bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Architectural traditions in the structures built by cooperative weaver birds
Authors: Tello-Ramos Maria C. , Harper Lucy , Tortora-Brayda Isabella , Guillette Lauren M. , Capilla-Lasheras Pablo , Harrison Xavier A. , Young Andrew J. , Healy Susan D.
Published: August 2024

Humans cooperate to build complex structures with culture-specific architectural styles. However, they are not the only animals to build complex structures nor to have culture. We show that social groups of white-browed sparrow weavers (
Plocepasser mahali
) build structures (nests for breeding and multiple single-occupant roosts for sleeping) that differ architecturally among groups. Morphological differences are consistent across years and are clear even among groups with territories a few meters apart. These repeatable differences are not explained by among-group variation in local weather conditions, bird size, tree height, or patterns of genetic relatedness. Architectural styles are also robust to the immigration of birds from other groups.
A smart mask for exhaled breath condensate harvesting and analysis
Authors: Heng Wenzheng , Yin Shukun , Min Jihong , Wang Canran , Han Hong , Shirzaei Sani Ehsan , Li Jiahong , Song Yu , Rossiter Harry B. , Gao Wei
Published: August 2024

Recent respiratory outbreaks have garnered substantial attention, yet most respiratory monitoring remains confined to physical signals. Exhaled breath condensate (EBC) harbors rich molecular information that could unveil diverse insights into an individual’s health. Unfortunately, challenges related to sample collection and the lack of on-site analytical tools impede the widespread adoption of EBC analysis. Here, we introduce EBCare, a mask-based device for real-time in situ monitoring of EBC biomarkers. Using a tandem cooling strategy, automated microfluidics, highly selective electrochemical biosensors, and a wireless reading circuit, EBCare enables continuous multimodal monitoring of EBC analytes across real-life indoor and outdoor activities. We validated EBCare’s usability in assessing metabolic conditions and respiratory airway inflammation in healthy participants, patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or asthma, and patients after COVID-19 infection.
Phage-triggered reverse transcription assembles a toxic repetitive gene from a noncoding RNA
Authors: Wilkinson Max E. , Li David , Gao Alex , Macrae Rhiannon K. , Zhang Feng
Published: August 2024

Reverse transcription has frequently been co-opted for cellular functions and in prokaryotes is associated with protection against viral infection, but the underlying mechanisms of defense are generally unknown. Here, we show that in the DRT2 defense system, the reverse transcriptase binds a neighboring pseudoknotted noncoding RNA. Upon bacteriophage infection, a template region of this RNA is reverse transcribed into an array of tandem repeats that reconstitute a promoter and open reading frame, allowing expression of a toxic repetitive protein and an abortive infection response. Biochemical reconstitution of this activity and cryo–electron microscopy provide a molecular basis for repeat synthesis. Gene synthesis from a noncoding RNA is a previously unknown mode of genetic regulation in prokaryotes.
Two amino acid residues in the N-terminal region of the polymerase acidic protein determine the virulence of Eurasian avian-like H1N1 swine influenza viruses in mice
Authors: Yang Yuying , Xu Chengzhi , Zhang Naixin , Wan Yunfei , Wu Yunpu , Meng Fei , Chen Yan , Yang Huanliang , Liu Liling , Qiao Chuanling , Chen Hualan
Published: August 2024

Reassortant Eurasian avian-like H1N1 (rEA H1N1) viruses carrying the internal genes of H1N1/2009 virus have been circulating in pigs for more than 10 years and have caused sporadic human infections. The enhanced virulence phenotype of the rEA H1N1 viruses highlights potential risks to public health. However, the molecular mechanism underlying the viral pathogenicity of the currently circulating rEA H1N1 viruses remains unclear. In this study, we found that two naturally isolated rEA H1N1 swine influenza viruses, A/swine/Liaoning/FX38/2017 (FX38) and A/swine/Liaoning/SY72/2018 (SY72), possessed similar genetic characteristics but exhibited significantly different pathogenicity in a mouse model. Using reverse genetics, we demonstrated that amino acid mutations at positions 100 and 122 in the polymerase acidic (PA) protein had individual and synergistic effects on the polymerase activity and viral replication capacity
in vitro
, as well as the viral pathogenicity in mice. Furthermore, we revealed that amino acid residue 100 in PA influenced the transcription of viral RNA (vRNA) by altering the endonuclease activity, and amino acid residue 122 affected the synthesis of complementary RNA and messenger RNA by altering the RNA-binding ability and endonuclease activity of the PA protein. Taken together, we identified that two naturally occurring amino acid mutations in PA derived from H1N1/2009 virus are crucial determinants of the virulence of rEA H1N1 viruses and revealed the differential mechanism by which these two mutations affect the transcription and replication of vRNA. These findings will extend our understanding of the roles of PA in the virulence of influenza A viruses.

IMPORTANCE

Multiple genetic determinants are involved in the virulence of influenza A viruses. In this study, we identified two naturally occurring amino acid mutations, located at residues 100 and 122 in the polymerase acidic (PA) protein, which are associated with viral polymerase activity, replication competence, and pathogenicity in mice. In particular, we clarified the specific mechanism by which the two residues play an important role in viral transcription and replication. These findings will help to improve understanding the functions of amino acid residues in the N-terminal region of the PA protein involved in the pathogenicity of influenza A viruses.
Cell cycle-regulated transcription factor AP2XII-9 is a key activator for asexual division and apicoplast inheritance in
Toxoplasma gondii
tachyzoite
Authors: Shi Yuehong , Li Xuan , Xue Yingying , Hu Dandan , Song Xingju
Published: August 2024

Toxoplasma gondii
is an intracellular parasitic protozoan that poses a significant risk to the fetus carried by a pregnant woman or to immunocompromised individuals.
T. gondii
tachyzoites duplicate rapidly in host cells during acute infection through endodyogeny. This highly regulated division process is accompanied by complex gene regulation networks. TgAP2XII-9 is a cell cycle-regulated transcription factor, but its specific role in the parasite cell cycle is not fully understood. In this study, we demonstrate that TgAP2XII-9 is identified as a nuclear transcription factor and is dominantly expressed during the S/M phase of the tachyzoite cell cycle. Cleavage Under Targets and Tagmentation (CUT&Tag) results indicate that TgAP2XII-9 targets key genes for the moving junction machinery (RON2, 4, and 8) and daughter cell inner membrane complex (IMC). TgAP2XII-9 deficiency resulted in a significant downregulation of rhoptry proteins and rhoptry neck proteins, leading to a severe defect in the invasion and egress efficiency of tachyzoites. Additionally, the loss of TgAP2XII-9 correlated with a substantial downregulation of multiple IMC and apicoplast proteins, leading to disorders of daughter bud formation and apicoplast inheritance and further contributing to the inability of cell division and intracellular proliferation. Our study reveals that TgAP2XII-9 acts as a critical S/M-phase regulator that orchestrates the endodyogeny and apicoplast division in
T. gondii
tachyzoites. This study contributes to a broader understanding of the complexity of the parasite’s cell cycle and its key regulators.

IMPORTANCE

The intracellular apicoplast parasite
Toxoplasma gondii
poses a great threat to the public health. The acute infection of
T. gondii
tachyzoites relies on efficient invasion by forming a moving junction structure and also fast replication by highly regulated endodyogeny. This study shows that an ApiAP2 transcription factor, TgAP2XII-9, acts as an activator for the S/M-phase gene expression, including genes related to daughter buds and moving junction formation. Loss of TgAP2XII-9 results in significant growth defects and disorders in endodyogeny and apicoplast inheritance of the parasites. Our results provide valuable insights into the transcriptional regulation of the parasite cell cycle and invading machinery in
T. gondii
.
Genome sequence of
Bacillus pumilus
RI06-95 isolated during a
Microcystis
bloom in lake Champlain, USA
Authors: Barkley Ashley , Felix Kermisha , Myers Luke , Ankrah Nana Y. D.
Published: August 2024

Here, we present the complete genome sequence of
Bacillus pumilus
RI06-95 isolated during a
Microcystis
bloom in Lake Champlain. The assembled genome comprises a 3.8 Mbp chromosome with a GC content of 42%, and two plasmids, pPZZ84 6.4 Kbp, GC content 37% and pSHB9 97Kbp, GC content 36%.
Perforated duodenal diverticulum treated conservatively
Authors: Banal Claudine , Stevens Claire
Published: August 2024

Perforation is the rarest complication of duodenal diverticulum but also one of its most serious complications. Mortality rate was reported to up to 30%. Clinical diagnosis is usually vague and non-specific. High clinical suspicion is important as rapid deterioration is likely. Consensus regarding management is lacking and currently guided by a small series of case reviews. Surgical treatment is historically the standard therapeutic option. However, more current literature suggests improvement in patients with non-surgical management. In this paper, we discuss a case of a patient in her early 60s who had a perforated duodenal diverticulum that was treated conservatively. It highlights the importance of a good history and a CT scan to help with diagnosis. Close clinical observation is essential to detect disease progression. A step-up approach to clinical deterioration with either percutaneous drainage or surgical management should be considered if the patient does not respond to conservative treatment.
T-cell large granular lymphocytic leukaemia in rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Acharya Indira , Smith Lauren N , Kallakury Bhaskar V , Haas Christopher
Published: August 2024

T-cell large granular lymphocytic (T-LGL) leukaemia is frequently associated with an autoimmune phenomenon; approximately one-third of patients have rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Intriguingly, one-third of patients with rheumatoid arthritis exhibit clonal T-cell patterns. Here, we present a patient with RA undergoing evaluation for neutropenia and splenomegaly who was later diagnosed with T-LGL leukaemia.
Effects of muscle strength training combined with aerobic training versus aerobic training alone on cardiovascular disease risk indicators in patients with coronary artery disease: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised clinical trials
Authors: Terada Tasuku , Pap Robert , Thomas Abby , Wei Roger , Noda Takumi , Visintini Sarah , Reed Jennifer L
Published: August 2024

Objective

To compare the effects of aerobic training combined with muscle strength training (hereafter referred to as combined training) to aerobic training alone on cardiovascular disease risk indicators in patients with coronary artery disease (CAD).

Design

Systematic review with meta-analysis.

Data sources

MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL, SPORTDiscus, Scopus, trial registries and grey literature sources were searched in February 2024.

Eligibility criteria

Randomised clinical trials comparing the effects of ≥4 weeks of combined training and aerobic training alone on at least one of the following outcomes: cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF), anthropometric and haemodynamic measures and cardiometabolic blood biomarkers in patients with CAD.

Results

Of 13 246 studies screened, 23 were included (N=916). Combined training was more effective in increasing CRF (standard mean difference (SMD) 0.26, 95% CI 0.02 to 0.49, p=0.03) and lean body mass (mean difference (MD) 0.78 kg, 95% CI 0.39 kg to 1.17 kg, p<0.001), and reducing per cent body fat (MD −2.2%, 95% CI −3.5% to −0.9%, p=0.001) compared with aerobic training alone. There were no differences in the cardiometabolic biomarkers between the groups. Our subgroup analyses showed that combined training increases CRF more than aerobic training alone when muscle strength training was added to aerobic training without compromising aerobic training volume (SMD 0.36, 95% CI 0.05 to 0.68, p=0.02).

Conclusion

Combined training had greater effects on CRF and body composition than aerobic training alone in patients with CAD. To promote an increase in CRF in patients with CAD, muscle strength training should be added to aerobic training without reducing aerobic exercise volume.
Risk of dementia after initiation of sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors versus dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors in adults aged 40-69 years with type 2 diabetes: population based cohort study
Authors: Shin Anna , Koo Bo Kyung , Lee Jun Young , Kang Eun Ha
Published: August 2024

Objective

To compare the risk of dementia associated with sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 (SGLT-2) inhibitors versus dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitors in adults aged 40-69 years with type 2 diabetes.

Design

Population based cohort study.

Setting

Korean National Health Insurance Service data, 2013-21.

Participants

110 885 propensity score matched pairs of adults with type 2 diabetes aged 40-69 years who were initiators of either an SGLT-2 inhibitor or a DPP-4 inhibitor.

Main outcome measures

The primary outcome was new onset dementia. Secondary outcomes were dementia requiring drug treatment and individual types of dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease and vascular dementia. Control outcomes were genital infections (positive), and osteoarthritis related clinical encounters and cataract surgery (negative). Hazard ratios and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were estimated using Cox models. Follow-up time stratified analyses (>2 years and ≤2 years) and subgroup analyses by age, sex, concomitant use of metformin, and baseline cardiovascular risk were performed.

Results

110 885 propensity score matched pairs of initiators of an SGLT-2 inhibitor or a DPP-4 inhibitor were followed-up for a mean 670 (standard deviation 650) days, generating 1172 people with newly diagnosed dementia: incidence rate 0.22 per 100 person years in initiators of SGLT-2 inhibitors and 0.35 per 100 person years in initiators of DPP-4 inhibitors, with hazard ratios of 0.65 (95% CI 0.58 to 0.73) for dementia, 0.54 (0.46 to 0.63) for dementia requiring drugs, 0.61 (0.53 to 0.69) for Alzheimer’s disease, and 0.48 (0.33 to 0.70) for vascular dementia. The hazard ratios for the control outcomes were 2.67 (2.57 to 2.77) for genital infections, 0.97 (0.95 to 0.98) for osteoarthritis related encounters, and 0.92 (0.89 to 0.96) for cataract surgery. When calibrated for residual confounding measured by cataract surgery, the hazard ratio for dementia was 0.70 (0.62 to 0.80). The association was greater for more than two years of treatment (hazard ratio of dementia 0.57, 95% CI 0.46 to 0.70) than for two years or less (0.52, 0.41 to 0.66) and persisted across subgroups.

Conclusion

SGLT-2 inhibitors might prevent dementia, providing greater benefits with longer treatment. As this study was observational and therefore prone to residual confounding and informative censoring, the effect size could have been overestimated. Randomised controlled trials are needed to confirm these findings.
Physiotherapy interventions in post- and long-COVID-19: a scoping review protocol
Authors: Gartmann Judith , Sturm Christian , Boekel Andrea
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Post- or long-COVID-19 conditions manifest with a spectrum of symptoms reminiscent of pulmonary, musculoskeletal, psychological and neurological disorders. Individuals with post- or long-COVID-19 syndrome often present with myalgia, pulmonary problems and fatigue, which significantly impact their daily functioning. Physiotherapy interventions are an accepted medical remedy for these symptoms. This scoping review aims to outline the evidence of physiotherapy interventions documented in the scientific literature, specifically focusing on hands-on therapy.

Methods and analysis

This scoping review conforms to the methodological framework established by the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI). The procedure for drafting a scoping review involves several steps, starting with defining the research question and the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Eligible studies are those analysing physiotherapy treatment parameters for direct patient interaction in post- and long-COVID-19 patients. Telemedicine and entirely home-based workouts will be excluded aligning with the context of outpatient physiotherapy in Germany. The literature search will be conducted in PubMed, EBSCO research, Scopus, Web of Science, Embase, PEDRO, Cochrane and WISO databases by two independent researchers. Screening, data extraction and a critical appraisal will be performed by these researchers using assessment tools provided by the JBI. Extracted data will encompass demographic characteristics, definitions of post- or long-COVID-19 conditions, descriptions of interventions, their treatment parameters and treatment outcome. Subsequently, findings will be disseminated through a scoping review article or conference presentation.

Ethics and dissemination

Given that this review does not involve human participants, ethical committee approval is deemed unnecessary. The results will be published in peer-reviewed journals and presented at academic and physiotherapeutic conferences.
Predicting risk factors for acute pain after hepatobiliary and pancreatic surgery: an observational case control study
Authors: Zhang Hui , Yang Yi Tian , Jiang Lulu , Xu Xiaodong , Zhang Jiaqiang , Zhang Lianzhong
Published: August 2024

Background

Inadequate postoperative analgesia is associated with increased risks of various postoperative complications, longer hospital stay, decreased quality of life and higher costs.

Objectives

This study aimed to investigate the risk factors for moderate-to-severe postoperative pain within the first 24 hours and 24–48 hours after major hepatobiliary pancreatic surgery.

Methods

Data of patients who underwent surgery at the Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery in Henan Provincial People’s Hospital were collected from January 2018 to August 2020. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to identify the risk factors of postoperative pain.

Results

In total, 2180 patients were included in the final analysis. 183 patients (8.4%) suffered moderate-to-severe pain within 24 hours after operation. The independent risk factors associated with moderate-to-severe pain 24 hours after procedures were younger age (OR, 0.97; 95% CI 0.95 to 0.98, p<0.001), lower body mass index (BMI) (OR, 0.94; 95% CI 0.89 to 0.98, p=0.018), open surgery (OR, 0.34; 95% CI 0.22 to 0.52, p<0.001), and postoperative analgesia protocol with sufentanil (OR, 4.38; 95% CI 3.2 to 5.99, p<0.001). Postoperative hospital stay was longer in patients with inadequate analgesia (p<0.05).

Conclusion

Age, BMI, laparoscopic surgery, and different analgesic drugs were significant predictors of postoperative pain after major hepatobiliary and pancreatic surgery.

Trial registration

ChiCTR2100049726.
Children’s participation in the development, use and evaluation of support interventions for children of a parent diagnosed with cancer: a scoping review protocol
Authors: Samuelsson Maria , Möllerberg Marie-Louise , Edman Kristina , Hansson Kristofer , Enskär Karin , Wennick Anne
Published: August 2024

Introduction

At times of parental cancer, children’s health and well-being are at risk, which is why interventions to support these children have been developed. When developing such interventions, engagement of the population under study in research is endorsed to enhance relevance of research questions and to enhance uptake and dissemination of the findings. Since no previous review has mapped the ways children participate in the development, use and evaluation of these support interventions, the focus of the upcoming scoping review is to identify gaps in the literature for guidance of future research.

Methods and analysis

The scoping review is guided by the methodological framework developed by Arksey and O’Malley. A preliminary search strategy was performed in PubMed in November 2020, refined in March 2021 and applied in PubMed, PsycINFO and CINAHL. Additional searches were performed in Google Scholar and SwePub, and reference lists were hand searched. Refined searches will be conducted in February 2024. The multidisciplinary research team will independently screen titles, abstracts and full-text articles for relevance. Then, relevant studies will be critically evaluated using the Joanna Briggs Critical Appraisal Skills Tools. Data will be extracted using an extraction form and analysed deductively. A descriptive summary of study characteristics and the research process will be presented, including a flow chart. The reporting of the study will be guided by the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Extension for Scoping Reviews Checklist.

Ethics and dissemination

Being a secondary analysis, ethical approval is not needed. Still, relevant studies will be reviewed for ethical approval as a criterion for inclusion. The findings will be used to inform future studies and will be published in a scientific journal as well as presented at conferences and organisations for children’s rights.
Does timing of tocilizumab administration affect mortality in COVID-19? A Scottish multicentre retrospective cohort study
Authors: MacGregor Fiona , Oprey Alison , Caulfield Carolyn , MacTavish Pamela , Lowrie Richard , Henderson Philip
Published: August 2024

Background

The optimal timing of tocilizumab treatment during the disease course of COVID-19 has yet to be adequately defined in the context of randomised controlled trials and the effect of tocilizumab on real-world populations remains unclear. We examined the effect of different timing of tocilizumab, on mortality, in a cohort of adults with COVID-19.

Methods

All adults (≥18 years old) with confirmed COVID-19 admitted to four hospitals in the West of Scotland between 8 January 2021 and 31 March 2021 and who received tocilizumab were included in a retrospective observational cohort study. Patients were assigned to either an early (day of admission or first day after admission) or late (days 2–7 of admission) cohort based on tocilizumab initiation. The primary outcome was 90-day all-cause mortality in early versus late cohorts. Secondary outcomes were 28 and 180-day all-cause mortality.

Results

203 patients were included in the analysis (138 in the early cohort, 65 in the late cohort). Mortality in 90 days in the early cohort was 22% (n=30) compared with 45% (n=29) in the late cohort (p<0.001). The adjusted mortality was significantly higher in the late cohort compared with the early cohort (adjusted OR: 3.33; 95% CI: 1.29 to 8.54; p=0.012). The secondary outcomes demonstrated the same effect with higher rates of death in 28 days (late cohort adjusted OR: 3.28; 95% CI: 1.23 to 8.75; p=0.018) and 180 days (late cohort adjusted OR: 3.70; 95% CI: 1.45 to 9.45; p=0.006). The effect was seen whether the outcome was adjusted or unadjusted.

Conclusion

Early administration of tocilizumab within the first 2 days of hospitalisation was associated with a significant survival benefit compared with late exposure. Late administration was associated with particularly high mortality. The observed association may be a result of residual confounders and further research is needed.
Geospatial analysis of injury severity on major roads in Ghana (2017–2020): implications for targeted injury prevention and control initiatives
Authors: Mesic Aldina , Damsere-Derry James , Feldacker Caryl , Larley Joshua , Opoku Irene , Wuaku Daniel Hardy , Afram Martin Owusu , Ekuban Ernest , Mooney Stephen J , Gyedu Adam , Mock Charles N , Kitali Angela E , Wagenaar Brad H , Osei-Ampofo Maxwell , Stewart Barclay T
Published: August 2024

Background

Road safety authorities in high-income countries use geospatial motor vehicle collision data for planning hazard reduction and intervention targeting. However, low-income and middle-income countries (LMICs) rarely conduct such geospatial analyses due to a lack of data. Since 1991, Ghana has maintained a database of all collisions and is uniquely positioned to lead data-informed road injury prevention and control initiatives.

Methods

We identified and mapped geospatial patterns of hotspots of collisions, injuries, severe injuries and deaths using a well-known injury severity index with geographic information systems statistical methods (Getis-Ord Gi*).

Results

We identified specific areas (4.66% of major roads in urban areas and 6.16% of major roads in rural areas) to target injury control. Key roads, including National Road 1 (from the border of Cote D’Ivoire to the border of Togo) and National Road 6 (from Accra to Kumasi), have a significant concentration of high-risk roads.

Conclusions

A few key road sections are critical to target for injury prevention. We conduct a collaborative geospatial study to demonstrate the importance of addressing data and research gaps in LMICs and call for similar future research on targeting injury control and prevention efforts.
Assessing the national and subnational firearm violence trends in Mexico from 1990 to 2019: secondary data analysis from the Global Burden of Diseasestudy
Authors: Dávila-Cervantes Claudio Alberto , Pardo-Montaño Ana Melisa
Published: August 2024

Background

Mexico is among the countries with the highest mortality rates by firearms worldwide. We aimed to analyse the trend in the burden of firearm violence (FV) by age and sex in Mexico at a national and subnational level, and the association between this burden and the Sociodemographic Index.

Methods

We used estimates from the Global Burden of Disease (GBD)-2019 study for the analysis of FV mortality, premature mortality and disability for all available age-groups and by sex. The GBD data separates FV into three categories—interpersonal violence from firearms, unintentional injuries from firearms and self-harm from firearms. We used a joinpoint regression analysis to analyse the temporal trends of the FV burden.

Results

FV exhibited a non-significant increase. By cause, there was a significant increase in the burden of interpersonal violence from firearms, a non-significant decrease in the burden of self-harm from firearms and a significant decrease in the burden of unintentional injuries from firearms. Most of the FV burden is attributed to interpersonal violence from firearms. Almost the entirety of the burden of FV results from premature mortality. The incidence of FV disability adjusted life years (DALYs) was significantly higher among males than females, and was most concentrated in males aged 20–44 and females aged 15–49. Significant heterogeneity in FV DALY trends was observed at the subnational level.

Conclusion

These results may help to better understand the burden of FV and help the design and implementation of national and local preventive policies.
Neutralizing IL-38 activates γδ T cell-dependent antitumor immunity and sensitizes for chemotherapy
Authors: da Silva Priscila , Mora Javier , You Xin , Wiechmann Svenja , Putyrski Mateusz , Garcia-Pardo Javier , Kannt Aimo , Ernst Andreas , Bruene Bernhard , Weigert Andreas
Published: August 2024

Background

The interleukin (IL)-1-family receptor antagonist IL-38 has emerged as a negative regulator of auto-inflammation. Given the intricate interplay between antitumor immunity and auto-inflammation, we hypothesized that blocking IL-38 may enhance tumor immune control.

Methods

Our hypothesis was tested in the transgenic polyoma virus middle T oncoprotein mammary carcinoma model that is suitable for identifying strong immunomodulators. To investigate the effect of acute IL-38 blockade, we used a neutralizing antibody, alone or in combination with chemotherapy. Immune cell composition and location in tumors were determined by flow cytometry and immunohistochemistry, respectively. The role of γδ T cells was studied using an antibody blocking γδ T-cell receptor signaling. Whole transcriptome RNA sequencing and RNA expression analysis were employed to determine mechanisms downstream of IL-38 neutralization. Additionally, in vitro assays with γδ T cells, CD8+ T cells and cDC1, followed by in vivo CD8+ T cell depletion, were performed to study the underlying mechanistic pathways.

Results

Both, genetic ablation of IL-38 and neutralization with the antibody, reduced tumorigenesis, and IL-38 blockade improved chemotherapy efficacy. This was accompanied by an augmented lymphocyte infiltrate dominated by γδ T cells and CD8+ T cells, and signaling through the γδ-T-cell receptor was required for CD8+ T cell infiltration. Rather than directly interacting with CD8+ T cells, γδ T cells recruited conventional dendritic cells (cDC1) into tumors via the chemokine Xcl1. cDC1 in turn activated CD8+ T cells via the Notch pathway. Moreover, IL-38 negatively correlated with cDC1, XCL1-producing γδ T cells, T-cell infiltrates and survival in patients with mammary carcinoma.

Conclusions

These data suggest that interfering with IL-38 improves antitumor immunity even in immunologically cold tumors.
Protein-truncating and rare missense variants in
ATM
and
CHEK2
and associations with cancer in UK Biobank whole-exome sequence data
Authors: Mukhtar Toqir K , Wilcox Naomi , Dennis Joe , Yang Xin , Naven Marc , Mavaddat Nasim , Perry John R B , Gardner Eugene , Easton Douglas F
Published: August 2024

Background

Deleterious germline variants in
ATM
and
CHEK2
have been associated with a moderately increased risk of breast cancer. Risks for other cancers remain unclear.

Methods

Cancer associations for coding variants in
ATM
and
CHEK2
were evaluated using whole-exome sequence data from UK Biobank linked to cancer registration data (348 488 participants), and analysed both as a retrospective case-control and a prospective cohort study. Odds ratios, hazard ratios, and combined relative risks (RRs) were estimated by cancer type and gene. Separate analyses were performed for protein-truncating variants (PTVs) and rare missense variants (rMSVs; allele frequency <0.1%).

Results

PTVs in
ATM
were associated with increased risks of nine cancers at p<0.001 (pancreas, oesophagus, lung, melanoma, breast, ovary, prostate, bladder, lymphoid leukaemia (LL)), and three at p<0.05 (colon, diffuse non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma (DNHL), rectosigmoid junction). Carriers of rMSVs had increased risks of four cancers (p<0.05: stomach, pancreas, prostate, Hodgkin’s disease (HD)). RRs were highest for breast, prostate, and any cancer where rMSVs lay in the FAT or PIK domains, and had a Combined Annotation Dependent Depletion score in the highest quintile.

PTVs in
CHEK2
were associated with three cancers at p<0.001 (breast, prostate, HD) and six at p<0.05 (oesophagus, melanoma, ovary, kidney, DNHL, myeloid leukaemia). Carriers of rMSVs had increased risks of five cancers (p<0.001: breast, prostate, LL; p<0.05: melanoma, multiple myeloma).

Conclusion

PTVs in
ATM
and
CHEK2
are associated with a wide range of cancers, with the highest RR for pancreatic cancer in
ATM
PTV carriers. These findings can inform genetic counselling of carriers.
Hypercapnia during transcatheter aortic valve replacement under monitored anaesthesia care: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Chen Tzonghuei , Asher Shyamal , Apruzzese Patricia , Owusu-Dapaah Harry , Gonzalez Gustavo , Maslow Andrew
Published: August 2024

Background

Acute intraoperative hypercapnia and respiratory acidosis, which can occur during monitored anaesthesia care (MAC), pose significant cardiopulmonary risks for patients with aortic stenosis undergoing transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR). The goal of the present study is to assess the incidence, risk factors and impact of intraoperative hypercapnia during MAC for patients undergoing transfemoral TAVR.

Methods

Data was collected retrospectively from the electronic medical record of 201 consecutive patients with available intraoperative arterial blood gas (ABG) data who underwent percutaneous transfemoral TAVR with MAC using propofol and dexmedetomidine. ABGs (pH, arterial partial pressure of carbon dioxide (PaCO2) and arterial partial pressure of oxygen) were performed at the start of each case (baseline), immediately prior to valve deployment (ValveDepl), and on arrival to the postanaesthesia care unit. Data was analysed using Fisher’s exact test, unpaired Student’s t-test, Wilcoxon rank sum or univariate linear regression as appropriate based on PaCO2and pH during ValveDepl (PaCO2-ValveDepl, pH-ValveDepl) and change in PaCO2and pH from baseline to ValveDepl (PaCO2-%increase, pH-%decrease) to determine their association with preoperative demographic data, intraoperative anaesthetic and vasoactive medications and postoperative outcomes.

Results

PaCO2increased by a mean of 28.4% and was higher than baseline in 91% of patients. Younger age, male sex, increased weight and increased propofol dose contributed to higher PaCO2-ValveDepl and greater PaCO2-%increase. Patients with PaCO2-ValveDepl>60 mm Hg, pH≤7.2 and greater pH-%decrease were more likely to receive vasoactive medications, but perioperative PaCO2and pH were not associated with adverse postoperative outcomes.

Conclusions

Transient significant hypercapnia commonly occurs during transfemoral TAVR with deep sedation using propofol and dexmedetomidine. Although the incidence of postoperative outcomes does not appear to be affected by hypercapnia, the need for vasopressors and inotropes is increased. If deep sedation is required for TAVR, hypercapnia and the need for haemodynamic and ventilatory support should be anticipated.
Anisotropic generalization of charged isotropic spheres with double equation of state
Authors: Thirukkanesh S. , Maharaj Sunil D. , Sharma Ranjan
Published: August 2024

We propose a technique to generate a new class of solutions for an anisotropic charged matter distribution. We show its viability as a model to describe an ultra-compact static spherically symmetric star where anisotropy may be a dominant factor. The solution extends some previously reported stellar solutions with or without charge or anisotropy. The interior matter distribution satisfies a double equation of state with two parameters. The parameters affect the gravitational behaviour of the model and the physical features, such as stability.
Magnetic moments of hidden-bottom pentaquark states
Authors: Mutuk Halil
Published: August 2024

We study systematically magnetic moments of hiddden-bottom pentaquark states with quantum numbers$$J^P=\frac{1}{2}^{\pm }$$JP=12±,$$J^P=\frac{3}{2}^{\pm }$$JP=32±, and$$J^P=\frac{5}{2}^{\pm }$$JP=52±with molecular, diquark–diquark–antiquark, and diquark–triquark models. The numerical results show that magnetic moments are different within the same model according to same quantum numbers and spin-orbit couplings. The results are also different when different models are taken into account with the same angular momentum. The magnetic moments encode valuable information about inner structures. We believe that our results may be helpful for experimental studies.
Bottomonium evolution with in-medium heavy quark potential from lattice QCD
Authors: Chen Ge , Chen Baoyi , Zhao Jiaxing
Published: August 2024

The static properties and dynamic evolution of bottomonium states in a hot QCD medium are investigated through the Schrödinger equation with complex heavy quark potentials, which have been presented recently in a lattice QCD study and with three different extractions. This approach builds a direct connection between the in-medium heavy quark potentials from the lattice QCD to the experimental observables. The yields and nuclear modification factors $$R_{AA}$$

R

AA

of bottomonium in Pb–Pb collisions at $$\sqrt{s_\textrm{NN}}=5.02$$

s
NN

=
5.02

TeV are calculated in this work. Our results show a large suppression of the bottomonium yield in heavy ion collisions due to the large imaginary potential. To understand bottomonium $$R_{AA}$$

R

AA

based on lattice QCD potentials, we propose a formation time for bottomonium states and find that experimental data can be well explained with the heavy quark potential extracted by the Padé fit, which shows no color screening in the real part potential.
STUDY OF TRIPLE BOTTOM LINE FRAMEWORK TO DETERMINE THE OFDI PATTERN OF VIETNAM
Authors: QUANG PHUNG THANH , THAO DOAN PHUONG
Published: August 2024

This study investigates Vietnam’s Outward Foreign Direct Investment (OFDI) spanning from 1990 to 2022, utilizing the Triple Bottom Line (TBL) framework alongside the Fully Modified Ordinary Least Squares technique. The observed positive correlation between CO2 emissions and foreign investment underscores the importance of corporate sustainability. Vietnam’s extensive forested land, comprising 41.89% of its total area, emerges as a pivotal factor in attracting environmentally conscious investors. On the social front, the population size demonstrates a negative impact on OFDI due to heightened competition within the domestic labor market. Regarding economic variables, the Consumer Price Index and patent applications exhibit minimal effects, whereas a growing Gross Domestic Product (GDP) substantially boosts foreign investments. The proposed practical policies for promoting OFDI include reinforcing environmental regulations, incentivizing the adoption of eco-friendly technologies and prioritizing the conservation of forested areas.
Performance Analysis of Spin Orbit Torque Magneto-Resistive RAM Caches in 4-core ARM Systems
Authors: Singh Inderjit , Raj Balwinder , Khosla Mamta
Published: August 2024

Spin Orbit Torque Magnetic Random Access Memory (SOT–)MRAM is gaining interest as it eradicates several limitations posed by its predecessor Spin Transfer Torque (STT-)MRAM, yet inherits all its advantages. This work explores in detail, the suitability of SOT–MRAM implemented caches in different levels of memory hierarchy in comparison to conventional SRAM technology, over several performance parameters like area, energy consumption and execution time for an embedded benchmark suite. Our circuit-level analysis shows that SOT–MRAM outperforms SRAM for caches ([Formula: see text] KB), and only lags in area and read-access energy for smaller caches. A typical 512 KB SOT–MRAM cache improves area by 1%, read/write latency by 33/38%, and leakage by over 99% than that of SRAM memory technology. The architecture-level analysis confirms that on average SOT–MRAM is energy efficient by 74% in L1, 97.2% in L2 and 89.3% in both (i.e., L1 + L2) implementations against SRAM, for a 22[Formula: see text]nm technology node. We also estimate that SOT–MRAM only solution offers [Formula: see text]% energy savings and [Formula: see text]% better EDP than Hybrid (L1-SRAM and L2-SOT) memory hierarchy for multi-core ARM processors.
Optimization of Interference Identification for Wireless Communication Based on Global Convolutional Neural Network
Authors: Yang Na , Wang Caifeng
Published: August 2024

With the widespread adoption of smartphones and the rise of 5G technology, wireless networks fully show their bright future. In order to study the interference factors and optimization methods in the process of wireless communication, this paper studies the wireless communication interference recognition algorithm and power allocation algorithm based on global convolutional neural network, proposes a wireless communication interference recognition system model based on global convolutional neural network, and trains the system. The specific conclusions are as follows: (1) The basic modulation recognition neural network algorithm is constructed based on deep learning theory; (2) As the number of D2D users increases, the time used by the WMMSE algorithm and the equal power allocation algorithm in the traditional method increases. (3) The QL algorithm-based on greedy- is compared with the system-based QL algorithm proposed in this paper. On 200-time nodes, the SINK value of the QL algorithm based on -greedy is increased from 2.6 to 3.3, and the convergence speed is also greatly improved. The system proposed in this paper has a faster learning speed, can accelerate the learning of strategies, and can save a lot of computing resources, and effectively reduce the complexity of operations.
Transformerless High Voltage Gain Y-Source DC–DC Converter with Switched Capacitor for Grid-Connected Photovoltaic Applications
Authors: Devi S. M. Nithya , Vijayakumar K. , Navamani Divya
Published: August 2024

A high voltage gain DC–DC converter with a Y-source network is proposed in this paper for applications such as fuel cells and PV systems. The proposed converter topology is a combination of a Y-source module with a switched capacitor boost module. It is a single switch topology to produce high voltage gain at the load. The superiority of the proposed topology is the high voltage transfer ratio and continuous input current. The voltage gain of the converter can be achieved up to twenty times the input voltage at a duty cycle of 25% itself. The steady state analysis of the converter is carried out using mathematical equations and the working of the converter is explained. The design and analysis of the passive components in the circuit are explained. To illustrate the highlights of the converter, the proposed topology is compared with similar converters in the literature. The simulation of the converter is carried out using MATLAB/SIMULINK. The circuit is verified in the laboratory using a 100[Formula: see text]W prototype.
Domain Transfer-Based Hypergraph Convolutional Network for Posture Anomaly Detection in Physical Education Teaching
Authors: Jin Yuzhu , Liu Ning
Published: August 2024

Human skeleton-based posture anomaly detection has been widely applied in the field of physical education teaching. The existing spatio-temporal graph convolutional networks (ST-GCN) can fully utilize the local and global information of the human skeleton for action recognition, but the entire model requires a large amount of computation and the modeling of high-order relationships between joint points of the human skeleton is insufficient. To this end, this paper proposes a novel domain adaptive hypergraph convolutional network for basketball posture anomaly analysis by exploiting 2D skeleton information. First, we designed an effective hypergraph convolution feature extraction network to improve the high-order dependency modeling. To further improve the performance of the hypergraph convolutional network, we introduce domain adaptive learning technology to supervise the feature extraction learning of the target domain (2D skeleton) through the source domain (3D skeleton). At last, we construct a basketball action teaching analysis dataset for model evaluation. We conducted a large number of comparative experiments on the public dataset NTU RGB+D and our self-built dataset. All the results showed that our proposed hypergraph convolutional model effectively extracts features of 2D human skeletons, and by introducing domain adaptive learning, the performance of basketball anomaly detection is further improved.
STABILITY OF SYNCHRONIZATION MANIFOLD IN COUPLED FRACTIONAL-ORDER NONLINEAR OSCILLATORS: A MASTER STABILITY FUNCTION APPROACH
Authors: RAJAGOPAL KARTHIKEYAN , JAFARI SAJAD , DURAISAMY PRAKASH , BOULAARAS SALAH , KARTHIKEYAN ANITHA , ALHARBI ASMA
Published: August 2024

The Master Stability Function (MSF) is a crucial tool for understanding the synchronization behavior of coupled nonlinear oscillators. In recent years, the field of fractional calculus and its applications in nonlinear dynamics gained significant attention, leading to an expanded focus on the network dynamics of such systems. This study aims to explore this emerging area by deriving the MSF for coupled fractional-order nonlinear oscillators and investigating their relationship with coupling strength and fractional order. To provide a comprehensive comparison, we utilize the well-known nonlinear oscillators to study the differences and similarities between integer-order and fractional-order MSFs. Our analysis reveals that, similar to integer-order systems, fractional-order coupled nonlinear oscillators exhibit MSFs that can be characterized by the presence of negative values within a finite interval of the normalized coupling parameter. This negative region is crucial as it indicates stable synchronization. Furthermore, we categorize the fractional-order MSFs using the same classifications applied to integer-order MSFs. This classification helps in systematically understanding and comparing the synchronization properties of both types of systems. Our findings are supported by extensive numerical simulations, which demonstrate that the majority of fractional-order coupled oscillators exhibit higher classes of MSF. This higher classification suggests that fractional-order systems have a superior ability to achieve synchronization compared to their integer-order counterparts. In summary, this study underscores the significance of fractional calculus in enhancing our understanding of synchronization in complex systems. The derived MSF for fractional-order nonlinear oscillators provides valuable insights into their dynamic behavior and opens new avenues for research in various scientific and engineering disciplines.