bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Two Lateral Organ Boundary Domain Transcription Factors HvCRL1 and HvCRL1L1 Regulate Shoot-Borne Root Formation in Barley (Hordeum vulgare L.)
Authors: Nguyen Thu Dieu , Gonin Mathieu , Motyka Michal , Champion Antony , Hensel Goetz , Gantet Pascal , Bergougnoux Véronique 
Published: February 2025

Abstract
Plant-specific LOB-domain (LBD) transcription factors are crucial in post-embryonic root initiation. In cereals, the fibrous root system comprises primary and seminal roots that develop during embryogenesis and lateral- and crown roots that develop post-embryonically from root or stem, respectively. In rice, the CROWNROOTLESS1 (CRL1) LBD transcription factor is the core regulator of crown root initiation and a direct target of the auxin response factor (ARF)-mediated auxin signaling pathway. Orthologs of CRL1 have been identified and characterized in several species, where their role in crown root initiation has been validated. In barley, we identified two genes phylogenetically closely related to the rice CRL1 genes that we named HvCRL1 and HvCRL1L1. Using a crown root inducible system (CRIS), we identified that both HvCRL1 and HvCRL1L1 are expressed in response to auxin during the early steps of crown root differentiation in stem base, with HvCRL1 transcripts being accumulated quickly during the first hour of treatment. Transient activation assays in rice protoplast showed that HvCRL1 could bind the LBD-box, a consensus DNA sequence recognized by LBD transcription factors, whereas HvCRL1L1 did not. Both genes can partially complement the crl1 rice mutant. Loss-of-function mutation in each gene drastically impairs crown root formation in barley. These data show that HvCRL1 and HvCRL1L1 are both involved in the regulation of crown root formation in barley but that these two transcription factors likely act through distinct and complementary pathways in this developmental process.
Multidimensional position and displacement estimation using periodic coded optical apertures in a single-camera imaging system
Authors: Steinmetz Tino , Otto Jonas , Pommerenke Hermann , Otto Johannes , Kleinwächter André , Ebert Eric , Damaschke Nils 
Published: February 2025

Abstract
Accurately estimating multidimensional positions and displacements in fluid dynamic experiments is essential for understanding complex flow phenomena. This paper presents a novel optical measurement setup capable of determining velocity fields using periodic coded optical apertures in a single-camera imaging system. Our method involves placing a periodic transmission grating in front of the optical system and aligning a laser beam along the system’s optical axis. When particles intersect the laser beam, they scatter light, producing out-of-focus images on the imaging sensor resembling the periodic grating. The size and position of these images vary with the distance to the imaging system and the offset from the optical axis, allowing for accurate determination of particle positions. We derive mathematical formulas describing the imaging system and the relationship between image properties and particle positions and verify them through simulations. Additionally, we develop a calibration method enabling arbitrary optical imaging systems to be used with this technique. Finally, we demonstrate the effectiveness of our approach by measuring velocity fields near a ducted ship propeller, a practical application that underscores the real-world impact of our research in fluid dynamics.
Association between diabetes and heart failure after coronary artery bypass grafting: Danish register-based cohort study
Authors: Brodersen Benedicte Bay Oxholm , Kristiansen Line Tribler , le Fevre Karlsen Sidsel , Hauch Jeppe , Andreasen Jan Jesper , Kragholm Kristian H. , Krogager Maria Lukács , Køber Lars Valeur , Leutscher Peter Christian , Melgaard Dorte , Parikh Nisha I. , Schou Morten , Søgaard Peter , Torp-Pedersen Christian , Søndergaard Marc Meller 
Published: February 2025

Abstract

Background
Ischemic heart disease (IHD) is the leading cause of mortality in the world with an increasing incidence. One of the interventions to treat IHD is coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) and people with diabetes mellitus (DM) account for approximately one quarter of all patients who undergo coronary revascularization. Furthermore, people with DM have a higher risk of mortality due to heart failure (HF).

Objective
We aim to describe the risk of developing HF after CABG in patients with versus without DM.

Methods
Through a large nationwide register-based cohort study, patients who underwent CABG from January 1, 2000 to December 31, 2020 were included. In addition to Cox regression, g-formula methods based on multivariable Cox regression were performed to estimate the absolute risk (AR) and risk difference (RD) of the association between DM status and HF outcome, and between DM status and mortality.

Results
A total of 34,855 patients were included in this study, consisting of 6909 (19.8%) DM patients. The AR of HF after CABG in the 10th year was 35.1% versus 26.4% for patients with versus without DM (p < 0.001), respectively. The RD of HF for each exceeding year (3.7 percentage point (pp.) in the 1st year versus 8.6 pp. in the 10th year) was higher for patients with DM compared to those without DM.

Conclusion
The risk of HF was significantly higher up to ten years after CABG in patients with DM compared to those without DM.

Graphical abstract
The role of an anti-reflux diet in the treatment of chronic cough caused by laryngopharyngeal reflux
Authors: Hránková Viktória , Balner Tomáš , Kondé Adéla , Gubová Patrícia , Zeleník Karol , Komínek Pavel , Staníková Lucia 
Published: February 2025

Abstract

Purpose
To evaluate the role of an anti-reflux diet in the treatment of patients with chronic cough caused by laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR).

Methods
This prospective observational study included patients with chronic cough (lasting over 3 months) and laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR) confirmed by hypopharyngeal-esophageal 24-h multichannel intraluminal impedance-pH monitoring (HEMII-pH), according to Dubai criteria. Participants were categorized based on cough severity using a visual analog scale (VAS) from 1 to 10. A VAS < 5 was considered to indicate mild cough, whereas a VAS ≥ 5 were considered to indicate severe cough. Patients with mild cough were treated by anti-reflux diet only, while those with severe cough received additional treatment with proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) and alginates. After 3 months, treatment effectiveness was evaluated by assessing the reduction in cough severity.

Results
In patients with mild cough, anti-reflux diet alone proved to be effective, yielding improvement in 83.3% of cases. Among patients with severe cough, a combination of anti-reflux diet, proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), and alginates proved was effective in 81.8% of cases.

Conclusion
Diet alone is an effective and sufficient treatment for mild chronic cough in patients with LPR. For patients with severe chronic cough with LPT, combined anti-reflux measures are effective.
The friendship paradox for sparse random graphs
Authors: Hazra Rajat Subhra , den Hollander Frank , Parvaneh Azadeh 
Published: February 2025

Abstract
Let

$$G_n$$

G
n

be an undirected finite graph on

$$n\in {\mathbb {N}}$$

n
∈
N

vertices labelled by

$$[n] = \{1,\ldots ,n\}$$

[
n
]
=
{
1
,
…
,
n
}

. For

$$i \in [n]$$

i
∈
[
n
]

, let

$$\Delta _{i,n}$$

Δ

i
,
n

be the friendship bias of vertex i, defined as the difference between the average degree of the neighbours of vertex i and the degree of vertex i itself when i is not isolated, and zero when i is isolated. Let

$$\mu _n$$

μ
n

denote the friendship-bias empirical distribution, i.e., the measure that puts mass

$$\frac{1}{n}$$

1
n

at each

$$\Delta _{i,n}$$

Δ

i
,
n

,

$$i \in [n]$$

i
∈
[
n
]

. The friendship paradox says that

$$\int _{\mathbb {R}}x\mu _n(\textrm{d}x) \ge 0$$

∫
R

x

μ
n

(
d
x
)

≥
0

, with equality if and only if in each connected component of

$$G_n$$

G
n

all the degrees are the same. We show that if

$$(G_n)_{n\in {\mathbb {N}}}$$

(

G
n

)

n
∈
N

is a sequence of sparse random graphs that converges to a rooted random tree in the sense of convergence locally in probability, then

$$\mu _n$$

μ
n

converges weakly to a limiting measure

$$\mu $$

μ

that is expressible in terms of the law of the rooted random tree. We study

$$\mu $$

μ

for four classes of sparse random graphs: the homogeneous Erdős-Rényi random graph, the inhomogeneous Erdős-Rényi random graph, the configuration model and the preferential attachment model. In particular, we compute the first two moments of

$$\mu $$

μ

, identify the right tail of

$$\mu $$

μ

, and argue that

$$\mu ([0,\infty ))\ge \tfrac{1}{2}$$

μ

(

[
0
,
∞
)

)

≥

1
2

, a property we refer to as friendship paradox significance.
Usefulness of a new foot switch for comport digestive endoscopic examination: a pilot study
Authors: Lee Dong Seok , Kim Sang Gyun , Kim Byung-Wook , Ji Jeong-Seon , Ahn Ji Yong 
Published: February 2025

Abstract

Background
Foot switches are commonly used to record gastrointestinal lesions. However, prolonged use of foot switches can cause unstable posture, leading to musculoskeletal disorders. Therefore, this study aimed to develop and evaluate the usability of a compact foot switch for reducing musculoskeletal disorders among endoscopists.

Methods
A new endoscopic foot switch was developed to reduce musculoskeletal disorders and was compared with a previous foot switch. Between January 1 and October 1, 2024, 50 expert endoscopists from five different centers analyzed its usability, postural stability, ability to reduce pain and work fatigue, and efficiency.

Results
Compared with the conventional foot switch, the new foot switch showed favorable outcomes in terms of musculoskeletal disease-related factors, with better results in the following areas: comport endoscopic examination (6.5 [6–7] vs. 2 [1–2], p < 0.001), stable posture (6 [6–6] vs. 2 [2–3], p < 0.001), relief of musculoskeletal disorders (6 [5–6] vs. 3 [2–3], p < 0.001), efficiency of examination (6 [6–7] vs. 3 [2–3], p < 0.001), and applicability to other equipment (6 [6–7] vs. 2 [2–3], p < 0.001).

Conclusions
We developed a new foot switch that can prevent musculoskeletal disorders among endoscopists. Further validation of its usefulness in various hospitals and users is required.
Recurrence and complications after laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair using a self-adherent mesh: a patient-reported follow-up study
Authors: Lund Helle , Spanager Lene , Winther Azalie Caroline Riberholdt , Gierløff Mathias , Sunekær Katharina , Kleif Jakob , Bertelsen Claus Anders 
Published: February 2025

Abstract

Background
Recurrence and postoperative pain are major concerns after laparoscopic surgery for inguinal hernia. Follow-up on all patients is difficult and time consuming for both the hospital and the patient. We conducted a patient-reported follow-up study to estimate the rate of recurrence and postoperative pain in our department.

Method
Patients undergoing the TAPP (TransAbdominal PrePeritoneal) procedure with a self-adherent mesh at Copenhagen University Hospital – North Zealand from 2016 to 2019 received an online survey about signs of recurrence, postoperative pain, and complications. Patients reporting signs of recurrence or pain were contacted and invited for a clinical examination if relevant. Forty-five randomly selected patients who did not report any symptoms of recurrence or pain were contacted by phone for validation.

Results
871 patients received a questionnaire, and 546 responded, leaving a response rate of 62.7%. Median follow-up time was 34 months (IQR 23–47). The self-reported recurrence rate was 8.1% (95% CI: 6.0–11.0%). On examination, recurrence was diagnosed in 2.4% (95% CI: 1.4–4.1%) of the patients. When including the patients with self-reported recurrence who did not accept the offer of clinical examination, the recurrence rate was 3.8% (95% CI: 2.5–5.8%). Four patients (0.7%, 95% CI: 0.2–2.0%) underwent herniotomy for recurrence. The rate of chronic postoperative pain impairing daily activity was 0.5%.

Conclusion
We found an acceptable low rate of recurrence and postoperative pain compared to other studies. The patient-reported recurrence rate was significantly higher than the clinical recurrence rate after the examination, indicating that patient-reported recurrence seems to overestimate true recurrence after TAPP.
Predictive modeling with linear machine learning can estimate glioblastoma survival in months based solely on MGMT-methylation status, age and sex
Authors: Maragno Emanuele , Ricchizzi Sarah , Winter Nils Ralf , Hellwig Sönke Josua , Stummer Walter , Hahn Tim , Holling Markus 
Published: February 2025

Abstract

Purpose
Machine Learning (ML) has become an essential tool for analyzing biomedical data, facilitating the prediction of treatment outcomes and patient survival. However, the effectiveness of ML models heavily relies on both the choice of algorithms and the quality of the input data. In this study, we aimed to develop a novel predictive model to estimate individual survival for patients diagnosed with glioblastoma (GBM), focusing on key variables such as O6-Methylguanine-DNA Methyltransferase (MGMT) methylation status, age, and sex.

Methods
To identify the optimal approach, we utilized retrospective data from 218 patients treated at our brain tumor center. The performance of the ML models was evaluated within repeated tenfold regression. The pipeline comprised five regression estimators, including both linear and non-linear algorithms. Permutation feature importance highlighted the feature with the most significant impact on the model. Statistical significance was assessed using a permutation test procedure.

Results
The best machine learning algorithm achieved a mean absolute error (MAE) of 12.65 (SD = ± 2.18) and an explained variance (EV) of 7% (SD = ± 1.8%) with p < 0.001. Linear algorithms led to more accurate predictions than non-linear estimators. Feature importance testing indicated that age and positive MGMT-methylation influenced the predictions the most.

Conclusion
In summary, here we provide a novel approach allowing to predict GBM patient’s survival in months solely based on key parameters such as age, sex and MGMT-methylation status and underscores MGMT-methylation status as key prognostic factor for GBM patients survival.
Polishing of 4Y- and 5Y- zirconia: effects on roughness, color and gloss
Authors: Koch Laura , Hahnel Sebastian , Rauch Angelika , Rosentritt Martin 
Published: February 2025

Abstract

Objectives
To investigate the effects of polishing systems on the roughness, gloss and color of two zirconia materials as a function of the rotational speed and number of polishing movements.

Materials and methods
Specimens (n = 8/group) from 4Y-TZP and 5Y-TZP were milled, diamond grinded and polished. The intraoral polishing varied in the number of polishing steps, the grain size and the matrix. Different number of polishing movements and rotation speed were used. Roughness (ISO25178-2:2021), gloss (ISO2813:2014) and color stability (ISO/CIE 11664–4:2019) were determined. Statistics: Shapiro–Wilk, one-way analysis, Bonferroni, Pearson, variance analysis/intermediate sub-effects (α = 0.05).

Results
Roughness Sa varied between 2.45 ± 0.93 µm and 6.47 ± 0.26 µm (4Y-TZP) and 2.31 ± 0.19 µm and 6.54 ± 0.22 µm (5Y-TZP). Maximum roughness Sz ranged from 32.92 ± 12.59 µm to 99.32 ± 19.87 µm (4Y-TZP) and 31.45 ± 3.02 µm to 90.75 ± 12.59 µm (5Y-TZP). Different gloss from 28.9 ± 4. 23 to 102.39 ± 18.63 GU (4Y-TZP) and 33.19 ± 3.68 to 101.28 ± 10.00 GU (5Y-TZP) was found. ΔE results ranged from 0.39 ± 0.34 to 6.30 ± 1.22 (4Y-TZP) and 0.87 ± 0.71 to 7.50 ± 1.67 (5Y-TZP). Significant (p ≥ 0.095) intermediate sub-effects were found.

Conclusions
Polishing led to a reduction in roughness, an increase in gloss and a significant change in color. Polishing had a stronger effect on 5Y-TZP.

Clinical relevance
The correct use of the polisher type (stages, binder) and its specific application (rotational speed, movements) can improve roughness, gloss and color variations.
Higher target attainment for B-lactam antibiotics in patients with Gram-negative bloodstream infections when four times actual minimum inhibitory concentrations and epidemiological cutoff values are applied compared to clinical breakpoints
Authors: Lejbman Ilja Areskog , Torisson Gustav , Resman Fredrik , Sjövall Fredrik 
Published: February 2025

Abstract

Introduction
Beta-lactam antibiotics are essential in the treatment of Gram-negative bloodstream infections. The effect of beta-lactam antibiotics depends on the time of unbound antibiotic concentration above the minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC). An antibiotic concentration above MIC during the whole dosing interval (100% ƒT > MIC) has been suggested as a target for severe infections. The aim of the present study was to compare target attainment using targets derived from known MICs with standard generic targets.

Methods
In this prospective, single-center study, adult patients with Gram-negative bloodstream infection treated with cefotaxime, piperacillin/tazobactam or meropenem were eligible for inclusion. Trough antibiotic concentrations were collected during a single dosing interval and actual MIC values for the antimicrobial agent against the infecting isolate were obtained using E-tests. Epidemiological cut off values, ECOFFs, were applied from European Committee on Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing, EUCAST, tables for isolates within the wild-type distribution. Antibiotic concentrations were measured using Liquid Chromatography tandem Mass Spectrometry. Free concentrations were estimated based on total concentrations. Two targets based on actual MICs were assessed: free trough concentrations above (1) four times the actual MIC (100% ƒT > 4MIC) or above (2) the ECOFF (100% ƒT > ECOFF). Proportions of target attainment for the MIC-based targets were compared with attainment using clinical breakpoints or PK/PD breakpoints. Treatment response was defined as clinical resolution at day 7 (No persisting signs or symptoms of infection).

Results
We included 98 patients with a median age of 72 years. The most common microbiological finding was Escherichia coli (63%) followed by Klebsiella pneumoniae (12%). Of all patients, 77/98 patients (79%) attained 100% ƒT > 4MIC and 80/98 (82%) attained 100% ƒT > ECOFF, compared with 57/98 (58%) using 100% ƒT > EUCAST clinical breakpoints. Clinical resolution at day 7 was significantly associated with target attainment applying the target 100% ƒT > 4MIC (p = 0.013), but this was not the case when 100% ƒT > ECOFF was applied (p = 0.50).

Conclusions
In our material, higher target attainment rates were seen using targets derived from actual MICs, compared to EUCAST clinical breakpoints. Attaining 100% ƒT > 4MIC was associated with resolution of infection, but the latter finding should be interpreted cautiously.
Forming of Hybrid (CF UD Prepreg - Advanced SMC) Composite Layups
Authors: Dutta Abhik , Thibault Maxime , Åkermo Malin 
Published: February 2025

Abstract
Combining continuous unidirectional (UD) prepreg and advanced discontinuous long fiber-based sheet moulding compound (ASMC) in a hybrid component is advantageous for applications where cost and environmental impact of the manufactured part are of significance. Previous works have focused on the flow/compaction of ASMC and its interaction with continuous fibres at high pressures. However, little is known about the forming behaviour of such layups. This work investigates the formability of hybrid carbon fibre UD-ASMC composite layups. The deformation mechanisms during forming and their interactions are investigated experimentally. Forming simulations are conducted alongside experimental tests under varying layup configurations. The results show that the hybrid layup combinations investigated exhibited poor forming characteristics. This was due to the high interply friction properties of the UD-ASMC interface, which, in turn, restricted the intraply shear of the hybrid stack. A strong correlation between the numerically predicted forming outcomes and experimentally formed parts demonstrates that generic FE-solvers can provide a first estimate of the forming outcome when coupled with a good understanding of the underlying deformation mechanisms. However, these methods are computationally expensive and are better suited for detailed evaluations rather than for use in design applications.
Rajiv Banker’s lasting impact on data envelopment analysis
Authors: Emrouznejad Ali , Podinovski Victor , Charles Vincent , Lu Chixiao , Moradi-Motlagh Amir 
Published: February 2025

Abstract
This paper provides a comprehensive analysis of Professor Rajiv Banker’s significant impact on the field of Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA). Through an extensive review of his scholarly contributions, we explore three major clusters within DEA research: (1) Returns-to-Scale (RTS) and Most Productive Scale Size (MPSS), (2) Statistical Inference in DEA, and (3) Contextual Analysis. Banker’s pioneering research has significantly advanced DEA methodologies, addressing fundamental challenges related to scale efficiency, statistical robustness, and the influence of contextual variables on performance. His work has bridged theoretical developments and practical applications, influencing diverse fields such as economics, finance, and management science. By examining citation trends and bibliometric data, we trace the evolution and enduring relevance of his contributions, highlighting key papers that have shaped the trajectory of DEA research. This paper also discusses the evolution of DEA models and approaches, including the integration of stochastic elements and second-stage analyses. In recognising Banker’s lifetime dedication to DEA, we celebrate his lasting legacy and his transformative influence on both the academic community and practical implementations of DEA worldwide.
Numerical Simulation of the Agglomeration Behaviour of Spheroidal Particle Pairs in Chaotic Flows
Authors: Anderson Jacob P. , Mortimer Lee F. , Hunter Timothy N. , Peakall Jeffrey , Fairweather Michael 
Published: February 2025

Abstract
Interactions between attractive spheroidal particles are studied in boxes of chaotic flow under the action of a homogeneous and isotropic forcing technique. The fully resolved fluid field and structure-resolved particle–fluid coupling regime are obtained through direct numerical simulation and an immersed boundary method. Agglomeration outcomes are accommodated through attractive van der Waals forces, suitably adapted to consider the orientational dependencies associated with the non-spherical shape. Binary particle interactions are first studied in quiescent conditions, as well as in a periodic box of chaotic fluid flow. The latter is forced using a stochastic method, where the magnitude of the velocity fluctuations and Taylor–Reynolds number are chosen based on those typically seen in nuclear waste processing scenarios. Differences in particle interaction behaviours are presented for the cases of disks and needles, with the role of orientation and kinetic energy in determining interaction outcomes analysed and contrasted with spheres. Results indicate that needles have the highest agglomeration propensity in the chaotic fluid, followed by spheres, and then disks. Lastly, the inclusion of attractive orientationally-dependent interaction forces promotes alignment between the symmetry axes of spheroidal particle pairs, whilst the increased action of the fluid was also seen to promote alignment between the interacting particles when compared to the quiescent case.