bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Quantified Legendreness and the Regularity of Minima
Authors: De Filippis Cristiana , Koch Lukas , Kristensen Jan 
Published: July 2024

AbstractWe introduce a new quantification of nonuniform ellipticity in variational problems via convex duality, and prove higher differentiability and 2d-smoothness results for vector valued minimizers of possibly degenerate functionals. Our framework covers convex, anisotropic polynomials as prototypical model examples—in particular, we improve in an essentially optimal fashion Marcellini’s original results (Marcellini in Arch Rat Mech Anal 105:267–284, 1989).
Pyrazole derivatives ameliorate synovial inflammation in collagen-induced arthritis mice model via targeting p38 MAPK and COX-2
Authors: Abdallah Ahlam M. , Naiem Amany H. Abdel , Abdelraheim Salama R. , Mohafez Omar M. , Abdelghany Hend M. , Elsayed Sahar A. , Gomaa Wafaey , Marey Heba 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
The type II collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) model and human rheumatoid arthritis exhibit similar characteristics. Both diseases involve the production of inflammatory cytokines and other mediators, triggering an inflammatory cascade linked to bone and cartilage damage. Recently, new pyrazole compounds with various pharmacological activities, including antimicrobial, anticancer, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic agents, have been reported. Our aim is to evaluate the therapeutic effectiveness of two newly synthesized pyrazole derivatives, M1E and M1G, in reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in a mouse model of collagen-induced arthritis. Arthritis was induced in DBA/1J mice, and the therapeutic effect of the M1E and M1G is assessed by measuring the arthritic index, quantifying the expression of inflammatory genes such as p38 MAPK, COX-2, IL1β, MMP3, and TNF-α using real-time PCR and analyzing protein expression using western blotting for phosphorylated p38 MAPK and COX-2. Oxidative stress markers and hind paws joint histopathology were also evaluated. Treatment with the two pyrazole derivatives significantly (p < 0.001) improved the arthritic score; downregulated the expression of inflammatory genes p38 MAPK, COX-2, IL1β, MMP3, and TNF-α; and reduced the protein expression of phosphorylated p3 MAPK and COX-2. In addition, both compounds ameliorated oxidative stress by increasing the activities of SOD and reducing the formation of MDA in the paw tissue homogenates. Both M1E and M1G significantly (p < 0.001) improved the pathological features of synovitis. The pyrazole derivatives, M1E and M1G, significantly reduced the arthritic score and the inflammatory cytokine expression, improved synovitis histopathology, and ameliorated oxidative stress in the CIA mice model.
Abdominal imaging in precocious puberty in girls: can imaging determine onset of puberty?
Authors: Smets Anne M. , Sofia Carmelo , Bruno Costanza , Ključevšek Damjana , Lobo Maria Luisa , Napolitano Marcello , Ozcan H. Nursun , Stafrace Samuel , Petit Philippe , Müller Lil-Sofie Ording 
Published: July 2024

AbstractPrecocious puberty in girls is defined by the appearance of secondary sex characteristics before the age of 8 years. Precocious puberty is either peripheral or central. In most cases, the cause of central precocious puberty is unknown. Rapidly progressive forms of central precocious puberty may benefit from puberty suppression to prevent compromised final height and psychosocial problems related to the physical changes. Idiopathic central precocious puberty in girls can be a challenging diagnosis. Clinical examination, evaluation of growth charts, bone age, and hormonal tests are part of the workup. The role of pelvic ultrasound to evaluate pubertal features of the internal genitalia in this context is controversial. In this paper, we have reviewed the literature to find the scientific bases for several proposed ultrasound parameters and cutoff values for the determination of onset of puberty in girls with suspected central precocious puberty. There are no reliable cutoffs for the measurements of uterus and ovaries for the diagnosis of central precocious puberty and there is overlap in the appearance of the organs in both prepubertal and pubertal girls. The interpretation of the findings on pelvic ultrasound must be done with caution and always in close communication with the referring clinicians.
Graphical Abstract
Influence of tumor thrombus morphology on the surgical complexity in renal cell carcinoma with inferior vena cava tumor thrombus: a single-center, large-sample study from China
Authors: Zhao Xun , Liu Zhuo , Chen Ji-yuan , Guo Wei , Zhang Hong-xian , Tian Xiao-jun , Wang Guo-liang , Liu Cheng , Ma Lu-lin , Zhang Shu-dong 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
Background
The morphology of tumor thrombus varies from person to person and it may affect surgical methods and tumor prognosis. However, studies on the morphology of tumor thrombus are limited. The purpose of our study was to evaluate the impact of tumor thrombus morphology on surgical complexity.

Methods
We retrospectively reviewed the clinical data of 229 patients with renal cell carcinoma combined with inferior vena cava (IVC) tumor thrombus who underwent surgical treatment at Peking University Third Hospital between January 2014 and December 2021. The patients were divided into floating morphology (107 patients) and filled morphology (122 patients) tumor thrombi groups. Chi-square and Mann–Whitney U tests were used for categorical and continuous variables, respectively. Postoperative complications were evaluated using the Clavien–Dindo surgical complication classification method.

Results
Patients with filled morphology tumor thrombus required more surgical techniques than those with floating morphology tumor thrombus, which was reflected in more open surgeries (P < 0.001), more IVC interruptions (P <0.001), lesser use of the delayed occlusion of the proximal inferior vena cava (DOPI) technique (P < 0.001), and a greater need for cut-off of the short hepatic vein (P < 0.001) and liver dissociation (P = 0.001). Filled morphology significantly increased the difficulty of surgery in patients with renal cell carcinoma with tumor thrombus, reflected in longer operation time (P < 0.001), more surgical blood loss (P <0.001), more intra-operative blood transfusion (P < 0.001), and longer postoperative hospital stay (P < 0.001). Filled morphology tumor thrombus also led to more postoperative complications (53% vs. 20%; P < 0.001).

Conclusion
Compared with floating morphology thrombus, filled morphology thrombus significantly increased the difficulty of surgery in patients with renal cell carcinoma with IVC tumor thrombus.
Prenatal parvovirus B19 infection
Authors: Kagan Karl Oliver , Hoopmann Markus , Geipel Annegret , Sonek Jiri , Enders Martin 
Published: July 2024

AbstractParvovirus B19 (B19V) causes erythema infectiosum, a.k.a., fifth disease. This disease primarily affects children. It is generally self-limiting and subsides after 1–2 weeks. In pregnancy, the virus can cross the placenta and result in a fetal infection. This may lead to severe fetal anemia, hydrops fetalis, a miscarriage, or intrauterine fetal death. The risk of long-term sequelae also appears to be increased. About one-third of pregnant women are not immune to B19V and, therefore, are at risk to contract a primary infection. The seroconversion rate during pregnancy is generally around 1–2%. During a primary infection, maternal–fetal transplacental transmission of B19V occurs in about 30–50% of the cases and the risk of fetal infection increases with advancing gestational age. The risk of severe fetal anemia or hydrops is around 3–4% overall and is around 6–7% if the primary infection occurs before 20 weeks’ gestation. Fetal monitoring in women with a primary B19V infection includes regular ultrasound examinations looking for evidence of hydrops fetalis and Doppler measurements of the middle cerebral artery peak velocity. Fetal blood sampling is performed if a significant anemia is suspected and, if such is found, an intrauterine blood transfusion is needed. This article provides an overview of the epidemiology, pathogenesis, clinical manifestations, diagnostic methods, and management of B19V infection during pregnancy.
Effect of hypoxia on GLP-1 secretion – an in vitro study using enteroendocrine STC-1 -cells as a model
Authors: Sharma Ravikant , Raza Ghulam Shere , Sodum Nalini , Walkowiak Jaroslaw , Herzig Karl-Heinz 
Published: July 2024

AbstractGlucagon-like peptide (GLP)-1 is a hormone released by enteroendocrine L-cells after food ingestion. L-cells express various receptors for nutrient sensing including G protein-coupled receptors (GPRs). Intestinal epithelial cells near the lumen have a lower O2 tension than at the base of the crypts, which leads to hypoxia in L-cells. We hypothesized that hypoxia affects nutrient-stimulated GLP-1 secretion from the enteroendocrine cell line STC-1, the most commonly used model. In this study, we investigated the effect of hypoxia (1% O2) on alpha-linolenic acid (αLA) stimulated GLP-1 secretion and their receptor expressions. STC-1 cells were incubated for 12 h under hypoxia (1% O2) and treated with αLA to stimulate GLP-1 secretion. 12 h of hypoxia did not change basal GLP-1 secretion, but significantly reduced nutrient (αLA) stimulated GLP-1 secretion. In normoxia, αLA (12.5 μM) significantly stimulated (~ 5 times) GLP-1 secretion compared to control, but under hypoxia, GLP-1 secretion was reduced by 45% compared to normoxia. αLA upregulated GPR120, also termed free fatty acid receptor 4 (FFAR4), expressions under normoxia as well as hypoxia. Hypoxia downregulated GPR120 and GPR40 expression by 50% and 60%, respectively, compared to normoxia. These findings demonstrate that hypoxia does not affect the basal GLP-1 secretion but decreases nutrient-stimulated GLP-1 secretion. The decrease in nutrient-stimulated GLP-1 secretion was due to decreased GPR120 and GPR40 receptors expression. Changes in the gut environment and inflammation might contribute to the hypoxia of the epithelial and L-cells.
Graphical Abstract
Representations of epistemic uncertainty and awareness in data-driven strategies
Authors: Angelelli Mario , Gervasi Massimiliano , Ciavolino Enrico 
Published: July 2024

AbstractThe diffusion of AI and big data is reshaping decision-making processes by increasing the amount of information that supports decisions, while reducing direct interaction with data and empirical evidence. This paradigm shift introduces new sources of uncertainty, as limited data observability results in ambiguity and a lack of interpretability. The need for the proper analysis of data-driven strategies motivates the search for new models that can describe this type of bounded access to knowledge.This contribution presents a novel theoretical model for uncertainty in knowledge representation and its transfer mediated by agents. We provide a dynamical description of knowledge states by endowing our model with a structure to compare and combine them. Specifically, an update is represented through combinations, and its explainability is based on its consistency in different dimensional representations. We look at inequivalent knowledge representations in terms of multiplicity of inferences, preference relations, and information measures. Furthermore, we define a formal analogy with two scenarios that illustrate non-classical uncertainty in terms of ambiguity (Ellsberg’s model) and reasoning about knowledge mediated by other agents observing data (Wigner’s Friend). Finally, we discuss some implications of the proposed model for data-driven strategies, with special attention to reasoning under uncertainty about business value dimensions and the design of measurement tools for their assessment.
Influence of Native Woody Understory on Invasive Grasses and Soil Nitrogen Dynamics Under Plantation and Remnant Montane Tropical Trees
Authors: D’Antonio Carla M. , Rehm Evan , Elgersma Cheryl , Yelenik Stephanie G. 
Published: July 2024

AbstractWhile the influence of canopy trees on soils in natural and restored forest environments is well studied, the influence of understory species is not. Here, we evaluate the effects of outplanted native woody understory on invasive grass biomass and soil nutrient properties in heavily grass-invaded 30 + year-old plantations of a native N-fixing tree Acacia koa in Hawai‘i. We analyze soils from under A. koa trees with versus without planted woody understory and compare these to soils from under remnant pasture trees of the pre-deforestation dominant, Metrosideros polymorpha where passive recruitment of native woody understory has occurred since the cessation of grazing. Simultaneously, we experimentally planted understory species at three times the density used by managers to see if this could quickly decrease grass biomass and change soil nutrient dynamics. We found that invasive grass biomass declined with understory planting in surveyed and experimental sites. Yet, woody understory abundance had no effect on N cycling. Short-term N availability and nitrification potential were higher under A. koa than M. polymorpha trees regardless of understory. Net N mineralization either did not differ (~ 1 mo) between canopy species or was higher (171 day incubations) under remnant M. polymorpha where organic matter was also higher. The only influence of understory on soil was a positive correlation with loss-on-ignition (organic matter) under M. polymorpha. We also demonstrate differential controls over N cycling under the two canopy tree species. Overall, understory restoration has not changed soil characteristics even as invasive grass biomass declines.
Estimating bacterial load in S. aureus and E. coli bacteremia using bacterial growth graph from the continuous monitoring blood culture system
Authors: Turkeltaub Leehe , Kashat Livnat , Assous Marc V. , Adler Karen , Bar-Meir Maskit 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
Background
We examined whether the time to positivity (TTP) and growth and detection plot graph (GDPG) created by the automated blood culture system can be used to determine the bacterial load in bacteremic patients and its potential association correlation with disease severity.

Methods
Known bacterial inocula were injected into the blood culture bottles. The GDPGs for the specific inocula were downloaded and plotted. A cohort of 30 consecutive clinical cultures positive for S. aureus and E. coli was identified. Bacterial load was determined by comparing the GDPG with the “standard” curves. Variables associated with disease severity were compared across 3 bacterial load categories (< 100, 100–1000, > 1000 CFU/mL).

Results
S. aureus growth was sensitive to the blood volume obtained whereas E. coli growth was less so. A 12-hour delay in sample transfer to the microbiology laboratory resulted in a decrease in TTP by 2–3 h. Mean TTP was 15 and 10 h for S. aureus and E. coli, respectively, which correlates with > 1000 CFU/mL and 500–1000 CFU/ml. For S. aureus, patients with a bacterial load > 100 CFU/mL had a higher mortality rate, (OR for death = 9.7, 95% CI 1.6–59, p = 0.01). Bacterial load > 1000 CFU/mL had an odds ratio of 6.4 (95% CI1.2-35, p = 0.03) to predict an endovascular source. For E. coli bacteremia, we did not find any correlations with disease severity.

Conclusion
GDPG retrieved from the automated blood culture system can be used to estimate bacterial load. S.aureus bacterial load, but not E.coli, was associated with clinical outcome.
Let’s make it personal: CRISPR tools in manipulating cell death pathways for cancer treatment
Authors: Bayat Mobina , Nahand Javid Sadri 
Published: July 2024

AbstractAdvancements in the CRISPR technology, a game-changer in experimental research, have revolutionized various fields of life sciences and more profoundly, cancer research. Cell death pathways are among the most deregulated in cancer cells and are considered as critical aspects in cancer development. Through decades, our knowledge of the mechanisms orchestrating programmed cellular death has increased substantially, attributed to the revolution of cutting-edge technologies. The heroic appearance of CRISPR systems have expanded the available screening platform and genome engineering toolbox to detect mutations and create precise genome edits. In that context, the precise ability of this system for identification and targeting of mutations in cell death signaling pathways that result in cancer development and therapy resistance is an auspicious choice to transform and accelerate the individualized cancer therapy. The concept of personalized cancer therapy stands on the identification of molecular characterization of the individual tumor and its microenvironment in order to provide a precise treatment with the highest possible outcome and minimum toxicity. This study explored the potential of CRISPR technology in precision cancer treatment by identifying and targeting specific cell death pathways. It showed the promise of CRISPR in finding key components and mutations involved in programmed cell death, making it a potential tool for targeted cancer therapy. However, this study also highlighted the challenges and limitations that need to be addressed in future research to fully realize the potential of CRISPR in cancer treatment.
Graphical abstract
Current application of CRISPR system in cancer therapy through a glance. A choosing the appropriate biological model for screening in vitro (using established cell lines, animal derived tumor cells, human derived tumor cells, stem cells or T cells), in vivo (using animal models which can harbor human derived tumor), or ex vivo (human/animal-derived organoids). B preparation of CRISPR gRNA library. C experimental design of CRISPR screening, identification of the desired gRNAs or phenotypic response. D CRISPR-Cas targeting of the identified targets, with Cas9 gene editing system (Knockout, base editing, prime editing), RNA modulation (modulation of RNA splicing, RNA base editing, RNA interference), and epigenomic edits and CRISPR interference/activation using dead Cas9 (dCas9) (Bock et al. 2022b)
The Institutional Hearing Program and the Incarceration-to-Deportation Pipeline
Authors: Avila Lorena , Tosh Sarah 
Published: July 2024

AbstractThrough our study of the Institutional Hearing Program (IHP), we examine how immigration courts within prisons enforce immigration law over individuals serving criminal sentences. Drawing from interviews with legal services providers, community advocates, and impacted immigrants in New York City, we examine due process, inequality, and legal strategies in the context of the IHP. Findings demonstrate the disproportionate punishment of Black and Brown incarcerated immigrants, as well as restricted access to information, distant placement of IHP prisons, and scarce funding for representing incarcerated individuals in immigration proceedings, all of which create challenges for legal advocates' chances of success. We argue that sanctuary provisions in NYC exclude certain migrants by marking them with the stigma of criminal records in over-surveilled neighborhoods and physically exporting them outside city borders to state prisons, where specific policies toward their expedited deportation (such as the IHP) take place. The IHP is a key site on a pipeline from incarceration to deportation that must be drastically limited, or ultimately eradicated, to ensure justice for criminalized immigrants.
On modeling tear breakup dynamics with a nematic lipid layer
Authors: Taranchuk M. J. , Braun R. J. 
Published: July 2024

AbstractOne of the main roles of the lipid layer (LL) of the tear film (TF) is to help prevent evaporation of the aqueous layer (AL). The LL thickness, composition, and structure all contribute to its barrier function. It is believed that the lipid layer is primarily nonpolar with a layer of polar lipids at the LL/AL interface. There is evidence that the nonpolar region of the LL may have liquid crystalline characteristics. We investigate the structure and function of the LL via a model of the tear film with two layers, using extensional flow of a nematic liquid crystal for the LL and shear-dominated flow of a Newtonian AL. Evaporation is taken into account and is affected by the LL thickness, internal arrangement of its rod-like molecules, and external conditions. We conduct a detailed parameter study with a focus on the evaporative resistance parameter, the Marangoni number, and primary liquid crystal parameters including the Leslie viscosities and director angle. This new model responds similarly to previous Newtonian models in some respects; however, incorporating internal structure via the orientation of the liquid crystal molecules affects both evaporation and flow. As a result, we see new effects on TF dynamics and breakup.
Species Choice and Model Use: Reviving Research on Human Development
Authors: Hopwood Nick 
Published: July 2024

AbstractWhile model organisms have had many historians, this article places studies of humans, and particularly our development, in the politics of species choice. Human embryos, investigated directly rather than via animal surrogates, have gone through cycles of attention and neglect. In the past 60 years they moved from the sidelines to center stage. Research was resuscitated in anatomy, launched in reproductive biomedicine, molecular genetics, and stem-cell science, and made attractive in developmental biology. I explain this surge of interest in terms of rivalry with models and reliance on them. The greater involvement of medicine in human reproduction, especially through in vitro fertilization, gave access to fresh sources of material that fed critiques of extrapolation from mice and met demands for clinical relevance or “translation.” Yet much of the revival depended on models. Supply infrastructures and digital standards, including biobanks and virtual atlases, emulated community resources for model organisms. Novel culture, imaging, molecular, and postgenomic methods were perfected on less precious samples. Toing and froing from the mouse affirmed the necessity of the exemplary mammal and its insufficiency justified inquiries into humans. Another kind of model—organoids and embryo-like structures derived from stem cells—enabled experiments that encouraged the organization of a new field, human developmental biology. Research on humans has competed with and counted on models.