bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Catalytic Infrared Promoted the Decontamination of Intense Pulsed Light on Green Sichuan Pepper (Zanthoxylum schinifolium)
Authors: Xia Guohua , Li Haixia , Wang Minjun , Fu Siying , Wang Pushuo , Yang Huan , Zhou Cunshan , Zhang Lei 
Published: January 2025

ABSTRACTIntense pulsed light (IPL) is an efficient sterilization technology for instantaneous intense UV predominantly, while the decontamination was weakened on green Sichuan pepper (GSP) for “shadow effect.” Catalytic infrared (CIR) has excellent decontamination on uneven surfaces for long‐wave diffraction while was prone to cause flavor decline for “thermal effect.” In this study, a combined method of CIR and IPL was attempted to settle the dispute of decontamination effect and flavor decline on GSP. The inactivation kinetics on the change of bacterial enumeration over sterilization time were determined, and the results showed the sterilization effect of IPL on GSP could be improved significantly after CIR pretreatment, which was promoted from 0.65 ± 0.07 to 2.62 ± 0.07 Lg (p < 0.05), and could realize the active bacteria on commercial GSP was below 100 CFU g−1. Moreover, the flavor of GSP was measured on color and aroma changes, volatile oil content, and total alkaloid content, and the antioxidant function was measured on total reducing power, ABTS+•, and •OH− clearance rates. The results showed CIR could give rise to color change and volatile oil decrease of GSP, which indicated that the treatment time of CIR should be restricted in 5 min based on relevant Chinese national standard. CIR and IPL showed a difference to several oxygen free radicals, and the impact could be weakened by a combined method. In conclusion, under the same sterilization rate, CIR pretreatment could promote the decontamination of IPL on GSP and could weaken the influence of CIR or IPL on the quality of GSP.
Tubulin‐Binding Region Modulates Cholesterol‐Triggered Aggregation of Tau Proteins
Authors: Ali Abid , Matveyenka Mikhail , Pickett Davis N. , Rodriguez Axell , Kurouski Dmitry 
Published: January 2025

ABSTRACTA hallmark of Alzheimer disease (AD) and tauopathies, severe neurodegenerative diseases, is the progressive aggregation of Tau, also known as microtubule‐associated Tau protein. Full‐length Tau1‐441, also known as 2N4R, contains two N‐terminal inserts that bind to tubulin. This facilitates the self‐assembly of tubulin simultaneously enhancing stability of cell microtubules. Other Tau isoforms have one (1N4R) or zero (0N4R) N‐terminal inserts, which makes 2N4R Tau more and 0N4R less effective in promoting microtubule self‐assembly. A growing body of evidence indicates that lipids can alter the aggregation rate of Tau isoforms. However, the role of N‐terminal inserts in Tau‐lipid interactions remains unclear. In this study, we utilized a set of biophysical methods to determine the extent to which N‐terminal inserts alter interactions of Tau isoforms with cholesterol, one of the most important lipids in plasma membranes. Our results showed that 2 N insert prevents amyloid‐driven aggregation of Tau at the physiological concentration of cholesterol, while the absence of this N‐terminal repeat (1N4R and 0N4R Tau) resulted in the self‐assembly of Tau into toxic amyloid fibrils. We also found that the presence of cholesterol in the lipid bilayers caused a significant increase in the cytotoxicity of 1N4R and 0N4R Tau to neurons. This effect was not observed for 2N4R Tau fibrils formed in the presence of lipid membranes with low, physiological, and elevated concentrations of cholesterol. Using molecular assays, we found that Tau aggregates primarily exert cytotoxicity by damaging cell endosomes, endoplasmic reticulum, and mitochondria.image
How to Deal with Exchange Rate Risk in Infrastructure and Other Long‐Lived Projects
Authors: de Castro Luciano , Frischtak Claudio , Rodrigues Arthur 
Published: January 2025

ABSTRACTMost developing economies rely on foreign capital to finance their infrastructure needs. These projects are usually structured as long‐term (25–35 years) franchises that pay in local currency. If investors evaluate their returns in terms of foreign currency, exchange rate volatility introduces risk that may reduce the level of investment below what would be socially optimal. In this article, we propose a mechanism with very general features that hedges exchange rate fluctuation by adjusting the concession period. Such mechanism does not imply additional costs to the government and could be offered as a zero‐cost option to lenders and investors exposed to currency fluctuations. We illustrate the general mechanism with three alternative specifications and use data from a 25‐year highway franchise to simulate how they would play out in eight different emerging economies that exhibit diverse exchange rate trajectories. Results show relatively small length adjustments, and suggest the mechanism offers a powerful policy tool to cost‐effectively attract vital foreign infrastructure investment for developing countries.
Do Inconsistent Public Opinions Explain Inconsistent Policies?
Authors: Tarabar Danko 
Published: January 2025

ABSTRACTThis paper examines whether inconsistent public sentiments on capitalism may lead governments to adopt incoherent economic liberalization packages characterized by uneven attention to different policy areas. We propose that inconsistent sentiments obstruct political consensus‐building on reform trajectory within governing coalitions. These questions are explored empirically using a sample of up to 25 postsocialist countries during the initial phase of their market transition (1991–2001). We present evidence that ideological inconsistency of the median voter—defined as the standard deviation of median capitalism‐related sentiments among likely voters—is associated with more fractionalized governing coalitions along party lines and that, in turn, higher government fractionalization increases the dispersion of promarket policies. Countries with greater economic policy dispersion have historically experienced lower income growth rates, highlighting the importance of maintaining balanced reform paths.
Inter‐Institutional Dynamics and Impact of Fluconazole‐Resistant Candida parapsilosis
Authors: Korem Maya , Reich Shelly , Rahav Galia , Yahav Dafna , Weinberger Miriam , Novikov Anna , Mizrahi Naama , Ben‐Ami Ronen 
Published: January 2025

ABSTRACTBackgroundInfections with fluconazole‐resistant Candida parapsilosis have been increasing in Israeli hospitals with unclear implications for patient outcomes.ObjectivesTo determine the frequency, mechanisms, molecular epidemiology, and outcomes of azole‐resistant C. parapsilosis bloodstream infections in four hospitals in Israel.Patients/MethodsC. parapsilosis bloodstream isolates were collected at four hospitals in central Israel during varying periods from 2005 to 2022. Antifungal susceptibility testing was done using CLSI broth microdilution. Risk factors for fluconazole resistance were investigated using logistic regression. ERG11 gene sequencing was performed on all isolates. Genetic relatedness was determined using multilocus microsatellite genotyping. Clinical cure, microbiological eradication, and mortality rates were compared between fluconazole‐susceptible and resistant isolates.ResultsA total of 192 patient‐specific C. parapsilosis isolates were analysed. Resistance to fluconazole and voriconazole was detected in 80 (41%) and 14 (7.2%) isolates, respectively. The ERG11 Y132F substitution was found in 91% of fluconazole‐resistant and 1% of fluconazole‐susceptible isolates. Increasing age, intensive care hospitalisation, haemodialysis, and recent exposure to antibiotics were risk factors for fluconazole‐resistant C. parapsilosis. Distinct but related genotypes predominated at each centre, indicating extensive dissemination within hospitals and limited transmission among them. Fluconazole resistance was associated with increased likelihood of microbiological failure but no significant difference in clinical cure and mortality.ConclusionsWe found high rates of fluconazole resistance in C. parapsilosis, attributable to nosocomial spread of hospital‐specific clones bearing the Y132F substitution. Fluconazole resistance was associated with a higher risk of microbiological but not clinical failure. Strategies to limit nosocomial transmission of C. parapsilosis are needed.
Ex Vivo Fungal Nail Penetration Study: Effects of Causative Organisms, Nail Polish and Age
Authors: Munprom Kanyalak , Bunyaratavej Sumanas , Pattanaprichakul Penvadee , Jirawattanadon Pattriya , Matthapan Lalita , Prasong Waranyoo , Panyawong Chatisa , Plengpanich Akkarapong , Leeyaphan Charussri 
Published: January 2025

ABSTRACTBackgroundFew ex vivo studies have investigated the virulence factors of fungi causing onychomycosis. The effect of nail polish in predisposing or protecting against onychomycosis remains debatable.ObjectivesThis ex vivo study aimed to identify the nail invasion ability of dermatophytes, non‐dermatophytes and yeast, with and without nail polishing, in the nails of young and elderly individuals.MethodsSix fungal species were tested: dermatophytes (Trichophyton rubrum, T. mentagrophytes, Microsporum canis), non‐dermatophytes (Neoscytalidium dimidiatum, Fusarium spp.) and Candida albicans. Nail plates from eight volunteers (four aged ≥ 70 years; four aged < 70 years) were divided into polished and non‐polished groups, incubated with each fungus and evaluated at 2, 4 and 8 weeks. Positive results were determined the presence of fungal hyphae or pseudohyphae penetrating the nail plate, with the enlargement of invasive fungal elements confirmed by histology.ResultsAt 2 weeks, N. dimidiatum exhibited the highest nail invasion rate (15/16, 93.75%), whereas C. albicans showed the lowest (1/16, 6.25%). Fungal penetration into nail plates increased with longer incubation durations. At 8 weeks, C. albicans did not invade any polished nail plates; however, the difference in invasion rates between polished and unpolished nail plates was not statistically significant. Additionally, age did not significantly affect the invasion of most fungi in this ex vivo study.ConclusionsThis ex vivo study supported the concept that fungal virulence is the main determining factor for nail invasion. N. dimidiatum caused the most and fastest nail plate penetration. Nail polishing may slow the penetration of low‐virulence organisms.
Risk Factors and Prognostic Effects of Aspergillosis as a Complication of Nontuberculous Mycobacterial Pulmonary Disease: A Nested Case–Control Study
Authors: Takazono Takahiro , Ide Shotaro , Adomi Motohiko , Ogata Yoshimasa , Saito Yoshiyuki , Yoshida Masataka , Takeda Kazuaki , Iwanaga Naoki , Hosogaya Naoki , Sakamoto Noriho , Sato Izumi , Furumoto Akitsugu , Izumikawa Koichi , Mukae Hiroshi 
Published: January 2025

ABSTRACTObjectiveThe global prevalence of nontuberculous mycobacterial pulmonary disease (NTM‐PD) has been steadily increasing. A few small retrospective studies have reported a poor prognosis associated with chronic pulmonary aspergillosis (CPA) as a complication of NTM‐PD. Furthermore, the prognostic impact of CPA may have been inadequately assessed due to differences in background factors. This study aimed to identify the risk factors for CPA in NTM‐PD and compare the risk of in‐hospital mortality between patients with and without aspergillosis.MethodsData were obtained from a large‐scale claims database. Patients with NTM‐PD who met the inclusion criteria and those who developed CPA after the NTM diagnosis were identified. The incidence of CPA was evaluated, and risk factors were identified using multiple logistic analyses. Mortality rates were evaluated and compared between patients with and without aspergillosis after adjusting for background CPA risk factors.ResultsThe incidence of CPA was 2.29% (265/11,587). The identified risk factors included male sex, chronic respiratory failure, asthma, interstitial pneumonia, pulmonary tuberculosis sequelae and systemic corticosteroid use. A total of 219 patients with CPA were matched with control cases using propensity scores based on age and identified risk factors for CPA. The adjusted hazard ratio for in‐hospital mortality was 2.6 (95% CI: 1.8–3.9).ConclusionsCPA as a complication of NTM‐PD is associated with significantly higher mortality rates. Clinicians should consider the necessity of promptly diagnosing CPA in patients with NTM‐PD and the associated risk factors.
Lupus Nephritis and Chronic Kidney Disease: A Scoping Review
Authors: Teoh Selene T. Y. , Yap Desmond Y. H. , Yung Susan , Chan Tak Mao 
Published: January 2025

ABSTRACTPrevention of end‐stage kidney disease (ESKD) is a major objective in the management of patients with lupus nephritis (LN). Chronic kidney disease (CKD) of variable severity is common in these patients, but recent literature has mostly focused on novel immunosuppressive treatments for acute LN, while the data on CKD is relatively limited. This scoping review aims to summarise available data on the prevalence and risk factors for CKD in patients with LN. PubMed and Web of Science databases were systematically searched on the 1st November 2024 for ‘real world’ SLE and LN cohorts with longitudinal follow‐up which reported the outcome of CKD or CKD progression and its associated risk factors. Fifteen studies were included. The prevalence of CKD ranged from below 10% to almost 50% across diverse LN and SLE cohorts. Major risk factors for CKD or CKD progression included renal impairment at presentation, renal function at 1 year post‐treatment, delayed diagnosis, established chronic pathological lesions on kidney biopsy, unsatisfactory treatment response, nephritic flares, hypertension, and persistent proteinuria during follow‐up. Many of the identified risk factors are amenable to therapeutic intervention. CKD not only contributes to morbidity and mortality and inferior quality of life, but also influences the choice of therapy and optimal dosing of medications. Attention to immunomodulatory medications for disease control, and non‐immune strategies for renoprotection and prevention of CKD complications, are both important in the management of patients with LN to reduce their life‐time risk of ESKD.
Ability of Orthodontists to Detect, Interpret and Propose Management Strategies for Incidental Findings on Pre‐Treatment Panoramic Radiographs
Authors: Edmonds Madeleine , Perschbacher Susanne , Cioffi Iacopo , Magalhaes Marco 
Published: January 2025

ABSTRACTObjectivesRadiographs are routinely acquired for orthodontic evaluation, and incidental findings (IFs) may be detected early as part of this routine care. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of IFs on panoramic radiographs taken for orthodontic assessment and evaluate the ability of orthodontists to detect, interpret and recommend management for IFs.Materials and MethodsA retrospective analysis of 1756 patients aged 7–21 with a panoramic image taken for orthodontic evaluation was performed. IFs were categorised by anatomic region and assigned a significance level based on a custom‐made risk assessment tool. Twelve selected images were evaluated by 30 orthodontists via a standardised online survey. Participants were tasked with reviewing each image, providing a radiological interpretation, and indicating whether a referral would be needed prior to commencing orthodontic treatment. The responses were scored against those of an expert oral and maxillofacial radiologist (OMFR). Inter‐observer agreement was evaluated by computing the Cohen's K.ResultsThe prevalence of IFs was 30.8%. The most common findings were impacted teeth (17.7%), hypodontia (14.9%) and dense bone islands (14.7%). After applying the risk assessment tool, 35% of the findings were considered highly significant. The overall agreement between the orthodontists and OMFR was k = 0.32 (95% CI = 0.30–0.34). The agreement for location was 0.52 (95% CI = 0.47–0.58), whereas it was k = 0.45 (95% CI = 0.40–0.50) for diagnosis and k = 0.19 (95% CI = 0.13–0.24) for referral need.ConclusionsOrthodontists may benefit from additional education and training focused on interpretation and management of IFs on panoramic radiographs.
Cauda Equina Syndrome Without Perineal Sensory Changes or Lower Extremity Neurological Deficits Following Postoperative Spinal Epidural Hematoma: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Liu Guanyi , Li Qing , Ruan Hongfeng , Zhu Bingke , Ma Weihu , Hu Yong 
Published: January 2025

ABSTRACTBackgroundPostoperative spinal epidural hematoma (SEH) is a rare but serious complication following lumbar surgery, with cauda equina syndrome (CES) being one of its most devastating outcomes. While CES typically presents with a combination of bladder and/or bowel dysfunction, diminished sensation in the saddle area, and motor or sensory changes in the lower limbs, atypical cases with isolated urinary symptoms are less recognized and pose significant diagnostic challenges.Case PresentationWe report the case of a 46‐year‐old male who developed CES following lumbar microdiscectomy, presenting solely with urinary retention, without the classic signs of lower limb weakness or perineal sensory loss. Initial symptoms were attributed to postoperative urinary issues, delaying the diagnosis of CES. On postoperative day 7, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed SEH, and emergency hematoma evacuation was performed. Despite the delayed intervention, the patient made a full neurological recovery, with bladder and bowel functions restored by 3 months postoperatively.ConclusionThis case highlights the importance of recognizing CES in patients with isolated urinary dysfunction after lumbar surgery, even when typical neurological symptoms such as lower limb weakness or perineal sensory loss are absent. Early detection and prompt surgical intervention are critical, as delayed diagnosis may result in permanent neurological deficits. Moreover, this case underscores the need for vigilant postoperative monitoring, especially of urinary function, as isolated urinary symptoms may signal early CES. Maintaining a high index of suspicion for CES, even in atypical presentations, can facilitate timely diagnosis and improve patient outcomes. Furthermore, this case highlights the need for continued research into the prevention of SEH and the development of more robust diagnostic criteria for CES in postoperative patients. Future studies should focus on developing more comprehensive guidelines for monitoring postoperative patients, especially regarding urinary function, to aid in the early detection of CES.
Research Progress on the Posterior Midline Lumbar Spinous Process‐Splitting Approach
Authors: Ma Yizhong , Mao Lu , Liu Guanyi , Hu Lihua , Chen Kaixuan 
Published: January 2025

ABSTRACTThe traditional posterior median approach laminectomy is widely used for lumbar decompression. However, the bilateral dissection of paraspinal muscles during this procedure often leads to postoperative muscle atrophy, chronic low back pain, and other complications. The posterior midline spinous process‐splitting approach (SPSA) offers a significant advantage over the traditional approach by minimizing damage to the paraspinal muscles. SPSA reduces the incidence of muscle atrophy and chronic low back pain while maintaining the integrity of the posterior spinal structures. The technique involves longitudinal splitting of the spinous process, which allows for adequate access to the lamina for decompression without detaching the paraspinal muscles. As a result, it provides a clearer surgical field and facilitates muscle preservation, which reduces the risk of postoperative complications. Additionally, SPSA requires only standard surgical instruments, making it accessible in most surgical settings. This paper reviews the anatomical considerations, surgical techniques, and clinical applications of the SPSA, highlighting its effectiveness in reducing muscle atrophy and improving recovery outcomes. The paper also discusses its potential in treating conditions such as lumbar spinal stenosis, disc herniation, and spondylolisthesis. Furthermore, it emphasizes the need for future research to establish the long‐term benefits of SPSA and refine surgical techniques. The results suggest that SPSA is a promising alternative to traditional approaches, with better outcomes in terms of muscle preservation and overall recovery.
Convergent Isobilateral Leaves Increase the Risk for Mangroves Facing Human‐Induced Rapid Environmental Changes
Authors: Weng Yulin , Qin Dandan , Li Xiao , Zhou Jiawen , Zhang Bowen , Li Qingshun Quinn 
Published: January 2025

ABSTRACTUnderstanding plant adaptations in extreme environments is crucial, as these adaptations often confer advantages for survival. However, a significant gap exists regarding the genetic mechanisms underlying these adaptations and their responses to human‐induced rapid environmental change (HIREC). This study addresses the question of whether genetic convergence occurs among plants with similar adaptive features, specifically focusing on isobilateral leaves in mangrove species. Here, we analyse the genetic convergence of isobilateral leaves in mangroves that have independently adapted to coastal intertidal zones. Our findings reveal that genetic convergence is evident in gene families involved in leaf abaxial and adaxial development, with strong selection pressures identified in photosynthesis and leaf polarity pathways. Despite these adaptations, mangrove species with isobilateral leaves occupy narrower ecological niches and face diminishing suitable habitat areas projected under various HIREC scenarios. These results indicate that while convergent traits enhance local adaptation, they may also increase vulnerability to ongoing environmental changes. This research provides valuable insight into the interplay between genetic adaptation and environmental resilience, underscoring the necessity for targeted biodiversity conservation strategies that safeguard specific adaptive traits amid rapid environmental shifts.
Vesicoureteral Reflux in Transplanted Kidney Among Children With Congenital Anomalies of Kidney and Urinary Tract: Case–Control Study Assessing Impact on Renal Function and Graft Survival
Authors: Ascar Priscila Cardoso Braz , Penedo Camila Correa , Genzani Camila Penteado , Fonseca Mariana Janiques Barcia Magalhães , Scaranti Vanessa , Feltran Luciana Santis , de Camargo Maria Fernanda Carvalho , de Souza Leão Jovelino Quintino , Nogueira Paulo Cesar Koch 
Published: January 2025

ABSTRACTBackgroundCongenital anomalies of the kidney and urinary tract (CAKUT) are a common cause of kidney failure in childhood. Renal transplantation is the modality of treatment used for kidney failure that promotes improved quality of life for pediatric patients. It is believed that patients with CAKUT are more predisposed to developing graft reflux in the post‐transplant period, but its influence on graft survival is poorly understood. A comparative analysis between patients with and without VUR in the graft was made to determine the impact of reflux on graft function and survival in pediatric CAKUT patients.MethodsA retrospective case–control study of patients undergoing first renal transplantation between April 2008 and October 2021 was done. The study included CAKUT individuals who underwent voiding cystourethrogram after transplantation. Patients were stratified into a group without reflux in the transplanted kidney (controls) and a group with reflux (cases). Six‐year graft and patient survivals were calculated and compared using Kaplan–Meier curves and the log‐rank test.ResultsA total of 257 CAKUT patients were studied. Of this group, 63 (24%) underwent voiding cystourethrogram after transplantation, and 48 (76%) had reflux in the transplanted kidney. Estimated six‐year survival of the graft was 72% in the control group versus 96% in the case group (log‐rank 0.889). The median follow‐up time after transplantation in years was 7.6 in controls and 6.6 in cases (p = 0.383).ConclusionsPediatric patients with CAKUT who presented reflux in transplanted kidneys had similar graft and patient survivals compared to patients without reflux.