bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Autofluorescent Cancer Stem Cells: Potential Biomarker to Predict Recurrence in Resected Colorectal Tumors
Authors: Alcala Sonia , Serralta San Martin Gonzalo , Muñoz-Fernández de Legaria Marta , Moreno-Rubio Juan , Salinas Silvia , López-Gil Juan Carlos , Rojo López José Alberto , Martínez Alegre Javier , Cortes Bandy David Abraham , Zambrana Francisco , Jiménez-Gordo Ana-María , Casado Enrique , López-Gómez Miriam , Sainz Bruno
Published: September 2024

Cancer stem cells (CSC) in colorectal cancer drive intratumoral heterogeneity and distant metastases. Previous research from our group showed that CSCs can be easily detected by autofluorescence (AF). The aim of the present study was to evaluate the potential role of AF CSCs as a prognostic biomarker for colorectal cancer relapse. Seventy-five freshly resected tumors were analyzed by flow cytometry. AF was categorized as high (H-AF) or low, and the results were correlated with histologic features [grade of differentiation, presence of metastases in lymph nodes (LN), perivascular and lymphovascular invasion] and clinical variables (time to relapse and overall survival). Nineteen of the 75 (25.3%) patients experienced relapse (local or distant); of these 19 patients, 13 showed positive LNs and 6 had H-AF. Of note, four of them died before 5 years. Although patients with H-AF CSC percentages in the global population experienced 1.5 times increased relapse [HR, 1.47; 95% confidence interval (0.60–3.63)], patients with H-AF CSC percentages and LN metastases had the highest risk of relapse [HR, 7.92; P < 0.004; 95% confidence interval (1.97–31.82)]. These data support AF as an accurate and feasible marker to identify CSCs in resected colorectal cancer. A strong statistical association between H-AF CSCs and the risk of relapse was observed, particularly in patients with positive LNs, suggesting that H-AF patients might benefit from adjuvant chemotherapy regimens and intensive surveillance due to their high propensity to experience disease recurrence.

Significance: AF has been proven to be an accurate biomarker for CSC identification; however, to date, their role as a prognostic factor after resection of colorectal cancer tumors has not been investigated. Our results show that determining the presence of AF CSCs after tumor resection has prognostic value and represents a potentially important tool for the management of patients with colorectal cancer.
Changes in Circulating CD44+CD62L− Treg Subsets and CD44−CD62L+ Treg Subsets Reflect the Clinical Status of Patients with Allergic Rhinitis
Authors: Liu Jia-Yu , Qiao Yue-Long , Jiao Wo-Er , Tao Ze-Zhang , Xu Shan , Chen Shi-Ming
Published: September 2024

Introduction: This study clarified the expression changes and clinical significance of CD44+CD62L− Treg and CD44−CD62L+ Treg subsets in the peripheral blood of patients with allergic rhinitis (AR). Methods: The peripheral blood of 39 patients with AR and 42 healthy controls was collected. Clinical data, such as sex, age, IgE titer, allergen screening information and visual analogue scale (VAS) score, were recorded. Changes in serum IL-2, IL-4, IL-6, IL-10, TNF-α, and IFN-γ were detected using the cytometric bead array method. Flow cytometry was used to detect the proportions of Th1, Th2, Th17, TFH, and Th9 cells and the proportions of CD44+CD62L− Treg and CD44−CD62L+ Treg subsets. Correlation analysis was performed between the CD44+CD62L− Treg subsets and the CD44−CD62L+ Treg subsets with clinical indicators (VAS score, total IgE titer), cytokines (IL-2, IL-4, IL-6, IL-10, TNF-α, IFN-γ), and Th1/Th2/Th17/TFH/Th9 cell proportions. Results: Compared to the control group, the proportion of total Treg cells and CD44+CD62L− Treg cells in the AR group decreased, and the proportion of CD44−CD62L+ Treg cells increased (p < 0.05). The proportions of CD44+CD62L− Treg cells significantly negatively correlated with Th2 cells (R = −0.5270, p < 0.05) and positively correlated with Treg cytokine IL-10 (R = 0.6447, p < 0.05). In addition, CD44+CD62L− Treg cells negatively correlated with the VAS score (R = −0.4956, p < 0.05), total IgE level (R = −0.4177, p < 0.05) and Th2 cytokine IL-6 level (R = −0.3034, p < 0.05) but positively correlated with the Th1 cytokine IL-2 (R = 0.4331, p < 0.05). In contrast, the proportion of CD44+CD62L− Treg cells significantly positively correlated with the Th2 cells (R = 0.6187, p < 0.05). Moreover, the proportion of CD44−CD62L+ Treg cells positively correlated with the VAS score (R = 0.4060, p < 0.05), total IgE level (R = 0.5224, p < 0.05) and Th2 cytokine IL-4 (R = 0.2647, p < 0.05) and IL-6 levels (R = 0.3824, p < 0.05) but negatively correlated with Th1 cytokine IL-2 (R = −0.3451, p < 0.05) and IL-10 (R = −0.3277, p < 0.05). Conclusion: A greater proportion of CD44+CD62L− Tregs correlated with better reversal of the Th1/Th2 imbalance and milder clinical symptoms in AR patients. The presence of more CD44−CD62L+ Tregs correlated with a weaker immunosuppressive effect on Th2 cells and more severe clinical symptoms in AR patients. These findings provide new perspectives for the treatment and disease monitoring of AR.
Changes in Prevalence of IgE Sensitization and Allergenic Exposition over a 10-Year Period in a Tropical Region
Authors: Sánchez Jorge , Diez Libia-Susana , Álvarez Leidy , Munera Marlon , Sánchez Andrés
Published: September 2024

Introduction: Multiple antigen environmental sources have been identified as possible causes of allergies, but few studies have evaluated changes in the sensitization profiles over time. The aim of this study was to evaluate the changes in IgE sensitization and exposure to dust mites, cats, dogs, and cockroaches over a 10-year period. Methods: During a period of 10 years among patients with asthma, rhinitis and/or atopic dermatitis, we evaluated the annual frequency of atopy to Dermatophagoides farinae, Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus, Blomia tropicalis, Canis familiaris, Felis domesticus and cockroaches (Periplaneta americana and Blatella germanica). Exposure to sources was also assessed using questionnaires (Pets) or direct counts (House dust mites and cockroaches). The association between some risk factors and the prevalence of atopy was explored. Results: A total of 6,000 records were included. Among the patients, 82% had IgE sensitization to at least one of the six allergenic sources. Sensitization to Dermatophagoides spp. was the most frequent (>78%). Exposure and sensitization in the first decade of life to Dermatophagoides spp. seem to determine the molecular spreading to other allergenic sources. Exposure to Blomia tropical increases significantly over time (year 2015; 38% vs. year 2022; 51%, p 0.03). Exposure to dogs was higher than with cats but association between atopy and exposure was stronger with cats (OR 27.4, 95% CI: 22.3–33.6, p < 0.01). Conclusion: Exposure and sensitization in the first decade of life to Dermatophagoides spp. determine the molecular spreading of IgE antibodies to other allergenic sources. Household exposure to dogs and cats seems to be important for the subsequent development of atopy. Sensitization to B. tropicalis and cockroach appears to be mostly from cross-reactivity rather than direct exposure.
COPD: Prävention und Früherkennung statt Therapie ist der Schlüssel zur Elimination
Authors: Hausen Thomas
Published: September 2024

Despite substantial progress in reducing the global impact of many non-communicable diseases, including heart disease and cancer, morbidity and mortality due to chronic respiratory disease continues to increase. This increase is driven primarily by the growing burden of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and has occurred despite the identification of cigarette smoking as the major risk factor for the disease more than 50 years ago. Many factors have contributed to what must now be considered a public health emergency: failure to limit the sale and consumption of tobacco products, unchecked exposure to environmental pollutants across the life course, and the ageing of the global population (partly as a result of improved outcomes for other conditions). Additionally, despite the heterogeneity of COPD, diagnostic approaches have not changed in decades and rely almost exclusively on post-bronchodilator spirometry, which is insensitive for early pathological changes, underused, often misinterpreted, and not predictive of symptoms. Furthermore, guidelines recommend only simplistic disease classification strategies, resulting in the same therapeutic approach for patients with widely differing conditions that are almost certainly driven by variable pathophysiological mechanisms. And, compared with other diseases with similar or less morbidity and mortality, the investment of financial and intellectual resources from both the public and private sector to advance understanding of COPD, reduce exposure to known risks, and develop new therapeutics has been woefully inadequate.
Derechas radicales, familia global de derechas e iberoesfera: el rol de Vox para América Latina.
Authors: Duarte Penayo Martín Rafael
Published: September 2024

Em La reconquista autoritaria: Cómo la derecha global amenaza la democracia en América Latina Ariel Goldstein aborda a forma como a direita radical europeia constrói laços e articula agendas globais com os seus homólogos de direita latino-americanos.
Patterns and drivers of abundance and diversity of reptiles and amphibians in the protected area of Mount Chelmos
Authors: Kypraios-Skrekas Vassilis , Lazaris Alexis , Koutrouditsou Lydia K. , Sotiropoulos Konstantinos , Giokas Sinos
Published: September 2024

The primary objective of this study was to investigate patterns of abundance and diversity among reptiles and amphibians within the protected area of Mount Chelmos, located in Peloponnese, Greece. Our aim was to examine the drivers influencing abundance (for lizards, snakes, chelonians, anurans, urodels) and diversity (for reptiles and amphibians) within the finely-scaled study area and identify biodiversity hotspots. Land cover significantly impacted the abundance and diversity of all studied groups. Elevation had a significant impact on the abundance of snakes, chelonians, and anurans, as well as on reptile and amphibian diversity. Climate influenced all groups except chelonians. Slope significantly impacted anuran abundance and amphibian diversity. Aspect primarily influenced the abundance of lizards, anurans, and urodels, as well as reptile diversity. We have also identified abundance and diversity hotspots, emphasizing the importance of conservation and management efforts. In reptiles, abundance hotspots were predicted in the west, east, and south of the mountainous massif, whereas amphibian abundance hotspots were mapped to the west and east-southeast of the massif. Regarding diversity, the patterns were similar for both reptiles and amphibians, with hotspots emerging in the west, south, and southeast boundaries of the study area, and a few spots north of the mountainous region. Notably, many of these hotspots coincided with areas susceptible to human exploitation and vehicular transit.
1. Ripples on the Great Sea of Life
Authors: Beard SJ , Torres Émile
Published: September 2024

Outlining the history of Existential Risk Studies (ERS), this chapter divides the field into three “waves”, suggesting that the first wave developed from transhumanism, its advocation that humanity should transcend its biological limitations through new technologies, and the risks which followed. The second “wave” emerged out of the Effective Altruism movement and the related view of longtermism which encouraged the protection of humanity’s future through the reduction of existential risk. The third, most recent, “wave” has seen the interaction between ERS and other fields such as Disaster Studies and Environmental Science, a diverse interplay which allows for the greater growth of ERS. By laying out the evolution of ERS over the last two decades, this chapter not only offers a clear classification of the field and a digestible way in which to study existential risk, but provides space in which to consider the future of ERS itself and the next steps it will take.
2. Democratising Risk
Authors: Cremer Zoe , Kemp Luke
Published: September 2024

This chapter examines the field of Existential Risk Studies (ERS), and the Techno-Utopian Approach (TUA) which has, the authors argue, historically dominated the field since contributing to its foundation. The TUA’s dependence on ethical theories such as utilitarianism and longtermism has resulted in existential risk being defined in terms of a belief system, a vision of morality and value which is not held by the majority. ERS concerns humanity as a whole, leading the authors to suggest the TUA is non-representative and undemocratic. To improve ERS, the authors argue instead for the separation of extinction risks from extinction/existential ethics, the acknowledgement of the assumptions underlying risk analyses, and the adoption of the newest advances in risk assessment from different fields. This chapter suggests that the abandonment of the TUA will allow for the democratisation and diversification of ERS, and encourages researchers and readers to embrace a more inclusive approach to thinking about risk and catastrophe.
3. Classifying Global Catastrophic Risk
Authors: Avin Shahar , Wintle Bonnie C. , Weitzdörfer Julius , Ó hÉigeartaigh Seán S. , Sutherland William J. , Rees Martin
Published: September 2024

Identifying a lack of satisfactory methodologies for classifying Global Catastrophic Risk (GCR) scenarios, this chapter proposes a new classification framework which draws together multiple areas of knowledge. The suggested framework categorises GCR scenarios according to the critical systems affected, the mechanism by which the thread is spread globally, and prevention and mitigation failure. To achieve such a classification system, all three areas must be fully explored using interdisciplinary research and a variety of scientific disciplines. As suggested by the authors, this would result in the prioritisation of risk reduction efforts, the creation of a live reference list of expertise for different GCR scenarios, and the growth of research in areas that would be otherwise neglected. The methodology put forward in this chapter becomes important in terms of foresight as its ability to map and track allows for the prediction of a preparation for GCR scenarios.
5. Existential Risk, Creativity and Well-Adapted Science
Authors: Currie Adrian
Published: September 2024

This chapter explores the general tension between the distinct productive and the creative aspects of science, arguing that research programmes should be organised to favour one or the other depending on its epistemic situation, meaning the conditions of knowledge generation and the challenges facing it. In this case, this chapter discusses the research program of Existential Risk Studies, calling for the discipline to prioritise scientific creativity due to it involving unprecedented events, uncertainty and public engagement. The epistemic situation of the study of extreme global risk demands creativity, not scientific conservation which promotes competitiveness and productivity. This chapter therefore calls for a well-adapted science of existential risk which is multidisciplinary, pluralistic, and opportunistic; the research programme’s standards, incentives and expectations must be geared towards overcoming the challenges it faces.
10. The Mortality of States (MOROS) Dataset
Authors: Kemp Luke
Published: September 2024

Advocating for better data on political states, this chapter tracks the creation of The Mortality of States (MOROS) dataset, a developmental methodology used to measure the longevity of states. The authors argue that in order to better understand global risk and catastrophe, we must accumulate more knowledge on the lifespans of states, and MOROS is an aid in enhancing what we know about the role of states in GCR production and mitigation. Currently synthesised from a range of verified primary data sources, the authors endeavour to pair MOROS with expert elicitation and a literature review to expand and improve the database, adding details concerning the consequences and reasons for state collapse, so by extension, we can be able to further our knowledge on global catastrophe.
14. Existential Change
Authors: Beard SJ , Kemp Luke
Published: September 2024

Drawing on various research strands within Existential Risk Studies, this chapter argues that climate change, often overlooked in the field, is an important topic to consider when thinking about global risk. The authors offer a theoretical reflection on the important links climate change has to other areas of research, such as disaster risk management and environmental studies. Building on this, this chapter calls for the reframing of research questions within Existential Risk Studies, and sets out the rewards and co-benefits gained from responding to climate change risks.
15. A Fate Worse Than Warming?
Authors: Tang Aaron , Kemp Luke
Published: September 2024

This chapter discusses Stratospheric Aerosol Injection (SAI), the process of injecting particles into the atmosphere to reflect sunlight, and its potential impact on Global Catastrophic Risk (GCR). The authors lay out the advantages and disadvantages of SAI, as it represents both a possible solution to global warming and a contributor to GCR in itself. This chapter therefore illustrates the necessity of rigorous analysis when it comes to climate change intervention technology, as the possible harms of such technology require extensive consideration. This chapter lays out a balanced argument, helping to determine if SAI is a beneficial policy response.
18. Pathways to Linking Science and Policy in Global Risk
Authors: Rios Rojas Clarissa , Richards Catherine , Rhodes Catherine , Ingram Paul
Published: September 2024

This chapter is based on a CSER report published in July 2021, which is a practical how-to guide to engaging with stakeholders and policy makers. It involved one-to-one interviews and a workshop designed to elicit advice and experience from CSER researchers. After presenting a general overview of CSER’s approach to impact, the chapter outlines six policy case studies to develop advice for others seeking to influence policy. The “how to” character of this chapter is usefully complemented by the macro-analyses of policy-shaping contained in Chapter 19, and is further supplemented by the reflective account of seeking to influence nuclear disarmament diplomacy in Chapter 20.
21. It Takes a Village
Authors: Jayanthi Amritha , Avin Shahar
Published: September 2024

This chapter is concerned with the future of Lethal Autonomous Weapons System (LAWS), providing an empirically informed account of the points in which meaningful human oversight of autonomous weapons ought to be exercised. Investigating the UK’s position on LAWS, this chapter outlines how the Centre for the Study of Existential Risk tested, and analysed, the governance and accountability structures that exist for UK weapon systems. This inquiry reveals points at which human intervention is needed in order to make decisions that enable safe and ethical weapon systems, highlighting the need for further consideration to be taken by any global military in association to autonomous weapons.
23. Financing Our Final Hour
Authors: Kemp Luke , Belfield Haydn , Quigley Ellen , Weitzdörfer Julius , Beard SJ
Published: September 2024

Responding to the issues raised by the global divestment movement, this chapter explores institutional investors' involvement in campaigns on global risks, and the potential motivations that are behind their actions. The authors find compelling grounds for investors to manage global risk via their investment strategies, built on a range of legal, ethical, economic and political considerations. The authors also propose tactics by which institutional investors can utilise their money to reduce global risk, exploring the investor campaigns as possible tools for preventing risk and tackling dual-use technologies with global risk potential. Arguing that investor campaigns can provide a way in which investors and activists can work together, this chapter advocates for a safer future.
Motivations for Methamphetamine (Mkpurummiri) Use and Consequences Among Nigerian Users
Authors: Dumbili Emeka W. , Ezekwe Emmanuel C. , Ebuenyi Ikenna D.
Published: September 2024

Media reports show that methamphetamine use is growing in Nigeria, but there is a paucity of empirical research that examines the motivations for, and consequences of, using the drug. In this study, we explored motivations or reasons for methamphetamine use and implications among 18 users and service providers. We analysed the data thematically to generate themes. The findings show that while most users initiated methamphetamine use in friendship networks, drug dealing also facilitated the initiation. Some participants were motivated to use methamphetamine to stay awake at night and engage in online businesses, while others used the drug to enhance their energy for manual work to improve productivity and enhance sexual drive, performance and pleasure. Although participants believed that methamphetamine use performed some functions, they reported its adverse effects on them and their friends, including irritation, hostility, extreme violent behaviour, delusion, psychiatric disorders, and inability to urinate or defecate for seven days. Additional findings showed that stigma is a prominent barrier to accessing treatment. Therefore, individuals do not use treatment facilities until their condition deteriorates. The findings suggest the need for the urgent provision of information to deter people from methamphetamine uptake and to provide interventions and pathways to treatment that will protect people who use methamphetamine from stigmatisation and other forms of discrimination.
Successful management of intracranial hemorrhage with brain herniation in a postpartum patient on extracorporeal membranous oxygenation: A case report
Authors: Wang Jing , Altaweel Laith , Desai Mehul , Dalton Heidi , Buchner Jessica , Zhang Lucy Q , Tahsili-Fahadan Pouya
Published: September 2024

Managing intracranial hemorrhage in patients supported by extracorporeal oxygenation (ECMO) presents significant clinical challenges. We report a case of a postpartum patient with severe acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) necessitating venovenous ECMO support, complicated by multicompartmental intracranial hemorrhage resulting in brain herniation and necessitating emergent medical and surgical management of refractory intracranial hypertension. Care was guided by multimodal neuromonitoring, including intracranial pressure monitoring and electroencephalography. Despite these challenges, the patient achieved excellent neurological recovery. This case underscores the intricacies of managing neurological complications during ECMO and highlights the potential benefits of comprehensive neuromonitoring strategies.
The impact of board composition and internationalisation on strategic change: Longitudinal empirical evidence
Authors: Samara Ihssan , Nandakumar MK , Sahadev Sunil , Pereira Vijay
Published: September 2024

This study looks at the effect of board composition on a firm’s propensity for strategic change. We hypothesise that board composition influences strategic change and internationalisation moderates this relationship. We do a longitudinal study of 433 listed firms in the United States. The findings indicate that the board composition represented by two variables, namely board size and CEO duality, leads to less strategic change. In contrast, the third variable, interlocking directorships, leads to more strategic change. Our results also suggest that internationalisation mitigates the negative impact of board size and CEO duality on strategic change and strengthens the positive impact of interlocking directorships.

JEL Classification: C12, L20, L21, M10
Neonatal Hyperekplexia: Is It Still a Diagnostic Challenge? Evidence From a Systematic Review
Authors: Falsaperla Raffaele , Sortino Vincenzo , Giacchi Valentina , Saporito Marco Andrea Nicola , Marino Silvia , Tardino Lucia Giovanna , Marino Lidia , Gennaro Alessia , Ruggieri Martino , Barberi Chiara , Polizzi Agata
Published: September 2024

Hyperekplexia is a neurologic disorder characterized by an exaggerated startle reflex in response to different types of stimuli. Hyperekplexia is defined by the triad of neonatal hypertonia, excessive startle reflexes, and generalized stiffness following the startle. Although uncommon, hyperekplexia can lead to serious consequences such as falls, brain injury, or sudden infant death syndrome.

Aim of this study was to identify cases of neonatal hyperekplexia with a confirmed genetic diagnosis and to establish the genotype-phenotype correlation at onset. Articles were selected from 1993 to 2024 and PRISMA Statement was applied including newborns within 28 days of life. So, we retrieved from literature 14 cases of genetically confirmed neonatal hyperekplexia. The onset of clinical manifestations occurred in the first day of life in 8 of 14 patients (57.14%). Clinical findings were muscle stiffness (100%), startle reflex (66.66%), apnea/cyanosis (41.66%), positive nose-tapping test (33.33%), jerks (33.33%), jitteriness (25%), and ictal blinking (25%). Genes involved were GLRA1 in 9 of 14 (64.28%), SLC6A5 in 2 of 14 (14.28%), GPHN in 1 of 14 (7.14%), and GLRB in 2 of 14 (14.28%). Patients showed heterozygous (66.66%) or homozygous (33.33%) status. In 7 of 14 cases (50%), the condition occurred in other family members. A genotype-phenotype correlation was not achievable.

Timely diagnosis is crucial to improve the natural history of hyperekplexia avoiding/reducing possible major complications such as sudden infant death syndrome, brain injury, and serious falls. Early differentiation from epilepsy minimizes treatment cost and improves the quality of life of patients.
“Daddy Issues” and Diagnoses: Gendered Weaponization of Mental Health in Intimate Relationships
Authors: Cooper Chiara E. , Sweet Paige L.
Published: September 2024

Through life story interviews with victims of psychological abuse, we offer new empirical evidence for a tactic of coercive control: mental health weaponization. Shaped by structural vulnerabilities, mental health weaponization involves three key features: gendered accusations that victims are “crazy” and emotionally unstable; leveraging victims' past traumas against them, particularly that they form “bad” attachments to men; mobilizing victims’ mental health diagnoses or symptoms against them to cast them as noncredible. This article enhances our understanding of controlling and abusive tactics in intimate relationships by showing how they are rooted in social inequalities at the intersection of gender and mental health status.
Parenting Expertise during Transitions-to-Motherhood. Exploring Transformations in Knowledge Regimes in Poland
Authors: Sarnowska Justyna , Pustulka Paula
Published: September 2024

This study explores transformations in parenting expertise in Poland, focusing on maternal knowledge perspectives during transitions-to-motherhood. It combines empirical data from two sociological studies: in-depth interviews (with to-be mothers) and expert interviews (with reproductive medicine practitioners; professionals offering antenatal, perinatal, and postpartum care services; and digital parenting advisors). Based on a thematic analysis, we describe the competing visions of parenting expertise in contemporary Poland, treating them as emanations of rapidly transforming knowledge regimes. We demonstrate vestiges of parenting expertise legitimized during state socialism; illustrate stories of granular expertise visible to mothers and experts, embracing the overflow and multiplicity of parenting experts under neoliberal intensification; and identify the potential of a new familistic framing of expertise by observing aspects of traditionalism refactored into expertise in recent years. This study argues that the characteristics of parenting expertise strongly hinge on cultural contexts and the pace of systemic changes that frame the knowledge regimes therein.
Organic renewal of property plots in Chinese cities: Sustainable development of built environment via property value enhancement and digital twin construction
Authors: Chen Haining , Wang Jianguo , Han Tianran , Jin Xin
Published: September 2024

As the urbanization process in China continues to advance, urban residential property plots have commenced their transition to an organic renewal model. Nevertheless, achieving the sustainable and high-quality organic renewal of urban residential property plots poses a significant challenge for planning. This study postulates that the crux of organic renewal for urban residential property plots lies in the impacts on improvement for sustainable built environment, with the main obstacle being the organization and implementation of intricate renewal activities. A potential solution is to enhance land property value, while establishing a digital twin to optimize the design of renewal strategies and implement renewal activities precisely and efficiently. This study scrutinizes the characteristics of the property value composition of urban residential property plots, investigates basic strategies of organic urban renewal and proposes a theoretical framework to elucidate dynamic property value change, property value enhancement and incremental value allocation during the renewal process. Additionally, a theoretical concept was developed to efficiently promote property value in organic renewal through digital twin construction. A comprehensive case study showcases the pronounced benefits of property plot renewal, including a 1.17-fold increase in floor area and a 50% rise in residential floor area unit prices. The research framework proposed in this study is conducive to promoting the optimization, fair allocation and efficient implementation of property value in organic renewal. Furthermore, it is conducive to practicing ‘human-centric’ decision-making.
Regal Coincraft:  Maharaja Ranbir Singh’s Currency  Transformation in  Jammu and Kashmir
Authors: Al-Jafri Nazim Hussain , Tantray Hilal Ahmad
Published: September 2024

This research article examines the historical context and significance of the unique currency produced by the Princely State of Jammu and Kashmir during the reign of Maharaja Ranbir Singh in 1877. At the time, the state displayed significant autonomy and separate governance by printing its own money in denominations ranging from ₹1 to ₹1,000. The currency release occurred during the month of Vaishakh on the Vikram Samvat 1934 calendar, highlighting the incorporation of regional traditional activities into administrative functions. These notes were primarily used for the payment of land revenue and other governmental dues, thus playing a crucial role in the state’s financial management. Featuring signatures from several competent authorities, including prominent figures like Diwan Kirpa Ram, the notes bore significant symbolic and administrative value. Additionally, specific notes highlighted cultural elements, such as the name of Mahesh Chander Vishvas in Nagari script, reflecting the state’s rich cultural identity and administrative sophistication. This initiative by the Princely State underlines its organised administrative structure and cultural integration within its financial practices.
Predicting splicing patterns from the transcription factor binding sites in the promoter with deep learning
Authors: Lin Tzu-Chieh , Tsai Cheng-Hung , Shiau Cheng-Kai , Huang Jia-Hsin , Tsai Huai-Kuang
Published: September 2024

Background

Alternative splicing is a pivotal mechanism of post-transcriptional modification that contributes to the transcriptome plasticity and proteome diversity in metazoan cells. Although many splicing regulations around the exon/intron regions are known, the relationship between promoter-bound transcription factors and the downstream alternative splicing largely remains unexplored.

Results

In this study, we present computational approaches to unravel the regulatory relationship between promoter-bound transcription factor binding sites (TFBSs) and the splicing patterns. We curated a fine dataset that includes DNase I hypersensitive site sequencing and transcriptomes across fifteen human tissues from ENCODE. Specifically, we proposed different representations of TF binding context and splicing patterns to examine the associations between the promoter and downstream splicing events. While machine learning models demonstrated potential in predicting splicing patterns based on TFBS occupancies, the limitations in the generalization of predicting the splicing forms of singleton genes across diverse tissues was observed with carefully examination using different cross-validation methods. We further investigated the association between alterations in individual TFBS at promoters and shifts in exon splicing efficiency. Our results demonstrate that the convolutional neural network (CNN) models, trained on TF binding changes in the promoters, can predict the changes in splicing patterns. Furthermore, a systemic in silico substitutions analysis on the CNN models highlighted several potential splicing regulators. Notably, using empirical validation using K562 CTCFL shRNA knock-down data, we showed the significant role of CTCFL in splicing regulation.

Conclusion

In conclusion, our finding highlights the potential role of promoter-bound TFBSs in influencing the regulation of downstream splicing patterns and provides insights for discovering alternative splicing regulations.
Sickness absence after work accidents and post-traumatic stress among white-collar workers in the retail and wholesale industry; a longitudinal Swedish cohort study
Authors: Farrants Kristin , Alexanderson Kristina
Published: September 2024

Background

Most studies about accidents and about PTSD, respectively, have been conducted either on blue-collar workers, or on the entire working population. There are very few such studies on white-collar workers.

Aim

To examine diagnosis-specific sickness absence (SA) and disability pension (DP) after a work accident or PTSD, respectively, among white-collar workers in the private retail and wholesale industry.

Methods

A prospective population-based cohort study of all 192,077 such workers aged 18–67 (44% women) in Sweden in 2012, using linked microdata from nationwide registers. We identified individuals who had secondary healthcare due to work-related accidents (n = 1114; 31% women) or to PTSD (n = 216; 79% women) in 2012–2016. Their average number of net days of diagnosis-specific SA (in SA spells > 14 days) and DP were calculated for 365 days before and 365 days after the healthcare visit.

Results

35% of the women and 24% of the men had at least one new SA spell during the 365 days after healthcare due to work accidents. Among women, the average number of SA/DP days increased from 14 in the year before the visit to 31 days the year after; among men from 9 to 21 days. SA days due to fractures and other injuries increased most, while SA days due to mental diagnoses increased somewhat. 73% of women and 64% of men who had healthcare due to PTSD had at least one new SA spell in the next year. Women increased from 121 to 157 SA/DP days and men from 112 to 174. SA due to stress-related disorders and other mental diagnoses increased the most, while DP due to stress-related diagnoses and SA due to musculoskeletal diagnoses increased slightly.

Conclusions

About a quarter of those who had secondary healthcare due to work accidents, and the majority of those with such healthcare due PTSD, had new SA in the following year. SA due to injury and mental diagnoses, respectively, increased most, however, SA/DP due to other diagnoses also increased slightly. More knowledge is needed on factors associated with having or not having SA/DP in different diagnoses after work accidents and among people with PTSD.
Integrating nutrition and culinary medicine into preclinical medical training
Authors: Johnston Emily A. , Torres Maria , Goldgraben Sara , Burns Christopher M.
Published: September 2024

Background

Poor nutrition is a leading cause of preventable death, but is inconsistently taught in medical education and inadequately discussed in medical care. To overcome this problem, we developed a hybrid nutrition team-based learning/culinary medicine approach to integrate practical nutrition knowledge and basic cooking skills into the training of future health professionals.

Methods

Nutrition was integrated into the systems-based courses at a college of osteopathic medicine, complemented by culinary medicine sessions based on the Health meets Food curriculum (HmF; culinarymedicine.org). Students participated in the program for one year and two cohorts of students were included in this analysis. Outcomes were measured via online food frequency questionnaire (FFQ, Vioscreen, Viocare, Inc) and surveys administered via Qualtrics online survey software. Diet quality was measured using the Healthy Eating Index (HEI)-2015. Data were analyzed using SAS 9.4.

Results

One hundred and ninety-five first year students completed a baseline FFQ (97.5% response rate). Mean age of students was 26 years, 47% were female (n = 92/195). The average BMI of participants was 24.8 kg/m2 (range 17-45.4) and the majority of participants reported being active. Seventy-five students (38%) completed an end of year FFQ. Diet quality was poor among students at baseline (n = 195; 67.59 (SD 10.54)) and improved slightly but significantly at the end of year 1 (n = 75, 69.63 (SD: 12.42), p = 0.04). The survey was administered to the second cohort only; 63 students responded (53% response rate). Talking to patients about nutrition was seen as more relevant to future practice among respondents than talking to patients about safe sex, weight, tobacco, alcohol, other substance abuse and domestic violence.

Conclusions

This study evaluated the nutrition and culinary medicine curriculum at a new college of osteopathic medicine. Students rated the program highly and attendance was excellent, even though not required. Student diet quality did not decline over the first year of medical school. Students rated talking to patients about nutrition as highly relevant, providing encouragement that they will do so in future practice. We believe our work shows that nutrition can be integrated into the training of future physicians and that it may pay dividends, particularly with the increasing awareness of the importance of preventive care.
Data set for Gambung green tea aroma using on electronic nose
Authors: Wijaya Dedy Rahman , Handayani Rini , Badri Muhammad Dzakyyuddin , Shabri Shabri , Rahadi Vitria Puspitasari
Published: September 2024

Objectives

In recent years, there has been much discussion and research on electronic nose (e-nose). This topic has developed mainly in the medical and food fields. Typically, e-nose is combined with machine learning algorithms to predict or detect multiple sensory classes in each tea sample. Therefore, in e-nose systems, e-nose signal processing is an important part. In many situations, a comprehensive set of experiments is required to ensure the prediction model can be generalized well. This data set specifically focuses on two main goals such as classification of green tea quality and prediction of organoleptic score. In this experiment, Gambung dry green tea samples were used. The challenge is that dry tea does not emit as strong an aroma as tea infusions, making it more difficult for the e-nose system to detect and identify the aromas. This data set offers a valuable resource for researchers and developers to conduct investigations and experiments by classifying and detecting organoleptic scores that aim to categorize and identify organoleptic ratings. This enables a deeper understanding of the quality of dry green tea and encourages further integration of e-nose technology in the tea industry.

Data description

This experiment focused on analyzing green tea aroma using six gas sensors. Seventy-eight green tea samples were tested, each observed three times, using a tea chamber connected to a sensor chamber via a hose and an intake micro air pump. Air flowed from the tea chamber to the sensor chamber for 60 s, followed by 60 s of aroma data recording. This data was saved into CSV files and labeled according to the Indonesian National Standard (SNI) 3945:2016, which includes special and general requirements for green tea quality. An organoleptic test by a tea tester further labeled the data set into “good” or “quality defect” for classification and provided organoleptic scores based on dry appearance, brew color, taste, aroma, and dregs of brewing for continuous label.
Enhanced motor noise in an autism subtype with poor motor skills
Authors: Mandelli Veronica , Landi Isotta , Ceccarelli Silvia Busti , Molteni Massimo , Nobile Maria , D’Ausilio Alessandro , Fadiga Luciano , Crippa Alessandro , Lombardo Michael V.
Published: September 2024

Background

Motor difficulties are common in many, but not all, autistic individuals. These difficulties can co-occur with other problems, such as delays in language, intellectual, and adaptive functioning. Biological mechanisms underpinning such difficulties are less well understood. Poor motor skills tend to be more common in individuals carrying highly penetrant rare genetic mutations. Such mechanisms may have downstream consequences of altering neurophysiological excitation-inhibition balance and lead to enhanced behavioral motor noise.

Methods

This study combined publicly available and in-house datasets of autistic (n = 156), typically-developing (TD, n = 149), and developmental coordination disorder (DCD, n = 23) children (age 3–16 years). Autism motor subtypes were identified based on patterns of motor abilities measured from the Movement Assessment Battery for Children 2nd edition. Stability-based relative clustering validation was used to identify autism motor subtypes and evaluate generalization accuracy in held-out data. Autism motor subtypes were tested for differences in motor noise, operationalized as the degree of dissimilarity between repeated motor kinematic trajectories recorded during a simple reach-to-drop task.

Results

Relatively ‘high’ (n = 87) versus ‘low’ (n = 69) autism motor subtypes could be detected and which generalize with 89% accuracy in held-out data. The relatively ‘low’ subtype was lower in general intellectual ability and older at age of independent walking, but did not differ in age at first words or autistic traits or symptomatology. Motor noise was considerably higher in the ‘low’ subtype compared to ‘high’ (Cohen’s d = 0.77) or TD children (Cohen’s d = 0.85), but similar between autism ‘high’ and TD children (Cohen’s d = 0.08). Enhanced motor noise in the ‘low’ subtype was also most pronounced during the feedforward phase of reaching actions.

Limitations

The sample size of this work is limited. Future work in larger samples along with independent replication is important. Motor noise was measured only on one specific motor task. Thus, a more comprehensive assessment of motor noise on many other motor tasks is needed.

Conclusions

Autism can be split into at least two discrete motor subtypes that are characterized by differing levels of motor noise. This suggests that autism motor subtypes may be underpinned by different biological mechanisms.
RAIChU: automating the visualisation of natural product biosynthesis
Authors: Terlouw Barbara R. , Biermann Friederike , Vromans Sophie P. J. M. , Zamani Elham , Helfrich Eric J. N. , Medema Marnix H.
Published: September 2024

Natural products are molecules that fulfil a range of important ecological functions. Many natural products have been exploited for pharmaceutical and agricultural applications. In contrast to many other specialised metabolites, the products of modular nonribosomal peptide synthetase (NRPS) and polyketide synthase (PKS) systems can often (partially) be predicted from the DNA sequence of the biosynthetic gene clusters. This is because the biosynthetic pathways of NRPS and PKS systems adhere to consistent rulesets. These universal biosynthetic rules can be leveraged to generate biosynthetic models of biosynthetic pathways. While these principles have been largely deciphered, software that leverages these rules to automatically generate visualisations of biosynthetic models has not yet been developed. To enable high-quality automated visualisations of natural product biosynthetic pathways, we developed RAIChU (Reaction Analysis through Illustrating Chemical Units), which produces depictions of biosynthetic transformations of PKS, NRPS, and hybrid PKS/NRPS systems from predicted or experimentally verified module architectures and domain substrate specificities. RAIChU also boasts a library of functions to perform and visualise reactions and pathways whose specifics (e.g., regioselectivity, stereoselectivity) are still difficult to predict, including terpenes, ribosomally synthesised and posttranslationally modified peptides and alkaloids. Additionally, RAIChU includes 34 prevalent tailoring reactions to enable the visualisation of biosynthetic pathways of fully maturated natural products. RAIChU can be integrated into Python pipelines, allowing users to upload and edit results from antiSMASH, a widely used BGC detection and annotation tool, or to build biosynthetic PKS/NRPS systems from scratch. RAIChU’s cluster drawing correctness (100%) and drawing readability (97.66%) were validated on 5000 randomly generated PKS/NRPS systems, and on the MIBiG database. The automated visualisation of these pathways accelerates the generation of biosynthetic models, facilitates the analysis of large (meta-) genomic datasets and reduces human error. RAIChU is available at https://github.com/BTheDragonMaster/RAIChU and https://pypi.org/project/raichu.

Scientific contribution

RAIChU is the first software package capable of automating high-quality visualisations of natural product biosynthetic pathways. By leveraging universal biosynthetic rules, RAIChU enables the depiction of complex biosynthetic transformations for PKS, NRPS, ribosomally synthesised and posttranslationally modified peptide (RiPP), terpene and alkaloid systems, enhancing predictive and analytical capabilities. This innovation not only streamlines the creation of biosynthetic models, making the analysis of large genomic datasets more efficient and accurate, but also bridges a crucial gap in predicting and visualising the complexities of natural product biosynthesis.