17 months. A 3-month mRUST score of ≤8 predicted reoperation with a PPV of 25% and a NPV of 99%. The timing of radiographic union was associated with tobacco use (1.2 months later; P = 0.04), open fracture (1.4 months later; P = 0.04), and the use of topical antibiotics (2.1 months longer; 95% CI, 0.33–3.84; P = 0.02); however, topical antibiotics were at high risk of being confounded by injury severity. Delayed progression to fracture healing, wherein the most rapid radiographic healing occurs more than 3 months postoperatively, was predicted by chronic kidney disease (P < 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS:
A 3-month mRUST score >8 suggests a very high likelihood of avoiding reoperation for nonunion. Tobacco use and open fractures were associated with a longer time to radiographic union. Chronic kidney disease is associated with a delayed radiographic progression, suggesting a need for adjusted expectations and management strategies in these patients.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE:
Prognostic Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
Geospatial Data Aggregation Methods for Novel Geographies: Validating Congressional District Life Expectancy Estimates
Authors: Schnake-Mahl Alina , Anfuso Giancarlo , Hernandez Stephanie M. , Bilal Usama 
Published: September 2024

Background:
Place is a critical determinant of health. Recent novel analyses have explored health outcome estimation for small geographies, such as census tracts, as well as health outcome aggregation to geopolitical geographies with accountable political representatives, such as congressional districts. In one such application, combining these approaches, researchers aggregated census tract estimates of life expectancy at the congressional district level to derive local estimates, but such an approach has not been validated.

Methods:
Here, we compared two sources and approaches to calculating life expectancy data for Pennsylvania congressional districts. We used 2010–2015 census tract life expectancy estimates from the US Small-area Life Expectancy Estimates Project and dasymetric methods to compute population-weighted life expectancy aggregated to the congressional district level. Using georeferenced Vital Statistics data, we aggregated age-specific census tract death and population counts to congressional districts and used abridged life tables to estimate life expectancy. To validate the dasymetric aggregated estimates we compared absolute differences, assessed the correlation, and created Bland–Altman plots to visualize the agreement between the two measures.

Results:
We found strong agreement between congressional district estimates of life expectancy at birth derived using the dasymetric Life Expectancy Estimates Project model–based approach and the Vital Statistics direct estimates approach, though life expectancy at older ages (75 years and older) showed weak correlations.

Conclusions:
This validation contributes to our understanding of geospatial aggregation methods for novel geographies including congressional districts. Health outcome data aggregated to the congressional district geography can support congressional policymaking aimed at improving population health outcomes.
Implementing a Phase II Quality Control Protocol for a High Precision 137Cs Dosimetry Calibration Irradiator
Authors: Noey Jordan D. , Stewart Colin J. , Kearfott Kimberlee J. 
Published: September 2024

Abstract
In medical physics, rigorous quality assurance and quality control protocols are vital for precise dose delivery applications. In many health physics applications, the allowable uncertainty for various processes is often greater than that of medical physics due to looser safety ties. This results in less demand for quality control and uncertainty analyses, since these may not be needed. However, certain applications can benefit from a comprehensive quality control program, as it may yield important insights, such as air kerma monitoring in dosimetry calibrations for environmental and low-dose applications. By implementing a thorough quality control program tailored to specific contexts and needs, uncertainties associated with dose measurements can be quantified with greater accuracy and reliability. This proactive approach not only ensures the integrity of data collected but also enhances understanding of the measured doses. For these reasons, a comprehensive quality control initiative was implemented following documented failures in a 137Cs dosimetry calibration irradiator. This involved systematic charge collection using NIST-traceable ion chambers to observe long-term changes. A Phase I quality control protocol was previously implemented, which employed Shewhart control charts and Nelson’s rules to analyze various datasets subgrouped under different conditions. This study addresses the development of a Phase II protocol, which focuses more on uncertainty quantification of systematic errors and irradiator changes, and air kerma precision for dosimetry calibrations. A designed experiment was performed to identify how much systematic errors influence the air kerma. Emphasis was placed on stricter quality assurance protocols, continuous data collection, and additional control charts to monitor short-term changes, such as exponentially weighted moving average control charts. A pre-irradiation control process was implemented to verify that the total air kerma met the measurement quality objective and to show how various uncertainties were applied before calibration. This study indicates how uncertainty is applied given observed air kerma measurements from the irradiator. Ongoing efforts aim to streamline the quality control procedure, ensure consistent data collection, and assess its impact on dosimetry applications.