bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Optimisation via encodings: a renormalisation group perspective
Authors: Klemm Konstantin , Mehta Anita , Stadler Peter F 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
Difficult, in particular NP-complete, optimization problems are traditionally solved approximately using search heuristics. These are usually slowed down by the rugged landscapes encountered, because local minima arrest the search process. Cover-encoding maps were devised to circumvent this problem by transforming the original landscape to one that is free of local minima and enriched in near-optimal solutions. By definition, these involve the mapping of the original (larger) search space into smaller subspaces, by processes that typically amount to a form of coarse-graining. In this paper, we explore the details of this coarse-graining using formal arguments, as well as concrete examples of cover-encoding maps, that are investigated analytically as well as computationally. Our results strongly suggest that the coarse-graining involved in cover-encoding maps bears a strong resemblance to that encountered in renormalisation group schemes. Given the apparently disparate nature of these two formalisms, these strong similarities are rather startling, and suggest deep mathematical underpinnings that await further exploration.
All-dielectric terahertz metasurfaces for arbitrary linear polarization detection
Authors: Xu Wenhui , Li Hui , Xu Hang , Tan Qi , Song Chunyu , Yao Jianquan 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
The polarization state, an intrinsic property of electromagnetic waves, plays a key role in determining the mechanism of light–matter interactions. Recently, the bulky elements for evaluating polarization states have been miniaturized by using metasurfaces. However, determining arbitrary linear polarization (LP) states from vortex beams generated by metasurfaces is quite challenging. Here, a general design of all-silicon quasi-periodic arrays based on polarization multiplexing technology is proposed, which can be used for the detection of arbitrary incident LP state. By embedding independent helical phase profiles in two orthogonal LP channels, the generated interference spot at the predesigned focal plane is resolvable in a proper polarized direction. Benefiting from the establishment of a parametric theoretical model, the evolution of the incident polarization can be determined using key parameters defined on the pixelated focal plane. The proposed method can flexibly determine the polarization state of incident terahertz waves, which has great potential in remote sensing, high-resolution imaging, and data communication.
Simultaneous nonlinear spectral broadening and temporal contrast enhancement of ultrashort pulses in a multi-pass cell
Authors: Kaur Jaismeen , Daniault Louis , Cheng Zhao , Tourneur Oscar , Tcherbakoff Olivier , Réau Fabrice , Hergott Jean-François , Lopez-Martens Rodrigo 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
We study both numerically and experimentally the use of two third-order nonlinear temporal filtering techniques, namely nonlinear ellipse rotation and cross-polarized wave generation, for simultaneous nonlinear spectral broadening and temporal contrast enhancement of mJ energy, 30 fs titanium:sapphire laser pulses in a multi-pass cell. In both cases, a contrast enhancement greater than 3 orders of magnitude is observed, together with record high conversion efficiencies. Careful balancing of nonlinearity and dispersion inside the multi-pass cell helps tune the spectral broadening process and control the post-compressed pulse duration for specific applications.
Global epidemiology of actinic keratosis in the general population: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: George Christopher D , Lee Truelian , Hollestein Loes M , Asgari Maryam M , Nijsten Tamar 
Published: October 2023

Abstract

Background
Actinic keratosis (AK) is a common dermatological condition, and among the most common dermatological diagnoses in older populations. Although the prevalence of AK depends on demographic and environmental factors, little is known about the global context of AK.

Objectives
To provide a comprehensive and updated analysis of the global prevalence rate and incidence of AK in the general population through a systematic review and meta-analysis, and – through subgroup analyses – to identify high-risk phenotypes, demographic and lifestyle risk factors and regional variations in disease prevalence.

Methods
A systematic search of Embase, MEDLINE, Web of Science and Google Scholar was performed on 20 May 2022. Two reviewers independently screened and assessed the quality of each study using a validated critical appraisal checklist. Epidemiological measurements (e.g. prevalence) from individual studies performed in the general population were then pooled in a random-effects meta-analysis. Subgroup analyses (i.e. population age, geographical region, occupation, sex and study quality) were conducted.

Results
Of the 65 articles that made it through the full-text screening, 60 reported a point prevalence. A meta-analysis of these articles yielded an overall point prevalence of 14% [95% confidence interval (CI) 14–15]. In further analyses, the calculated prevalence rate varied depending on subgroup. The pooled incidence rate from the seven eligible studies analysed was 1928 per 100 000 person-years (PY; 95% CI −439 to 4294).

Conclusions
This comprehensive meta-analysis provides an updated global prevalence rate of AK of 14%, indicating a significant worldwide disease burden. The incidence rate of AK was found to be 1928 per 100 000 PY, emphasizing a growing public health concern. However, high heterogeneity among studies suggests that various factors influence the AK prevalence rate, necessitating further research to understand the observed differences.
International patterns and trends in the incidence of melanoma and cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma, 1989–2020
Authors: Olsen Catherine M , Pandeya Nirmala , Ragaini Bruna S , Neale Rachel E , Whiteman David C 
Published: October 2023

Abstract

Background
Cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC) and melanoma have different associations with sun exposure.

Objectives
To compare trends in the incidence rates of cSCC and melanoma, to provide insight into changing patterns of exposure to ultraviolet radiation (UVR).

Methods
We compared trends in the incidence of cSCC and melanoma in seven susceptible populations residing at mid-to-high latitudes: Finland, Norway, Sweden, Denmark, Scotland, the Netherlands and Tasmania (Australia). We fitted Joinpoint models to describe trends in age-standardized incidence rates for melanoma and cSCC and calculated the average annual percentage rate of change for the period 1989–2020 (1989–2018 for Tasmania). We calculated the incident rate ratio (IRR) as the ratio of the age-standardized rates (European Standard Population) for cSCC to melanoma and conducted age–period–cohort modelling to compare age, period and cohort effects.

Results
The ratio of cSCC-to-melanoma incidence increased with proximity to the equator and over time. In the most recent time period, the incidence of cSCC was higher than the incidence of melanoma for men and women in all seven populations. While the ratio of cSCC-to-melanoma incidence was higher for men vs. women, in most countries the cSCC-to-melanoma IRR increased over time to a greater extent in women than in men. Melanoma incidence was higher among younger people and cSCC incidence was higher among older people; the age at which the incidence of cSCC overtook the incidence of melanoma was progressively younger with proximity to the equator.

Conclusions
Despite concerted international efforts to preserve the ozone layer over the past four decades resulting in significant reductions in surface ultraviolet B at mid-latitudes, the incidence of skin cancer, particularly cSCC, continues to rise in those regions. Our findings are consistent with a stronger association with age-associated cumulative sun exposure for cSCC vs. melanoma and suggest that women are currently receiving greater UV radiation exposure than in the past.
Endovascular arch repair of anastomotic aneurysm and pseudoaneurysm in patients after open repair of the ascending aorta and aortic arch: a case series
Authors: Becker Daniel , Stana Jan , Prendes Carlota F , Konstantinou Nikolaos , Öz Tugce , Pichlmaier Maximilian , Peterss Sven , Tsilimparis Nikolaos 
Published: October 2023

Abstract

OBJECTIVES
The aim of the study was to investigate the outcomes of branched endovascular arch repair (b-TEVAR) with a custom-made double- or triple-branched arch endograft in patients with distal anastomotic aneurysms after open repair of the ascending aorta or proximal arch replacement.

METHODS
Retrospective analysis was conducted of all consecutive patients with anastomotic aneurysms after open surgical repair involving the ascending aorta and/or aortic arch treated with b-TEVAR. All patients were treated with a custom-made double or triple inner-branched arch endograft. Study end points were technical success, 30-day and follow-up mortality/morbidity and re-interventions.

RESULTS
Between 2018 and 2022, 10 patients were treated with custom-made double- or triple-branched thoracic endovascular aortic repair due to anastomotic aneurysms after open ascending aorta and/or proximal aortic arch replacement. Eight patients received a triple and 2 a double arch-branched endograft. Eight cases were performed electively and 2 urgently for contained rupture. Technical success was achieved in 9 cases (90%). All elective patients survived. Two patients treated due to contained ruptures expired. Within 30 postoperative days, 1 transient ischaemic attack occurred. No early endograft-related re-interventions were necessary. The median follow-up was 20 months. One patient died 2 months after discharge due to sepsis caused by pneumonia. No further deaths or endograft-related re-interventions were observed.

CONCLUSIONS
Endovascular aortic arch repair with double or triple inner-branched arch endograft for anastomotic aneurysms after open ascending and/or proximal arch replacement is technically feasible and a promising alternative in a patient cohort unfit for surgery.
Enhancing the interpretation of genetic observations in KCNQ1 in unselected populations: relevance to secondary findings
Authors: Novelli Valeria , Faultless Trent , Cerrone Marina , Care Melanie , Manzoni Martina , Bober Sara L , Adler Arnon , De-Giorgio Fabio , Spears Danna , Gollob Michael H 
Published: October 2023

Abstract

Aims
Rare variants in the KCNQ1 gene are found in the healthy population to a much greater extent than the prevalence of Long QT Syndrome type 1 (LQTS1). This observation creates challenges in the interpretation of KCNQ1 rare variants that may be identified as secondary findings in whole exome sequencing.
This study sought to identify missense variants within sub-domains of the KCNQ1-encoded Kv7.1 potassium channel that would be highly predictive of disease in the context of secondary findings.

Methods and results
We established a set of KCNQ1 variants reported in over 3700 patients with diagnosed or suspected LQTS sent for clinical genetic testing and compared the domain-specific location of identified variants to those observed in an unselected population of 140 000 individuals. We identified three regions that showed a significant enrichment of KCNQ1 variants associated with LQTS at an odds ratio (OR) &gt;2: the pore region, and the adjacent 5th (S5) and 6th (S6) transmembrane (TM) regions. An additional segment within the carboxyl terminus of Kv7.1, conserved region 2 (CR2), also showed an increased OR of disease association. Furthermore, the TM spanning S5–Pore–S6 region correlated with a significant increase in cardiac events.

Conclusion
Rare missense variants with a clear phenotype of LQTS have a high likelihood to be present within the pore and adjacent TM segments (S5–Pore–S6) and a greater tendency to be present within CR2. This data will enhance interpretation of secondary findings within the KCNQ1 gene. Further, our data support a more severe phenotype in LQTS patients with variants within the S5–Pore–S6 region.
Vesicle-enriched secretomes alter bacterial competitive abilities and are drivers of evolution in microbial communities
Authors: Warsi Omar M , Gedda Lars , Edwards Katarina , Andersson Dan I 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
Microbial membrane vesicles can carry compounds that inhibit bacterial growth, but how they impact the fitness of the vesicle-producing bacterial species and influence community dynamics remain unexplored questions. To address these questions, we examined the effect of vesicle-enriched secretomes (VESs) in different single-species and multi-species systems. Effects of VESs on single-species growth dynamics were determined for nine bacterial species belonging to four genera (Escherichia, Salmonella, Pseudomonas and Bacillus) in nutrient-rich and poor growth media. Results showed both species-specific and nutrient-dependent effects of the VESs on bacterial growth. The strongest antagonistic effects were observed for VES isolated from the natural isolates of E. coli, while those isolated from P. aeruginosa PA14 affected the highest number of species. We further demonstrated that these VESs altered the competitive abilities of the species involved in two-species (S. Typhimurium LT2 and S. arizonae) and three-species systems (E. coli, S. Typhimurium LT2 and B. subtilis). Finally, using experimental evolution we showed that different bacterial species could rapidly acquire mutations that abrogated the antagonistic effects of VESs. This study demonstrates how VESs can contribute in shaping microbial communities, both by increasing the competitive ability of a given bacterial species and as a driver of genetic adaptation.
An ecosystemic view on refugee mental health care: on caring environments and their interaction
Authors: Klapprott Felix , Saleh Ebtesam A , Kluge Ulrike 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
Despite the burden of mental health problems among refugees, knowledge about mental health care for this group is limited. In this context, the comprehensive discussion is important because care is more than professional care, but takes place in everyday situations and between different groups of people. In this study, we look at expert views (based on profession and lived experience) on caring environments concerning refugees’ mental health on different system levels. These levels include the individual level, family level, community level and the society. Additionally, we aimed to understand how these system levels interact. We conducted interviews with 11 psychotherapists from Germany and 12 participants who fled from Arabic-speaking countries to Germany. We analyzed transcripts following Braun and Clarke’s reflexive thematic analysis. Interviewees shared ideas on how society in general (e.g. increase acceptance), professional actors (e.g. be sensitive about cultural differences), other refugees (e.g. exchange information), family/friends (e.g. provide emotional help) and refugees with mental health problems themselves (e.g. be open to involve others) could provide care. Participants provided examples of how system levels interacted, for example when legal norms made care among family members harder. The interactions between different system levels point to a multidisciplinary approach towards mental health care for refugees and call for building expert networks instead of viewing refugee mental health as a medical, psychiatric issue alone. To improve the mental health of refugees, different societal actors should keep in mind the interactions across different system levels and exchange their respective expert knowledge.
Entire Curves Producing Distinct Nevanlinna Currents
Authors: Xie Song-Yan 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
First, inspired by a question of Sibony, we show that in every compact complex manifold $Y$ with certain Oka property, there exists some entire curve $f: \mathbb {C}\rightarrow Y$ generating all Nevanlinna/Ahlfors currents on $Y$, by holomorphic disks $\{f\restriction _{\mathbb {D}(c, r)}\}_{c\in \mathbb {C}, r&gt;0}$. Next, we answer positively a question of Yau, by constructing some entire curve $g: \mathbb {C}\rightarrow X$ in the product $X:=E_{1}\times E_{2}$ of two elliptic curves $E_{1}$ and $E_{2}$, such that by using concentric holomorphic disks $\{g\restriction _{\mathbb {D}_{ r}}\}_{r&gt;0}$ we can obtain infinitely many distinct Nevanlinna/Ahlfors currents proportional to the extremal currents of integration along curves $[\{e_{1}\}\times E_{2}]$, $[E_{1}\times \{e_{2}\}]$ for all $e_{1}\in E_{1}, e_{2}\in E_{2}$ simultaneously. This phenomenon is new, and it shows tremendous holomorphic flexibility of entire curves in large scale geometry.
Dedicated to Julien Duval with admiration
Rethinking resource enclavity in developing countries: Embedding Global Production Networks in gold mining regions
Authors: Hilson Gavin , Hu Yanfei , Hilson Abigail , Owen John R , Lèbre Éléonore , Sauerwein Titus 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
This article explores how the gold mining sector has adapted and evolved in developing countries since the onset of the global pandemic. A major criticism of capital-intensive gold mines has been that they occur as enclaves which fail to catalyze local economic development. Pre-pandemic, the pressure applied by NGOs and donors on gold mining companies to ‘de-enclave’ was steadily building. It has since dissipated, however, because many governments have declared mining an ‘essential’ industry. This decision has further entrenched the sector’s enclavity by justifying companies’ moves to continue operating in isolation and abandon their traditional Corporate Social Responsibility strategies.
Gut bacterial composition shows sex-specific shifts during breeding season in ex situ managed black-footed ferrets
Authors: DeCandia Alexandra L , Adeduro Laura , Thacher Piper , Crosier Adrienne , Marinari Paul , Bortner Robyn , Garelle Della , Livieri Travis , Santymire Rachel , Comizzoli Pierre , Maslanka Michael , Maldonado Jesús E , Koepfli Klaus-Peter , Muletz-Wolz Carly , Bornbusch Sally L 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
The gut microbiome of mammals engages in a dynamic relationship with the body and contributes to numerous physiological processes integral to overall health. Understanding the factors shaping animal-associated bacterial communities is therefore paramount to the maintenance and management in ex situ wildlife populations. Here, we characterized the gut microbiome of 48 endangered black-footed ferrets (Mustela nigripes) housed at Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute (Front Royal, Virginia, USA). We collected longitudinal fecal samples from males and females across two distinct reproductive seasons to consider the role of host sex and reproductive physiology in shaping bacterial communities, as measured using 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing. Within each sex, gut microbial composition differed between breeding and non-breeding seasons, with five bacterial taxa emerging as differentially abundant. Between sexes, female and male microbiomes were similar during non-breeding season but significantly different during breeding season, which may result from sex-specific physiological changes associated with breeding. Finally, we found low overall diversity consistent with other mammalian carnivores alongside high relative abundances of potentially pathogenic microbes such as Clostridium, Escherichia, Paeniclostridium, and (to a lesser degree) Enterococcus—all of which have been associated with gastrointestinal or reproductive distress in mammalian hosts, including black-footed ferrets. We recommend further study of these microbes and possible therapeutic interventions to promote more balanced microbial communities. These results have important implications for ex situ management practices that can improve the gut microbial health and long-term viability of black-footed ferrets.
Changes in body size and fertility due to artificial and natural feeding of laboratory common bed bugs (Heteroptera: Cimicidae)
Authors: Sasínková Markéta , Křemenová Jana , Chajma Petr , Bartonička Tomáš , Massino Christian , Otti Oliver , Balvín Ondřej 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
Rearing common bed bugs (Cimex lectularius L.) and other hematophagous insects is essential for basic, medical, and pest-control research. Logistically, acquiring fresh blood can be a challenge, while biologically, the eventual effects of different rearing and blood preparation protocols on bed bug genotype and phenotype pose a risk of biased research results. Using bed bug populations that are either bat- (BL) or human-related (HL), we tested the short- and long-term effects of rearing bugs on live bats or human volunteers, or artificially on CPDA (citrate phosphate dextrose, adenine)-treated blood, measuring meal size, body size, and fertility. We found that artificial feeding did not affect meal size compared with feeding on natural hosts. Long-term rearing across many generations of HL on CPDA-preserved blood led to reduced body size and fertility compared with populations reared on human volunteers. Blood preservatives increased the proportion of sterile eggs even after a single feed. Finally, our results indicated that laboratory reared bed bugs were smaller, regardless of the blood source, than wild bugs. Similar effects of artificial feeding or laboratory rearing alone should be considered in future studies using bed bug cultures to choose an appropriate rearing protocol. With regard to switching between bat and human hosts, HL took smaller meals and BL had lower fertility when fed on bats than when fed on humans. We attribute these results to methodological constrains, specifically the inconsistency of bat feeding, rather than to host specialization. Nevertheless, BL can be easily reared using human blood and artificial feeding systems.
Proton Gradient Regulation 5 is required to avoid photosynthetic oscillations during light transitions
Authors: Degen Gustaf E , Pastorelli Federica , Johnson Matthew P 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
The production of ATP and NADPH by the light reactions of photosynthesis and their consumption by the Calvin–Benson–Bassham (CBB) cycle and other downstream metabolic reactions requires careful regulation. Environmental shifts perturb this balance, leading to photo-oxidative stress and losses in CO2 assimilation. Imbalances in the production and consumption of ATP and NADPH manifest themselves as transient instability in the chlorophyll fluorescence, P700, electrochromic shift, and CO2 uptake signals recorded on leaves. These oscillations can be induced in wild-type plants by sudden shifts in CO2 concentration or light intensity; however, mutants exhibiting increased oscillatory behaviour have yet to be reported. This has precluded an understanding of the regulatory mechanisms employed by plants to suppress oscillations. Here we show that the Arabidopsis pgr5 mutant, which is deficient in Proton Gradient Regulation 5 (PGR5)-dependent cyclic electron transfer (CET), exhibits increased oscillatory behaviour. In contrast, mutants lacking the NADH-dehydrogenase-like-dependent CET are largely unaffected. The absence of oscillations in the hope2 mutant which, like pgr5, lacks photosynthetic control and exhibits high ATP synthase conductivity, ruled out loss of these photoprotective mechanisms as causes. Instead, we observed slower formation of the proton motive force and, by inference, ATP synthesis in pgr5 following environmental perturbation, leading to the transient reduction of the electron transfer chain and photosynthetic oscillations. PGR5-dependent CET therefore plays a major role in damping the effect of environmental perturbations on photosynthesis to avoid losses in CO2 fixation.