bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Research on similarity law of the flow-induced noise of the submarine
Authors: Song Yang , Ming Pingjian , Xun Bo
Published: December 2024

Flow-induced noise is a complex source that significantly impacts submarines' stealth performance. While previous studies have provided valuable insights into the acoustic radiation of scaled-down submarine models, addressing the flow noise of full-scale prototypes has remained a daunting challenge. To bridge this gap, the research team undertook an extensive investigation to unveil the elusive similarity law of flow noise in both small and large-scale submarine models. By leveraging computational algorithms and turbulence models, the flow field of the submarine model was simulated, and the Kirchhoff and Ffowcs Williams–Hawkings model was employed to calculate the submarine's flow noise. This comprehensive study meticulously considered various influential factors, including Mach number, Reynolds number, etc., ultimately formulating a similarity correlation formula for submarine flow noise. The findings of this study revealed several key insights, including the minimal impact of accessories on submarine flow noise similarity, the adherence of the frequency of submarine flow noise to the Helmholtz number, and the intricate relationship between sound pressure level similarity law with Mach and Reynolds number. Ultimately, this study introduces and summarizes the submarine flow noise similarity law. This law enables the estimation of real-scale model flow noise by using small-scale model flow noise as a reference.
Relative frequency dynamics and loading of beet necrotic yellow vein virus genomic RNAs during the acquisition by its vector
Polymyxa betae
Authors: Guo Yi , Dall'Ara Mattia , Baldo David , Gilmer David , Ratti Claudio
Published: December 2024

The beet necrotic yellow vein virus (BNYVV) is a multipartite virus with the highest number (up to five) of genomic segments among RNA viruses. Classified as a soil-borne virus, it is persistently transmitted by the protozoan
Polymyxa betae
. Previous studies have demonstrated that the relative frequency of the BNYVV genomic RNAs was modified depending on the host plant as well as the infected organ, resulting in distinct stoichiometric ratios between the viral RNAs. In this study, we investigate whether infection by the vector
P. betae
influences the relative abundance of BNYVV RNAs within the roots of the host plant
Beta vulgaris
. Furthermore, we examine the relative frequency of BNYVV genomic segments and the viral load of BNYVV at two different stages of
P. betae
’s biological cycle: zoospore and resting spore. Our finding offers new insights into understanding the biology of this soil-borne virus and its vector. Notably, the variations in the relative accumulation of BNYVV RNAs observed in zoospores and resting spores, along with a higher viral load in zoospores compared to resting spores, invite consideration of the virus’s replicative capacity within the vector.

IMPORTANCE

Our understanding of the transmission of plant viruses by protozoan vectors remains poor and fragmented. The fate of viral elements in the living stages of the vector is unknown. Here, we first established a protocol allowing the purification of two forms of the vector free of cellular contaminants. This permitted the examination of the relative frequencies of beet necrotic yellow vein virus RNAs in the roots of its natural host and in two forms of its protozoan vector,
Polymyxa betae
, responsible for virus transmission. Our findings provide new insights into virus behavior during vector transmission, allowing us to analyze how the virus regulates its RNA frequencies and load within the vector. By focusing on the early stages of viral transmission and separating virus acquisition from transmission to new hosts, we pave the way for experiments aimed at elucidating the molecular mechanisms behind viral acquisition and the maintenance of viral genome integrity by
P. betae
.
The novel H10N3 avian influenza virus acquired airborne transmission among chickens: an increasing threat to public health
Authors: Wang Xiaoquan , Yu Huiyan , Ma Yahao , Zhang Pinghu , Wang Xiyue , Liang Jianyu , Zhang Xiuling , Gao Ruyi , Lu Xiaolong , Yang Wenhao , Chen Yu , Gu Min , Hu Jiao , Liu Xiaowen , Hu Shunlin , Peng Daxin , Qi Xian , Bao Changjun , Liu Kaituo , Liu Xiufan
Published: December 2024

Following two human infections with the H10N3 avian influenza virus (AIV) in 2021 and 2022, a third case was discovered in Yunnan, China, in 2024, raising concerns about the potential for future pandemics. Recent studies have indicated that novel H10N3 viruses are highly pathogenic in mice and can be transmitted between guinea pigs via respiratory droplets without prior adaptation. However, the biological characteristics of novel H10N3 in poultry have not been fully elucidated. Our findings revealed that H10 subtype AIVs are predominantly prevalent in waterfowl. Notably, H10N8 and H10N3 viruses that have infected humans were primarily isolated from chickens. For the first time, double basic hemagglutinin cleavage sites (motif PEIKQGR↓GL) were identified in novel H10N3 AIVs, which exhibit enhanced replication in chickens, and can be transmitted between chickens through direct contact and respiratory droplets. Animal experimental studies demonstrated that ducks are also susceptible to H10N3 viruses and that the virus is transmissible through direct contact, suggesting a greater risk of transmission and recombination. Serological studies conducted among poultry workers suggest that while the human population was largely naïve to H10N3 infection, sporadic and undetected human infections did occur, indicating a potential increasing trend. These data further emphasize the growing threat to public health posed by zoonotic H10N3 subtype AIVs.

IMPORTANCE

Exposure to poultry in live poultry markets (LPMs) is strongly associated with human infection with avian influenza viruses (AIVs), with chickens being the most common species found in these markets in China. The prevalence of AIVs in chickens, therefore, increases the risk of human infection. Notably, the main host of the novel H10N3 virus has shifted from waterfowl to chickens, and the virus can be transmitted between chickens via respiratory droplets, posing a potential risk of a pandemic within poultry populations. The novel H10N3 virus also remains sensitive to ducks and can be transmitted through direct contact, which means a greater risk of transmission and recombination. Significantly, the human population remains largely naïve to H10N3 infection, but sporadic seropositivity among poultry workers indicates previous exposure to H10 subtype AIVs. Therefore, a comprehensive surveillance of the novel H10N3 viruses in poultry is imperative. Effective control of the virus within poultry populations could significantly reduce the risk of emerging human infections.
Supplemental Material: Origin and paleo-oceanic conditions of Guadalupian bedded chert in the northern margin of the Upper Yangtze region: Implication for marine anoxia and the Permian Chert Event
Authors: Yu Yu , Lin Liangbiao , al. et
Published: December 2024

Table S1: Major elements (wt%) of Xibeixiang section cherts. Table S2: Trace and rare earth elements (wt%) of Xibeixiang section cherts.
Osseous metaplasia of the endometrium presenting as haematometra: a rare presentation
Authors: Mishra Mona , Singh Neetu , Kulshreshtha Rupita
Published: December 2024

Osseous metaplasia of the endometrium is a rare condition involving the bone tissue in the endometrial cavity. Its presence along with haematometra is an infrequent condition and is not reported until now. We present a case of a woman in her mid-30s with primary infertility and secondary amenorrhoea. On evaluation, she was diagnosed with osseous metaplasia, intrauterine synechiae and haematometra. Hysteroscopic removal of bone fragments was done along with synechiolysis which led to the return of menses.
Effect of high-efficiency particulate air filter on children with asthma: a systematic review protocol of RCTs
Authors: Mansoor Javeria , Zia Ul Haq Muhammad , Ahsan Zeeshan , Bilal Muhammad , Fatima Syeda Sadia
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Asthma has been classified as a major non-communicable disease by the WHO. With the worsening air quality index worldwide, the burden of asthma has increased specifically in children. The focus of the management strategy of asthma has shifted from traditional pharmacological treatments towards non-pharmacological preventive and control therapy in recent decades. The use of high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters is one of the methods to achieve that, despite extensive research, the efficacy of HEPA filters in this context of effectiveness and usage guidelines remains unclear. Our study aims to examine the effect of HEPA filters in (1) reducing clinical visits or hospital admissions or the number of exacerbation events, (2) reducing asthma symptoms, (3) increasing asthma symptom-free days, (4) reducing indoor particulate matter 2.5 levels for children with asthma aged 5–17 years and (5) improving quality of life.

Methods

We will conduct a systematic review using MEDLINE, Google Scholar and Scopus as databases, article selection is planned to be restricted to randomised controlled trials only (2002–2025). We are following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines developed specifically for the protocol(s). Two reviewers will screen the studies independently and assess study quality using the Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool for Randomised Trials, V.2. The results of outcome measure(s) will be summarised in tables. If the studies are sufficient, we will also perform a quantitative analysis by creating forest plots and subgroup analysis will be performed if required. Lastly, publication bias will be assessed using a funnel plot and Egger’s test and reported accordingly.

Ethics and dissemination

We will conduct a systematic review, therefore there is no need for a formal ethical review. After successful completion, our results will be published in a peer-reviewed journal.

PROSPERO registration number

CR42024494949.
Participatory longitudinal qualitative interview study to understand Autistic gynaecological and obstetric health: the Autism from menstruation to menopause study protocol
Authors: Grant Aimee , Williams Gemma L , Axbey Harriet , Wilkins Abigail , Firth Ellen , Lim Hazel , Cave Helen , Williams Kathryn , Ribbons Kay , Sinfield Madeleine , Craine Monique , Caemawr Selena , Holloway Willow , Brown Amy , Nicolaidis Christina , Kara Helen , Ellis Rebecca
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Autism is a lifelong minority neurotype present from birth. There is a dearth of credible evidence to suggest gender variation in Autism prevalence, despite historical under-diagnosis of women. Autistic people Assigned Female At Birth (AFAB) have worse physical and mental health compared with non-Autistic peers. To date, the reproductive health experiences of Autistic AFAB people have been under-investigated.

Methods and analysis

This study aims to co-develop a quality improvement intervention to improve the reproductive health of Autistic people. The study uses Community Partnered Participatory Research (an approach similar to Community-Based Participatory Research), largely through a Community Council that co-governs the study. To understand reproductive health needs, a longitudinal qualitative investigation using creative methods will be undertaken with 100 Autistic AFAB people with 10 waves of data collection over 5 years (interview n=500–1000). Participants will be purposively selected to include harder-to-reach members of the Autistic community, including those who are non-speaking or semi-speaking, have a learning disability and those from marginalised ethnicities. Data will be analysed thematically with Community Council involvement. Intervention development will be undertaken from 2029 onwards.

Ethics and dissemination

We are an Autistic-led team that adopts a social model of disability. However, this study raises ethical issues relating to sensitive topics and marginalised populations. Accordingly, we have robust procedures in place to assess capacity to ensure informed consent and to allow participants to take part without opting into data sharing. Ethical approval has been awarded by the Swansea University School of Health and Social Care Research Ethics Committee. We will publish our findings as open access articles in peer-reviewed journals.
Incidence of pressure injury in patients with moderate and severe traumatic brain injury: a systematic review
Authors: Ribeiro Ranya Nascimento , Oliveira Daniel Vieira de , Paiva Wellingson S , Sousa Regina Marcia C , Vieira Rita de Cassia A
Published: December 2024

Background

Patients with moderate and severe traumatic brain injury (TBI) admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) may develop pressure injury (PI) due to haemodynamic instability caused by the disease, lack of mobility in bed, as well as intense and prolonged compression in prominent bone areas.

Objective

The objective of this review is to assess the incidence and identify risk factor for the development of PI in patients with moderate and severe TBI admitted to the ICU.

Method

Searches were conducted in the PubMed, CINAHL, Scopus, Embase, Web of Science, Google Scholar, Trove and Open Grey databases, including all records found up to May 2023. Patients with moderate and severe TBI admitted to the ICU were included in this review.

Results

A total of 368 studies on PI and TBI were identified in the databases. Two authors assessed study bias and extracted data, wit. h a third reviewer as arbitrator. Six studies met the inclusion and exclusion criteria in the review. The incidence of PI varied between 6.5% and 20% among the included studies. Only two studies applied the Braden Scale, which identified stage II lesions (52.6% and 51.5%), located in the sacral region (78.9% and 54.6%). The risk factors identified in the studies for the development of PI were mechanical ventilation, TBI severity, vasoactive drugs, age, fever, use of enteral nutrition, haemoglobin levels and time to perform tracheostomy.

Conclusion

The incidence of PI in moderate and severe patients was similar to that found in ICU patients. There were significant differences across the various studies in the ways in which data were collected and reported.

Trial registration number

The protocol has been deposited in the PROSPERO repository (CRD42023428817).
Bacterial diversity and community structure in native legume root nodules in intact and mining-disturbed Arctic tundra
Authors: Li Angie S. , Standen Katherine M. , Stewart Katherine J. , Lamb Eric G.
Published: December 2024

Mining restoration in Arctic regions is challenging due to harsh environmental conditions with slow natural ecosystem recovery taking decades or even centuries. Identifying native species that can both colonize disturbed areas and contribute to soil development is critical to hasten restoration timelines. Nodules were collected from four native legume species ( Astragalus alpinus Linnaeus, Hedysarum americanum (Michaux ex Pursh) Britton, Oxytropis arctica R. Brown, and Oxytropis maydelliana Trautvetter) observed to be naturally colonizing gravel quarries within a mine footprint near Rankin Inlet, Nunavut, Canada. Samples came from both gravel quarries and adjacent intact tundra . Next-generation sequencing of the 16S and nifH regions was used to characterize the nodule bacterial community composition and diversity. Despite the large differences in soil conditions between gravel substrates and intact tundra, no significant effects of soil environment were found on bacterial community composition within plant nodules. Further, few differences were observed in nodule communities between the plant species. Overall, the study suggests that the microbial propagules necessary for successful nodulation are present in gravel quarries. While restoration efforts involving native legumes may succeed without commercial inoculants, further research is needed to determine whether the rhizobia in these environments can provide sufficient nitrogen to support robust host plant growth.
Preparation of an Adsorbent Derived from Canola Hull by Slow Pyrolysis for Effective Carbon Dioxide Adsorption
Authors: Huang Qian , Karthik Hari , Patra Biswa R , Pattnaik Falguni , Dalai Ajay K.
Published: December 2024

Canola hull was proposed as a valuable precursor for activated carbon production, due to its abundance, low cost, and economic viability. This study aimed to develop a waste-based biosorbent from canola hulls by slow pyrolysis for effective CO2 capture. The biochar was synthesized from the canola hull using a fixed-bed tubular reactor through slow pyrolysis at various temperatures. The optimum biochar was activated using KOH as a chemical activating agent at different impregnation ratios. The biochar and activated carbon were characterized by elemental analysis, thermogravimetric analysis, surface textural analysis and FT-IR analysis. All the activated carbon samples with impregnation ratios of 0, 0.2, and 0.4 were screened at a total inlet mass flow rate of 100 mL/min (15% CO2 + 85% N2). Activated carbon prepared with an impregnation ratio of 0.4 (0.4AC) with a specific surface area of 1112 m2/g exhibited the highest adsorption capacity of CO2 (2.9 mmol/g) at 25°C under ambient pressure when the feed gas was 15% CO2). 0.4AC was chosen for further study at different feed compositions. The breakthrough curves were analyzed for the compositions 5%, 15% and 25% CO2 in feed, and the effects of adsorption parameters were discussed. The maximum CO2 uptake of the canola hull based activated carbon (0.4AC) is 13.0 mmol/g at ambient pressure and 25°C, with 100% CO2 inlet. Adsorption isotherm and kinetic were studied on the 0.4AC adsorbent. The canola hull based adsorbent with desirable physiochemical and surface textural properties can work as an effective adsorbent for CO2 capture.
Population genetics of Salvator merianae (Reptilia, Teiidae) in its southernmost distribution
Authors: Imhoff Carolina , Shirley Matthew H. , Giri Federico , Pacheco-Sierra Gualberto , Siroski Pablo , Amavet Patricia
Published: December 2024

The black and white tegu ( Salvator merianae Duméril and Bibron, 1839) is the most widespread lizard species in the southern part of South America. This is an important species as a natural resource, traditionally used for food and traded as leather and pets, and this intensive exploitation can be important for regional economies in their range. We analyzed their genetic diversity, structure, and mating system in Argentina using the mitochondrial ND4 locus and 10 microsatellite loci. We hypothesized low genetic diversity, high levels of interpopulation structure, and multiple paternal contribution to clutches. Our results support our hypotheses, detecting two divergent mitochondrial haplogroups, low levels of allelic diversity and low to medium population structure values using microsatellites, and that S. merianae is both polygynous and has multiple paternal contributions to the clutches we analyzed. These results are informative for the on-going sustainable use-based management of S. merianae, ensuring the sustainability of its commercially exploited populations and the habitats on which they depend.
A phylogenetic perspective of chromosome evolution in Formicidae
Authors: Cardoso Danon Clemes , Cristiano Maykon Passos
Published: December 2024

Chromosomes, as carriers of genes, are the fundamental units of heredity, with the eukaryotic genome divided into multiple chromosomes. Each species typically has a consistent number of chromosomes within its lineage. Ants, however, display remarkable diversity in chromosome numbers, and previous studies have shown that this variation may correlate with ant diversity. As ants evolved, various karyotypes emerged, primarily through chromosomal fissions, leading to an increase in chromosome number and a decrease in chromosome size. In this study, we investigate chromosome evolution in ants from a phylogenetic perspective using ancestral reconstruction. Our analysis indicates that the most recent common ancestor of ants had an ancestral haploid chromosome number of 11, likely composed of biarmed chromosomes. The bimodal distribution of karyotypes and the trend toward increased chromosome numbers align with previous assumptions. However, both dysploidy and ploidy changes have been indicated as likely mechanisms of chromosome number evolution. Descending dysploidy occurs consistently throughout the phylogeny, while changes in ploidy are believed to occur occasionally within the subfamilies during genus diversification. We propose, based on our results and previous evidence (e.g., genome size in ants), that both fusions and fissions contribute equally to karyotype changes in Formicidae. Additionally, changes in ploidy should not be fully ignored, as they can occur across specific lineages.
A Comprehensive Model of Automated Evaluation of Difficulty in Platformer Games
Authors: Francillette Yannick , Tremblay Hugo , Bouchard Bruno , Menelas Bob-Antoine
Published: December 2024

Difficulty constitutes a key component of games. It both serves as motivation to play the game and as a way to control progression. Usually, a video game offers a gradual progression in gameplay difficulty, starting with easy levels that allow players to grasp the basic mechanics and incrementally introducing more challenging obstacles as they progress. Needless to say, the success of a game heavily relies on its ability to provide a well-balanced difficulty curve and a satisfying progression. Therefore, designing a game entails a complex and time-consuming process that involves extensive playtesting. One potential approach to address this challenge is the utilization of software tools capable of automatically evaluating the difficulty of game levels. In this article, we present a comprehensive model for automatically evaluating the difficulty levels of platformer games. Our model is based on the formal calculation of static danger zones within levels and the analysis of enemy movement patterns using simulated pheromones. To validate our model, we implemented it and conducted tests using the complete set of levels from the game
Super Mario Bros.
Futhermore, the article includes a detailed presentation of the model, the tools developed, a comparative analysis showing the computed results, and a discussion on the limitations and advantages.
Visual Content Privacy Protection: A Survey
Authors: Zhao Ruoyu , Zhang Yushu , Wang Tao , Wen Wenying , Xiang Yong , Cao Xiaochun
Published: December 2024

Vision is the most important sense for people, and it is also one of the main ways of cognition. As a result, people tend to utilize visual content to capture and share their life experiences, which greatly facilitates the transfer of information. Meanwhile, it also increases the risk of privacy violations, e.g., an image or video can reveal different kinds of privacy-sensitive information. Scholars have persistently pursued the advancement of tailored privacy protection measures. Various surveys attempt to consolidate these efforts from specific viewpoints. Nevertheless, these surveys tend to focus on particular issues, scenarios, or technologies, hindering a comprehensive overview of existing solutions on a broader scale. In this survey, a framework that encompasses various concerns and solutions for visual privacy is proposed, which allows for a macro understanding of privacy concerns from a comprehensive level. It is based on the fact that privacy concerns have corresponding adversaries, and divides privacy protection into three categories, based on computer vision (CV) adversary, based on human vision (HV) adversary, and based on CV & HV adversary. For each category, we analyze the characteristics of the main approaches to privacy protection, and then systematically review representative solutions. Open challenges and future directions for visual privacy protection are also discussed.
JPEG Column: 99th JPEG Meeting
Authors: Pinheiro Antonio
Published: December 2024

The 99th JPEG meeting was held online, from 24th to 28th April 2023.

Providing tools suitable for establishing provenance, authenticity and ownership of multimedia content is one of the most difficult challenges faced nowadays, considering the technological models that allow effective multimedia data manipulation and generation. As in the past, the JPEG Committee is again answering the emerging challenges in multimedia. JPEG Trust is a standard offering solutions to media authenticity, provenance and ownership.
Data from Trastuzumab Deruxtecan with Nivolumab in HER2-Expressing Metastatic Breast or Urothelial Cancer: Analysis of the Phase Ib DS8201-A-U105 Study
Authors: Hamilton Erika , Galsky Matthew D. , Ochsenreither Sebastian , Del Conte Gianluca , Martín Miguel , De Miguel Maria José , Yu Evan Y. , Williams Anja , Gion Maria , Tan Antoinette R. , Agrawal Laila , Rutten Annemie , Machiels Jean-Pascal , Cresta Sara , Debruyne Philip R. , Hennequin Audrey , Moreno Victor , Minchom Anna , Valdes-Albini Frances , Petrylak Daniel , Li Li , Tsuchihashi Zenta , Suto Fumitaka , Cheng Fu-Chih , Kandil Maha , Barrios Daniel , Hurvitz Sara
Published: December 2024

AbstractPurpose:
This multicenter phase Ib study investigated trastuzumab deruxtecan (T-DXd) plus nivolumab in patients with HER2-expressing metastatic breast cancer (mBC) and metastatic urothelial cancer (mUC).
Patients and Methods:
Part 1 determined the recommended dose for expansion of T-DXd plus nivolumab. Part 2 evaluated efficacy and safety; the primary endpoint was confirmed objective response rate by independent central review.
Results:
In part 1, seven patients with mBC were enrolled and received T-DXd 3.2 mg/kg (four patients) or 5.4 mg/kg (three patients) plus nivolumab. The recommended dose for expansion for T-DXd was 5.4 mg/kg plus nivolumab 360 mg intravenously every 3 weeks. In part 2, 32 patients with HER2-positive mBC (cohort 1; inclusive of three administered 5.4 mg/kg in part 1), 16 with HER2-low mBC (cohort 2), 30 with HER2-high mUC (cohort 3), and four with HER2-low mUC (cohort 4) were enrolled. At data cutoff (July 22, 2021), the confirmed objective response rates (95% confidence interval) for cohorts 1 to 4 were 65.6% (46.8%−81.4%), 50.0% (24.7%−75.3%), 36.7% (19.9%−56.1%), and not assessed due to small sample size, respectively. The median treatment duration (range) with T-DXd in cohorts 1 to 4 was 8.9 (1–23) months, 6.9 (1–21) months, 3.9 (1–21) months, and not assessed, respectively; the most common treatment-emergent adverse event was nausea (55.2%, 62.5%, 73.3%, and 75.0%, respectively). Adjudicated drug-related interstitial lung disease/pneumonitis rates (cohorts 1–3) were 20.7%, 0%, and 20.0%, respectively (one grade 5 each, cohorts 1 and 3).
Conclusions:
T-DXd plus nivolumab demonstrated promising antitumor activity in HER2-expressing mBC or mUC and safety consistent with the known profile of T-DXd. Interstitial lung disease/pneumonitis is an important risk and requires careful monitoring and prompt intervention.
All-trans Retinoic Acid Sensitizes Epithelial Ovarian Cancer to PARP Inhibition after Exposure to Cisplatin
Authors: Mei Bingjie , Li Junyang , Wang Dengfeng , Feng Lu , Huang Jianming , Zhang Guonan
Published: December 2024

Epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) is the most lethal of gynecologic malignancies. The standard-of-care treatment for EOC is platinum-based chemotherapy such as cisplatin (CDDP). Notably, platinum-based chemotherapy induces resistance of EOC to PARP inhibition. However, therapeutic approaches targeting PARP inhibitor (PARPi) resistance remain to be explored. In this study, we show that all-trans retinoic acid (ATRA) reduces PARPi resistance–associated EOC cells induced by CDDP treatment. Clinically applicable ATRA suppressed the outgrowth of CDDP-treated EOC cells both in vitro and in vivo. Moreover, a CDDP treatment followed by niraparib maintenance therapy in combination with ATRA improved the survival of EOC-bearing mice. These phenotypes correlated with the PARPi-resistant EOC signature, which consists of elevated expression of aldehyde dehydrogenase 1 family member A1, nicotinamide phosphoribosyltransferase, PARP1, and checkpoint kinase 1, as well as elevated NAD+ level–mediated high activity of aldehyde dehydrogenase 1 family member A1 and PARP1. Mechanistically, ATRA downregulates the expression of these genes and level of intracellular NAD+. Our results suggest that ATRA in conjunction with PARPi represents a promising maintenance therapeutic strategy for EOC.
Figure 1 from SpliceMutr Enables Pan-Cancer Analysis of Splicing-Derived Neoantigen Burden in Tumors
Authors: Palmer Theron , Kessler Michael D. , Shao Xiaoshan M. , Balan Archana , Yarchoan Mark , Zaidi Neeha , Lopez-Vidal Tamara Y. , Saeed Ali M. , Gore Jessica , Azad Nilofer S. , Jaffee Elizabeth M. , Favorov Alexander V. , Anagnostou Valsamo , Karchin Rachel , Gaykalova Daria A. , Fertig Elana J. , Danilova Ludmila
Published: December 2024

SpliceMutr pipeline. The SpliceMutr pipeline uses RNA-seq data from two groups of samples and evaluates the changes in SA between them. In this example, the alternative splicing analysis compares tumor and normal RNA-seq samples. The pipeline performs splicing-aware alignment, gene expression quantification, and HLA genotyping. The splicing-aware alignment splice junction counts are then input into LeafCutter to evaluate differential splice junction usage. The tumor-specific and normal-specific splice junctions undergo transcript formation, translation, and kmerization for MHCnuggets input through SpliceMutr, then are evaluated for genotype-specific MHC binders using MHCnuggets (22). MHC binders associated with normal-specific and tumor-specific peptides are then used to calculate a per-gene and sample SA metric dependent on the type of the sample.  SAT(G) is calculated for tumor samples and SAN(G) is calculated for normal samples. SA, splicing antigenicity.
Differential effects of disease duration and dopaminergic replacement therapy on vocal emotion recognition in asymmetric Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Voruz Philippe , Grandjean Didier , Drapier Sophie , Drapier Dominique , Vérin Marc , Péron Julie
Published: December 2024

Introduction. Recently, studies have suggested a role of motor symptom asymmetry on impaired emotional recognition abilities in Parkinson’s disease with a greater vulnerability in patients with a predominance of left-sided symptoms. However, none of them explored the interaction between motor symptom asymmetry and dopamine replacement therapy in different stages of the disease.
Methodology. We explored the recognition of vocal emotion (i.e., emotional prosody) in 15 newly diagnosed Parkinson’s disease patients in the early stages of the disease, 15 patients in the advanced stages of the disease and 15 healthy controls. The early patients were studied in two conditions: ON and OFF dopaminergic replacement therapy and both Parkinson’s disease groups (early and advanced) were divided into two subgroups according to the asymmetry of motor symptoms.
Results. The analyses revealed two patterns of results. First, as predicted, we observed a reduction in performance for the recognition of vocal emotions in patients with a predominance of left-sided symptoms as compared to both healthy controls and predominantly right-sided symptom patients. Secondly, in the early stages of the disease, we observed a deleterious effect of dopatherapy on the recognition of vocal emotions for the patients with left-predominant symptoms, and the reversal pattern for the patients with right-predominant symptoms.
Conclusions. Our results bring to our knowledge the differential effects of disease duration, dopaminergic replacement therapy and motor symptom asymmetry on vocal emotion recognition in Parkinson’s disease.
Meta-analysis of global distribution of root-caries prevalence in middle-aged and elderly
Authors: Maklennan Anastasia , Borg-Bartolo Roberta , Roccuzzo A. Andrea , Salerno Claudia , Raabe Maria Katharina , Monterubbianesi Riccardo , Wierichs Richard Johannes , Esteves-Oliveira Marcela , Giacaman Rodrigo A. , Campus Guglielmo
Published: December 2024

Introduction: Root caries (RC) remains a global health problem leading to negative impacts on an elderly person’s well-being causing oral health–related quality of life issues, as inadequate nutrition and detrimental oral functionality. The present systematic review with meta-analysis is designed to synthesize existing research findings on the prevalence and experience of root caries globally over the past 30 years. It aims to describe its distribution by country and explore its links with various socioeconomic indicators.
Methods: Selection criteria: Three electronic databases (PubMed, Embase and Scopus) were screened for observational epidemiological studies (cross-sectional and cohort studies) reporting the prevalence of RC and/or mean RC experience between 1990 and 2023. No language were applied. Study selection, data extraction and quality assessment were done in duplicate. . risk of bias was graded with customized quality assessment tools (Study Quality Assessment Tools NHLBI, NIH). Data collection and analysis: studies reporting on (1) root caries experience (mean and SD) and (2) on root caries prevalence (%), were used synthesize the results. It was assessed as decayed, missing, and filled teeth (RDMFT)
Results: A total of 91 publications were included in the descriptive analysis; the estimated overall pooled mean RC was 2.87 teeth and the global estimated random-effects pooled RC prevalence was 41%. Low gross national income (GNI) countries reported a low mean number of RC (1.35 GNI<$5000), while high GNI countries reported a higher mean number of RC (3.45 GNI $10000- $19999). Countries of higher inequalities (Gini index) reported lower means medium RC (1.98 teeth) than countries with no inequalities (4.90 teeth).
Conclusion: This study highlights the high caries burden among adult population globally by estimating overall trends and comparing against factors including area, GNI and Gini-index. The large magnitude of these inequities indicates that oral health equity can only be achieved taking into account socioeconomic factors on a global scale.
The lack of uniform data collecting among studies as well as knowledge gap regarding the incidence and experience of RC in different countries.
The Diagnostic Utility of cfDNA and ctDNA in Liquid Biopsies for Gastrointestinal Cancers Over the Last Decade
Authors: Rahadiani Nur , Stephanie Marini , Manatar Amelia Fossetta , Krisnuhoni Ening
Published: December 2024

Background: Cell-free DNA (cfDNA) is a fragmented DNA that is released into the blood through necrosis, apoptosis, phagocytosis, or active secretion. cfDNA includes a subclass called circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) released from cancer cells and constitutes a varied proportion of the total cfDNA. Both cfDNA and ctDNA hold significant potential as diagnostic biomarkers in gastrointestinal cancers.

Summary: cfDNA and ctDNA are promising diagnostic biomarkers for gastrointestinal cancers with varied diagnostic values in different types of cancers. cfDNA offers higher sensitivity that makes it more suitable for screening methods and constant monitoring, particularly in integration with conventional biomarkers or in a multimarker model. On the contrary, ctDNA gives a real-time picture of tumor genetics and is more suitable for definitive diagnosis due to its specificity for tumor-associated alterations. Different types of samples and methods of detection can influence sensitivity, and the amount of cfDNA is higher in serum but plasma is used for cfDNA analysis because it contains less cellular contamination. In summary, cfDNA is more sensitive than ctDNA, although they have comparable or slightly lower specificity.

Key Message: Further studies are needed to create common guidelines, minimize the cost of analysis, and perform extensive clinical trials to demonstrate the utility of circulating cfDNA and ctDNA in the vast majority of Gastrointestinal cancer stages. Therefore, with the advancement in these technologies, cfDNA and ctDNA will be highly beneficial and evolve cancer diagnostics and therapy.
Caries Impacts and Experiences and dental Care Utilization for Saudi Schoolchildren: CARIES-QC a Disease-Specific Measure
Authors: Alhazmi Hesham , Koumu Abdulaziz I. , Alshaikh Rawna H. , Alfarsi Ahmed S. , Alzahrani Lamyaa Y. , Bhadila Ghalia Y. , Khalifa Sufana O. , Bahdila Dania
Published: December 2024

Introduction: The Caries Impacts and Experiences Questionnaire (CARIES-QC) is a disease-specific questionnaire that assesses the impact of caries on the oral health-related quality of life of children. This study aimed to establish a baseline for caries-specific impact on schoolchildren in Saudi Arabia and to examine its association with dental care utilization. Methods: This cross-sectional study used random stratified cluster sampling among 4th–6th graders in Jeddah. Two surveys were administered: (1) a general parental survey and (2) CARIES-QC, a self-reported survey for children. Clinical examinations were conducted using the decayed, missing due to caries, and filled teeth (DMFT/dmft) index. Descriptive statistics provided CARIES-QC baseline estimates, and multilevel linear regression was performed to examine the relationships between CARIES-QC scores, DMFT/dmft index, and care utilization. Results: A total of 805 children aged 8–13 years participated. The overall median CARIES-QC score was six (interquartile range, 3–11). A higher DMFT/dmft index was associated with a higher CARIES-QC score (p<0.05). Children who had never visited a dentist had lower CARIES-QC scores (β = -1.18, 95% confidence interval (CI): -2.33; -0.02, p = 0.045) than those who had visited a dentist in the past 12 months. After adjusting for reasons for dental visits, the CARIES-QC scores were not associated with prior dental visits (p = 0.086). Conclusion: A Higher DMFT/dmft index was associated with higher CARIES-QC scores, but prior dental care utilization was not significantly associated with improved CARIES-QC scores. Future research should explore other factors that influence the relationship between care utilization and caries-specific quality of life.
Application of evidence based healthcare as measure of quality and safety improvement
Authors: Ovčina Amer , Jamak Lejka , Tukić Belma , Čelić-Spužić Ediba , Đido Vedran
Published: December 2024

Introduction: The World Health Organization states that health care is a science and art that requires a lot of understanding and practical application of knowledge and skills that are specific and based on research derived from biological, social, and humanistic sciences, and management.Aim: The main goal of this study is to determine the extent to which nurses implement the health care process based on scientific and professional evidence and evidence from clinical practice. Materials and methods: The study is quantitative, descriptive, cross-sectional, and comparative. The author's questionnaire was created based on a review of professional and scientific literature and evidence from practice was used for the research.Results: Analysis of knowledge about the meaning of evidence-based health care shows that 140 (61.4%) respondents answered correctly to this question “Providing health care based on scientific research, professional literature, and good practice”. Almost 80% of respondents (181) correctly answered that evidence-based health care should be provided by nurse technicians of all levels of education who work in the health care process.Conclusion: The results of this research support the statement that nurses-technicians implement the health care process based on scientific and expert evidence, evidence from clinical practice, and this is supported by the fact that evidence-based health care is applied fully or partially by 221, or 96, 6%, of respondents.
ET-3/ETBR Mediates Na
+
-Activated Immune Signaling and Kidney Lymphatic Dynamics
Authors: Mutchler Ashley L. , Zhong Jianyong , Yang Hai-Chun , Zhao Shilin , Crescenzi Rachelle , Taylor Shannon , Rao Roy L. , Shelton Elaine L. , Kirabo Annet , Kon Valentina
Published: December 2024

BACKGROUND:

Lymphatic collecting vessels in the kidney are critical in clearing interstitial fluid, macromolecules, and infiltrating immune cells. Dysfunction of the lymphatic vessels can disrupt this process and exacerbate injury-associated inflammation in many disease conditions. We previously found that sodium accumulates within the kidney interstitium during proteinuric kidney injury and elevated sodium environments stimulate isolevuglandin production in antigen-presenting cells, stimulating T cells, and modulating inflammatory responses. In the present study, we investigated whether proteinuric injury increases production of isolevuglandin-adduct formation in antigen-presenting cells, their effects on lymphatic endothelial cells (LECs), and the role of the ET-3 (endothelin-3)/ETBR (endothelin type B receptor) on lymphatic vessel function.

METHODS:

We used a mouse model of nephrotoxin-induced proteinuric injury to show that proteinuric injury expanded the kidney lymphatic network and to immunophenotype the infiltrating immune cells. To determine mechanisms, we analyzed the interaction of migratory immune cells and LECs using an in vitro transwell migration assay, bulk RNA sequencing, and flow cytometric analysis. To determine the effect of ET-3/ETBR axis on lymphatic vessel contractility, we analyzed microdissected lymphangions utilizing a vessel perfusion chamber.

RESULTS:

We found that animals with proteinuric injury have increased kidney lymphangiogenesis, isolevuglandin-producing dendritic cells, and IFN (interferon)-γ–producing CD4+T cells. The sodium avid environment present in kidney injury enhances the interaction between LECs and migratory antigen-presenting cells and LEC production of isolevuglandin-adducts. Elevated sodium environment-induced isolevuglandin-adduct formation facilitates the ET-3/ETBR communication between LECs and dendritic cells. In addition, the ET-3/ETBR axis modulates lymphatic collecting vessel pumping dynamics.

CONCLUSIONS:

These findings reveal a novel mechanism linking the isolevuglandin-mediated ET-3/ETBR axis with LECs and infiltrating dendritic cells. ET-3/ETBR signaling in lymphatic vessel dynamics is a novel pathogenic component and a possible therapeutic target in kidney disease.
Differential weighting of information during aloud and silent reading: Evidence from representational similarity analysis of fMRI data
Authors: Bailey Lyam M. , Matheson Heath E. , Fawcett Jonathon M. , Bodner Glen E. , Newman Aaron J.
Published: December 2024

Single-word reading depends on multiple types of information processing: readers must process low-level visual properties of the stimulus, form orthographic and phonological representations of the word, and retrieve semantic content from memory. Reading aloud introduces an additional type of processing wherein readers must execute an appropriate sequence of articulatory movements necessary to produce the word. To date, cognitive and neural differences between aloud and silent reading have mainly been ascribed to articulatory processes. However, it remains unclear whether articulatory information is used to discriminate unique words, at the neural level, during aloud reading. Moreover, very little work has investigated how other types of information processing might differ between the two tasks. The current work used representational similarity analysis (RSA) to interrogate fMRI data collected while participants read single words aloud or silently. RSA was implemented using a whole-brain searchlight procedure to characterise correspondence between neural data and each of five models representing a discrete type of information. Both conditions elicited decodability of visual, orthographic, phonological, and articulatory information, though to different degrees. Compared with reading silently, reading aloud elicited greater decodability of visual, phonological, and articulatory information. By contrast, silent reading elicited greater decodability of orthographic information in right anterior temporal lobe. These results support an adaptive view of reading whereby information is weighted according to its task relevance, in a manner that best suits the reader’s goals.
Monuments to the “Memorable Gale”: Art and Hurricane Memory in Nineteenth-Century New England
Authors: Barrett Ross
Published: December 2024

Reconstructing the controversy that arose around a proposed memorial to the Great September Gale—a Category 4 hurricane that battered Providence, Rhode Island in 1815—this essay explores the differing ways that public leaders and everyday citizens remembered the tropical storms that hit New England in the nineteenth century.
Taxonomic and nomenclatural novelties in Marcetieae (Melastomataceae) from Colombia: A new species of Ernestia and the identity of Acisanthera goudotii
Authors: SILVA DIEGO NUNES DA , MURILLO-SERNA JHON S. , HOYOS-GÓMEZ SAÚL E. , BERNAL RODRIGO , MICHELANGELI FABIÁN A. , BRAGA JOÃO MARCELO ALVARENGA , GUIMARÃES PAULO JOSÉ FERNANDES
Published: December 2024

During the development of the taxonomic treatment of Ernestia we came across a taxonomic novelty and a species for which taxonomic verification was needed from Colombia. Herein, we propose Ernestia rheophytica a new species belonging to the sensu stricto clade of the genus, and clarify the identity of Acisanthera goudotii, now treated as E. goudotii. We also clarify the status of the original material of E. goudotii and propose the lectotypification of E. ovata and its synonymization under E. goudotii. Ernestia rheophytica, as the name indicates, is a rheophytic species, a rare habit in Melastomataceae, especially in Marcetieae.
Taxonomic synopsis of the genus Rubus (Rosaceae) in Armenia
Authors: AKOPIAN JANNA
Published: December 2024

The article presents the results of a taxonomic study of the genus Rubus (Rosaceae) in the flora of Armenia comprising 14 species from 3 subgenera. The following taxa are identified: R. saxatilis (subgenus Cylactis), R. idaeus (subgenus Idaeobatus), R. sanctus, R. armeniacus, R. candicans, R. ibericus, R. cartalinicus, R. peruncinatus, R. takhtadjanii, R. canescens, R. piceetorum, R. zangezurus, R. caucasicus, R. caesius (subgenus Rubus). The occurrence of R. ibericus is confirmed in the flora of Armenia. A checklist and a key for identification of the species, data on their geographic and altitudinal distribution, habitats, terms of flowering and fruiting, synonyms, type citations are given. The article is illustrated by the map of the floristic regions of Armenia and original photographs.
Taxonomic notes on some Rubus species from China (Rosaceae)
Authors: WANG TAO , WANG HUAN-CHONG , HOU XUE-LIANG
Published: December 2024

Based on studies on protologues, examination of herbaria specimens and field observation, taxonomic revisions on some Rubus species in China have been proposed. Rubus kuntzeanus and R. innominatus var. kuntzeanus are treated as new synonyms of R. innominatus. Rubus holadenus, R. tephrodes var. holadenus and R. farinaceus are treated as new synonyms of R. tephrodes. Rubus hui, R. reflexus var. hui, R. reflexus var. orogenes and R. irenaeus var. orogenes are treated as new synonyms of R. reflexus.