bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Relative potential for stand persistence of riparian and upland aspen stands of a semi-arid montane landscape of the Southern Rocky Mountains
Authors: Spei Benjamin A. , Goebel Charles , Kashian Daniel M. , Strand Eva , Harley Grant L.
Published: October 2024

Several studies have predicted a loss of quaking aspen ( Populus tremuloides) from many western landscapes, but other studies have suggested that aspen persistence is driven by local site factors. Increased frequency of acute drought has been implicated as an important factor driving overstory mortality and reduced regeneration densities in the region. We investigated the relationship between aspen regeneration and site moisture availability potential using ecosystem type as a proxy. We hypothesized that aspen stands growing along perennial-flowing streams would support higher aspen regeneration densities than upland aspen stands. We compared stand structure, groundcover composition, and regeneration densities of nine riparian aspen stands with nine paired upland aspen stands in the Caribou–Targhee National Forest. Aspen regeneration densities were significantly higher in the riparian aspen stands (845.3 + 318.7 stems ha−1) compared to the upland aspen stands (249.1 + 74.1 stems ha−1) for regeneration shorter than 1 m ( p = 0.0391). Riparian stands also exhibited significantly higher forb ( p < 0.001) and graminoid ( p < 0.001) cover compared to upland aspen stands, suggesting that riparian sites provided higher site moisture availability. We suggest that riparian areas may provide refugia for aspen in the future considering projections of increased incidence of acute drought.
Egg-shaped sections of fluid structures around black holes
Authors: Tlemissov Abylaikhan , Kovář Jiří
Published: October 2024

Astrophysical fluids subjected to the strong gravity of black holes can form rotating toroidal-like structures known as thick accretion discs. In order to facilitate the study of such structures, we introduce approximate empirical formulae for a relatively simple analytical description of their poloidal cross-sections that are usually described only numerically. Our comparisons of the approximate and exact descriptions of the cross-sections of the structures rotating around Schwarzschild and Kerr central black holes, together with the determination of the associated total masses of these structure, indicate a high degree of accuracy for these introduced formulae.
Non-universal SUSY models, $$g_\mu -2$$, $$m_H$$ and dark matter
Authors: Ellis John , Olive Keith A. , Spanos Vassilis C.
Published: October 2024

We study the anomalous magnetic moment of the muon, $$g_\mu - 2 \equiv 2 a_\mu $$

g
μ

-
2
≡
2

a
μ

, in the context of supersymmetric models beyond the CMSSM, where the unification of either the gaugino masses $$M_{1,2,3}$$

M

1
,
2
,
3

or sfermion and Higgs masses is relaxed, taking into account the measured mass of the Higgs boson, $$m_H$$

m
H

, the cosmological dark matter density and the direct detection rate. We find that the model with non-unified gaugino masses can make a contribution $$\Delta a_\mu \sim 20 \times 10^{-10}$$

Δ

a
μ

∼
20
×

10

-
10

to the anomalous magnetic moment of the muon, for example if $$M_{1,2} \sim 600\; \textrm{GeV}$$

M

1
,
2

∼
600

GeV

and $$M_3\sim 8 \; \textrm{TeV}$$

M
3

∼
8

TeV

. The model with non-universal sfermion and Higgs masses can provide even larger $$\Delta a_\mu \sim 24 \times 10^{-10}$$

Δ

a
μ

∼
24
×

10

-
10

if the sfermion masses for the first and the second generations are $$ \sim 400 \; \textrm{GeV}$$

∼
400

GeV

and that of the third is $$ \sim 8 \; \textrm{TeV}$$

∼
8

TeV

. We discuss the prospects for collider searches for supersymmetric particles in specific benchmark scenarios illustrating these possibilities, focusing in particular on the prospects for detecting the lighter smuon and the lightest neutralino.
Application of LIBS and LA-ICP-MS analysis to Hellenistic tableware
Authors: Charlton Michael , Miše Maja
Published: October 2024

Greek and Hellenistic painted vases have attracted scholars of classical archaeology for centuries, either because of the artistic value of the painted decorations or because of the depicted scenes of ancient everyday life. Due to the application of thin slips on the surface, different methods are used for the chemical characterisation of the slips and the body of the same vase. The slips are commonly analysed by X-ray microanalysis, offering point-by-point analysis of mostly major elements, while different tools, such as X-ray fluorescence (XRF), inductively coupled mass spectrometry (ICP-MS), and instrumental neutron activation analysis (INAA), are used for bulk body analysis. This can cause difficulties in comparing the bulk composition and thus in determining the similarities and differences in the preparation process of the clay paste for the slips and bodies of an object. Given the artistic value of these objects, museum curators tend to be reluctant to provide samples for invasive characterisation. Micro-destructive laser ablation methods offer a robust solution to addressing both the relationships between ceramic body and surface treatment chemistry and destructive sampling. To provide a proof-of concept, we analysed slips and bodies of a small sample of Hellenistic fine wares from the Greek colony of Issa in modern Croatia with Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS) and Laser ablation-ICP-MS. Results show remarkable diversity in the use of clay types and processing techniques.
WHY SMALL- AND MEDIUM-SIZED ENTERPRISES DO NOT CONDUCT RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT — THE RELATIONAL EMBEDDEDNESS MODEL
Authors: MINAMI YUJI , SATO HIDENORI
Published: October 2024

Research and development (R&D) represents the strength of corporate innovation; however, many small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) do not engage in R&D activities. Resource constraints are often cited as the reason; however, no deeper understanding has been provided yet. To fill this gap, we investigated a research model based on the relational embeddedness between customer firms and SMEs (suppliers) using a questionnaire obtained from Japanese manufacturing SMEs. Our findings show that SMEs’ R&D activities are likely to be positively impacted by inter-organisational trust (IT) and negatively impacted by relational inertia (RI) and relational duration (RD). The relationships between the variables behind these impacts were also analysed. This study also highlights the dark side of relational embeddedness. SMEs with the closest and major customer relationships may be hindered in their overall R&D activities by the effects of RI and RD.
Arabic Question Generation Using Transformers
Authors: Alajmi Anwar , Altabaa Haniah , Abed Sa'ed , Ahmad Imtiaz
Published: October 2024

After the increased reliance on online education, online assessment became an essential tool for educators to remotely monitor and evaluate students’ understanding in order to assist them properly. However, the laborious process of creating exam questions is a challenge for most teachers. Thus, automated Question Generation aims to assist teachers by generating questions from given data. Limited research has been conducted to tackle this issue in the Arabic Language due to the complexity of the language and the limited amount of available Arabic data. This paper explores different implementations of the transformer models, that demonstrated their superiority in natural language processing. Three approaches were introduced to tackle this problem with Arabic data using an Arabic-based transformer, an English-based transformer, and a multilingual-based transformer. Each of the fine-tuned models was trained using ARCD, XGLUE, DialectBench, and ArabicQA data sets and evaluated on automatic and manual metrics. Two of the proposed models achieve state-of-the-art results on the Arabic question generation task. The English transformer obtained a ROUGE score of 0.59 on XGLUE, while the Arabic transformer model achieves 0.49 on ARCD. Both of these models demonstrate excellent quality of questions through human-conducted evaluations by achieving low WER and high GC, U, and A scores.
Shining Light on the Inter-procedural Code Obfuscation: Keep Pace with Progress in Binary Diffing
Authors: Zhang Peihua , Wu Chenggang , Hu Hanzhi , Jia Lichen , Peng Mingfan , Xu Jiali , Xie Mengyao , Lai Yuanming , Kang Yan , Wang Zhe
Published: October 2024

Software obfuscation techniques have lost their effectiveness due to the rapid development of binary diffing techniques, which can achieve accurate function matching and identification. In this paper, we propose a new inter-procedural code obfuscation mechanism
KHaos
, which moves the code across functions to obfuscate the function by using compilation optimizations. Three obfuscation primitives are proposed to separate, aggregate, and hide the function. They can be combined to enhance the obfuscation effect further. This paper also reveals distinguishing factors on obfuscation and compiler optimization and presents novel observations to gain insights into the impact of actively utilizing compiler optimization in obfuscation. A prototype of
KHaos
is implemented and evaluated on a large number of real-world programs. Experimental results show that
KHaos
outperforms existing code obfuscations and can significantly reduce the accuracy rates of six state-of-the-art binary diffing techniques with lower runtime overhead.
Multiple Function Merging for Code Size Reduction
Authors: Saito Yuta , Sakamoto Kazunori , Washizaki Hironori , Fukazawa Yoshiaki
Published: October 2024

Resource-constrained environments, such as embedded devices, have limited amounts of memory and storage. Practical programming languages such as C++ and Rust tend to output multiple similar functions by monomorphizing polymorphic functions. An optimization technique called Function Merging, which merges similar functions into a single function, has been studied. However, in the state-of-the-art approach, the number of functions that can be merged at once is limited to two; thus, efficiently merging three or more functions, which are often generated from polymorphic functions, has been impossible.

In this study, we propose Multiple Function Merging optimization, which targets merging three or more similar functions into a single function using a multiple sequence alignment algorithm. With multiple aligned information, Multiple Function Merging can increase merge opportunities and reduce extra branching overheads at the code generation stage. We evaluated it using the SPEC CPU benchmark suite and some large-scale C/C++ programs, and the results show that it reduces code size by as much as 7.61% compared with the state-of-the-art approach.
AVENUE: A Novel Deepfake Detection Method Based on Temporal Convolutional Network and rPPG Information
Authors: Birla Lokendra , Saikia Trishna , Gupta Puneet
Published: October 2024

In Deep Learning (DL), an adversary creates Deepfakes by manipulating facial features to fool someone. The Deepfakes pose a security threat to anyone’s privacy and a primary concern for our society. It can be detected by utilizing the texture and physiological properties of the face, like eye and lip movements; however, such methods are incompetent when Deepfakes are created using recent Generative Adversarial Networks (GAN). Alternatively, Remote Photoplethysmography (rPPG) information can be used for Deepfake detection because GANs neglect human physiological information for Deepfake generation. Such detection can be inaccurate when rPPG signals are affected by the noises induced by facial deformation and illumination variations. Furthermore, the exiting Deepfake detections are usually performed using sequential models, and such models fail to process the long sequence of temporal information. These issues are mitigated by our proposed method
AVENUE
, that is,

\(A\)

no

\(V\)

el d

\(E\)

epfake detectio

\(N\)

method based on temporal convol

\(U\)

tion n

\(E\)

twork and rPPG information. For mitigating the noise issues in the rPPG signals, the proposed method detects and employs relatively stable clips of the input video for Deepfake detection. The stable clips are those clips that are least affected by facial deformations. Also, we use a modified Temporal convolutional network to model the long sequence of Deepfake information rather than the sequential architectures. We performed the experimental result on publicly available datasets of Deepfake videos. It demonstrates that our proposed method performs better than the existing rPPG-based Deepfake detection methods.
The contribution of the novel CLTC-VMP1 fusion gene to autophagy regulation and energy metabolism in cisplatin-resistant osteosarcoma
Authors: Zou Pingan , Tao Zhiwei , Yang Zhengxu , Xiong Tao , Deng Zhi , Chen Qincan
Published: October 2024

This study identifies the CLTC-VMP1 gene fusion as a key driver of chemotherapy resistance in osteosarcoma by regulating autophagy and reprogramming cellular energy metabolism. Through single-cell transcriptomics, the research reveals the heterogeneity of tumor cells and the role of VMP1 in promoting resistance to cisplatin. The findings suggest that targeting the CLTC-VMP1 fusion gene may offer new therapeutic strategies to overcome chemotherapy resistance in osteosarcoma.
The mechanical journey of primordial germ cells
Authors: Chitnis Malhar S. , Gao Xu , Marlena Jennifer , Holle Andrew W.
Published: October 2024

Primordial germ cells (PGCs) are the earliest progenitors of germline cells of the gonads in animals. The tissues that arise from primordial germ cells give rise to male and female gametes and are thus responsible for transmitting genetic information to subsequent generations. The development of gonads, from single cells to fully formed organs, is of great interest to the reproductive biology community. In most higher animals, PGCs are initially specified at a site away from the gonads. They then migrate across multiple tissue microenvironments to reach a mesodermal mass of cells called the genital ridge, where they associate with somatic cells to form sex-specific reproductive organs. Their migratory behavior has been studied extensively to identify which tissues they interact with and how this might affect gonad development. A crucial point overlooked by classical studies has been the physical environment experienced by PGCs as they migrate and the mechanical challenges they might encounter along the way. It has long been understood that migrating cells can sense and adapt to physical forces around them via a variety of mechanisms, and studies have shown that these mechanical signals can guide stem cell fate. In this review, we summarize the mechanical microenvironment of migrating PGCs in different organisms. We describe how cells can adapt to this environment and how this adaptation can influence cell fate. Finally, we propose that mechanical signals play a crucial role in the normal development of the germline and shed light on this unexplored area of developmental biology.
Transcriptional regulation of olfactory receptor OR51B5 by the TBX6
Authors: Roh Jiyun , Kang Wesuk , Yang Suhjin , Choi Dabin , Park Taesun
Published: October 2024

This study reveals that olfactory receptor OR51B5, primarily known for its role in olfaction, is significantly regulated by the transcription factor TBX6 in nonolfactory tissues. We demonstrate that TBX6 binding to the OR51B5 promoter modulates its activity, highlighting a novel regulatory mechanism for olfactory receptor expression, which could impact collagen synthesis and cell survival in human dermal fibroblasts.
Molecular mapping of KCNE4-dependent regulation of Kv1.3
Authors: Sastre Daniel , Colomer-Molera Magalí , Roig Sara R. , de Benito-Bueno Angela , Socuéllamos Paula G. , Fernández-Ballester Gregorio , Valenzuela Carmen , Felipe Antonio
Published: October 2024

This work defines, for the first time, the interactions between a Kv1 ( Shaker) channel and a KCNE regulatory subunit. While the COOH-terminus of KCNE4 physically interacts with the channel, its transmembrane domain shapes the inactivation properties of the functional complex, fine-tuning the Kv1.3-dependent physiological response in leukocytes.
Relationship between Guillain–Barré syndrome and cardiovascular disease: a bidirectional Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Wang Tianyi , Li Na , Zeng Yong
Published: October 2024

This study utilizes bidirectional Mendelian randomization to analyze the causal relationships between Guillain–Barré syndrome (GBS) and cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). It uniquely demonstrates a significant causal link from GBS to an increased risk of heart failure (HF), without similar effects on atrial fibrillation (AF) or coronary artery disease (CAD). No reverse causality from CVDs to GBS was found, highlighting the need for targeted cardiovascular management in patients with GBS.
Designing a Distributed Sensing Network for Structural Health Monitoring of Concrete Tunnels: A Case Study
Authors: Zhang Xuehui , Zhu Hong-Hu , Jiang Xi , Broere Wout , Long Luyuan
Published: October 2024

Structural health monitoring is essential for the lifecycle maintenance of tunnel infrastructure. Distributed fiber‐optic sensor (DFOS) technology, which is capable of distributed strain measurement and long‐range sensing, is an ideal nondestructive testing (NDT) approach for monitoring linear infrastructures. This research aims to develop a distributed sensing network utilizing DFOS for structural integrity assessment of concrete immersed tunnels. The primary innovations of this study lie in the development of a general flowchart for establishing a sensing network and obtaining reliable field data, as well as its subsequent validation through a detailed case study. Concentrated joint deformations in typical immersed tunnels, detectable by the DFOS, are key indicators of structural integrity. This study addresses crucial elements of field monitoring system design, including the selection of appropriate optical fibers or cables and the determination of vital interrogator system parameters. It also covers sensor parameter determination, installation techniques, field data collection, and postanalysis. Furthermore, this research is exemplified by a case study that illustrates the successful implementation of a distributed sensing network in an operational immersed tunnel, and monitoring data reveals cyclic structural deformations under impacts of daily tide and seasonal temperature variations. The data obtained from this network play a significant role in subsequent condition assessments of tunnel structures. The research findings contribute to the assessment of large‐scale infrastructure health conditions through the application of DFOS monitoring.
An Update on Reported Variants in the Skeletal Muscle α‐Actin (ACTA1) Gene
Authors: Clayton Joshua S. , Johari Mridul , Taylor Rhonda L. , Dofash Lein , Allan Georgina , Monahan Gavin , Houweling Peter J. , Ravenscroft Gianina , Laing Nigel G.
Published: October 2024

The ACTA1 gene encodes skeletal muscle alpha‐actin, which forms the core of the sarcomeric thin filament in adult skeletal muscle. ACTA1 represents one of six highly conserved actin proteins that have all been associated with human disease. The first 15 pathogenic variants in ACTA1 were reported in 1999, which expanded to 177 in 2009. Here, we update on the now 607 total variants reported in LOVD, HGMD, and ClinVar, which includes 343 reported pathogenic/likely pathogenic (P/LP) variants. We also provide suggested ACTA1‐specific modifications to ACMG variant interpretation guidelines based on our analysis of known variants, gnomAD reports, and pathogenicity in other actin isoforms. Using these criteria, we report a total of 447 P/LP ACTA1 variants. From a clinical perspective, the number of reported ACTA1 disease phenotypes has grown from five to 20, albeit with some overlap. The vast majority (74%) of ACTA1 variants cause nemaline myopathy (NEM), but there are increasing numbers that cause cardiomyopathy and novel phenotypes such as distal myopathy. We highlight challenges associated with identifying genotype–phenotype correlations for ACTA1. Finally, we summarize key animal models and review the current state of preclinical treatments for ACTA1 disease. This update provides important resources and recommendations for the study and interpretation of ACTA1 variants.
VCTE Overestimates Liver Fibrosis due to Abdominal–Truncal Adiposity and Not Hepatic Steatosis: A Case Report
Authors: Woodard Jordan S. , Velji-Ibrahim Jena , Alden Jay , Abrams Gary A.
Published: October 2024

Vibration‐controlled transient elastography (VCTE) is used for the noninvasive assessment of liver fibrosis. We present a case of significant weight loss over 1 year, resulting in a marked improvement in liver stiffness suggesting a decrease in liver fibrosis from stage 4 (cirrhosis) to stage 2 (moderate fibrosis) notably without a change in the grade of hepatic steatosis. The improvement in two stages of fibrosis over this short time frame is due to the overestimation of liver stiffness in a subject with class 3 obesity and not due to the resolution of fibrosis. Therefore, this case highlights that BMI, due to excess subcutaneous abdominal adipose tissue and not intrahepatic lipid accumulation, can cause a significant overestimation of liver fibrosis with VCTE.
Assessing the Malaria Burden and Community Response to the Malaria Control and Management Programs in Omoro District, Northern Uganda
Authors: Soyekwo Divas , Opiyo Elizabeth A. , Austin Reiginald , Ochaya Stephen
Published: October 2024

Background: Malaria remains the leading cause of hospitalization and death in the healthcare system. This study explored the malaria burden and community response to government malaria control programs in Omoro district.

Method: This retrospective study involved 576 patient results from purposely selected health facilities data from health center III (HCIII) of Odek, Bobi, and Lapainat and health center IV (HCIV) of Lalogi. And prospective random section study involved 288 participants from Lutori and Lagude cells and Atyang A and Lagwaya villages who consented to answer the pretested questionnaire.

Results: The prevalence of malaria in Omoro district in 2018 and 2019 was 81.6% and 97.2% for hospital record positivity and community surveys, respectively. The participants had 100% knowledge of malaria signs, symptoms, and cause. The average number of malaria attacks an individual received in the district from the health facility and community data was three. Nonadherence to government control programs was associated with an increased incidence of malaria infections. From questionnaire, the proportion of people that used local herbal remedies for treatment and prevention of malaria were 21.2% of the sampled 288 participants.

Conclusion: The high rate of malaria attacks indicates that the area has a high prevalence of malaria‐carrying mosquitoes. The increase in the proportion of malaria attacks in 2019 suggests that the burden of malaria increased compared with that in the previous year, with approximately 21% of local herbal remedies for malaria treatment and management. The findings of this study suggest that malaria attacks are associated with household size, age, sex, occupation, and the household head. Participants who did not respond positively to government programs experienced more malaria attacks. These findings can be used to develop interventions to reduce the incidence of malaria in this population.
DNA Barcoding of Nematode Parasites Infecting Ompok bimaculatus and Nemacheilus anguilla From Barvi Reservoir, Maharashtra
Authors: Iqbal Gowhar , Kumar Annam Pavan , Balange Amjad Khansaheb , Kumar Sanath , Rajendran K. V. , Suman Sonal , Quyoom Nahida , S. Sangeetha , Dar Showkat Ahmad
Published: October 2024

In the present study, the DNA barcoding of the nematode parasite infecting Ompok bimaculatus and Nemacheilus anguilla fish species was carried out in Barvi Reservoir, Maharashtra. To ascertain the taxonomic status of these nematode parasites, an 18S gene marker was used. Accurate identification of fish parasites is essential to formulate preventive strategies and to study host–environment relations. The present study did barcoding of the nematode parasites of the fishes caught from the Barvi Reservoir using the nuclear 18S rDNA (SSU) sequence. The nuclear 18S rDNA (SSU) was amplified into two overlapping amplicons and sequenced to identify the species based on the sequence similarity with the NCBI GenBank database. The present study sequences (both fragments) showed 98% similarity with the species of Eustrongylides. The average genetic distance value between the present study sample and species of Eustrongylides was 0.003. In the phylogenetic tree also, the sequence was clustered with the species of Eustrongylides with significant bootstrap values. The present study identified the nematode parasite of the fish caught from the Barvi Reservoir, as species of Eustrongylides. The species‐level identification could not be possible due to the insufficient/lack of reference sequences in the database. It indicates the knowledge gap concerning the species‐specific molecular markers for nematode parasites of the fish.
Preclinical Development of SGN-CD47M: Protease-Activated Antibody Technology Enables Selective Tumor Targeting of the Innate Immune Checkpoint Receptor CD47
Authors: Levengood Matthew R. , Carosino Christopher M. , Zhang Xinqun , Lucas Sasha , Ortiz David J. , Westendorf Lori , Chin Alice P. , Martin Arlan D. , Wong Abbie , Hengel Shawna M. , Sun Hao , Zeng Weiping , Yumul Roma , Dominguez Melissa M.C. , Chen Yufei , Zheng Janet H. , Karlsson Courtney A.B. , Trang Vivian H. , Senter Peter D. , Gardai Shyra J.
Published: October 2024

CD47 is a cell-surface glycoprotein that is expressed on normal human tissues and plays a key role as a marker of self. Tumor cells have co-opted CD47 overexpression to evade immune surveillance, and thus blockade of CD47 is a highly active area of clinical exploration in oncology. However, clinical development of CD47-targeted agents has been complicated by its robust expression in normal tissues and the toxicities that arise from blocking this inhibitory signal. Furthermore, pro-phagocytic signals are not uniformly expressed in tumors, and antibody blockade alone is often not sufficient to drive antitumor activity. The inclusion of an IgG1 antibody backbone into therapeutic design has been shown to not only serve as an additional pro-phagocytic signal but also exacerbate toxicities in normal tissues. Therefore, a need persists for more selective therapeutic modalities targeting CD47. To address these challenges, we developed SGN-CD47M, a humanized anti–CD47 IgG1 mAb linked to novel masking peptides through linkers designed to be cleaved by active proteases enriched in the tumor microenvironment (TME). Masking technology has the potential to increase the amount of drug that reaches the TME while concomitantly reducing systemic toxicities. We demonstrate that SGN-CD47M is well tolerated in cynomolgus monkeys and displays a 20-fold improvement in tolerability to hematologic toxicities when compared with the unmasked antibody. SGN-CD47M also displays preferential activation in the TME that leads to robust single-agent antitumor activity. For these reasons, SGN-CD47M may have enhanced antitumor activity and improved tolerability relative to existing therapies that target the CD47–signal regulatory protein α interaction.
Association between Hidradenitis Suppurativa and Gout: A Propensity Score-Matched Cohort Study
Authors: Chang Hui-Chin , Chiu Tsu-Man , Tsai Ru-Yin , Li Chen‐Pi , Wu Yu-Lun , Chen Shiu-Jau , Gau Shuo-Yan
Published: October 2024

Introduction: While an association between hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) and inflammatory arthritis has been reported in clinical studies, the potential link between HS and gout remains uncertain. As HS and gout share common immunological pathways, we conducted a retrospective cohort study to determine whether HS patients are at an increased risk of developing gout in the future. Methods: This retrospective multicenter cohort study obtained information through the US collaborative network, a subset of the TriNetX research network. Patients diagnosed with HS between January 01, 2005, and December 31, 2017, were recruited, and a 1:1 propensity score matching was conducted to identify appropriate controls. The hazard ratio (HR) for the new-onset gout in HS patients was subsequently calculated. Results: Compared to individuals without HS, those with HS were associated with a 1.39-fold higher risk (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.20, 1.62) of developing new-onset gout within 5 years after the index date. This association remained significant in shorter follow-up times and sensitivity analyses utilizing different matching models. For both male and female HS patients, the risk of developing new-onset gout within 5 years after the index date was statistically significant, with respective HRs of 1.61 (95% CI, 1.28, 2.02) for males and 1.41 (95% CI, 1.11,1.78) for females. Conclusion: HS patients are at a high risk of developing gout within 5 years after an HS diagnosis while comparing with non-HS controls.
Thiamine-Responsive Megaloblastic Anemia Syndrome Mimicking Myelodysplastic Neoplasm
Authors: Klötzer Christina , Schnabel Franziska , Kubasch Anne-Sophie , Jentzsch Madlen , Franke Georg-Nikolaus , Uhlig Jens , Faust Helene , Jauss Robin-Tobias , Oppermann Henry , Popp Denny , Metzeler Klaus H. , Lemke Johannes R. , Vučinić Vladan , Platzbecker Uwe
Published: October 2024

Introduction: Thiamine-responsive megaloblastic anemia syndrome (TRMA) is a rare autosomal recessive disease with a homozygous or compound-heterozygous mutation in the SLC19A2 gene characterized by megaloblastic anemia, diabetes mellitus (DM), and sensorineural hearing loss with onset in childhood. Folic acid and vitamin B12 in serum are normal with dysplastic erythropoiesis in the bone marrow often mimicking myelodysplastic neoplasms (MDS) as a potential differential diagnosis. Thiamine substitution leads to normalization of anemia, without effects on hearing loss or DM. Case Presentation: We report about a 38-year-old male patient, presented with a 12-year history of anemia, insulin dependent DM, optic neuropathy, and a cataract since early childhood. The laboratory showed megaloblastic anemia. Other values were normal. The bone marrow smear showed dysplastic erythropoiesis with megaloblastic changes, and normal findings in cytogenetic and molecular genetic examinations. Next-generation sequencing-based diagnostics revealed a heterozygous missense variant in the SLC19A2 gene on the maternal allele and a 3.4 Mb inversion in the chromosomal region 1q24.2 with breaking points in FAM78B and SLC19A2 on the paternal allele. Treatment with oral thiamine 100 mg daily was initiated, and 12 weeks later hemoglobin levels and bone marrow morphology had normalized. Conclusion: Late-onset TRMA should be considered in adult patients with indicative comorbidities and a typical phenotype, which may mimic features of MDS.
Association of Leukocyte Telomere Length and the Risk of Disease Severity and Metabolic Comorbidities in Arab Patients with Psoriasis
Authors: Alwehaidah Materah Salem , Bakhiet Moiz
Published: October 2024

Introduction: Several studies have related shortened leukocyte telomere length (LTL) with age-related diseases and worse prognosis. Telomere length attrition has recently been associated with inflammatory diseases, including psoriasis (Ps). However, no study has demonstrated an association between LTL and the risk of disease severity and metabolic comorbidities in Arab patients with Ps. Methods: 68 patients with Ps and 42 normal controls were included. LTL and oxidative damage were determined by quantitative (q) PCR. Odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated using logistic regression. Statistical differences between the groups were determined using χ2 and t tests. Results: Patients with Ps had significantly shorter LTL (p = 0.032) and higher oxidative damage (p = 0.015) than those without Ps. Patients with moderate-to-severe index (p = 0.03) and metabolic comorbidity showed significantly shorter LTL (p = 0.003) compared to patients with mild index and without metabolic comorbidity, respectively. Patients with short LTL (≤0.9) were correlated with higher risk of moderate-to-severe conditions (OR = 6.98, 95% CI = 2.3–20.8, p = 0.001) and metabolic comorbidities (OR = 2.89, 95% CI = 1.02–8.2, p = 0.04). Conclusion: LTL shortening may be a consequence of increased oxidative damage and is related to the risk of severe Ps and metabolic comorbidities. Therefore, LTL may be a good candidate biomarker for predicting the risk of poor prognosis in patients with Ps.
Association Between Delay to First Shock and Successful First-Shock Ventricular Fibrillation Termination in Patients With Witnessed Out-of-Hospital Cardiac Arrest
Authors: Stieglis Remy , Verkaik Bas J. , Tan Hanno L. , Koster Rudolph W. , van Schuppen Hans , van der Werf Christian
Published: October 2024

BACKGROUND:

In patients with out-of-hospital cardiac arrest who present with an initial shockable rhythm, a longer delay to the first shock decreases the probability of survival, often attributed to cerebral damage. The mechanisms of this decreased survival have not yet been elucidated. Estimating the probability of successful defibrillation and other factors in relation to the time to first shock may guide prehospital care systems to implement policies that improve patient survival by decreasing time to first shock.

METHODS:

Patients with a witnessed out-of-hospital cardiac arrest and ventricular fibrillation (VF) as an initial rhythm were included using the prospective ARREST registry (Amsterdam Resuscitation Studies). Patient and resuscitation data, including time-synchronized automated external defibrillator and manual defibrillator data, were analyzed to determine VF termination at 5 seconds after the first shock. Delay to first shock was defined as the time from initial emergency call until the first shock by any defibrillator. Outcomes were the proportion of VF termination, return of organized rhythm, and survival to discharge, all in relation to the delay to first shock. A Poisson regression model with robust standard errors was used to estimate the association between delay to first shock and outcomes.

RESULTS:

Among 3723 patients, the proportion of VF termination declined from 93% when the delay to first shock was <6 minutes to 75% when that delay was >16 minutes (
P
trend
<0.001). Every additional minute in VF from emergency call was associated with 6% higher probability of failure to terminate VF (adjusted relative risk, 1.06 [95% CI, 1.04–1.07]), 4% lower probability of return of organized rhythm (adjusted relative risk, 0.96 [95% CI, 0.95–0.98]), and 6% lower probability of surviving to discharge (adjusted relative risk, 0.94 [95% CI, 0.93–0.95]).

CONCLUSIONS:

Every minute of delay to first shock was associated with a significantly lower proportion of VF termination and return of organized rhythm. This may explain the worse outcomes in patients with a long delay to defibrillation. Reducing the time interval from emergency call to first shock to ≤6 minutes could be considered a key performance indicator of the chain of survival.
Diving deeper into the taxonomy of the Neoscopelus species complex (Myctophiformes: Neoscopelidae) with the description of Neoscopelus serranoi sp. nov.
Authors: BAÑÓN RAFAEL , BARROS-GARCÍA DAVID , ARRONTE JUAN CARLOS , RÁBADE SONIA , RIO JOSÉ LUIS DEL , BALDÓ FRANCISCO , CARLOS ALEJANDRO DE
Published: October 2024

Previous studies have highlighted possible cryptic biodiversity in the genus Neoscopelus. This hypothesis was tested using new morphological, molecular and biogeographical data on species of this genus caught in the north Atlantic between 2010 and 2022. The information obtained has been combined with available data in an integrative approach, including a review of morphological characters reported in the ichthyological literature and DNA-based species delimitation analyses. The main outcome of the present study is the description of Neoscopelus serranoi sp. nov. from the Atlantic and southwestern Indian Oceans. The new species is morphologically very similar to Neoscopelus microchir from which differs in having a shorter anal-fin base, a shorter pelvic fin, more dorsal and pectoral-fin rays, less anal-fin rays, fewer gillrakers and fewer isthmus and lateral photophores. They also differ in geographic distribution, with the new species occurring in the Atlantic Ocean and the near southwestern Indian Ocean, whereas N. microchir was originally described from Japanese waters of the Pacific Ocean. A literature review of available morphological data between geographic areas for Neoscopelus macrolepidotus and Neoscopelus microchir showed a large intraspecific overlap and no boundaries. However, molecular species delimitation based on the mitochondrial COI gene revealed the existence of cryptic diversity in both species, with eight to ten molecular operational taxonomic units (MOTU), compared to three valid species. Neoscopelus serranoi sp. nov. was considered an independent MOTU in all analyses performed, supporting the morphological identification as a new species. These results highlight that the taxonomy of Neoscopelus is far from settled and show that a greater sampling effort is needed to resolve the uncertainties and to describe unknown putative species. This also exemplifies the virtues of integrative taxonomy in delving into the systematics of deep-sea fishes.
On some Calcaronea (Porifera: Calcarea) from the Barents Sea and adjacent Polar Basin
Authors: MOROZOV GRIGORI , STRELKOVA NATALIA
Published: October 2024

Four common calcareous sponge species from the Arctic are described. One species, Sycandra rappi Morozov sp. nov. is new to science. It differs in the complement of spicules from S. utriculus (Schmidt, 1869). In the latter case, there is an additional kind of spicule, small sickle-shaped diactines, in the distal cones; these spicules are absent in the new species. Additionally, current placement of the genus Sycandra Haeckel, 1872 in the family Grantiidae Dendy, 1892 is discussed. Sycetta asconoides (Breitfuss, 1896) has been relocated to the genus Grantia Fleming, 1828, as we found cortical triactines in the examined material, including type specimen slides. The fourth species, Grantia arctica (Haeckel, 1872), is described from the Franz Joseph Land for the first time. The biogeography of the Arctic calcareous sponges is also briefly discussed.
Risk and Reward Perceptions in Acquisitive Crime: A Comparative Analysis of Credit Fraud, Drug Dealing, Burglary, and Robbery
Authors: Altikriti Sultan
Published: October 2024

Acquisitive crimes share a common thread in that they focus on obtaining some form of benefit. There is considerable variation in the potential risks and rewards inherent in each crime type, however. This study assessed whether perceptions of risk, rewards, and social costs differentially predict engagement in four acquisitive crimes: credit fraud, drug selling, burglary, and robbery. This study also examined specialization within these offenses. The results suggested that increased risk perceptions reduced the odds of engagement in burglary and drug selling. Reward perceptions increased odds of engagement in fraud, burglary, and robbery. There was limited specialization, with some exception for drug selling. Understanding the perceptual dynamics of acquisitive crime is important for developing policies tailored to specific crime types.
Advanced Imaging in Dental Research: From Gene Mapping to AI Global Data
Authors: Graves D.T. , Uribe S.E.
Published: October 2024

Advances in imaging technologies combined with artificial intelligence (AI) are transforming dental, oral, and craniofacial research. This editorial highlights breakthroughs ranging from gene expression mapping to visualizing the availability of global AI data, providing new insights into biological complexity and clinical applications.
Motivated to Fight: Diverse Motivations of Foreign Fighters in the Russia–Ukraine War
Authors: Swed Ori , Stiefelmaier Aria , Hanchukova Oleksandra
Published: October 2024

Why fight for someone else’s war? This study explores the motivations of foreign fighters joining the Ukrainian Foreign Legion during the 2022 to 2023 phase of the Russia–Ukraine War. Unlike previous research centered on foreign nationals’ involvement in terrorist organizations and jihadist groups, particularly in the Middle East, this case captures a different trend characterized by institutionalized recruitment processes and tacit international support. Using an original data set of 296 pro-Ukraine fighters compiled from open-source materials, we analyze their stated motivations and demographic characteristics. We found motivations vary based on specific factors. Fighters’ origin includes Westerners fighters for empathy, altruism, and moral duty, while former Soviet fighters are driven by ideology and geopolitics. The complex and context-dependent nature of foreign fighter motivations is highlighted in this study, emphasizing how motivations can shift across time and context. This finding urges future research to consider both general and conflict-specific factors.
The European Energy Crisis and the Consequences for the Global Natural Gas Market
Authors: Emiliozzi Simone , Ferriani Fabrizio , Gazzani Andrea
Published: October 2024

The Russian invasion of Ukraine in February 2022 led to severe disruptions in the European gas market with significant repercussions on a global scale. The conflict caused a surge in energy prices, a major reshuffling of global natural gas flows, and a shift in the policy-makers’ agendas toward energy supply security. This paper provides a comprehensive review of the developments in the global gas market in the aftermath of the war in Ukraine, focusing in particular on the European gas market and on global LNG trade flows. We first review the characteristics of the gas market in terms of both pricing benchmarks and contractual terms. Next, we analyze the changes to LNG and natural gas production, consumption, and trade flows throughout the European energy crisis. Finally, we review the main policy response to the energy crisis and present some considerations on the gas market outlook.

JEL Classification: L95, P28, Q35
Preoperative chemo-CIRT in Re/BRe pancreatic cancer: Insights from a multicenter prospective phase II clinical study (NCT03822936)
Authors: Barcellini Amelia , Molinelli Silvia , Vanoli Alessandro , Vitolo Viviana , Fossati Piero , Vai Alessandro , Pagani Anna , Inzani Frediano , Pecorilla Mattia , Butturini Giovanni , Klersy Catherine , Preda Lorenzo , Facoetti Angelica , Valvo Francesca , Orlandi Ester
Published: October 2024

Purpose:

There is debate about the optimal management of borderline resectable (bRe) and resectable (Re) pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). Both preclinical and clinical evidence showed that carbon ion radiotherapy (CIRT) produces superior control on radioresistant histologies compared to conventional photon beam radiotherapy (RT). However, so far there is a lack of data concerning the integration of CIRT in a multimodal approach with chemotherapy and surgery for bRe/Re.

Methods:

We recently presented the first analysis of a multicenter prospective phase II clinical study aimed at assessing the feasibility and effectiveness of a neoadjuvant chemotherapy + short course of CIRT followed by surgery and adjuvant chemotherapy in the management of bRe/Re PDAC. The study was terminated early due to low patient enrollment.Herein, we reported a post-hoc analysis focusing on toxicity, dosimetry and translational assessment.

Results:

In our experience, CIRT can be integrated into a multimodal treatment strategy for bRe/Re PDAC, alongside chemotherapy and surgery. A case of fatal liver failure occurring three months post-surgery has been documented, likely related to the combination approach. Although the treatment plans were satisfactory according to the Local Effect Model (LEM) model, recalculations using the modified Microdosimetric Kinetic Model (mMKM) revealed suboptimal target coverage. Additionally, we observed an increased expression of PD-L1 following CIRT.

Conclusions:

This multimodal approach was well tolerated; however, clinicians should carefully monitor for vascular disorders during follow-up and further investigate surgical techniques after CIRT. The increased PD-L1 expression supports the immunogenic effects of particle therapy and lays the groundwork for future studies. To enhance the therapeutic ratio of CIRT treatments, integrating LET-d based objectives into the plan optimization process should be considered.

Trial Registration Number:

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03822936
Real-Time Collaborative Programming in Undergraduate Education: A Comprehensive Empirical Analysis of Its Impact on Knowledge, Behaviors, and Attitudes
Authors: Sun Dan , Xu Fan
Published: October 2024

Real-time collaborative programming (RCP), which allows multiple programmers to work concurrently on the same codebase with changes instantly visible to all participants, has garnered considerable popularity in higher education. Despite this trend, little work has rigorously examined how undergraduates engage in collaborative programming when using RCP. This study utilized a quasi-experimental design to investigate the impact of RCP on undergraduates’ programming knowledge and skills, behaviors, and attitudes toward collaboration. Eighty-two participants were randomly assigned to either the RCP group or the Traditional Collaborative Programming (TCP) group. The data analysis yielded noteworthy findings. First, RCP significantly improved learners’ problem-solving skills and led to higher knowledge test scores compared to TCP. Second, there were no significant differences in attitudes toward collaboration between the two groups. Third, analysis of programming behaviors indicated that the RCP group exhibited more efficient coding practices, including producing a greater volume of code and executing it more successfully. Additionally, the RCP group’s code-testing activities were predominantly concentrated at the first half of the class sessions. Based on the empirical research results, three major pedagogical implications were proposed. These findings highlight the benefits of integrating RCP into programming education and suggest avenues for future research into collaborative learning dynamics.
Path tracking with switchable stability constraints for vehicle collision avoidance based on extended stability region
Authors: Pan Qianxi , Zhou Bing , Wu Xiaojian , Cui Qingjia , Gan Nianfei
Published: October 2024

There is a certain conflict between vehicle stability and the performance of path-tracking under emergency conditions. In this paper, to make full use of the lateral capacity of vehicles, a path tracking method with switchable stability constraints is proposed. First, using the Lyapunov energy equation and Hurwitz’s theorem, the lateral stability region (SR) and the critical steering angle of steady steering at different longitudinal speeds are calculated. Based on this, the extended stability region (ESR) and the extended critical steering angle of the vehicle under the control of an additional yaw moment are obtained. Furthermore, the driving area during collision avoidance is divided into unsafe and safe areas, and based on the model predictive control strategy, a path-tracking controller with switchable stability constraints is established. In the unsafe area, the vehicle states are allowed to break through the SR temporarily, and to ensure path-tracking accuracy, the ESR is taken as the stability constraint. In the safe area, the stability constraint is switched to the SR, and to make the vehicle states quickly return to SR, a regain stability controller is established. Finally, a Simulink-CarSim simulation and a hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) experiment are conducted. The simulation results show that a balance between tracking effect and vehicle stability can be effectively achieved through the proposed path-tracking system under the investigated emergency conditions. The real-time performance of the proposed control strategy is validated through the HIL experiment.