bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Focal changes in alpha oscillations during short‐term memorization of pain: a high‐density electroencephalogram study with source localization
Authors: Caldichoury Argitxu , Garcia‐Larrea Luis , Frot Maud 
Published: March 2024

AbstractMemories of painful events constitute the basis for assessing patients' pain. This study explores the brain oscillatory activity during short‐term memorization of a nociceptive stimulus. High‐density EEG activity (128 electrodes) was recorded in 13 healthy subjects during a match‐to‐sample sensory discrimination task, whereby participants compared the intensity of a thumb‐located electric shock (S2) with a prior stimulus to the same location (S1) delivered 8–10 s earlier. Stimuli were above or below the individual nociceptive threshold. EEG activity with intracortical source localization via LORETA source reconstruction was analysed during the inter‐stimuli period and contrasted with a non‐memory‐related control task.The inter‐stimulus memorization phase was characterized by a focal alpha‐activity enhancement, significant during the nociceptive condition only, which progressed from bilateral occipital regions (cuneus and mid‐occipital gyri) during the first encoding—memorization phase towards the right‐superior and right mid‐temporal gyri during the 2–4 s immediately preceding S2. Initial alpha enhancement in occipital areas/cuneus is consistent with rapid non‐specific inhibition of task‐irrelevant visual processing during initial stimulus encoding. Its transfer to the right‐temporal regions was concomitant to the temporary upholding of the stimulus perceptual representation, previous to receiving S2, and suggests an active and local blockade of external interferences while these regions actively maintain internal information. These results add to a growing field indicating that alpha oscillations, while indicating local inhibitory processes, can also indirectly reveal active stimulus handling, including maintenance in short‐term memory buffers, by objectivizing the filtering out of irrelevant and potentially disrupting inputs in brain regions engaged in internally driven operations.
Combining magnetic resonance fingerprinting with voxel‐based morphometric analysis to reduce false positives for focal cortical dysplasia detection
Authors: Ding Zheng , Hu Siyuan , Su Ting‐Yu , Choi Joon Yul , Morris Spencer , Wang Xiaofeng , Sakaie Ken , Murakami Hiroatsu , Huppertz Hans‐Jürgen , Blümcke Ingmar , Jones Stephen , Najm Imad , Ma Dan , Wang Zhong Irene 
Published: March 2024

AbstractObjectiveWe aim to improve focal cortical dysplasia (FCD) detection by combining high‐resolution, three‐dimensional (3D) magnetic resonance fingerprinting (MRF) with voxel‐based morphometric magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) analysis.MethodsWe included 37 patients with pharmacoresistant focal epilepsy and FCD (10 IIa, 15 IIb, 10 mild Malformation of Cortical Development [mMCD], and 2 mMCD with oligodendroglial hyperplasia and epilepsy [MOGHE]). Fifty‐nine healthy controls (HCs) were also included. 3D lesion labels were manually created. Whole‐brain MRF scans were obtained with 1 mm3 isotropic resolution, from which quantitative T1 and T2 maps were reconstructed. Voxel‐based MRI postprocessing, implemented with the morphometric analysis program (MAP18), was performed for FCD detection using clinical T1w images, outputting clusters with voxel‐wise lesion probabilities. Average MRF T1 and T2 were calculated in each cluster from MAP18 output for gray matter (GM) and white matter (WM) separately. Normalized MRF T1 and T2 were calculated by z‐scores using HCs. Clusters that overlapped with the lesion labels were considered true positives (TPs); clusters with no overlap were considered false positives (FPs). Two‐sample t‐tests were performed to compare MRF measures between TP/FP clusters. A neural network model was trained using MRF values and cluster volume to distinguish TP/FP clusters. Ten‐fold cross‐validation was used to evaluate model performance at the cluster level. Leave‐one‐patient‐out cross‐validation was used to evaluate performance at the patient level.ResultsMRF metrics were significantly higher in TP than FP clusters, including GM T1, normalized WM T1, and normalized WM T2. The neural network model with normalized MRF measures and cluster volume as input achieved mean area under the curve (AUC) of .83, sensitivity of 82.1%, and specificity of 71.7%. This model showed superior performance over direct thresholding of MAP18 FCD probability map at both the cluster and patient levels, eliminating ≥75% FP clusters in 30% of patients and ≥50% of FP clusters in 91% of patients.SignificanceThis pilot study suggests the efficacy of MRF for reducing FPs in FCD detection, due to its quantitative values reflecting in vivo pathological changes. © 2024 International League Against Epilepsy.
Including climate change in pest risk assessment: Current practices and perspectives for future implementation
Authors: Rosace M. C. , Björklund N. , Boberg J. , Bradshaw C. D. , Camac J. , Damus M. , Kompas T. , Li C. , MacLeod A. , Maggini R. , Rossi E. , Szyniszewska A. M. , Tuomola J. , Gardi C. 
Published: March 2024

AbstractThe evaluation of the potential for newly arrived species to survive and the determination whether a founder population can become established and subsequently spread and cause negative impacts are crucial considerations when performing a pest risk assessment in plant health. Climate change has clear consequences concerning the potential range of pests, and their potential for spread and impacts. Despite its importance, no guidance exists to support the evaluation of whether and how climate change should be incorporated into pest risk assessment. This paper reviews how climate change has been considered so far, not only in the area of pest risk assessment but also in other domains and provides guidance on how its incorporation could affect the overall assessment. Furthermore, from this analysis, some possible solutions for incorporating climate change into pest risk assessment are provided, taking into account that its outcomes have profound political, economic, social and environmental implications.
Courts as an arena of societal change? The Italian Constitutional Court's self‐restraint facing the legislator's uncertain discretion in seabed mining: A concrete counter‐example
Authors: Cataldo Giorgio 
Published: March 2024

AbstractThe article explores the difficult balance of interests in the Italian field of seabed mining. In recent years, the regions, bearers of the local communities' social demands, claimed greater attention to sustainability, while the State almost always privileged productivity. The Constitutional Court always took an attitude of self‐restraint, basically adhering to State reasons. Given this starting point, it is not entirely certain that the European Court of Justice's 2022 ruling, which included the environmental interest alongside economic concerns, will bring concrete developments. Indeed, although environmental protection falls under constitutional principles from 2022, there is a complex framework of interests involved in the sector, from which political power suffers above all. Consequently, the reception of social demands makes the effort of only the Court insufficient. The Italian case thus illustrates some of the constraints that can weigh on courts, especially constitutional courts, in their ability to constitute an arena of societal change.
Predicting human chronological age via AI analysis of dorsal hand versus facial images: A study in a cohort of Indian females
Authors: Georgievskaya Anastasia , Tlyachev Timur , Kiselev Konstantin , Hillebrand Greg , Chekanov Konstantin , Danko Daniil , Golodyaev Arseny , Majmudar Gopa 
Published: March 2024

AbstractPredicting a person's chronological age (CA) from visible skin features using artificial intelligence (AI) is now commonplace. Often, convolutional neural network (CNN) models are built using images of the face as biometric data. However, hands hold telltale signs of a person's age. To determine the utility of using only hand images in predicting CA, we developed two deep CNNs based on 1) dorsal hand images (H) and 2) frontal face images (F). Subjects (n = 1454) were Indian women, 20–80 years, across three geographic cohorts (Mumbai, New Delhi and Bangalore) and having a broad variation in skin tones. Images were randomised: 70% of F and 70% of H were used to train CNNs. The remaining 30% of F and H were retained for validation. CNN validation showed mean absolute error for predicting CA using F and H of 4.1 and 4.7 years, respectively. In both cases correlations of predicted and actual age were statistically significant (r(F) = 0.93, r(H) = 0.90). The CNNs for F and H were validated for dark and light skin tones. Finally, by blurring or accentuating visible features on specific regions of the hand and face, we identified those features that contributed to the CNN models. For the face, areas of the inner eye corner and around the mouth were most important for age prediction. For the hands, knuckle texture was a key driver for age prediction. Collectively, for AI estimates of CA, CNNs based solely on hand images are a viable alternative and comparable to CNNs based on facial images.
NECTIN4‐targeted antibody–drug conjugate is a potential therapeutic option for extramammary Paget disease
Authors: Tanaka Yuka , Ito Takamichi , Murata Maho , Tanegashima Keiko , Kaku‐Ito Yumiko , Nakahara Takeshi 
Published: March 2024

AbstractExtramammary Paget disease (EMPD) is a rare skin cancer mainly found in areas rich in apocrine sweat glands. Since the effective treatments for advanced and/or metastasized EMPD are limited, there is an urgent need to develop novel therapeutic approaches. Nectin cell adhesion molecule 4 (NECTIN4) is highly expressed in cancers and considered to be a promising therapeutic target. NECTIN4 is also expressed in EMPD, but its role and the efficacy of NECTIN4‐targeted therapy in EMPD remain unclear. This study investigated the potential of NECTIN4 as a novel therapeutic target for EMPD. NECTIN4 expression was immunohistochemically analysed in EMPD patients' primary (118 samples) and metastatic (21 samples) lesions. Using an EMPD cell line, KS‐EMPD‐1, the effects of NECTIN4 inhibition on cell proliferation and migration were investigated. NECTIN4 was expressed in primary and metastatic EMPD lesions, and the H‐score of NECTIN4 staining was significantly higher in metastatic lesions than in primary ones. Knockdown of NECTIN4 significantly inhibited cell proliferation and affected cell migration. The cytotoxic effects of NECTIN4‐targeted antibody–drug conjugate (ADC) were further evaluated, revealing a significant decrease in EMPD cell viability. In conclusion, NECTIN4 is a potential therapeutic target and NECTIN4‐targeted ADC is promising as a therapeutic option for EMPD.
Reply letter to Munoz et al. ‘on the importance of time in carbon sequestration in soils and climate change mitigation’—Keep carbon sequestration terminologies consistent and functional
Authors: Don Axel , Seidel Felix , Leifeld Jens , Kätterer Thomas , Martin Manuel , Pellerin Sylvain , Emde David , Seitz Daria , Chenu Claire 
Published: March 2024

Munoz et al. (2024) raised concerns regarding our recent contribution and the definition of the term C sequestration in soils (Don et al., 2024). We performed a review and therefore based our analysis on existing definitions of C sequestrations, mainly by the IPCC. We recommend sticking with terminologies around C sequestration and climate mitigation, as outlined in our review, in order to keep it consistent and manageable.
Antibacterial mechanism of ultrasound combined with thymol against Shewanella putrefaciens: implications for cell integrity and biofilm control
Authors: Gu Yongji , Lan Weiqing , Xie Jing 
Published: March 2024

SummaryThe study aimed to assess the in vitro antibacterial effect of thymol (Thy) in conjunction with ultrasound (US) on Shewanella putrefaciens (S. putrefaciens). The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) of Thy against S. putrefaciens were 0.50 and 1.00 mg mL−1, respectively. US was found to augment the antibacterial efficacy of Thy, resulting in a significant reduction of 2.36 log CFU mL−1 in the total colony count of S. putrefaciens, ensuring that the bacterial population maintained a consistently low growth rate. Quantitative detection of crystal violet revealed that the combined treatment exhibited a pronounced inhibitory effect on biofilm formation, with a clearance rate of mature biofilms reaching 91.60%. Alkaline phosphatase (AKPase), lactate dehydrogenase (LDHase), UV absorbing substance permeability, and other indicators were employed to measure changes in the bacterial cell membrane and internal environment. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was further used to observe the bacteria morphology before and after treated by US and Thy, a notable collapse of bacterial cells was observed, accompanied by ruptured outer membranes, damaged cell walls, and extensive leakage of cellular contents. This study presents a novel approach for controlling bacterial growth in food preservation methods.
Formulation of inks for 3D printing of microalgae‐based meat analogues and the role of modified starch: a review
Authors: Mirzapour‐Kouhdasht Armin , Biparva Paniz , McClements David Julian , Garavand Farhad , Garcia‐Vaquero Marco 
Published: March 2024

SummaryThe quest for sustainable alternatives to traditional meat products has led to increased interest in plant‐based meat analogues. Microalgae, with their high protein content and eco‐friendly cultivation methods, present a promising option for the development of such analogues. However, integrating microalgae into meat analogues poses challenges related to achieving desired texture, flavour, and colour. This review explores the potential of modified starch (MS) as a solution to enhance the quality of microalgae‐based meat analogues produced via 3D printing. Key findings from the manuscript indicate that MSs can improve the viscosity, elasticity, and printability of microalgae‐based edible inks. Furthermore, they play a crucial role in reducing off‐flavours and off‐colours in the final product. By optimising the type and concentration of MSs used, microalgae‐based meat analogues can be tailored to meet consumer preferences while addressing environmental concerns. Overall, the utilisation of MSs represents a practical approach to overcoming manufacturing challenges associated with microalgal‐based meat analogues, paving the way for the development of sustainable and nutritious plant‐based meat products through innovative and ecologically friendly food technologies.
Evaluation of Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium in genetic association studies
Authors: Saadat Mostafa 
Published: March 2024

AbstractSTrengthening the REporting of Genetic Association (STREGA) studies strongly recommend that researchers assess the Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium (HWE) in their control groups. The exact frequency of studies in which their control subjects show a significant deviation from the HWE is not well established. Therefore, the present study was conducted. The electronic database PubMed was searched using the terms: ‘meta‐analysis’ and ‘polymorphism’. Data of original articles were extracted from meta‐analysis. The STREGA statement was published in 2009. Therefore, studies were divided into two groups, before and after the statement. After data collection, quartiles for sample size and minor allele frequency (MAF) were determined separately. A total of 772 independent studies were extracted from these meta‐analyses and included in the current study. Multivariate analysis revealed the following associations: (1) Reports published after the STREGA statement (compared to before the statement) were associated with an increased prevalence of deviation from HWE. (2) Reports with sample size Q2–Q4 versus Q1 were associated with an increased prevalence of deviation from HWE. (3) Studies with MAF Q4 versus Q1 were negatively associated with the prevalence of reports of deviation from HWE. We conclude that the STREGA statement failed to change the attitudes and practices of researchers and editors towards the importance of HWE.
Comparison of self‐competency and executive (charge) nurse competency assessments of clinical nurses
Authors: Önal Ayşe , Seren İntepeler Şeyda 
Published: March 2024

AbstractAimThis study compared nurses’ self‐competency assessments and their managers’ nurse competence assessments.BackgroundNurse competence is important for nursing care quality and patient safety. Executive (charge) nurses play a main role in the nurse competency assessment.MethodologyIn this study conducted at a university hospital between January and December 2020, the self‐efficacy evaluations of nurses (n = 162) working in services other than the emergency department, operating room, and outpatient clinics of the university hospital were compared with the evaluations of nurse executives (charges) on these nurses (n = 21). Data were collected using the personal information form and the Nurse Competence Scale. A cross‐sectional study design was used. The Strengthening the Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology guideline was used for reporting.ResultsService nurses’ self‐assessments and nurses treating charge's assessment of clinical nurses evaluated the competence levels as excellent in both groups. The self‐competency assessments of the nurses were higher than the charge nurses' competency assessments.DiscussionIn this study, the lower competence assessment of nurses by the charge nurses was may be due to their ability to observe nurses in their teams in general and that they have more experience in evaluation.ConclusionIt is suggested that professional development and competence programs be created to further develop the competencies of nurses.Implications for nursing and health policyNurse competency assessments support planning to ensure patient safety. Patient care burden and planning of risky patients according to the nurse competency level will provide safe patient care.
Bank diversification and performance: Empirical evidence from Japan
Authors: Wu Yichang 
Published: March 2024

AbstractThis article examines the relationship between bank diversification and performance in the Japanese banking sector. We use panel data from 141 banks over the period 2000–2022 to investigate whether banks can improve profitability and reduce risk through diversification strategies. Our evidence shows that diversification can improve bank profitability at the cost of a decline in net interest margins, suggesting banks are using the interest business as a loss leader to promote other business lines. We find that asset diversification has a risk‐reducing effect, which supports the portfolio hypothesis. Some evidence also implies that there is a more complex nonlinear relationship. This can be partly attributed to bank type, as the diversification effects vary across different types of banks. Furthermore, the decomposition of non‐interest income reveals that fees and commissions negatively influence return on assets while simultaneously reducing bank risk.
Changes in Viral Dynamics Following the Legal Relaxation of COVID‐19 Mitigation Measures in Japan From Children to Adults: A Single Center Study, 2020–2023
Authors: Hirotsu Yosuke , Nagakubo Yuki , Maejima Makoto , Shibusawa Masahiro , Hosaka Kazuhiro , Sueki Hitomi , Mochizuki Hitoshi , Omata Masao 
Published: March 2024

ABSTRACTIntroductionRespiratory infections are an ongoing global health challenge. The COVID‐19 pandemic triggered global nonpharmacological measures that reshaped public health. In Japan, the shift from legal to individual discretion in pandemic management started on May 8, 2023. However, it still unknown how the relaxation of measures affects respiratory pathogens across age groups.MethodsWe collected 16,946 samples from 13,526 patients between February 2020 and September 2023, analyzing the circulating respiratory pathogen dynamics using FilmArray respiratory panel.ResultsOur analysis revealed significant increases in the positivity rates of respiratory pathogens across multiple age groups after relaxation. The pathogens including adenovirus, Bordetella pertussis, parainfluenza 2 and parainfluenza 4 showed increased positivity predominantly in children aged under 10 years. Conversely, some pathogens including human metapneumovirus, rhinovirus/enterovirus, and respiratory virus (RSV) increased in broad range of age groups. SARS‐CoV‐2 positivity rates decreased in children under 10 years but increased in those aged over 60 years.DiscussionAge‐stratified analysis reveals a dynamic pattern of circulating pathogen in each age group after relaxation measures. This study provides essential epidemiologic data that can guide strategies to protect different age groups and effectively respond to respiratory infections in post‐COVID‐19 era.
Influence of urinary tract infections on the incidence of surgical site infections following hip fracture surgery: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Mou Zhefei , Xiang Lingping , Ni Yueping 
Published: March 2024

AbstractThe prevalence of surgical site infections (SSIs) following hip fracture surgery poses a substantial challenge, compounding patient morbidity and healthcare costs. This systematic review and meta‐analysis investigate the potential correlation between perioperative urinary tract infections (UTIs) and the subsequent risk of SSIs, aiming to illuminate the impact of UTIs on postoperative outcomes in this vulnerable population. We followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, utilising the PICO framework to define our search strategy across PubMed, Embase, Web of Science and the Cochrane Library. Our inclusion criteria encompassed randomised controlled trials, cohort studies and case–control studies that reported on SSIs following hip fracture surgery in patients with UTIs. Quality was assessed using the Newcastle‐Ottawa Scale, and heterogeneity was quantified using the I2 statistic. A random‐effects model was applied due to significant heterogeneity, and a sensitivity analysis assessed the stability of the results. Six studies met the inclusion criteria, demonstrating high methodological quality. The analysis included studies from 2016 to 2021, with sample sizes ranging from 402 to 31 621 participants. A significant association was found between UTIs and SSIs, with an odds ratio of 2.79 (95% CI: 1.72–4.54, p < 0.001). Sensitivity analysis confirmed the robustness of the results, and no publication bias was detected. Perioperative UTIs significantly increase the risk of SSIs in patients undergoing hip fracture surgery. Proactive treatment of UTIs may be crucial for reducing the incidence of SSIs and improving surgical outcomes in this demographic.