bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Oxygen and sulfur stable isotope ratios of Late Devonian vertebrates trace the relative salinity of their aquatic environments
Authors: Goedert Jean , Broussard David , Trop Jeffrey , Daeschler Edward , Amiot Romain , Fourel François , Olive Sébastien , Vinçon-Laugier Arnauld , Lécuyer Christophe
Published: June 2024

Late Devonian aquatic environments hosted the fin-to-limb transition in vertebrates. Upper Devonian (ca. 365–360 Ma) strata in Pennsylvania, USA, preserve a diversity of fishes and tetrapods in coastal marine to fluvial depositional environments, making this region ideal for investigating the ecology and evolution of Late Devonian vertebrates. A key unresolved issue has been reconstructing the specific aquatic habitats that hosted various vertebrates during this period. Specifically, the salinity of environments spanning fresh to shallow marine water is difficult to discern from sedimentological and paleontological analyses alone. Here, we analyze rare earth elements and yttrium (REY) as well as stable oxygen and sulfur isotope compositions (δ18O, δ34S) in fossil vertebrate bioapatite from late Famennian (ca. 362–360 Ma) strata of the Catskill and Lock Haven formations in the Appalachian Basin, USA, to determine the relative salinity of their aquatic environments. These results confirm the ecological euryhalinity of several taxa (Bothriolepis sp., tristichopterids, and Holoptychius sp.). Our results are the first demonstrating that some early tetrapod species occupied unequivocally freshwater habitats by late Famennian time (ca. 362–360 Ma). Our study shows that integrating sedimentological and paleontological data with combined oxygen and sulfur isotope analysis allows precise tracing of the relative salinity of vertebrate habitats deep in the past.
Supplemental Material: Updating the Upper Cretaceous (Campanian) Two Medicine Formation of Montana (USA): Lithostratigraphic revisions, new CA-ID-TIMS U-Pb ages, and a calibrated framework for dinosaur occurrences
Authors: Rogers Raymond R. , et al.
Published: June 2024

Table S1: U-Pb isotopic data for zircon analyses from Campanian bentonites of the Two Medicine Formation, Montana, USA.
Wrestling injuries during the 2016 Rio and 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games
Authors: Shadgan Babak , Molavi Nima , Abaeva Elena , Falahati Saam , Sikimic Stevan , Konstantinou Loukas , Molnar Szabolcs
Published: June 2024

Objectives

To evaluate and compare the injuries of Olympic wrestlers during the 2016 Rio and 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games held in August 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods

In this descriptive epidemiological study, injury report forms were used to collect and analyse injury data during the competitions.

Results

During 410 matches in the Rio Olympic Games, 21 injuries were recorded among 346 wrestlers (112=women), a rate of 5.1 injuries/100 bouts and 6.1 injuries/100 athletes. During 322 matches in the Tokyo Olympic Games, 28 injuries were recorded among 287 wrestlers (96=women), with 8.7 injuries/100 bouts and 9.8 injuries/100 athletes. However, these apparent differences in injury rates between Tokyo and Rio were not statistically significant (injuries/bout: p=0.057, 95% CI: 0.31 to 1.02; injuries/athlete: p=0.087, 95% CI: 0.33 to 1.08). Mild injuries comprised the greatest proportion of injuries in both Olympic Games. Severe injuries accounted for 0%, 16.7% and 36.4% of injuries in Greco-Roman, Freestyle and Women’s wrestling, respectively.

Conclusion

Most wrestling injuries in the 2016 Rio and 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games were mild skin injuries in the head and face regions due to direct body contact during standing positions in the 1/8-final round of wrestling competitions. No critical injury was observed during the recent Olympic Games. Attention should be drawn to preventing upper limb joint dislocations as common severe injuries in both Olympic Games. While not statistically significant, the Tokyo Games, after the COVID-19 pandemic, witnessed a higher injury occurrence than the Rio Games.
Are adjunct treatments effective in improving pain and function when added to exercise therapy in people with patellofemoral pain? A systematic review with meta-analysis and appraisal of the quality of interventions
Authors: Souto Larissa Rodrigues , De Oliveira Silva Danilo , Pazzinatto Marcella F , Siqueira Malu Santos , Moreira Roberta Fátima Carreira , Serrão Fábio Viadanna
Published: June 2024

Objective

To compare the effectiveness of adjunct treatments combined with exercise to exercise alone in people with patellofemoral pain (PFP) and explore the quality of intervention descriptions in randomised controlled trials (RCTs).

Design

Systematic review.

Data sources

Seven databases were searched in November 2023.

Eligibility

RCTs that evaluated the effectiveness of any adjunct treatment combined with exercise to exercise alone on self-reported pain and function in people with PFP.

Results

We included 45 RCTs (2023 participants), with 25 RCTs (1050 participants) contributing to meta-analyses. Pooled analysis indicated very low-certainty evidence that neuromuscular electrical stimulation or monopolar dielectric diathermy combined with exercise leads to small and large improvements in self-reported pain when compared with exercise alone (standardised mean difference (95% CI)=−0.27 (−0.53 to −0.02) and −2.58 (−4.59 to −0.57), respectively) in the short-term. For self-reported pain and function, very low-certainty evidence indicates that knee taping, whole-body vibration, electromyographic biofeedback and knee brace combined with exercise do not differ from exercise alone. Interventions are poorly described in most RCTs, adjunct treatments scored on average 14/24 and exercise therapy 12/24 in the Template for Intervention Description and Replication checklist.

Conclusion

Neuromuscular electrical stimulation and monopolar dielectric diathermy combined with exercise seem to improve self-reported pain in people with PFP compared with exercise alone. Knee taping, whole-body vibration, electromyographic biofeedback and knee brace do not offer additional benefits to exercise alone. Most interventions are poorly described, which is detrimental to translating research knowledge into clinical practice.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42020197081.
Urogenital schistosomiasis among adult male population in an endemic area of southern Tanzania: a descriptive cross-sectional study
Authors: Zacharia Abdallah , Makene Twilumba , Haule Stanley , Lukumay Gift , Omary Huda , Shabani Monica , Ngasala Billy
Published: June 2024

Background

Urogenital schistosomiasis (UGS) caused bySchistosoma haematobiumis endemic in Southern Tanzania. The disease has significant implications for both socioeconomic and public health. Because infections withS. haematobiumusually peak in childhood, the majority of studies have concentrated on school-aged children leaving other groups such as males which might be continuous reservoir of infection transmission. However, despite its chronic consequences in the male population, the disease has received insufficient attention, especially in sub-Saharan Africa. This study was conducted to describe the previous and current schistosomiasis status among adult males living in high-endemic areas of southern Tanzania

Design, setting and participants

A descriptive cross-sectional study was employed to gather data on the prevalence of UGS among adult men residing at schistosomiasis endemic in the Mtama District Council. Quantitative methods of data collection which included questionnaire and laboratory procedures were used.

Results

Out of 245 participants, macrohaematuria and microhaematuria were found in 12 (4.9%, 95% CI 2.4% to 7.8%) and 66 (26.9%, 95% CI 21.6% to 32.7%) participants, respectively.S. haematobiumova were recovered from the urine samples of 54 (22.0%, 95% CI 16.7% to 27.3%) participants. The median intensity of infection was 20 eggs per 10 mL of urine ranging from 1 to 201 eggs per 10 mL of urine (IQR) 60.5). Out of 245 participants 33 (13.5% 95% CI 9.0% to 17.6%) had light intensity of infection and 21 (38.9%, 95% CI; 25.0% to 52.5%) had heavy intensity of infection. Overall, the prevalence of heavy intensity of infection was 8.6% (95% CI 4.9% to 12.6%). The prevalence and intensity of UGS varied significantly by age, marital status and village of residence.

Conclusion

This study sheds light on the prevalence of UGS among adult males in endemic areas of southern Tanzania. The results highlight the urgent need for comprehensive intervention strategies to address the burden of the disease.
Flow cytometric analysis of peripheral blood neutrophil myeloperoxidase expression in myelodysplastic neoplasms (MPO-MDS-Valid): protocol for a multicentre diagnostic accuracy study
Authors: Planta Charlotte , Bret Caroline , Manzoni Delphine , Lhoumeau Anne-Catherine , Mayeur Rousse Caroline , Ticchioni Michel , Campos Lydia , Eischen Alice , Gonnet Nicolas , Merle Raymond , Seigneurin Arnaud , Paul Franciane , Comte Estelle , Allieri-Rosenthal Alessandra , Tondeur Sylvie , Regnart Chloé , Jacob Marie-Christine , Labarère José , Park Sophie , Raskovalova Tatiana
Published: June 2024

Introduction

Many patients referred for suspicion of myelodysplastic neoplasm (MDS) are subjected to unnecessary discomfort from bone marrow aspiration, due to the low disease prevalence in this population. Flow cytometric analysis of peripheral blood neutrophil myeloperoxidase expression could rule out MDS with sensitivity and negative predictive value estimates close to 100%, ultimately obviating the need for bone marrow aspiration in up to 35% of patients. However, the generalisability of these findings is uncertain due to the limited sample size, the enrolment of patients at a single study site, and the reliability issues associated with laboratory-developed tests and varying levels of operator experience. This study aims to validate the accuracy attributes of peripheral blood neutrophil myeloperoxidase expression quantified by flow cytometric analysis in an independent multicentre sample.

Methods and analysis

The MPO-MDS-Valid project is a cross-sectional diagnostic accuracy study comparing an index test to a reference standard. Consecutive adult patients referred for suspicion of MDS are being recruited at seven university hospitals and one cancer centre in France. At each site, flow cytometric analysis of peripheral blood samples is performed by operators who are blinded to the reference diagnosis. A central adjudication committee whose members are unaware of the index test results will determine the reference diagnosis of MDS, based on cytomorphological evaluation of bone marrow performed in duplicate by experienced hematopathologists. The target sample size is 400 patients and the anticipated study recruitment completion date is 31 December 2025.

Ethics and dissemination

An institutional review board (Comité de Protection des Personnes Nord-Ouest III, Caen, France) approved the protocol, prior to the start of the study. Participants are recruited using an opt-out approach. Efforts will be made to publish the primary results within 6 months after study completion.

Trial registration number

NCT05175469.
No-fault compensation schemes for COVID-19 vaccine injury: a mixed bag for claimants and citizens
Authors: Macleod Sonia , Uberti Francesca , Kameni Enga
Published: June 2024

The development of vaccines against SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) presented a unique set of challenges. There was a global need for safe, effective vaccines against a new virus. In response to the development of vaccines for COVID-19 (some of which used novel technologies), there was a proliferation of no-fault compensation schemes (NFCS) for COVID-19 vaccine injuries. We identified 28 national vaccine injury NFCS operating in December 2019. Just 2 years later, over 130 countries had some NFCS coverage for COVID-19 vaccines. This rapid expansion was primarily driven by the creation of three multinational schemes. The COVID-19 Vaccines Global Access (COVAX) scheme covers vaccines given under the COVAX framework in 92 low and middle-income countries across the globe. The African Vaccines Acquisition Trust (AVAT) scheme covers vaccines administered under the AVAT framework in 36 African and Caribbean countries. The UNICEF scheme covers vaccines administered by UNICEF in 18 Asian countries.

Because of the sudden expansion of no-fault compensation for vaccine injury, especially in developing economies, more research on the foundations, procedures and outcomes of NFCS is needed. In this article, we examine how these NFCS meet the needs of individual claimants and society more widely. To do so, we first review the rationales offered to support the creation of vaccine injury NFCS. We then argue that, in order to achieve their function as compensation mechanisms, NFCS should be accessible and offer substantive and procedural justice to claimants. Finally, we focus on transparency and accountability as necessary requirements to allow scrutiny over existing NFCS and their wider impacts.
Healthcare professionals roles in pancreatic cancer care: patient and family views and preferences
Authors: Horinuki Fumika , Saito Yumiko , Yamaki Chikako , Toh Yasushi , Takayama Tomoko
Published: June 2024

Objectives

This study explored the information needs and requirements of patients with pancreatic cancer (PPCs) and their families through patients’ and families’ views and preferences (PVPs) collected by healthcare professionals (HCPs) and to identify differences in PVPs by profession.

Methods

We conducted an anonymous web-based survey of HCPs in cancer care hospitals in Japan, posing specific questions from patients or families regarding pancreatic cancer within the past year. We qualitatively analysed the data and classified them into several categories according to their content. We also compared the percentage of PVPs in each category in the medical profession.

Results

We collected 893 PVPs from 353 HCPs and classified them into 15 topics within 5 categories: (1) treatment and care, (2) characteristics of the disease, (3) daily life, (4) feelings of patients or families and (5) communication with HCPs/peer support information. Physicians, nurses and pharmacists received mainly PVPs in categories 1 and 2. Characteristically, cancer counsellors received PVPs in all categories, with higher frequencies for categories 3–5.

Conclusions

PPCs and families have diverse PVPs, and appear to select different HCPs for consultation based on their specific concerns. Each HCP should recognise that their individual experience may be insufficient in understanding the full spectrum of PVPs; however, cancer counsellors tend to have a broader awareness of them. To support PPCs and families, HCPs should appropriately collaborate with each other, considering that HCPs like cancer counsellors who do not provide direct treatment still play an important role in providing holistic support.
Simple thiazole-based ligands for palladium(II) Suzuki–Miyaura aryl cross-coupling catalysts
Authors: Agyei Clifford , Robertson Craig M. , Campbell Michael G. , MacKinnon Craig D.
Published: June 2024

Two new palladium(II) catalysts, each containing a phenylthiazole ligand (2-methyl- (1a) and 2-amino-4-phenyl-1,3-thiazole (1b)), are prepared and characterized. The crystal structure of one, 2-methyl-4-phenyl)palladium(II) acetate (3a), is presented; it crystallizes as a dimer, with the ligand attached through the nitrogen on the thiazole and the ortho-carbon on the phenyl ring. The organometallic compounds can be used as catalysts in Suzuki–Miyaura aryl cross-coupling reactions. They are compatible with a wide range of functional groups, including carbonyls, amines, and phenols.
Americium-241 in peat bogs as a global marker of the beginning of the Anthropocene: examples from Europe and North America
Authors: Oleksandrenko A. , Appleby P.G. , Duke M.J.M. , Noernberg T. , Shotyk W.
Published: June 2024

Fallout radionuclides are being considered as potential global indicators of the beginning of the Anthropocene, yet questions persist about their preservation in bogs. This study assessed the reliability of 241Am records in peat cores from acidic, ombrotrophic bogs. The source of 241Am (half-life 432.7 years) in these natural archives is radioactive decay of the short-lived plutonium isotope 241Pu (half-life 14.329 years) present in fallout from the atmospheric testing of nuclear weapons. We leveraged previously gathered data to gauge the congruence of 241Am records with 210Pb dates, examining the alignment of the 241Am activity peak with the depth corresponding to the year AD 1963, as determined using the 210Pb constant rate of supply (CRS) model. Our analysis employed 35 peat cores from 30 sites across Europe and North America, collected over the last three decades for trace metal deposition studies. Each core underwent independent 210Pb dating. Among the 35 cores, 10 were excluded because of significant uncertainty in 241Am peak quantification. Among the remaining 25 cores, 22 displayed a single 241Am peak and 3 exhibited two peaks with similar 241Am activities. Of the 22 cores with a single peak, 18 were within 10 years of AD 1963, with 10 of those being within 5 years. For 10 of the 22 cores, 14C dates obtained from the atmospheric bomb pulse curve enabled comparison, with 9 showing ≤10 years of difference and 7 of those showing ≤5 years from the 210Pb CRS model AD 1963. Factors contributing to age discrepancies included (i) analytical limitations of 241Am measurements in peat using gamma spectrometry, (ii) the impact of peat accumulation rates on 241Am activities, i.e., dilution effects, (iii) post-depositional migration of 241Pu and (or) 241Am, (iv) uncertainties introduced during 210Pb age-modelling, and (v) the limited number of samples dated using 14C. The usefulness of 241Am as an Anthropocene marker (assuming AD 1963) hinges on the accepted uncertainty level in defining this epoch. Detection of 241Am through gamma spectrometry was statistically validated as a real peak in 22 out of a total of 35 cores: this fraction (63%) is within the range reported in other studies. Given that the cores were gathered from 16 European and 14 North American sites, these peaks can be taken to denote the hemispheric onset of the Anthropocene. Lastly, common post-depositional migration of 137Cs in ombrotrophic peatlands contrasts with its immobility in minerotrophic peatlands, where the presence of mineral matter and neutral pH inhibit its movement. This observation suggests that fens and swamps, characterized by minerotrophic conditions, may also serve as repositories of nuclear weapons test fallout, including 241Am.
Sustainable metal-infused polymer feedstock compatible with low-cost metal sinter-based 3D printing
Authors: Karimi Naeim , Fayazfar Haniyeh (Ramona)
Published: June 2024

Additive manufacturing has been employed to fabricate metallic parts; however, prevalent techniques are expensive and energy consuming. Therefore, fused deposition modeling (FDM) technique has grabbed the attention of researchers and industries. Despite the promising results, available materials for metal FDM 3D printing are very limited. The current study presents the development of a novel metal-infused polymeric feedstock for FDM 3D printing, consists of spiky-shaped recycled nickel powders and polylactic-acid (PLA) polymer matrix. A low-cost desktop 3D printer is employed to produce green parts; subsequently, debinding/sintering processes can be conducted to achieve a fully metallic part. The low-cost recycled nickel powder that has been used in this study is produced using the low-carbon footprint Mond process, with a significant application in production and recycling of nickel- and iron-based batteries. Furthermore, PLA is chosen because it is bio-based and biodegradable with a lower carbon footprint in the carbon cycle than fossil-fuel-derived polymers. Therefore, the whole process is an ecofriendly cycle, stepping toward the sustainable and affordable production of metallic components. Regarding development of a novel feedstock material compatible with 3D printing, it is important to understand its properties. So, the developed feedstock materials were rheologically and physico-mechanically analyzed to find the optimum filler concentration.
Pseudo-transition between antiferromagnetic and charge orders in a minimal spin-pseudospin model of one-dimensional cuprates
Authors: Strečka Jozef , Karl’ová Katarína
Published: June 2024

This study rigorously investigates the phenomenon of a pseudo-transition in a minimal spin-pseudospin model, serving as a simplified model of one-dimensional cuprate chains [CuO]$$_\infty $$

∞

, by making use of the transfer-matrix method. The studied spin-pseudospin model of one-dimensional cuprate chains [CuO]$$_\infty $$

∞

reveals a peculiar pseudo-transition between a charged-ordered phase and an antiferromagnetic phase, which is accompanied with anomalous behavior of magnetic and thermodynamic quantities. While the entropy and short-range correlations undergo near the pseudo-transition steep continuous changes reminiscent of a discontinuous phase transition, the specific heat displays a sizable sharp peak akin to a continuous phase transition.

Graphic Abstract

A density plot of the specific heat of one-dimensional spin-pseudospin model of cuprate chain in the inter-site interaction versus temperature plane, which serves as a pseudo-phase diagram involving charged-ordered (CO) and antiferromagnetic (AF) phases
On the (un)testability of the general free scalar–tensor gravity for the Solar System tests
Authors: Huang Li , Deng Xue-Mei
Published: June 2024

Recently, Zhang et al. [Eur. Phys. J. C 84, 381, https://doi.org/10.1140/epjc/s10052-024-12723-8 (2024)] constrained the Yukawa correction in the general free scalar–tensor gravity by borrowing the measured values of the parametrized post-Newtonian (PPN) parameters $$\gamma -1=(2.1\pm 2.3)\times 10^{-5}$$

γ
-
1
=

(
2.1
±
2.3
)

×

10

-
5

and $$\beta -1=(-\,4.1\pm 7.8)\times 10^{-5}$$

β
-
1
=

(
-

4.1
±
7.8
)

×

10

-
5

in the Solar System tests. They firstly defined two PPN parameters $$\gamma (r)$$

γ
(
r
)

and $$\beta (r)$$

β
(
r
)

in the gravity, which depend on the radial distance r and include the Yukawa-type parameters. Then, by comparing between the experiments’ results of two PPN parameters and their $$\gamma (r)$$

γ
(
r
)

and $$\beta (r)$$

β
(
r
)

, the authors claimed that they gave the tightest bound on the gravity by the Cassini tracking experiment. However, we find their approach is not rigorous. In this paper, corresponding astronomical experiments have been physically modelled by considering the lightlike and the timelike geodesics in the general free scalar–tensor gravity. Contrary to the wrong results in Zhang et al.’s work, it is shown that the Cassini tracking experiment is insensitive to the general free scaler–tensor gravity. Furthermore, we also find that the time delay and the light deflection are all independent of the gravity. Due to an additional Yukawa-type advance in the periastron shift, we derive very much improved bounds on the Yukawa-type parameters of this gravity.
Probing dirac neutrino properties with dilepton signature
Authors: Xu Wan-Lun , Han Zhi-Long , Jin Yi , Li Honglei , Lu Zongyang , Meng Zhao-Xia
Published: June 2024

The neutrinophilic two Higgs doublet model is one of the simplest models to explain the origin of tiny Dirac neutrino masses. This model introduces a new Higgs doublet with eV scale VEV to naturally generate the tiny neutrino masses. Depending on the same Yukawa coupling, the neutrino oscillation patterns can be probed with the dilepton signature from the decay of charged scalar $$H^\pm $$

H
±

. For example, the normal hierarchy predicts BR$$(H^+\rightarrow e^+\nu )\ll $$

(

H
+

→

e
+

ν
)
≪

BR$$(H^+\rightarrow \mu ^+\nu )\approx $$

(

H
+

→

μ
+

ν
)
≈

BR$$(H^+\rightarrow \tau ^+\nu )\simeq 0.5$$

(

H
+

→

τ
+

ν
)
≃
0.5

when the lightest neutrino mass is below 0.01 eV, while the inverted hierarchy predicts BR$$(H^+\rightarrow e^+\nu )/2\simeq $$

(

H
+

→

e
+

ν
)
/
2
≃

BR$$(H^+\rightarrow \mu ^+\nu )\simeq $$

(

H
+

→

μ
+

ν
)
≃

BR$$(H^+\rightarrow \tau ^+\nu )\simeq 0.25$$

(

H
+

→

τ
+

ν
)
≃
0.25

. By precise measurement of BR$$(H^+\rightarrow \ell ^+\nu )$$

(

H
+

→

ℓ
+

ν
)

, we are hopefully to probe the lightest neutrino mass and the atmospheric mixing angle $$\theta _{23}$$

θ
23

. Through the detailed simulation of the dilepton signature and corresponding backgrounds, we find that the 3 TeV CLIC could discover $$M_{H^+}\lesssim 1220$$

M

H
+

≲
1220

 GeV for NH and $$M_{H^+}\lesssim 1280$$

M

H
+

≲
1280

 GeV for IH. Meanwhile, the future 100 TeV FCC-hh collider could probe $$M_{H^+}\lesssim 1810$$

M

H
+

≲
1810

 GeV for NH and $$M_{H^+}\lesssim 2060$$

M

H
+

≲
2060

 GeV for IH.
Chaotic Vortex-Induced Vibrations of Rigid Cylinders with Nonlinear Snapping Support
Authors: Asil Gharebaghi Saeed , Shirzad Mohammad
Published: June 2024

Vortex-Induced Vibration (VIV) is a complex fluid–structure interaction in offshore structures. Traditionally, this phenomenon is considered periodic; however, many of its signals show chaotic behavior. The basic model already employed by other researchers is a rigid circular cylinder with linear springs and dampers. In this work, nonlinear snapping support is used to model nonlinearity in the system. To numerically simulate the flow, Reynolds-Averaged Navier–Stokes (RANS) equations for two-dimensional incompressible unsteady flows are applied. The degree of nonlinearity of the system can be changed by manipulating [Formula: see text], which is one of the geometric properties of the spring and takes values between 0 and 1. The 0–1 test, Poincaré section, and Fast Fourier Transform are used to analyze the cylinder and lift force behavior. Also, the Hilbert transform is applied to the signals, and the phase shift between displacement and lift force is obtained. The results show that the system behavior consists of branches: branch I and branch II. The large amplitudes occur in branch II. It is found that chaos emerges at the beginning of branch II, regardless of the value of [Formula: see text]. By raising the [Formula: see text] value, the span of branch II becomes more expansive, and its first point is placed at lower reduced velocities. Also, the wake dynamics becomes more regular at the end of branch I and more irregular at the beginning of branch II with the increase in [Formula: see text]. When the cylinder displacement signal is chaotic, the lift force behavior is also chaotic, but not vice versa.
Harmonising Contributions: Exploring Diversity in Software Engineering through CQA Mining on Stack Overflow
Authors: Zolduoarrati Elijah , Licorish Sherlock A. , Stanger Nigel
Published: June 2024

The need for collective intelligence in technology means that online Q&A platforms, such as Stack Overflow and Reddit, have become invaluable in building the global knowledge ecosystem. Despite literature demonstrating a prevalence of inclusion and contribution disparities in online communities, studies investigating the underlying reasons behind such fluctuations remain scarce. The current study examines Stack Overflow users’ contribution profiles, both in isolation and relative to various diversity metrics, including GDP and access to electricity. This study also examines whether such profiles propagate to the city and state levels, supplemented by granular data such as per capita income and education, before validating quantitative findings using content analysis. We selected 143 countries and compared the profiles of their respective users to assess implicit diversity-related complications that impact how users contribute. Results show that countries with high GDP, prominent R&D presence, less wealth inequality and sufficient access to infrastructure tend to have more users, regardless of their development status. Similarly, cities and states where technology is more prevalent (e.g., San Francisco and New York) have more users who tend to contribute more often. Qualitative analysis reveals distinct communication styles based on users’ locations. Urban users exhibited assertive, solution-oriented behaviour, actively sharing information. Conversely, rural users engaged through inquiries and discussions, incorporating personal anecdotes, gratitude and conciliatory language. Findings from this study may benefit scholars and practitioners, allowing them to develop sustainable mechanisms to bridge the inclusion and diversity gaps.
Mechanisms of Resistance to Targeted Therapies in AML
Authors: Jones Matthew F. , Smith Catherine C.
Published: June 2024

The treatment of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) has historically relied on cytotoxic chemotherapy, but modern understanding of AML biology has paved the way for new treatments that target the molecular pathways that drive AML, in particular FLT3, IDH1/IDH2, and BCL2. Many of these targeted therapies are effective, but responses are typically short-lived and resistance remains a ubiquitous clinical problem. Understanding the mechanisms of resistance to targeted therapy is essential to continue improving AML therapy. Recent studies have shed new light on the ways in which AML evades targeted inhibition, including on-target resistance mutations, mutations in parallel molecular pathways, and plasticity in cellular state. In this review, we outline the mechanisms of resistance to commonly used targeted therapies in AML and discuss ideas to overcome the urgent problem of resistance.
Low pH Titanium Electrochemistry in the Presence of Sulfuric Acid and its Implications for Redox Flow Battery Applications
Authors: Ahmed Sheikh Imran Uddin , Sankarasubramanian Shrihari
Published: June 2024

Titanium (Ti) is a promising elemental redox active species for redox flow batteries (RFBs) due to its 100x availability in the Earth crust, and 10x lower cost (compared to elemental vanadium). Furthermore, Ti salts are highly soluble in water and concentrations >5 M can be easily obtained. Seeking to harness the higher solubility (and hence energy density) of the Ti electrolyte for flow battery applications, the Ti4+/Ti3+ redox couple was investigated at high concentrations (up to 5 M) relevant to RFB applications. The behavior of Ti ions in H2SO4 supported electrolytes was investigated by varying the ratio of Ti redox active species to counterion. The electrochemical characteristics, transport properties, and redox kinetics of the Ti4+/Ti3+ redox couple were measured and the impact of the Tix+ to solvating ligand ratio was examined. The coordination structures around solvated Tix+ ions were spectroscopically determined and the effect of solvation structure on the Ti3+/Ti4+ redox rate constants were examined and correlated to the calculated solvation energy (hence distinguishing between inner- and outer-sphere processes) and the role of catalysts was addressed. The Ti electrolyte development guidelines presented herein will advance the development of Ti-based RFBs as a promising pathway towards cost effective, grid-scale energy storage.
The “Little‐Old‐Lady’s Hernia”, Obturator Hernia: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Salazar-Rios Enrique , Cruz Olascoaga Alexa
Published: June 2024

Obturator hernias, though rare, are clinically significant abdominal hernias, predominantly affecting elderly, thin women, with an estimated prevalence of less than 1%. The primary treatment involves surgical intervention to reduce and repair the defect, either through laparotomy or laparoscopy, with bowel resection needed in up to 75% of patients. Here, we present the case of an 83‐year‐old woman presenting with abdominal pain and a history of constipation. An abdominal computed tomography scan demonstrated a left obturator hernia with small bowel obstruction. Successful reduction of the hernia was achieved, albeit requiring intestinal resection via an open surgical approach. Subsequently, the patient achieved complete recovery.
Colusión en los mercados de gases industriales, medicinales y especiales y la importancia de la delación compensada
Authors: Heresi José Ignacio
Published: June 2024

La Fiscalía Nacional Económica presentó un requerimiento contra las empresas Indura y Linde por colusión en el mercado de gases industriales, medicinales y especiales. Esto destaca la importancia de los programas de delación compensada, donde los participantes de un cartel pueden obtener beneficios por aportar información que ayude a desbaratar el cartel. A pesar de las críticas, estos programas han demostrado ser muy efectivos para combatir la colusión en muchos países.
El futuro del voto en Chile: ¿Es el momento del sufragio electrónico?
Authors: Escobar Claudio
Published: June 2024

El voto electrónico surge como una alternativa para mejorar la eficiencia y accesibilidad del proceso electoral en Chile. Puede tomar la forma de máquinas de votación en locales o votación por Internet. Comparado con el voto tradicional en papel, ofrece beneficios como mayor rapidez, facilidad de uso para votantes con discapacidades y residentes en el extranjero. Sin embargo, también presenta riesgos de seguridad y podría generar desconfianza. Para implementarlo se requiere una sólida infraestructura tecnológica, un marco legal claro, educación ciudadana y fuertes medidas de seguridad y transparencia.
Table 1 from Monitoring Circulating Tumor DNA During Surgical Treatment in Patients with Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumors
Authors: Johansson Gustav , Berndsen Marta , Lindskog Stefan , Österlund Tobias , Fagman Henrik , Muth Andreas , Ståhlberg Anders
Published: June 2024

Patient demographics and tumor details.
Supplementary Figures from Monitoring Circulating Tumor DNA During Surgical Treatment in Patients with Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumors
Authors: Johansson Gustav , Berndsen Marta , Lindskog Stefan , Österlund Tobias , Fagman Henrik , Muth Andreas , Ståhlberg Anders
Published: June 2024

Supplementary Figure S1 shows assessment of quality controls when analyzing cfDNA. Supplementary Figure S2 shows a representative electropherogram of assay performance Supplementary Figure S3 shows a the amount of cfDNA in plasma for different risk groups and sample types.
Data from Monitoring Circulating Tumor DNA During Surgical Treatment in Patients with Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumors
Authors: Johansson Gustav , Berndsen Marta , Lindskog Stefan , Österlund Tobias , Fagman Henrik , Muth Andreas , Ståhlberg Anders
Published: June 2024

Abstract
The majority of patients diagnosed with advanced gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) are successfully treated with a combination of surgery and tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs). However, it remains challenging to monitor treatment efficacy and identify relapse early. Here, we utilized a sequencing strategy based on molecular barcodes and developed a GIST-specific panel to monitor tumor-specific and TKI resistance mutations in cell-free DNA and applied the approach to patients undergoing surgical treatment. Thirty-two patients with GISTs were included, and 161 blood plasma samples were collected and analyzed at routine visits before and after surgery and at the beginning, during, and after surgery. Patients were included regardless of their risk category. Our GIST-specific sequencing approach allowed detection of tumor-specific mutations and TKI resistance mutations with mutant allele frequency < 0.1%. Circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) was detected in at least one timepoint in nine of 32 patients, ranging from 0.04% to 93% in mutant allele frequency. High-risk patients were more often ctDNA positive than other risk groups (P < 0.05). Patients with detectable ctDNA also displayed higher tumor cell proliferation rates (P < 0.01) and larger tumor sizes (P < 0.01). All patients who were ctDNA positive during surgery became negative after surgery. Finally, in two patients who progressed on TKI treatment, we detected multiple resistance mutations. Our data show that ctDNA may become a clinically useful biomarker in monitoring treatment efficacy in patients with high-risk GISTs and can assist in treatment decision making.
Association between Stimulation-Site Pain and Clinical Improvement during Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation for Patients with Major Depressive Disorders: A Prospective Observational Study at Two Sites
Authors: Hayashi Daisuke , Yamazaki Ryuichi , Matsuda Yuki , Igarashi Shun , Taruishi Nanase , Kodaka Fumitoshi , Shigeta Masahiro , Kito Shinsuke
Published: June 2024

Introduction: The clinical efficacy of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) for treatment-resistant depression (TRD) in Japan has not been adequately investigated. Furthermore, the relationship between stimulation-site pain and the antidepressant effects of rTMS has not been thoroughly examined. Therefore, this study aimed to clarify (1) the real-world efficacy and safety of rTMS for TRD in Japan and (2) the relationship between stimulation-site pain and clinical improvement of depressive symptoms. Methods: We conducted a retrospective observational study involving 50 right-handed patients with TRD. All patients received high-frequency rTMS for up to 6 weeks. Depressive symptoms were assessed using the Montgomery-Åsberg depression rating scale (MADRS). Pain at the stimulation site was reported by the patients using a visual analog scale (VAS) after each session. Remission and response rates at 3 and 6 weeks were calculated based on the MADRS scores. The correlation between changes in the MADRS and VAS scores was examined. Results: Remission and response rates were 36% and 46%, respectively, at the end of 3 weeks, and 60% and 70%, respectively, at 6 weeks. At the end of the treatment, there was significant correlation between the reduction of MADRS and VAS scores (r = 0.42, p = 0.003). Conclusion: This study demonstrates the clinical efficacy of rTMS in Japan and the correlation between its antidepressant effects and stimulation-site pain.
Association of the Complement Factor H Y402H Polymorphism and Response to Anti-Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Treatment in Age-Related Macular Degeneration: An Updated Meta-Analysis
Authors: Roshanshad Amirhossein , Moosavi Seyed Ali , Arevalo J. Fernando
Published: June 2024

Introduction: Anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) agents have a variable effect on patients with age-related macular degeneration (AMD) that has been attributed to several causes, including genetic factors. We evaluated the effects of Complement Factor H (CFH) rs1061170/Y402H polymorphism on the response to anti-VEGF therapy among AMD patients. Methods: PubMed, Scopus, EMBASE, Web of Science, and Google Scholar were used for a literature search. Pooled odds ratios (ORs) and their 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were estimated to assess the effects of CFH Y402H polymorphism on the response to anti-VEGF therapy in AMD. I2 was used to present the amount of heterogeneity. We used STATA version 14.0 software. Results: Twenty-five papers reporting data for 4,681 patients were included in this study. Better response to anti-VEGF therapy was seen in T over C (OR = 1.25, 95% CI = 1.04–1.50), TT over CC (OR = 1.60, 95% CI = 1.06–2.4), and TT + TC over CC (OR = 1.68, 95% CI = 1.23–2.28) genotypes. There was no significant difference in the three other genetic models (TT vs. TC, TT vs. TC + CC, TC vs. TT + CC). In Asians, no significant difference was observed in all six genetic models. Ranibizumab and bevacizumab had similar efficacy; however, conbercept was more effective in homozygous genotypes. The literature indicated that TT and TC genotypes and T allele were associated with a better functional response, while the CC genotype and C alleles had a better anatomical response. The combination of risk alleles in ARMS2 A69S (rs10490924), VEGF-A (rs699947), and VEGF-A (rs833069) with Y420H is a predictor of non-respondents. Conclusion: In patients with AMD, the CFH Y402H is a predictor of the response to anti-VEGF agents and should be considered in the treatment plan.
Cerebral Amyloid Angiopathy in Patients with Cognitive Impairment: Cerebrospinal Fluid Biomarkers
Authors: Rothenberg Kasia Gustaw , Bekris Lynn , Leverenz James B. , Wu Jenny , Lee Jonathan , Statsevych Volodymyr , Ruggieri Paul , Jones Stephen E.
Published: June 2024

Introduction: Cerebral amyloid angiopathy (CAA) is characterized by amyloid β (Aβ) deposition in brain vessels, leading to hemorrhagic phenomena and cognitive impairment. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-based criteria allow a diagnosis of probable CAA in vivo, but such a diagnosis cannot predict the eventual development of CAA. Methods: We conducted a retrospective cohort study of 464 patients with cognitive disorders whose data were included in a brain health biobank. De-identified parameters including sex, age, cognitive score, APOE status, and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) levels of Aβ 1–40, Aβ 1–42, phosphorylated tau, and total tau were assessed in those with and without CAA. Odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were determined. Results: CAA was present in 53 of 464 (11.5%) patients. P-tau level was significantly higher in those with CAA (115 vs. 84.3 pg/mL p = 0.038). In univariate analyses, the risk of developing CAA was higher with increased age (OR, 1.036; 95% CI: 1.008, 1.064; p = 0.011) and decreased CSF level of Aβ 1–40 (OR, 0.685; 95% CI: 0.534, 0.878; p = 0.003). In multivariate analyses, the risk of CAA remained higher with a decreased CSF level of Aβ 1–40 (OR, 0.681; 95% CI: 0.531, 0.874; p = 0.003). Conclusion: These findings suggest that Aβ 1–40 levels in the CSF might be a useful molecular biomarker of CAA in patients with dementia.
Asymptotics of Cointegration Tests for High-Dimensional Var(k)
Authors: Bykhovskaya Anna , Gorin Vadim
Published: June 2024

The paper studies nonstationary high-dimensional vector autoregressions of order k, VAR(k). Additional deterministic terms such as trend or seasonality are allowed. The number of time periods, T, and the number of coordinates, N, are assumed to be large and of the same order. Under this regime the first-order asymptotics of the Johansen likelihood ratio (LR), Pillai–Bartlett, and Hotelling–Lawley tests for cointegration are derived: the test statistics converge to nonrandom integrals. For more refined analysis, the paper proposes and analyzes a modification of the Johansen test. The new test for the absence of cointegration converges to the partial sum of the Airy1 point process. Supporting Monte Carlo simulations indicate that the same behavior persists universally in many situations beyond those considered in our theorems.

The paper presents empirical implementations of the approach for the analysis of S&P100 stocks and of cryptocurrencies. The latter example has a strong presence of multiple cointegrating relationships, while the results for the former are consistent with the null of no cointegration.
Using Rich Lists to Study the Super-Rich and Top Wealth Inequality: Insights from Switzerland
Authors: Baselgia Enea , Martínez Isabel Z.
Published: June 2024

We present a new data set we built based on Swiss rich lists going back to 1989. We show, among other things, that 60% of the super-rich are heirs—a fraction twice as large as in the US—and that wealth mobility at the very top has declined significantly. We find that top 0.01% wealth shares are higher than previous estimates based on wealth tax statistics suggest. At the same time, we argue that rich list data lead to overestimating wealth inequality. While rich lists are valuable to study the super-rich, we recommend to use reported wealth figures with caution.
Communicating conservation: Evidence of knowledge gains through a children’s conservation club in Central Kalimantan, Indonesia
Authors: Andini Hutasoit Petricia , Saragih Risti Angelina , Riyan Dwi , Christina Ina , Yustiningtyas Riethma , Aragay Soler Joana , Cheyne Susan M.
Published: June 2024

Conservation education as a key element in fighting species extinction. One of the key objectives of environmental education is to promote pro-environmental behaviours; increasing knowledge and understanding are the first steps. An understanding of the forest and its links to human and wildlife health is essential to foster forest protection. We used NVivo 12 to evaluate a conservation education program based around the Sebangau National Park, Central Kalimantan, Indonesia. Two age groups were evaluated 7-10 years old (37 children) and 11-13 years old (35 children) in 2 sessions conducted approximately 9 months apart. We asked students to write an essay about their knowledge of the forest. Over the 9 months, children increased their use of words accurately associated with BNF activities (0 to 4%), conservation actions (0 to 2%) and forest threats (2 to 12%) as well as expressing more of an emotional connection to the forest and wildlife (0 to 5%). Children who had joined the club for >12 months showed an increase in knowledge about forest characteristics (25 to 30%) and wildlife species names (43 to 55%). While we can demonstrate clear awareness increase on environmental issues, changing mind-sets, attitudes and behaviours does require an in-depth vital experience. We strongly believe that non-formal education is a key complementary tool to inspire new generations to take action towards conservation and sustainable development.
TITIRITIANDO: Creating an engaging theatrical education program to teach children that cotton-top tamarins (Saguinus oedipus) are not pets
Authors: Savage Anne , Diaz Leysthen , Pasion Johana , Torregroza Katharine , Stevens Alexander Franke , Guillen Rosamira
Published: June 2024

Cotton-top tamarins (Saguinus oedipus) are a critically endangered primate found only in Colombia. Proyecto Tití has been leading conservation efforts in Colombia and has developed successful conservation education programs that engage communities in activities that promote the long-term survival of cotton-top tamarins. TITIRITIANDO is an educational theatrical program that introduces children to cotton-top tamarins and the challenges they face in the illegal pet trade. We presented this program to 4018 elementary school children to determine if using puppets and interactive messaging created an emotional connection between children and cotton-top tamarins that inspired them to engage in actions that aid cotton-top tamarin conservation. Pre- and post-test evaluations were conducted on 1917 students. Pre-surveys found 34% of the children were unable to identify at least one action to help cotton-top tamarins. Following the program students could on average identify at least 3 actions that positively impacted cotton-top tamarins with “not having a cotton-top tamarin as a pet” (75%) as the most frequently sited response. Misconceptions regarding the health and wellbeing of pet cotton-top tamarins was evident with 20% of the students believing that animals were well cared for and had a better life living with people than in the forest. Following the program, students were able to understand and empathize with pet cotton-top tamarins and on average could identify at least 3 negative impacts on individual welfare/well-being with the most common answers as they (1) are sad/depressed (91%), (2) die (87%), (3) are fed an inappropriate diet (80%), (4) have lost their family (74%) and (5) have lost their freedom (39%). This study demonstrates the effectiveness of educational theater in helping children to understand the impact the illegal pet trade has on cotton-top tamarins and how they can engage in activities to protect them.