bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hak Tagih atas Sewa Aplikasi Berlangganan sebagai Jaminan Kebendaan
Authors: Talia Maria Clarisa , Febriana Millenia Jihan
Published: December 2023

AbstractThe digital world development influences especially the Law of Guarantee. There are new varieties of objects that can be used as guarantee, one of which is regarding billing rights that has expanded to subscription-based app services. When the debtor becomes default, the creditor may execute the guarantee according to the appropriate rules that takes effect in Indonesia. In light of it, it is deemed important to discuss and to ensure the law is practiced correctly in protecting both parties predominantly when conflict arises. Normative method is used in this research with statute approach and conceptual approach. The result of this paper is that the billing rights towards subscription-based app services are considered part of the Fiduciary Guarantee, as long there stands no specific law that governs it.Keywords: Billing Rights on Subscription-Based App; Law of Guarantee; Fiduciary Guarantee; Cessie.
AbstrakPerkembangan dunia digital mempengaruhi terutama terhadap Hukum Jaminan. Muncul jenis objek baru yang dapat digunakan sebagai jaminan, salah satunya adalah hak tagih atas sewa aplikasi berlangganan. Ketika terjadi wanprestasi, jaminan tersebut dapat dieksekusi sesuai dengan ketentuan Hukum Jaminan yang berlaku di Indonesia. Penelitian ini dibuat untuk menganalisis dan membahas terkait penentuan hak tagih atas sewa dalam salah satu kategori benda yag dapat dijaminkan, dan mengkaji mengenai cara eksekusinya. Penelitian ini merupakan penelitian hukum normatif dengan menggunakan pendekatan peraturan perundang-undangan dan pendekatan konsep. Hasil penelitian ini menyatakan bahwa hak tagih atas sewa aplikasi berlangganan menggunakan ketentuan hukum jaminan Fidusia, selama belum adanya aturan yang secara khusus mengatur lebih lanjut mengenai objek jaminan tersebut. Kata Kunci: Hak Tagih atas Sewa Aplikasi Berlangganan; Hukum Jaminan; Jaminan Fidusia; Cessie.
Fungal and bacterial gut microbiota differ between Clostridioides difficile colonization and infection
Authors: Henderickx Jannie G.E. , Crobach Monique J.T. , Terveer Elisabeth M. , Smits Wiep Klaas , Kuijper Ed J. , Zwittink Romy D.
Published: December 2023

Aim: The bacterial microbiota is well-recognized for its role in Clostridioides difficile colonization and infection, while fungi and yeasts remain understudied. The aim of this study was to analyze the predictive value of the mycobiota and its interactions with the bacterial microbiota in light of C. difficile colonization and infection.

Methods: The mycobiota was profiled by ITS2 sequencing of fecal DNA from C. difficile infection (CDI) patients (n = 29), asymptomatically C. difficile colonization (CDC) patients (n = 38), and hospitalized controls with C. difficile negative stool culture (controls; n = 38). Previously published 16S rRNA gene sequencing data of the same cohort were used additionally for machine learning and fungal-bacterial network analysis.

Results: CDI patients were characterized by a significantly higher abundance of Candida spp. (MD 0.270 ± 0.089, P = 0.002) and Candida albicans (MD 0.165 ± 0.082, P = 0.023) compared to controls. Additionally, they were deprived of Aspergillus spp. (MD -0.067 ± 0.026, P = 0.000) and Penicillium spp. (MD -0.118 ± 0.043, P = 0.000) compared to CDC patients. Network analysis revealed a positive association between several fungi and bacteria in CDI and CDC, although the analysis did not reveal a direct association between Clostridioides spp. and fungi. Furthermore, the microbiota machine learning model outperformed the models based on the mycobiota and the joint microbiota-mycobiota model. The microbiota classifier successfully distinguished CDI from CDC [Area Under the Receiver Operating Characteristic (AUROC) = 0.884] and CDI from controls (AUROC = 0.905). Blautia and Bifidobacterium were marker genera associated with CDC patients and controls.

Conclusion: The gut mycobiota differs between CDI, CDC, and controls and may affect Clostridioides spp. through indirect interactions. The mycobiota data alone could not successfully discriminate CDC from controls or CDI patients and did not have additional predictive value to the bacterial microbiota data. The identification of bacterial marker genera associated with CDC and controls warrants further investigation.
Results of the archaeoparasitological analysis of soil samples from the necropolis of the 2nd c. AD settlement of Pantikapaion
Authors: Slepchenko S.М. , Filimonova M.O.
Published: December 2023

In the paper, the results of an archaeoparasitological analysis of a population group from the ancient Greek city of Panti-kapaion, located in the historical centre of the modern city of Kerch (Republic of Crimea), are presented. The aim of the study is to obtain information about the parasitic diseases, state of health, nutrition, and hygiene in a part of the population of the city. The materials for the study were soil samples obtained during the treatment of the human sacra from 31 burials of the necropo-lis, dated to the 2nd century AD. In the result of the conducted investigation, the parasitic spectrum of the studied population group was determined. Eggs of three species of helminths were found. The discovery of eggs of broad tapeworm (Dibothrio-cephalus latum) in the soil samples indicates the presence in the diet of the studied population group freshwater fish that were not sufficiently thermally treated. The archaeoparasitological data from archaeological sites of a chronologically close period in the territory of the Northern Black Sea region suggests that diphyllobothriasis was a decease far from being rare in this area. The presence of eggs of human roundworm (Ascaris lumbricoides) and whipworm (Trichuris trichiura) in the samples likely indicates the challenging sanitary-hygienic environment in the city and insufficient hygienic skills in the studied group. The analysis of the archaeoparasitological data within the historical context and utilisation of the archaeopathological material from the archaeological sites in the Northern Black Sea region permitted to identify the factors that had an influence on the wide spread of geohelminths. The humid and warm climate facilitated maturation of geohelminth eggs in the soil, while the human activities concerned with the irrigation of the territory, building public water collection points, and waste buildup in the streets, in combination with the high population density, were causing the rise of the infectious hazard. The relatively high incidence rates of Trichuris trichiura and Ascaris lumbricoides may indicate a high prevalence of certain bacterial intestinal infections transmitted by the identical route. The occurrence of geohelminths, alongside the archaeological data, can indicate a low social status of the studied population group.
Children’s burials of the Alakul Culture in the Southern Trans-Urals: reconstruction of age groups
Authors: Berseneva N.A.
Published: December 2023

The proposed study concerns the Alakul Culture whose sites are located in the forest-steppe and steppe zone of the Southern Trans-Urals and are dated to the 18th–17th cc. cal BC. The work is based on the materials of the published burial grounds: Urefty I, Кulevchi VI, Stepnoye VII, Тasty-Butak 1, Lisakovsky I, Alakul, and Tashla 1. One of the most remarkable features of the Alakul cemeteries is that children constitute between 50 % and 80 % of all the interred. In this work, 212 burial pits (242 individuals) were analysed. The aim was the reconstruction and interpretation of children’s age groups of the Alakul population in the Southern Trans-Urals by means of the analysis of the specifics of the children’s burial rites and grave goods. The children’s burials were divided into three groups in accordance to the age-at-death: infants (0–2 years old), children (2–10 years old), and adolescents (10–15 years old). Next, the grave goods of children from the different groups were studied; specif-ics of the deposition of grave goods for the different age groups were analysed. Comparing the variations in the children’s burial rite, it can be concluded that the place of children in the social structure of the Alakul society was quite important, despite the differences in the structure of the burial pits and the content of the grave goods. First of all, this is evidenced by the number of children's burials at the sites, which exceeds the number of the adult’s burials, and secondly, by the presence of the children's buri-als performed in accordance with the ‘adult’ version of the rite, including the position in the grave pit and the sets of jewellery. The youngest age group (infants, from the birth to two years old) was the most numerous. Sixty one individuals (69.3 %) from this group were buried only accompanied by pottery or with gender-neutral grave goods. In the older children's age group (2–10 years old), a third of the individuals were buried with a large amount of jewellery, a third without grave goods, and the rest with astragali or with gender-neutral grave goods. The adolescents (10–15 years old) is a relatively small category in terms of the number of the interred; their funeral rite, judging by the few well-preserved burials, was identical to that of the adults (for example, the Alakul burial ground, mound 13, pit 9). We can conclude that by the age of 13–15 adolescents were reaching the full social adulthood.
Law of Variability in Science Driving Technological Evolution
Authors: Coccia Mario
Published: December 2023

A proposed interpretation of the characteristics and causes of the variation in science dynamics for technological evolution is described. The theoretical approach focuses on variability in research topics that guide scientific and technological evolution. Statistical method verifies the proposed approach by applying entropy, measures of dispersion and variance decomposition. The statistical evidence, using data of four main research fields in quantum technologies, suggests the following empirical properties: a) the growth of heterogeneity in research topics is inversely proportional to the age of research fields: recent research fields have a higher variability between topics with uncertainty in evolutionary dynamics, whereas older research fields have a lower variability and more concentration in specific research topics with stable evolution towards clear directions; b) the nature of research fields has a systematic effects in variability guiding the evolution of technologies. The theoretical approach and findings clarify main characteristics and causes of the evolution of science and technologies considering the underlying homogeneity or heterogeneity in research topics, providing main implications to improve the scientific and technological forecasting that may support appropriate R&D investments towards promising research fields and technologies
Leveraging Artificial Intelligence and Provenance Blockchain Framework to Mitigate Risks in Cloud Manufacturing in Industry 4.0
Authors: Umer Mifta Ahmed , Belay Elefelious Getachew , Gouveia Luis Borges
Published: December 2023

.Cloud manufacturing is an evolving networked framework that enables multiple manufacturers to collaborate in providing a range of services, including design, development, production, and post-sales support. The framework operates on an integrated platform encompassing a range of Industry 4.0 technologies, such as Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) devices, cloud computing, Internet communication, big data analytics, artificial intelligence, and blockchains. The connectivity of industrial equipment and robots to Internet opens the cloud manufacturing to the massive attack surface of cybersecurity and cyber crime threats caused by external and internal attackers. The impacts can be severe because physical infrastructure of industries is at stake. One potential method to deter such attacks involves utilizing blockchain and artificial intelligence to track the provenance of IIoT devices. This research explores a practical approach to achieve this goal by gathering provenance data associated with operational constraints defined in smart contracts and identifying deviations from these constraints through predictive auditing using artificial intelligence. A software architecture comprising IIoT communications to machine learning for comparing the latest data with the predictive auditing outcomes and logging appropriate risks was designed, developed, and tested. The state changes in the smart ledger of smart contracts were linked with the risks such that the blockchain peers can timely detect high deviations and take actions. The research defined the constraints related to physical boundaries and weight lifting limits allocated to three forklifts and showcased the mechanisms of detecting risks of breaking these constraints with the help of artificial intelligence. It also demonstrated state change rejections by blockchains at medium and high-risk levels. This research followed software development in Java 8 using JDK 8, CORDA blockchain framework, and Weka package for random forest machine learning. As a result of this, the model, along with its design and implementation, has the potential to enhance efficiency and productivity, foster greater trust and transparency in the manufacturing process, booster risk management, strengthen cybersecurity, and advance sustainability efforts.
High-performance strain sensor for detection of human motion and subtle strain based on liquid metal microwire
Authors: Zhu He , Sun Zheng , Wang Xin , Xia Hong
Published: December 2023

We report a simple and high-performance flexible strain sensor based on liquid metal nanoparticles (LMNPs) on polyimide substrate by laser induced deposition. The LMNPs were prepared by ultrasonic method, and then the femtosecond laser direct writing technology was used to induce the assembly and deposition of the LMNPs to form liquid metal microwires. Laser local sintering enhances the connection between particles, and a wearable strain sensor was fabricated with the high sensitivity as high as 76.18, the good linearity (a correlation coefficient of 0.999) in a wide sensing rage, the fast response/recovery time of 159 ms/120 ms. Attributed to these extraordinary strain sensing performances, the sensor can sense various dynamic strains in real time, monitor both subtle physiological activities and large human motions. It can be adhered to human skin, and well reflect the change of facial expression and realize real-time monitoring of facial expression. And the vocal cord vibration can be detected for speech recognition while the sensor attached to the outside of the throat.
Directivos rurales: trayectos formativos y retos en su función
Authors: Chacón Vargas Alfa Lizette
Published: December 2023

El presente trabajo es producto de una investigación cualitativa realizada con directivos de escuelas primarias rurales de la región Noroeste del Estado de Chihuahua, el cual tiene como propósito recuperar las percepciones de los participantes en cuanto a sus trayectos formativos, así como también sobre los principales retos que enfrentan en el desempeño de sus funciones.
B-Side of Innovation for SMEs in Latin America
Authors: García Rosas André Gerardo , García Contreras Rigoberto
Published: December 2023

El objetivo de este artículo es hacer una síntesis de la literatura existente sobre la innovación en las pequeñas y medianas empresas (Pymes) de América Latina. A través de un enfoque PRISMA y a partir de los datos de 34 artículos seleccionados. La revisión sistemática de la literatura permitió conocer las varianles que comprometen la plena implementación de la innovación en las PYMES latinoamericanas. Los resultados muestran tres dimensiones principales que limitan la innovación para América Latina: (1) Barreras institucionales, (2) Limitaciones de conocimiento y (3) Rasgos empresariales. Los hallazgos conforman un marco conceptual sobre los factores que obstaculizan los procesos de innovación en el contexto de las Pymes de América Latina para integrar los esfuerzos en análisis sustantivo para futuras direcciones y agendas de investigación sobre el tema.
Quadratus lumborum block versus fascia iliaca compartment block for acetabular fracture surgery by Stoppa method: A double-blind, randomized, non-inferiority trial
Authors: Mirkheshti Alireza , Hashemian Morteza , Abtahi Dariush , Shayegh Sara , Manafi-Rasi Alireza , Sayadi Shahram , Memary Elham , Karami Nazli , Rostamian Baharak , Shakeri Alireza
Published: December 2023

Background: Acetabular fracture surgeries are frequently accompanied by protracted and severe perioperative pain, and there is no consensus on optimal pain relief management.
Aim: This study aimed to compare the analgesic efficacy of fascia iliaca compartment block (FICB) and quadratus lumborum block (QLB) in patients with acetabular fractures undergoing surgery using the Stoppa method.
Methods: In this double-blind, randomized, non-inferiority clinical trial, adult patients undergoing spinal anesthesia for acetabular fracture surgery, in Imam-Hossein Hospital, Tehran, Iran (IRCT20191114045435N1), were randomly divided into two groups: FICB (n = 22) and QLB (n = 24). The visual analog scale (VAS) was used to assess the pain intensity at different times for all participants. In addition, the dose of fentanyl required to induce the patient to sit for spinal anesthesia and the pain intensity was evaluated. Moreover, the duration of analgesia and the total amount of morphine consumed in the first 24 h following surgery were evaluated, analyzed, and compared between the two study groups.
Results: FICB and QLB demonstrated effective comparative postoperative analgesic profiles following acetabular fracture surgery; however, no significant differences in VAS values were observed between the two groups during the study. FICB experienced reduced cumulative fentanyl consumption during spinal anesthetic placement, whereas QLB had a significantly lower total morphine demand in the initial postoperative 24-h period.
Conclusion: The lateral QLB and FICB can be introduced as effective routes for analgesia in acetabular fracture surgery using the Stoppa method.
Comparative Efficacy of Prophylactic Protocols in Reducing Perioperative Nausea and Vomiting During Video-Assisted Thoracoscopic Radical Lung Cancer Surgery
Authors: Zhang Weiguang , Shen Zhimin , Jiang Junfei , Zhu Shujing , Zhang Peipei , Chen Sui , Kang Mingqiang
Published: December 2023

Background Lung cancer, a global mortality leader, often necessitates Video-Assisted Thoracoscopic (VATS) surgery. However, post-operative nausea and vomiting (PONV) is common, highlighting a need for effective management and prevention strategies in this context. Method A retrospective case-control study at Fujian Medical University Union Hospital evaluated patients undergoing VATS radical lung cancer surgery between May and September 2022. Patients were categorized based on PONV prevention methods, and data encompassing demographics, surgical history, and postoperative side effects were analyzed to assess the association between prophylactic protocols and PONV incidence. Results The Netupitant and Palonosetron Hydrochloride (NEPA) group showed a significant reduction in PONV occurrences post-surgery compared to Ondansetron (ONDA) and Normal Control (NC) groups, emphasizing NEPA's efficacy in alleviating PONV symptoms (P < 0.05). Furthermore, following radical VATS radical lung cancer surgeries, NEPA markedly reduced the intensity of PONV symptoms in patients. Both univariate and multivariate logistic analyses corroborated that NEPA independently reduces PONV risk, with its protective effect also apparent in susceptible populations like females and non-smokers. Conclusions NEPA utilization markedly reduced both the incidence and severity of PONV in patients undergoing VATS radical lung cancer surgery, serving as an independent protective factor in mitigating PONV risk post-surgery.
Hyponatremic Seizures--Presenting Symptom of Helix Syndrome.
Authors: KG Sunil Reddy , Ekambaram Sudha , Rangaswamy Nammalwar Bollam , BN Rangeeth
Published: December 2023

Genetic causes of renal tubular dyselectrolytemia are primarily associated with urinary sodium loss, with secondary hypokalemic metabolic alkalosis. They may be associated with or without hypercalciuria and hypermagnesuria. HELIX syndrome (OMIM 617671) is one condition associated with hypermagnesmia and hypomagnesuria in contrast to Gitleman syndrome. The diagnosis is made if dyselectrolytemia and hypermagnesmia is accompanied with physical findings of hypohidrosis, lacrimal gland dysfunction, ichthyosis and xerostomia. This is the first case in our limited experience of a genotype of HELX syndrome presenting as hyponatremic seizures with unreported hypomagnesemia, hypermagnesuria and hypocalciuria due to defect of para-cellular ion transport in the thicker limb of ascending Henle’s loop (TAL).
Impact of microplastic pollution on breaking waves
Authors: Bergfreund Jotam , Wobill Ciatta , Evers Frederic M. , Hohermuth Benjamin , Bertsch Pascal , Lebreton Laurent , Windhab Erich J. , Fischer Peter
Published: December 2023

Anthropogenic plastic waste heavily pollutes global water systems. In particular,micron-sized plastic debris can have severe repercussions for the ocean flora and faunabut may also affect physical processes such as wave breaking, which are critical forocean-atmospheric exchange and albedo. Nevertheless, the effects of micron-sized plasticdebris on geophysical processes are widely unexplored. Herein, we investigate theeffect of microplastic collected from the North Pacific and a surfactant mimicking surfaceactive materials present in the ocean on the stability of seafoam generated bybreaking waves. We found that microplastic particles increase seafoam stability. Inparticular, an increased foam height was found in a column foaming setup, while anincreased foam area was observed in a laboratory-scale breaking wave channel. We proposethat microplastic particles assemble at the air-water interface, form aggregates, presumably decrease the liquid drainage in the liquid film, and change the film curvature.The effect of surfactants is generally larger due to their higher surface activitybut still in a range where synergistic effects can be observed. Our results suggest thatmicroplastic could manipulate oceanic processes essential for marine-atmospheric airexchange, sea spray formation, and albedo.
Whole genome sequencing refines stratification and therapy of patients with clear cell renal cell carcinoma
Authors: Culliford Richard , Lawrence Sam , Mills Charlie , Tippu Zayd , Chubb Daniel , Cornish Alex , Browining Lisa , Kinnersley Ben , Bentham Robert , Sud Amit , Pallikonda Husayn , Frangou Anna , Gruber Andreas , Litchfield Kevin , Wedge David , Larkin James , Turajlic Samra , Houlston Richard
Published: December 2023

Clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) is the most common form of kidney cancer, but a comprehensive description of its genomic landscape is lacking. We report the whole genome sequencing of 778 ccRCC patients enrolled in the 100,000 Genomes Project, providing the most detailed somatic mutational landscape to date. We identify new driver genes, which as well as emphasising the major role of epigenetic regulation in ccRCC highlight additional biological pathways extending opportunities for drug repurposing. Genomic characterisation identified patients with divergent clinical outcome; higher number of structural copy number alterations associated with poorer prognosis, whereas VHL mutations were independently associated with a better prognosis. The twin observations that higher T-cell infiltration is associated with better outcome and that genetically predicted immune evasion is not common supports the rationale for immunotherapy. These findings should inform personalised surveillance and treatment strategies for ccRCC patients.
Nanoliposomal irinotecan with fluorouracil and folinic acid in patients with unresectable or recurrent pancreatic cancer: A multicenter retrospective observational study (NAPOLEON-2)
Authors: Kodama Tomoko , Imajima Takashi , Shimokawa Mototsugu , Otsuka Taiga , Kawahira Masahiro , Nakazawa Junichi , Hori Takeshi , Shibuki Taro , Arima Shiho , Ido Akio , Miwa Keisuke , Okabe Yoshinobu , Koga Futa , Ueda Yujiro , Kubotsu Yoshihito , Shimokawa Hozumi , Takeshita Shigeyuki , Nishikawa Kazuo , Komori Azusa , Otsu Satoshi , Hosokawa Ayumu , Sakai Tatsunori , Sakai Kenji , Oda Hisanobu , Kawahira Machiko , Arita Shuji , Honda Takuya , Taguchi Hiroki , Tsuneyoshi Kengo , Kawaguchi Yasunori , Fujita Toshihiro , Sakae Takahiro , Shirakawa Tsuyoshi , Mizuta Toshihiko , Mitsugi Kenji
Published: December 2023

Background Nanoliposomal irinotecan with fluorouracil and folinic acid (NFF) is a standard regimen after gemcitabine-based therapy for patients with unresectable or recurrent pancreatic cancer. However, there are limited clinical data on its efficacy and safety in the real-world. We therefore initiated a retrospective and prospective observational study (NAPOLEON-2). The results of the retrospective part were reported herein. Methods In this retrospective study, we evaluated 161 consecutive patients who received NFF as second-or-later-line regimen. The main endpoint was overall survival (OS), and the other endpoints were response rate, disease control rate, progression-free survival (PFS), dose intensity, and adverse events (AEs). Results The median age was 67 years (range, 38–85 years). The median OS and PFS were 8.1 and 3.4 months, respectively. The objective response and disease control rates were 5% and 52%, respectively. The median relative dose intensity was 81.6% for nanoliposomal irinotecan and 82.9% for fluorouracil. Grade 3 or 4 hematological and nonhematological AEs occurred in 47 and 42 patients, respectively. Common grade 3 or 4 AEs included neutropenia (24%), anorexia (12%), and leukocytopenia (12%). Subanalysis of patients treated with second-line and third-or-later-line demonstrated no statistical significant difference in OS (7.6 months vs. 9.1 months, respectively; hazard ratio, 0.92; 95% confidence interval, 0.64–1.35;p = 0.68). Conclusions NFF has acceptable efficacy and safety profile even in real-world clinical settings. The prospective study is in progress to validate these findings.
Association of vitamin D with all-cause and cardiovascular disease mortality in COPD population: A cohort study from NHANES 2007-2018
Authors: Jiang Qi , Jiang Yuewen , Ma Zheru , Huang Jingda , Li Yang
Published: December 2023

Background
The correlation between low levels of vitamin D and an increased risk of various inflammatory diseases has been well established. However, the specific relationship between vitamin D levels and mortality in individuals suffering from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) remains unclear. Therefore, the aim of this investigation was to explore the link between serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] concentrations and the probability of mortality from all causes and cardiovascular diseases (CVD) in American adults diagnosed with COPD.
Methods
A total of 1796 adults diagnosed with COPD, who participated in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (2007–2018), were enrolled in this study. Data regarding deaths were obtained through linkage to the National Death Index (NDI) records until December 31, 2019. The association between 25(OH)D concentrations and the risk of mortality was examined both continuously using restricted cubic splines and categorically (< 25.0, 25.0–49.9, 50.0–74.9, and ≥ 75.0 nmol/L) through Cox regression modeling. Competing risk models were employed to explore the relationship between serum 25(OH)D levels and the incidence of CVD-related mortality in individuals diagnosed with COPD. Sensitivity and stratified analyses were conducted to assess the robustness of the findings.
Results
Over the course of the follow-up period, a total of 357 cases of all-cause mortality were observed, of which 85 were attributed to CVD-related causes. After accounting for various confounding factors, the study revealed that lower serum 25(OH)D levels were significantly associated with a heightened risk of all-cause and CVD-related mortality among COPD patients. When compared to individuals in the lowest category, those in the highest category of serum 25(OH)D showed a 52% reduction in all-cause mortality (HR: 0.48, CI [0.24, 0.94]) and a 69% increase in CVD-related mortality (HR: 0.31, CI [0.11, 0.84]). No evidence of a non-linear association between DII levels and all-cause mortality (p-non-linear = 0.1145) was found.
Conclusions
Our research indicates that among COPD patients, those with high serum vitamin D concentrations have a lower risk of all-cause and cardiovascular death compared to those with vitamin D deficiency. This demonstrates a non-linear negative correlation, supporting the long-term beneficial effect of vitamin D on COPD patients.
P-move: a randomized control trial of exercise in patients with advanced pancreatic or biliary tract cancer (aPBC) receiving beyond first-line chemotherapy
Authors: De Lazzari Nico , Götte Miriam , Kasper Stefan , Meier Eileen , Schuler Martin , Pogorzelski Michael , Siveke Jens T. , Tewes Mitra
Published: December 2023

Purpose
Patients with advanced pancreatic and biliary tract cancer (aPBC) frequently suffer from high symptom burden. Exercise can reduce treatment side effects and improve patient-related outcomes (PROMs). However, evidence from prospective studies regarding feasibility and efficacy in advanced settings are sparse. The primary aim of this prospective, randomized-controlled study was to evaluate the feasibility and effects of exercise (ET) in patients with aPBC.
Methods
Patients with PBC beyond first-line therapy were randomized according to the minimization procedure with stratification by gender, age, and loss of body weight in the past six months. The intervention group (IG) completed 3 training units/week for 8 weeks (1x supervised strength sessions, 2x individualized home-based sessions). Control group (CG) received recommendations on physical activity during cancer.
Results
41 patients (stage IV pancreatic or biliary tract cancer) were included no adverse events related to exercise occurred during the trial. Physical function increased significantly in IG in 5 out of 7 physical domains. Comparison of IG and CG at 8 weeks (t2) showed significant differences in favour of IG in leg press (p = 0.001), bench press (p = 0.011), sit-to-stand (p = 0.001) and crunch (0.006). Constipation revealed a significant difference in favour of IG at t2 (p = 0.033). Quality of life stabilized/increased in IG during the study period compared to a decrease in CG. Throughout/Over the 8 weeks, fatigue notably reduced in the IG (p = 0.028).
Conclusion
Exercise is safe and feasible in patients with aPBC undergoing further line therapy. Significant improvements in physical functioning and increased quality of life were achieved.
German Clinical Trials Register ID: DRKS00021179; Registration date 15.05.2020
Pre-movement muscle co-contraction associated with motor performance deterioration under high reward conditions
Authors: Senta Naoki , Ushiba Junichi , Takemi Mitsuaki
Published: December 2023

Reward usually enhances task performance, but exceptionally large rewards can impede performance due to psychological pressure. In this study, we investigated motor activity changes in high-reward situations and identified indicators for performance decline. Fourteen healthy adults practiced a velocity-dependent right-hand motor task for three days, followed by a test day with varying monetary reward for each trial. Participants were divided into low performers (LPs) and high performers (HPs) according to whether success rate decreased or increased, respectively, on the highest reward trials compared to lower reward trials. Both LPs and HPs demonstrated increased hand velocity during higher reward trials, but only LPs exhibited a significant increase in velocity variance. There was also a negative correlation between the pre-movement co-contraction index (CCI) of the biceps and triceps muscles and success rate on the highest reward trials. This correlation was confirmed in a second experiment with 12 newly recruited participants, suggesting that pre-movement CCI is a marker for performance decline caused by high reward. These findings suggest that interventions to reduce pre-movement CCI such as biofeedback training could be useful for preventing the paradoxical decline in motor performance associated with high rewards.
The impact of HIV infection on skeletal maturity in peripubertal children in Zimbabwe: a cross sectional study
Authors: Nyakoko Farirayi , Gregson Celia , Westbury Leo D , Madanhire Tafadzwa , Offiah Amaka C , Micklesfied Lisa , Ferrand Rashida , Rehman Andrea M , Ward Kate A
Published: December 2023

Introduction
HIV infection and its treatment compromises skeletal development (growth and maturation). Skeletal maturity is assessed as bone age (BA) on hand and wrist radiographs. BA younger than chronological age (CA) indicates delayed development. We conducted a cross-sectional study to determine differences between BA and CA (i.e., skeletal maturity deviation [SMD]), and risk factors associated with SMD in peripubertal children with and without HIV established on antiretroviral therapy (ART) including use of tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF).
Methods
Children with HIV taking ART for at least two years and a comparison group of HIV-negative children, aged 8-16 years and frequency-matched by age and sex, were recruited from HIV clinics and local schools in the same catchment area, in Harare, Zimbabwe. BA was assessed from non-dominant hand-wrist radiographs using the Tanner Whitehouse 3 method. Negative SMD values correspond to delayed development, i.e., BA younger than CA. Multivariable linear regression models determined factors associated with SMD overall, and in children with HIV.
Results
In total, 504 participants (54% males) were included; by design CA was similar in males and females, whether living with or without HIV. Mean (SD) SMD was more negative in CWH than in HIV-negative children in both males [-1.4(1.4) vs. -0.4(1.1) years] and females [-1.1(1.3) vs. -0.0(1.2) years]. HIV infection and weight-for-age Z-score<-2 were associated with more negative SMD in both males and females after adjusting for socio-economic status, orphanhood, pubertal stage, and calcium intake. Age at ART initiation was associated with SMD in females with those starting ART later more delayed: starting ART aged 4-8 years 1.14 (-1.84, -0.43), or over 8 years 1.47 (-2.30, -0.65) (p-value for trend <0.001). Similar non-significant trends were seen in males. TDF exposure was not associated with delayed development.
Conclusion
Perinatally-acquired HIV infection and being underweight were independently associated with delayed skeletal maturation in both males and females. Starting ART later was independently associated with skeletal maturation delay in females with HIV. Given the known effects of delayed development on later health, it is important to find interventions to ensure healthy weight gain through early years and in CWH to initiate ART as early as possible.
Detection of neoplastic-immune hybrid cells with metastatic properties in uveal melanoma
Authors: Anderson Ashley N. , Conley Patrick , Klocke Christopher D. , Sengupta Sidharth K. , Pang Amara , Farley Hannah C. , Gillingham Abigail R. , Dawson Aubrey D. , Fan Yichen , Jones Jocelyn A. , Gibbs Summer L. , Skalet Alison H. , Wu Guanming , Wong Melissa H.
Published: December 2023

Background
Uveal melanoma is the most common non-cutaneous melanoma and is an intraocular malignancy affecting nearly 7,000 individuals per year worldwide. Of these, approximately 50% will progress to metastatic disease for which there are currently no effective therapies. Despite advances in molecular profiling and metastatic stratification of uveal melanoma tumors, little is known regarding their underlying biology of metastasis. Our group has identified a disseminated neoplastic cell population characterized by co-expression of immune and melanoma proteins, circulating hybrid cells (hybrids), in patients with uveal melanoma. Compared to circulating tumor cells, which lack expression of immune proteins, hybrids are detected at an increased prevalence in peripheral blood and can be used as a non-invasive biomarker to predict metastatic progression.
Methods
To ascertain mechanisms underlying enhanced hybrid cell dissemination we identified hybrid cells within primary uveal melanoma tumors using single cell RNA sequencing and evaluated their gene expression and predicted ligand-receptor interactions in relation to other melanoma and immune cells within the primary tumor. We then verified expression of upregulated hybrid pathways within patient-matched tumor and peripheral blood hybrids using cyclic immunofluorescence and quantified their protein expression relative to other non-hybrid tumor and disseminated tumor cells.
Results
Among the top upregulated genes and pathways in hybrid cells were those involved in enhanced cell motility and cytoskeletal rearrangement, immune evasion, and altered cellular metabolism. In patient-matched tumor and peripheral blood, we verified gene expression by examining concordant protein expression for each pathway category: TMSB10 (cell motility), CD74 (immune evasion) and GPX1 (metabolism). Both TMSB10 and GPX1 were expressed on significantly higher numbers of disseminated hybrid cells compared to circulating tumor cells, and CD74 and GPX1 were expressed on more disseminated hybrids than tumor-resident hybrids. Lastly, we identified that hybrid cells express ligand-receptor signaling pathways implicated in promoting metastasis including GAS6-AXL, CXCL12-CXCR4, LGALS9-P4HB and IGF1-IGFR1.
Conclusion
These findings highlight the importance of TMSB10, GPX1 and CD74 for successful hybrid cell dissemination and survival in circulation. Our results contribute to the understanding of uveal melanoma tumor progression and interactions between tumor cells and immune cells in the tumor microenvironment that may promote metastasis.
Decoding Enigmatic Type II Radio Eruptions: Unraveling an Extraordinary Celestial Phenomenon on September 27, 2001
Authors: Al-Hamadani Firas , Al-Sawad Amjad
Published: December 2023

The study focuses on atypical Type II radio bursts observed in conjunction with three simultaneous coronal mass ejections (CMEs) on September 27, 2001. These CMEs originated from a single active region (AR) and were linked to relatively weak solar flares. Analysis of the CME sequences revealed distinct periods of interplanetary (IP) Type II radio emissions, characterized by pronounced increases in intensity. The first radio enhancement, lasting 20 minutes, exhibited very low density and frequency (1.65–1.5 MHz) at a height range of (7.8–8.2) solar radii (Rʘ). Subsequently, the second radio signature persisted for 40 minutes with a frequency range of (900–700) kHz and a height range of (10.9–12.6) Rʘ. The third episode spanned 1 hour and 20 minutes, featuring a frequency range of (660–390) kHz and a height range of (13.2–18.6) Rʘ. Lastly, the fourth enhancement extended over 3 hours, ranging from (550–250) kHz in frequency and (14.6–25.0) Rʘ in height. The authors concluded that the initial low-density radio signature resulted from a shock wave generated by reconnection of magnetic field lines, without an intense flare or extreme ultraviolet imaging telescope (EIT) wave. This shock wave then accelerated subsequent CMEs. Alternatively, the radio burst could have formed in the wake of the initial slow CME, creating a low-density environment. The second radio enhancement coincided with the accelerated propagation of CME1's core and was attributed to enhanced radio emission resulting from the Type II shock encountering filament material. The third radio enhancement aligned with the concept of a CME bow shock, indicating that the shock was positioned at the leading front of the CME. This enhancement occurred when the shock met remnant material from earlier CMEs, yet the shock continued propagating at a constant speed. The fourth enhancement progressed to higher frequencies due to the merging of CME1's core with CME2, propagating along CME3's path. This comprehensive analysis provides valuable insights into the complex dynamics and interactions associated with these unique Type II radio bursts and their correlation with coronal mass ejections.
Identification of Differentially Expressed ER Stress-Related Genes and Their Association with Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension
Authors: Yang Qi , Lai Banghui , Xie Hao , Deng Mingbin , Yang Yan , Wan Juyi , Liao Bin , Liu Feng
Published: December 2023

Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a progressive disease with a complex etiology, a high mortality rate, and strong harm. Endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress and immune infiltration are key to the pathogenesis of PAH, but their interaction in PAH is still unclear. In this study, we investigated the role of ER stress and immune infiltration in PAH and their interrelationships using bioinformatics methods. Gene expression profiles and ER stress-related genes were downloaded from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) and MSigDB databases, respectively. A total of 31 differentially expressed ER stress-related genes highly associated with PAH were identified by the Limma software package and weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA). Enrichment analysis showed that these genes were mainly enriched in response to endoplasmic reticulum stress, response to unfolded proteins, protein transport, and protein processing in the endoplasmic reticulum. Subsequently, the identification of the top five hub genes (EIF2S1, NPLOC4, SEC61B, SYVN1, and DERL1) was accomplished through screening within the protein-protein interaction (PPI) network. Immune infiltration analysis showed that these hub genes were closely related to immune cells. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves showed that hub genes had a good diagnostic value for PAH. Ultimately, a rat model of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) was successfully established, wherein the observed expression levels of SEC61B, NPLOC4, and EIF2S1 in the PAH group aligned with the outcomes derived from bioinformatics analysis. The SEC61B, NPLOC4, and EIF2S1 identified in this study could be used as potential biomarkers. This study provided new potential therapeutic targets for the prevention and treatment of PAH.
Dosage sensitive maternal siRNAs determine hybridization success in Capsella
Authors: Dziasek Katarzyna , Santos-González Juan , Qiu Yichun , Rigola Diana , Nijbroek Koen , Köhler Claudia
Published: December 2023

Hybrid seed failure arising from wide crosses between plant species is a recurring obstacle in plant breeding, impeding the transfer of desirable traits. This postzygotic reproductive barrier primarily occurs in the endosperm, a dosage-sensitive tissue that nurtures the embryo and functions analogously to the placenta in mammals. Here, we show that the endosperm in incompatible seeds loses DNA methylation and chromatin condensation, resembling the endosperm of seeds depleted for maternal RNA Polymerase IV (Pol IV) function. This similarity in phenotype corresponds with a concurrent reduction in small interfering RNAs in the endosperm (sirenRNAs), maternal Pol IV-dependent siRNAs governing DNA methylation and regulating target genes. Notably, several AGAMOUS-LIKE MADS-BOX transcription factors (AGLs), known regulators of endosperm development, are targeted by sirenRNAs in cis and in trans. This finding aligns with the enrichment of AGL target genes among deregulated genes. Together, we propose that the response to interspecies hybridizations is triggered by a combination of reduced maternally derived sirenRNAs and heightened expression of AGLs targeting hypomethylated regions in the hybrid endosperm.
Scalable imaginary time evolution with neural network quantum states
Authors: Ledinauskas Eimantas , Anisimovas Egidijus
Published: December 2023

The representation of a quantum wave function as a neural network quantum state (NQS) provides a powerful variational ansatz for finding the ground states of many-body quantum systems. Nevertheless, due to the complex variational landscape, traditional methods often employ the computation of quantum geometric tensor, consequently complicating optimization techniques. Contributing to efforts aiming to formulate alternative methods, we introduce an approach that bypasses the computation of the metric tensor and instead relies exclusively on first-order gradient descent with Euclidean metric. This allows for the application of larger neural networks and the use of more standard optimization methods from other machine learning domains. Our approach leverages the principle of imaginary time evolution by constructing a target wave function derived from the Schrödinger equation, and then training the neural network to approximate this target. We make this method adaptive and stable by determining the optimal time step and keeping the target fixed until the energy of the NQS decreases. We demonstrate the benefits of our scheme via numerical experiments with 2D J_1-J_2J1−J2, Heisenberg model, which showcase enhanced stability and energy accuracy in comparison to direct energy loss minimization. Importantly, our approach displays competitiveness with the well-established density matrix renormalization group method and NQS optimization with stochastic reconfiguration.
Linguistic correlates of panic disorder: A review
Authors: Korabelnikova E. A. , Yakovleva E. V.
Published: December 2023

Currently, the study of verbal forms of communication of patients with neurotic disorders is of great interest. According to studies, certain specific features of the speech of patients with neuroses have been identified. They affect both quantitative and qualitative characteristics of speech. In particular, the tendency to intensification of speech generation (verbosity), a more complex discursive structure with greater depth and degree of branching, a tendency to use certain lexical units and grammatical constructions were revealed. The detected features correlate with the patient’s cognitive attitudes and the level of his emotional stress. Of additional interest is the assessment of the dynamics of various indicators of speech in the process of psychotherapy. An extremely small number of studies have been devoted to studying the linguistic characteristics of speech in patients with panic disorder. At the same time, it is in this category that the clinical manifestations are most distinct and illustrative, which gives many advantages in the study of various aspects of speech. According to the already available data, patients with panic disorder are characterized by a decrease in control over the semantic side of the utterance in favor of control over the articulation of the spoken text. The correlation of pitch and tone variability depending on the emotional conditions of the story was revealed. Further study of speech features in patients with panic disorder is necessary to improve and expand existing knowledge, potential use in the process of psychotherapeutic treatment.