bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ethnicity and Elections: Electoral Context Affects Parties' Use of Ethnic References
Authors: Gremler Frederik , Haiges Lea
Published: January 2025

Links to specific ethnic groups constitute a defining feature of ethnic parties. Yet, whether and how references to ethnic identities appear in ethnic parties' political communication often remains unstudied despite the promise it carries. This paper investigates to what extent the electoral cycle and ethnic competition influence ethnic parties' usage of ethnic references on social media. Analyzing 1.3 million social media posts by 112 ethnic parties in 38 countries, we find that the number of ethnic references by a party increases as election day approaches. Moreover, a higher number of competing ethnic parties in elections is also associated with higher usage of ethnic references. This research contributes to our understanding of when and why parties address ethnicity on social media.
Attraction and Alienation
Authors: Spiegel Thomas J.
Published: January 2025

Normative questions about discrimination and preferences in dating have recently received mounting attention. I first argue that the current discourse can be reconstructed as between two theoretical camps: proponents of mere preference accounts and proponents of obligation accounts. Second, I argue that both positions presuppose a framework assumption to the effect that attraction is to be conceived of in terms of (positive or negative) obligations. This is because the mere preference account denies obligations in dating, whereas obligation accounts embrace (at least weak) duties. This framework assumption is ill‐begotten once we apprehend that the reality of other people always already outruns our sideways‐on theorising about what property in others we ought to be attracted to. The aim is not to solve the stand‐off between proponents of mere preferences and obligations, but to dissolve the need to conceive of attraction and dating in terms of obligations at all.
There Goes the Neighbourhood—A Multi‐City Study Reveals Ticks and Tick‐Borne Pathogens Commonly Occupy Urban Green Spaces
Authors: Sormunen Jani J. , Kylänpää Satu , Sippola Ella , Elo Riikka , Kiran Nosheen , Pakanen Veli‐Matti , Kallio Eva R. , Vesterinen Eero J. , Klemola Tero
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Humans acquire tick‐borne pathogens (TBPs) from infected ticks contacted during outdoor activities. Outdoor activity is at its highest in urban green spaces, where the presence of tick populations has increasingly been observed. Consequently, more insight into factors influencing the presence of ticks therein is needed. Here, we assess the occurrence of ticks and several TBPs in urban green spaces in Finland, estimate related human hazard and assess how landscape features influence tick and TBP occurrence therein.

Methods

Ticks collected from five cities during 2019–2020 were utilised. Borrelia, Rickettsia, Neoehrlichia mikurensis, Anaplasma phagocytophilum, Babesia and TBEV were screened from ticks using qPCR. Various landscape features were calculated and utilised in generalised linear mixed models to assess their contribution towards tick and TBP occurrence in green spaces. Finally, human population density proximate to each study site was calculated and used to create population‐weighted risk indices.

Results

Borrelia were the most common pathogens detected, with 22% of nymphs and 43% of adults infected. Increasing forest cover had a positive effect on the densities of nymphs and adults, whereas forest size had a negative effect. Middling percentages of artificial surfaces predicted higher nymph densities than low or high values. Human population‐weighted risk estimates were highly varied, even within cities. A positive correlation was observed between total city population and risk indices.

Conclusions

Ticks and TBPs are commonplace in urban green spaces in Finland. Enzootic cycles for Borrelia and Rickettsia appear to be well maintained within cities, leading to widespread risk of infection therein. Our results suggest that nymph densities are highest in urban forests of medium size, whereas small or large forests show reduced densities. Green spaces of roughly similar risk can be found in cities of different sizes, emphasising that the identification of areas of particularly high hazard is important for effective mitigation actions.
Determining Fire Insurance Premium in Indonesia based on Severity and Frequency Claim Distributions
Authors: Pasaribu Udjianna S. , Husniah Hennie , Abubakar Rahmah , Sonhaji Abdullah , Sa’idah Nur Faizatus
Published: January 2025

This research utilizes a fitted distribution for calculating fire insurance premiums in Indonesia. This research aims to study, analyze, and estimate the premium of some coverage on fire insurance data in Indonesia. Here, we study data on fire insurance in Indonesia from the period of 2006 to 2016. Property that can be insured based on the type of building used is called occupation. This is regulated in the 2017 Otoritas Jasa Keuangan (OJK) Circular Letter. Furthermore, one type of occupation is selected namely occupation number 2937 and as a result, we analyze 530 claims in total with three types of coverage; (i) building, (ii) stock and content, and (iii) building, stock, and content including severity of the claim. For the number of claims, we assume the data following the Poisson distribution. In contrast, for the severity of claim, two of the three candidate distributions are heavy-tailed distributions i.e. Weibull, Lognormal, and the latter is light-tailed distribution Gumbel. At first, it is assumed that the severity is Weibull distribution, considering that fire is a rare occurrence and can be considered as a Non-Homogeneous Poisson process. To obtain the best-fit distribution from these distributions, the traditional method Kolmogorov-Smirnov is applied for each distribution. We also estimate each parameter for a best-fit distribution. Those parameters are used to estimate the premium for each coverage above. According to the probability density function’s graph, the most fitted distribution for (i) and (ii) is Gumbel while the most fitted distribution for (iii) is Lognormal. The Indonesia’s fire insurance data fits the heavy-tail distributions.
Heavy Metals Transport in Soil With Exponential Decay Source
Authors: LIANG R.S. , Isa Z.M. , Darwish Shaymaa M.H.
Published: January 2025

Heavy metal pollution is a global environmental concern due to its extreme hazards and complicated challenges in removing it from soil. The behavior of heavy metal migration in soil can be aptly depicted using a mathematical model, specifically the advection-diffusion equation (ADE). This research considers the scenario where a pollutant is injected in an exponentially decaying manner within a fixed time interval 0 < t ≤ t0, and ceases at t > t0. The solutions are obtained by taking Laplace transform, and the propagation behavior of the pollutant for various exponential decay coefficients are studied. The results show that for 0 < t ≤ t0, heavy metal concentrations experience an initial rapid rise during injection, peaking at the boundary, followed by dispersion to surrounding areas. Upon injection cessation, a minor concentration rebound occurs due to residual effects, followed by gradual attenuation. The results provide insight for environmental management and pollution control strategies.
Approximation of Picture Fuzzy Bézier Curve Model
Authors: Ahmad Nur Azlida , Zulkifly Mohammad Izat Emir
Published: January 2025

This paper presents a new picture fuzzy set approach to modeling of B´ezier curve approximation. To produce the picture fuzzy control point, the notion is used to describe the point relation of the picture fuzzy set (PFS). The new picture fuzzy control point is combined with the B´ezier function to create a model of the picture fuzzy B´ezier curve. Subsequently, the approximation curves comprising the positive, neutral, negative, and refusal membership curves are displayed. A numerical example has been used to approximate the picture fuzzy B´ezier curve model for the illustration. Consequently, in the conclusion of this paper, an approach to obtain picture fuzzy B´ezier curve is described.
A Modified Lee-Carter Model for Age-Specific Fertility Rate Forecasting: Modelling Ethnic-Based Fertility Change in Malaysia
Authors: Shair Syazreen Niza , M. Nasir Muhammad S. A. , M. Fadhil Nur F. , Zaidi Nur F. Z. , Roslan Muhammad A.
Published: January 2025

Accurate fertility prediction is crucial for long-term policy planning, particularly in health economics and demographics. This article proposes a modified version of the Lee-Carter model, which incorporates the skew-logistic probability density function to accurately capture the unimodal curves of age-specific fertility rates (ASFRs) in Malaysia. The model was fitted into Malaysian age-specific fertility data between 1958 and 2005, categorised by three major ethnic groups: Malay, Chinese and Indian. The forecast performances of both the modified and original Lee-Carter models were evaluated by estimating out-of-sample errors between 2006 and 2021. The model that demonstrated the highest accuracy was used to forecast ASFRs between 2022 and 2041. The analyses revealed a notable decline in overall fertility trends over the years, with particularly pronounced decreases observed among the Chinese and Indian populations. Furthermore, there has been a shift towards delayed childbirth, with the highest number of births occurring at older ages in recent years. The results indicate that the modified Lee-Carter model outperforms the original version for the Chinese and Indian populations, suggesting its ability to capture recent significant changes in fertility patterns and enhancing predictive accuracy.
Effect of Blockages on Film Effectiveness on the Pressure Surface of a Turbine Blade
Authors: von Mueller Tassilo , Bacci David , Wambersie Augustin , Wong Tsun Holt , Ireland Peter , Jackson Dougal
Published: January 2025

An experimental and numerical study was conducted on fan-shaped holes on the pressure surface of a high-pressure turbine blade. Blockages in these film holes can arise through dirt accumulation as well as erosion of the thermal barrier coatings. The objective was to study the effects of partial blockages on film cooling effectiveness. Similar studies have been conducted on flat surfaces. This study includes the effect of curvature, which has been shown to be influential on film cooling performance. A blade with a single row of nominal fan-shaped holes at a lateral inclination of 30 deg was tested and used as the baseline performance. Blockage cases were then tested at various blowing ratios, with partial blockages in the throat as well as partial lidding in the fan exit of the film hole. The experiments were carried out using pressure-sensitive paint (PSP) in the high-velocity 2D linear cascade experimental facility at the Oxford Thermofluids Institute, using engine-representative Mach and Reynolds numbers. The results show that lidding with up to 0.5 blocking ratio (defined as the ratio of lidded length to the length of the film hole exit, in the film hole plane) only has a minor impact on film effectiveness, while lidding with 0.75 blocking ratio as well as throat blockage both result in significant deterioration of film cooling effectiveness. The effect of blockages on the discharge coefficient was also studied, and only blockages in the throat were found to reduce the discharge coefficient.
Ultra-wide range control of topological acoustic waveguides
Authors: Liang Xiao , Luo Jiangxia , Li Qiang , Ye Yu , Shi Liang , Tang Zhongyuan , Huang Jingqiu , Li Nan
Published: January 2025

Topological acoustic waveguides have a potential for applications in the precise transmission of sound. Currently, there is more attention to multi-band in this field. However, achieving tunability of the operating band is also of great significance. Different from previous studies, this paper proposes to replace the two-dimensional (2D) resonant cavity in the scatterer with an extended three-dimensional (3D) resonant cavity. In this way, a composite acoustic structure consisting of a 2D scatterer and a 3D resonant cavity is constructed. By controlling the position of the bottom of the resonant cavity, the length of the resonant cavities can be freely controlled. In this way, it is possible to achieve continuous control of the operating frequency band by a very simple mechanical method without changing the initial structure. The control range can reach nearly 6 kHz. This paper also proposes a parallel resonance mechanism that can increase the width of the bandgap by 50%. Simulation results show that this method does not affect the topological phase transition of the structure. In the transmission channel formed by two different topological phase interfaces of this topological acoustic waveguide, the acoustic wave has a high-precision unidirectional transmission characteristic that is immune to backscattering. This study provides a reliable solution for an ultra-wide range of controllable acoustic topological components.
Underwater low-power electromagnetic transducers with Central permanent magnet integration
Authors: Meng Xiangyu , Yang Zheng , Zhu Zhijuan , Ye Lingyun , Sun Xinglin
Published: January 2025

High-efficiency electromagnetic transducers are crucial for enabling the self-sustained operation of underwater electromagnetic sound sources under power-constrained conditions as noted by Hao, Xie, and Ma [Proceedings of the 2019 Western China Acoustics Academic Conference, Guangzhou, China (November 5–9, 2019)]. This paper proposes a permanent magnet drive technology to enhance the electromechanical conversion efficiency of can-type electromagnetic transducers under low-power driving conditions. The can-type transducers consist of coils, an armature, and a cylindrical magnetic core with a central pillar, similar to the pot core proposed by Cui, Xu, Xu, and Shui [Electr. Eng. 101, 911–919 (2019)]. The proposed driving technology involves adding a permanent magnet to the central pillar to introduce a direct current excitation bias, thereby adjusting the static operating point and the electromechanical conversion efficiency of the transducer. In this paper, a theoretical model of the electromagnetic driving force is established, and finite element simulations show that adding a permanent magnet increases the electromechanical efficiency of can-type transducers from less than 1% to 84.43% under low-power conditions. Furthermore, prototypes of underwater can-type electromagnetic transducers with and without a permanent magnet at the core center were fabricated in this study. The experimental results confirmed that the permanent magnet drive technology significantly improves electromechanical conversion efficiency by adding a permanent magnet to the core center.
Underwater sound propagation over a layered seabed with weak shear rigidity
Authors: Godin Oleg A.
Published: January 2025

The shear wave speed is often small compared to the compressional wave speed in the top part of the seabed, where acoustic normal modes penetrate. In sediments with weak but finite shear rigidity, the strongest conversion from compressional to shear waves occurs at interfaces within the sediment. Shear wave generation at such interfaces and interference within sediment layers lead to first-order perturbations in the normal mode phase speed and contributions to sound attenuation, which vary rapidly with frequency. Weak shear rigidity is shown to lead to unexpectedly strong mode group speed perturbations that retain finite magnitudes for very small shear speeds in range-independent waveguides. Variation of the waveguide parameters with range affects shear-induced attenuation and mode travel time perturbations in a different manner, depending on whether shear wave interference conditions vary appreciably along the propagation path. In horizontally inhomogeneous ocean, weak shear magnifies the horizontal refraction of adiabatic normal modes due to sloping intra-sediment interfaces. In contrast to normal modes, attenuation of lateral waves with range is insensitive to weak shear. Concurrent measurements of normal mode and lateral wave attenuation can be potentially used to identify and separate the contributions of dissipation and shear waves into observed sound attenuation.
Direct utilisation of impulse response data in reduction index assessment without intermediate reverberation time estimation (L)
Authors: Forssén Jens
Published: January 2025

An approach is proposed for reduction index measurement where impulse response data are utilised directly without relying on intermediate reverberation time estimation. The theoretical framework is presented and the main result is substantiated by shown equivalence to the conventional method for ideal exponential decay curves of acoustic energy. Additionally, the study introduces a formula for estimating effective reverberation time in cases of non-exponential decay curves. Further formulas for determining effective values of reverberation time and absorption area for general decay curve shapes are also suggested.
A highly magnetized long-period radio transient exhibiting unusual emission features
Authors: Men Yunpeng , McSweeney Sam , Hurley-Walker Natasha , Barr Ewan , Stappers Ben
Published: January 2025

Long-period radio transients are a new class of astrophysical objects that exhibit periodic radio emission on timescales of tens of minutes. Their true nature remains unknown; possibilities include magnetic white dwarfs, binary systems, or long-period magnetars; the latter class is predicted to produce fast radio bursts (FRBs). Using the MeerKAT radio telescope, we conducted follow-up observations of the long-period radio transient GPM J1839-10. Here we report that the source exhibits a wide range of unusual emission properties, including polarization characteristics indicative of magnetospheric origin, linear-to-circular polarization conversion, and drifting substructures closely resembling those observed in repeating FRBs. These radio characteristics provide evidence in support of the long-period magnetar model and suggest a possible connection between long-period radio transients, magnetars, and FRBs.
Separation and recycling of hydrofluorocarbon refrigerant mixtures with fluoropolymer-coated hollow fiber membranes
Authors: Harders Abby N. , Wallisch Luke , Lundin Michael D. , Le Chloe , Zaher Gabrielle , Atchison Ed , White Whitney , Shiflett Mark B.
Published: January 2025

Many hydrofluorocarbon refrigerants used in air-conditioning and refrigeration equipment are being phased out based on international restrictions to reduce global warming. Over 1 billion kilograms of hydrofluorocarbons are in use, and recycling is imperative to preventing the release of these greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. We report on composite hollow fiber membranes that can efficiently separate a mixture of difluoromethane and pentafluoroethane that is used worldwide in air conditioners. Selective hollow fiber membranes have been fabricated with a single submicrometer coating of a copolymer of 70 mol % perfluoro(butenyl vinyl ether) and 30 mol % perfluoro(2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxole) that separates the azeotropic mixture into a permeate stream with a difluoromethane purity of >95 mol %. Rather than incinerating these valuable materials, this technology can be used to recycle nonregulated difluoromethane for future products and recover pentafluoroethane for use as a chemical feedstock, creating a circular economy.
Programmed shape transformations in cell-laden granular composites
Authors: Di Caprio Nikolas , Hughes Alex J. , Burdick Jason A.
Published: January 2025

Tissues form during development through mechanical compaction of their extracellular matrix (ECM) and shape morphing, processes that result in complex-shaped structures that contribute to tissue function. While observed in vivo, control over these processes in vitro to understand both tissue development and guide tissue formation has remained challenging. Here, we use combinations of mesenchymal stromal cell spheroids and hydrogel microparticles (microgels) with varied hydrolytic stability to fabricate programmable and dynamic granular composites that control compaction and tissue formation over time. Mixed microgel populations of varying stability provide a further handle to alter compaction, and the level of compaction guides the uniformity and level of ECM deposition within tissues. Last, spatially patterned granular composites of varying compaction enable shape transformations (i.e., bending/curvature) that are stable with culture and are predicted by finite element models.
Artificial biomarker-based feedback-regulated personalized and precise thrombolysis with lower hemorrhagic risk
Authors: Li Lang , Tian Hao , Wu Liulin , Chen Na , Zhang Qiao , Chen Lin , Zhu Kai , Lin Lin , Chen Xi , He Lang , Liu Min , Zhao Wenyan , Su Yang , Yan Juan , Zhao Xingli , Zhou Xin , Zhou Zhenhua , Zeng Wen
Published: January 2025

The body weight–based thrombolytic medication strategy in clinical trials shows critical defects in recanalization rate and post-thrombolysis hemorrhage. Methods for perceiving thrombi heterogeneity of thrombolysis resistance is urgently needed for precise thrombolysis. Here, we revealed the relationship between the thrombin heterogeneity and the thrombolysis resistance in thrombi and created an artificial biomarker-based nano-patrol system with robotic functional logic to perceive and report the thrombolysis resistance of thrombi. The nano-patrols are contrallable and are able to accomplish thrombolysis resistance-matched personalized and precise therapy according to the feedback signal from artificial biomarkers. This nano-patrol system depicted more enhanced thrombolytic efficiency (elevated by 25%) than alteplase for mini pig model and clinical thrombi and achieved recanalization in thrombotic model where alteplase encountered failure. Moreover, the nano-patrol remarkably reduced the infarct volume and the hemorrhagic transformation risk (0.12-fold of alteplase) of cerebral thrombosis. Therefore, we developed a unique tool for diagnosing thrombolysis resistance and achieving personalized and precise thrombolysis.
Oral iron sulfide prevents acute alcohol intoxication by initiating the endogenous multienzymatic antioxidant defense system
Authors: Wang Heping , Wang Xiaonan , Mao Mingxing , Chen Xi , Han Ziwei , Xun Zengyu , Wang Qian , Qi Yilin , Zhao Weitao , Li Tianqi , Yan Xiyun , Liu Jianfeng , Gao Lizeng , Xue Xue
Published: January 2025

Acute alcohol intoxication could cause multiorgan damage, including nervous, digestive, and cardiovascular systems, and in particular, irreversible damage to the brain and liver. Emerging studies have revealed that the endogenous multienzymatic antioxidant defense system (MEAODS) plays a central role in preventing oxidative stress and other toxicological compounds produced by alcohol. However, few available drugs could quickly regulate MEAODS. Herein, we report a nanosized iron sulfide (nFeS) that can rapidly release polysulfide species in gastric juice. The released hydrogen polysulfide activates the Keap1/Nrf2 pathway via S-persulfidation of cysteine residues in Keap1, which promotes the expression of antioxidant enzymes and glutathione synthesis–related enzymes, thus potentiating MEAODS. Results indicate that the activated MEAODS not only alleviates oxidative stress and inflammation in the brain and liver but also mitigates movement dysfunction after only 2.5 hours of oral nFeS treatment. Collectively, this study provides a MEAODS-regulated strategy with nFeS and may aid the prevention of acute alcoholic injury.
Genome-wide and phenome-wide studies provided insights into brain glymphatic system function and its clinical associations
Authors: Ran Lusen , Fang Yuanyuan , Cheng Chang , He Yuqin , Shao Zhonghe , Kong Yifan , Huang Hao , Xu Shabei , Luo Xiang , Wang Wei , Hao Xingjie , Wang Minghuan
Published: January 2025

We applied an MRI technique diffusion tensor imaging along the perivascular space (DTI-ALPS) for assessing glymphatic system (GS) in a genome-wide association study (GWAS) and phenome-wide association study (PheWAS) of 40,486 European individuals. Exploratory analysis revealed 17 genetic loci significantly associating with the regional DTI-ALPS index. We found 58 genes, including
SPPL2C
and
EFCAB5
, which prioritized in the DTI-ALPS index subtypes and associated with neurodegenerative diseases. PheWAS of 241 traits suggested that body mass index and blood pressure phenotypes closely related to GS function. Moreover, we detected disrupted GS function in 44 of 625 predefined disease conditions. Notably, Mendelian randomization and mediation analysis indicated that lower DTI-ALPS index was a risk factor for ischemic stroke (odds ratio = 1.56,
P
= 0.028) by partly mediating the risk factor of obesity. Results provide insights into the genetic architecture and mechanism for the DIT-ALPS index and highlight its great clinical value, especially in cerebral stroke.
Creating chromaticity palettes and identifying white light emitters through nanocrystal megalibraries
Authors: Cai Tong , Shin Donghoon , Li Jun , Xu David D. , Pietryga Jacob , Zhang Ye , Mirkin Chad A.
Published: January 2025

Halide perovskites are used to fabricate energy-efficient optoelectronic devices. Determining which compositions yield desired chromatic responses is challenging, especially when doping strategies are used. Here, we report a way of mapping the compositional space of halide perovskites to generate a light emission or “chromaticity” palette. Megalibraries consisting of millions of Mn
2+
-doped PEA
2
PbX
4
(PEA: phenethylammonium, X: halide anions) perovskite nanocrystals were synthesized to screen the compositions that led to specific emission profiles. The chromaticity palette allows one to identify single-composition white light emitters [PEA
2
Pb

1−
y

Mn

y

(Br

1−
x

I

x

)
4
(0 ≤
x
≤ 1, 0 ≤
y
≤ 1)], eliminating the need for trilayer structures in conventional white light-emitting diodes, which are prone to instability and complex device designs. Optical studies reveal that the dual-wavelength photoluminescence emission originates from exciton recombination and energy transfer processes. This study shows how emerging megalibrary capabilities can rapidly advance our understanding of the complex composition-structure-function relationships and be used to accelerate the discovery of next-generation optoelectronic materials.
Merging SOMO activation with transition metal catalysis: Deoxygenative functionalization of amides to β-aryl amines
Authors: Tian Hongjun , Jiang Feng , Wang Xiaoming
Published: January 2025

Singly occupied molecular orbital (SOMO) activation of in situ generated enamines has achieved great success in (asymmetric) α-functionalization of carbonyl compounds. However, examples on the use of this activation mode in the transformations of other functional groups are rare, and the combination of SOMO activation with transition metal catalysis is still less explored. In the area of deoxygenative functionalization of amides, intermediates such as iminium ions and enamines were often generated in situ to result in the formation of α-functionalized amines. In contrast, the direct deoxygenation of amides to β-functionalized amines is highly appealing yet remains scarcely investigated. Here, a deoxygenative arylation of amides with aryl halides was developed via multicatalysis of iridium/photoredox/nickel/iridium, affording β-aryl amines in high efficiency. The key to the success of this reaction is the SOMO activation of enamine in synergy with a Ni-catalyzed arylation, which is in conjunction with two compatible Ir-catalyzed reduction processes.
Anti–immune complex antibodies are elicited during repeated immunization with HIV Env immunogens
Authors: Brown Sharidan , Antanasijevic Aleksandar , Sewall Leigh M. , Garcia Daniel Montiel , Brouwer Philip J. M. , Sanders Rogier W. , Ward Andrew B.
Published: January 2025

Vaccination strategies against HIV-1 aim to elicit broadly neutralizing antibodies (bnAbs) using prime-boost regimens with HIV envelope (Env) immunogens. Epitope mapping has shown that early antibody responses are directed to easily accessible nonneutralizing epitopes on Env instead of bnAb epitopes. Autologously neutralizing antibody responses appear upon boosting, once immunodominant epitopes are saturated. Here, we use electron microscopy–based polyclonal epitope mapping (EMPEM) to elucidate how repeated immunization with HIV Env SOSIP immunogens results in the generation of Ab2α anti-idiotypic antibodies in rabbits and rhesus macaques. We present the structures of six anti–immune complex antibodies and find that they target idiotopes composed of framework regions of antibodies bound to Env. Examination of cryo–electron microscopy density enabled prediction of sequences for an anti–immune complex antibody, the paratope of which is enriched with aromatic amino acids. This work sheds light on current vaccine development efforts for HIV, as well as for other pathogens in which repeated exposure to antigen is required.
Complete genome sequence of
Bifidobacterium animalis
subsp.
lactis
BI040, a probiotic strain with multiple health benefits from the NORDBIOTIC collection
Authors: Szczepankowska Agnieszka K. , Cukrowska Bożena , Aleksandrzak-Piekarczyk Tamara
Published: January 2025

The complete genome of
Bifidobacterium animalis
subsp.
lactis
BI040—a human stool isolate, was sequenced using Illumina and Oxford Nanopore technologies. The BI040 genome is composed of a circular 1,944,141-bp chromosome which carries genes potentially involved in vitamin synthesis and gut health.
Finding a constrained number of predictor phenotypes for multiple outcome prediction
Authors: Reps Jenna M , Wong Jenna , Fridgeirsson Egill A , Kim Chungsoo , John Luis H , Williams Ross D , Fisher Renae R , Ryan Patrick B
Published: January 2025

Background

Prognostic models help aid medical decision-making. Various prognostic models are available via websites such as MDCalc, but these models typically predict one outcome, for example, stroke risk. Each model requires individual predictors, for example, age, lab results and comorbidities. There is no clinical tool available to predict multiple outcomes from a list of common medical predictors.

Objective

Identify a constrained set of outcome-agnostic predictors.

Methods

We proposed a novel technique aggregating the standardised mean difference across hundreds of outcomes to learn a constrained set of predictors that appear to be predictive of many outcomes. Model performance was evaluated using the constrained set of predictors across eight prediction tasks. We compared against existing models, models using only age/sex predictors and models without any predictor constraints.

Results

We identified 67 predictors in our constrained set, plus age/sex. Our predictors included illnesses in the following categories: cardiovascular, kidney/liver, mental health, gastrointestinal, infectious and oncologic. Models developed using the constrained set of predictors achieved comparable discrimination compared with models using hundreds or thousands of predictors for five of the eight prediction tasks and slightly lower discrimination for three of the eight tasks. The constrained predictor models performed as good or better than all existing clinical models.

Conclusions

It is possible to develop models for hundreds or thousands of outcomes that use the same small set of predictors. This makes it feasible to implement many prediction models via a single website form. Our set of predictors can also be used for future models and prognostic model research.
Molecular and immune landscape of tumours in geriatric patients with non-small cell lung cancer, melanoma and renal cell carcinoma
Authors: Choucair Khalil , Elliott Andrew , Oberley Matthew James , Walker Phillip , Salama April K , Saeed Azhar , Mamdani Hirva , Uprety Dipesh , El-Deiry Wafik S , Beltran Himisha , Liu Stephen V , Kim Chul , Naqash Abdul Rafeh , Lou Emil , Chen Lujia , Saeed Anwaar
Published: January 2025

Objective

Cancer patients aged ≥80 years present unique characteristics affecting response to immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), with unidentified molecular differences. This study aimed to explore potential biomarkers of response to ICI in patients ≥80 years.

Methods and analysis

We analysed tumour samples (n=24 123) from patients ≥80 (versus<80) with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), melanoma (MEL), and renal cell cancer (RCC). Using gene expression deconvolution, we investigated differences in tumour microenvironment (TIME) composition. Then, using next-generation sequencing and programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) assessment, we evaluated gene expression differences between age groups and across tumour types, with a focus on ageing-related processes such as DNA damage response (DDR), immune checkpoint (IC) and metabolism-related genes. In a subset of patients ≥80 (n=1013), gene clustering and differential gene expression analyses were carried out to identify potential tumour-type specific expression patterns in responders to ICI.

Results

Significant differences in TIME composition were seen in patients with NSCLC and MEL. In patients ≥80, tumour mutational burden was lower in patients with NSCLC, higher in MEL and RCC had fewer PD-L1+tumours. DDR, IC and metabolism-related gene enrichments were distinct in patients ≥80. In patients ≥80 treated with ICIs (n=1013), there were no significant differences in survival between gene clusters, but differential gene expression analysis identified potential tumour-type specific expression patterns in responders.

Conclusion

Our findings reveal tumour type-specific expression profiles, TIMEs and response signatures to ICIs in patients ≥80, supporting further biomarker investigations in this population.
Switching to faricimab from the current anti-VEGF therapy: evidence-based expert recommendations
Authors: Wong David T , Aboobaker Shaheer , Maberley David , Sharma Sanjay , Yoganathan Pradeepa
Published: January 2025

Dual inhibition of the angiopoietin (Ang)/Tie and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) signalling pathways in patients with retinal diseases, such as neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD) and diabetic macular oedema (DME), may induce greater vascular stability and contribute to increased treatment efficacy and durability compared with treatments that only target the VEGF pathway. Faricimab, a bispecific intravitreal agent that inhibits both VEGF and Ang-2, is the first injectable ophthalmic drug to achieve treatment intervals of up to 16 weeks in Phase 3 studies for nAMD and DME while exhibiting improvements in visual acuity and retinal thickness. Data from real-world studies have supported the safety, visual and anatomic benefits and durability of faricimab, even in patients who were previously treated with other intravitreal agents. These evidence-based expert recommendations from a panel of retina specialists consolidate current evidence with clinical experience for the optimal use of faricimab in patients with nAMD or DME, with a focus on switching from an anti-VEGF agent to faricimab.
Risk factors for low resilience among Grade 10 adolescents in the Gampaha district, Sri Lanka: a case-control study
Authors: Manori Shamila , Jayawardana Pushpa Lalani , Godamunne Pavithra
Published: January 2025

Objective

Resilience means the ability to deal successfully with difficult situations, and hence low resilience will lead to many negative outcomes. The aim of this study was to explore risk factors for low resilience among Grade 10 adolescents in Gampaha district, Sri Lanka.

Methods

Resilience levels and data related to putative risk factors were obtained by using a validated 14-Item Sinhala Resilience Scale and a questionnaire on putative risk factors (both of which were self-administered) from Grade 10 adolescents by conducting a descriptive cross-sectional study. There were 464 (33.6%) cases with low resilience (score=14–73) and 916 (66.4%) controls with high resilience (score=74–98). For the case-control study, the computed sample size for each case and control group was 128, who were selected by applying simple random sampling. Risk factors for low resilience were determined using bivariate and multivariable analyses by applying χ2test and multivariable logistic regression. Results were expressed as ORs with respective 95% CIs.

Results

Among the 33 putative risk factors analysed, 13 were found to be significant in bivariate analysis. In multivariable logistic regression analysis, out of 24 independent variables entered initially into the model, only 9 were retained in the final model. These comprised (1) one or both parents dead (AOR=2.5, 95% CI [1.2, 14.5]; p=0.032), (2) mother’s low educational level (AOR=1.9, 95% CI [1.6, 3.8]; p=0.021), (3) sleep <8 hours (AOR=1.6, 95% CI [1.1, 3.8]; p=0.002), (4) having less than six close classmates (AOR=1.5, 95% CI [1.1, 4.3]; p=0.021), (5) not attending Sunday school (AOR=1.8, 95% CI [1.1, 10.6]; p=0.001), (6) being short-tempered (AOR=2.2, 95% CI [1.5, 3.6]; p=0.003), (7) having conflicts with friends (AOR=1.4, 95% CI [1.2, 7.5]; p=0.043), (8) not seeking help when confronted/facing with difficulties (AOR=1.6, 95% CI [1.2, 6.9]; p=0.032) and (9) lack of support from home when in need (AOR=1.6, 95% CI [1.2, 5.8]; p=0.001).

Conclusion and recommendation

Altogether nine risk factors were identified. Interventions focusing on risk factors ascertained should be developed and conducted regularly by the schools, targeting all adolescents of Grade 10 to boost their status of resiliency.
Not all quad bikers are the same: unsupervised cluster analysis identifying injury risk groups among quad bike riders in Dubai, UAE
Authors: Menon Preetha , El Sadig Mohamed , Alfaki Ibrahim Abdalla , Mohammed Ahmed , Alsakaf Omar Ahmed Zain , Gamar Rashad , Saeed Saeeda Buti , Grivna Michal
Published: January 2025

Objective

Quad bike riders in Dubai (UAE) constitute a highly diverse group with varying driving skills and familiarity with the desert environment. In the absence of evidence on the quad bike riders in the region, we attempted to describe the most vulnerable risk groups using routinely collected injury data. This may hopefully inform the most effective injury prevention strategies for the region.

Methods

Four-year injury incident reports of 226 patients rescued by Dubai ambulance were grouped into three clusters using two-step cluster analysis in SPSS.

Result

The three clusters that emerged were ‘Older Tourist-Expatriates’ (n=86), ‘Prompt Young Emiratis’ (n=76) and ‘Tightlipped Young Colliders’ (n=60). Older tourists were more likely to ride during the daytime and sustained milder injuries due to rollover. Prompt Young Emirati riders who experienced severe head, neck and spine injuries from nighttime rollovers were more likely to call for an ambulance without delay. Tightlipped Young Colliders were very young riders who experienced quad bike collisions or did not report their crash history. One in five riders in Clusters 1 and 3 delayed calling the ambulance by more than 6 hours.

Conclusion

Young nationals with severe injuries due to night collisions and rollovers during winter would benefit from increased guardianship, vehicle modification and crowd control interventions. In addition, emergency first aid services for tourists and nationals should be allocated to the major quad biking desert locations in Dubai to relieve the burden on emergency ambulatory care services.
Catastrophic expenditure associated with childhood hospitalisation for acute illness in Kenya and Uganda: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Jemutai Julie , Njuguna Rebecca Gathoni , Laurence Yoko V , Murunga Sheila , Ogwang Caroline , Mwaringa Shalton , Mwalekwa Laura , Timbwa Molline , Paasi George , Olupot-Olupot Peter , Juma Mwanajuma , Thitiri Johnstone , Ngao Narshion , Singa Benson , Mukisa John , Mupere Ezekiel , Lancioni Christina , Sukhtankar Priya , Tickell Kirkby D , Fakhar Uddin Md , Molyneux Sassy , Walson Judd L , Vassall Anna , Berkley James
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Childhood illness and hospitalisation result in both direct and indirect costs to families before, during and after admission. We aimed to estimate the catastrophic expenditure during hospitalisation for children with acute illness.

Methods

This was a prespecified cross-sectional substudy nested within two prospective studies. Participants were recruited and interviewed from three rural and three urban hospitals in Kenya and Uganda. A costing questionnaire was administered to the caregivers of 731 children hospitalised for acute illness to evaluate direct and indirect costs incurred by caregivers and families. Costs incurred were compared for families with children both with and without complicated severe malnutrition (CSM). Catastrophic out-of-pocket expenditure exceeding 10% and 25% of monthly income was assessed.

Results

The median (IQR) total cost during hospitalisation per child was US$47 (US$24–US$84), with higher costs for children with CSM, especially during hospitalisation (US$56 (US$26–US$99) vs US$36 (US$20–US$65); p<0.001). During hospitalisation, bed charges followed by food were the main cost drivers. Caregivers reported losing a median of 7 (4–11) days of productive time during a child’s hospitalisation with a mean loss of income of US$10 (SD US$25.6, median US$0 (US$0–US$10)). 92% and 74% of households experienced catastrophic expenditure at thresholds of 10% and 25% of monthly income, respectively. Caregivers reported borrowing, selling property and withdrawing other children from school to cope with costs.

Conclusions

Despite intentions of free healthcare services for under 5, families of acutely ill children very commonly faced catastrophic expenditure, especially for children with CSM. Interventions aimed at supporting financial protection, reducing additional healthcare costs, and lowering health service charges may help prevent catastrophic expenditures.
Implementation fidelity of a multisite maternity waiting homes programme in rural Zambia: application of the conceptual framework for implementation fidelity to a complex, hybrid-design study
Authors: Ngoma Thandiwe , Kaiser Jeanette L , Morgan Allison J , Vian Taryn , Hamer Davidson H , Rockers Peter C , Sakanga Viviane , Biemba Godfrey , Bwalya Misheck , Scott Nancy A
Published: January 2025

Background

Implementation fidelity measures are critical for understanding complex interventions. Though maternity waiting homes (MWHs) are recommended by the WHO and have been used to help pregnant women access health facilities for decades, a gap exists regarding fidelity studies on MWHs. To better understand intervention outcomes results, we assessed the fidelity of implementation of an improved Core MWH Model in 10 facilities in rural Zambia.

Methods

We analysed indicators for fidelity employing a widely used conceptual framework. We compared performance from October 2016 to July 2018 to goals set out during intervention design. The Core MWH Model consists of three pillars—infrastructure, policies and linkages to care—each designed to be culturally appropriate and responsive to community standards for safety and comfort.

Results

70% of sites exhibited high adherence to the Core MWH Model components. User experience corroborated poorer performing elements: insufficient lighting, small cooking spaces, non-locking cabinets and few educational classes. Mission statements and governing documents were not always visible or available. The proportion of 3206 users who came from>10 km away was higher than the proportion of the surrounding population living at that distance except in two sites with low populations of remote-living women. Women stayed for just below the target of 14 nights. MWH occupancy rate overall was lower (52%) than the target (80%). MWH users reported high quality and satisfaction. Only three MWHs reached 50% female membership on their governance committees but met other key indicators for community ownership and engagement.

Conclusions

This fidelity evaluation of an MWH model in rural Zambia helps bridge the evidence–practice gap for the WHO’s recommendation on implementing MWHs and adds to the expanding body of literature on implementation fidelity studies in global health.

Trial registration number

NCT02620436.
Elevated blood glucose and unfavourable tuberculosis treatment outcomes in a low-income setting: findings from a prospective cohort study in Eswatini
Authors: Williams Victor , Vos-Seda Alinda G , Calnan Marianne , Ngwenya Colani S , Haumba Samson , Mdluli-Dlamini Lindiwe , Grobbee Diederick E , Otwombe Kennedy , Klipstein-Grobusch Kerstin
Published: January 2025

Introduction

The increasing burden of diabetes mellitus in low- and middle-income countries negatively impacts tuberculosis control. To understand this dual burden in Eswatini, we describe the prevalence and predictors of elevated baseline blood glucose and unfavourable tuberculosis treatment outcomes.

Methods

We conducted a prospective cohort study at 11 health facilities in Eswatini and included adults ≥18 years commencing tuberculosis treatment. Blood glucose measurements were taken at baseline, months 2 and 5, and patients’ sociodemographic and clinical data were extracted. We computed the prevalence of elevated blood glucose and used logistic regression to determine the predictors of elevated baseline blood glucose and unfavourable treatment outcomes.

Results

Of 369 consecutively enrolled patients, the mean age was 38.4 (SD 12.9) years, and 202 (54.7%) were males. The prevalence of elevated baseline blood glucose was 8.0% (95% CI: 5.5, 11.3); 8.9% in males (95% CI: 5.6, 13.9); highest at ≥55 years (13.6%; 95% CI: 6.2, 27.3) and in patients with reactive HIV at 9.5% (95% CI: 6.5, 13.7). A family history of diabetes mellitus (adjusted OR (AOR) 2.80; 95% CI: 1.08, 7.32) and a reactive HIV status (AOR 4.62; 95% CI: 1.06, 20.11) significantly predicted elevated baseline blood glucose. Three-quarters (n=276, 75.4%) had a favourable tuberculosis treatment outcome; more males (n=59, 66%) had an unfavourable treatment outcome (p=0.020), the most common unfavourable outcome being death (n=34, 9.2%). Hypertension (AOR 4.84; 95% CI: 1.48, 15.7), unemployment (AOR 2.01; 95% CI: 1.08, 3.71) and high school education (AOR 0.32; 95% CI: 0.16, 0.64) were associated with unfavourable treatment outcome.

Conclusion

Our study shows the need to optimise care for patients receiving treatment for tuberculosis by integrating screening for and treatment of diabetes and hypertension, prioritising males, those aged ≥55 years and those with a reactive HIV status to limit unfavourable outcomes and death.