bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Quality Evaluation and Management Mechanism Optimization of Art Education under the Guidance of Student Development
Authors: Ma Wanxin
Published: October 2024

In recent years, art education’s role in students’ comprehensive development has gradually been valued, and the quality evaluation and management mechanism of art education guided by student development has received widespread attention from educators. This study explores establishing and optimizing a quality evaluation and management mechanism for art education based on students’ personalities and developmental needs. The study used literature review, case analysis, and expert interviews to analyze the problems in current art education evaluation, such as the singularity of evaluation criteria, emphasis on results over processes, and neglect of students’ emotional experiences and creative development. Based on this, optimization strategies were proposed. The strategy includes constructing diversified evaluation indicators, strengthening process and experience evaluation, emphasizing innovation ability, and a continuous feedback mechanism for educational quality. By optimizing the evaluation and management of art education, the aim is to better promote students’ personalized and comprehensive development and cultivate their love for art and lifelong learning ability.
Finite element analysis of the knee joint: a computational tool to analyze the combined behavior after treatment of torn ligaments and menisci in the human knee joint
Authors: Vasiliadis Angelo V. , Giovanoulis Vasileios , Maris Alexandros , Chytas Dimitrios , Katakalos Konstantinos , Paraskevas George , Noussios George , Vassiou Aikaterini
Published: October 2024

Finite element analysis (FEA) is a fundamental tool that can be used in the orthopaedic world to simulate and analyze the behaviour of different surgical procedures. It is important to be aware that removing more than 20% of the meniscus could increase the shear stress in the cartilage and enlarge the risk of knee joint degeneration. In this fact, the maximal shear stress value in the medial cartilage increased up to 225% from 0.15 MPa to 0.5 MPa after medial meniscectomy. Also, meniscal root repair can improve meniscal biomechanics and potentially reduce the risk of osteoarthritis, even in cases of a loose repair. FEA has been used to better understand the biomechanical role of cruciate ligaments in the knee joint. ACLr with bone-patellar tendon-bone graft at 60 N of pretension and double-bundle PCLr were closer to that of a native knee in terms of biomechanics. The addition of a lateral extra-articular augmentation technique can reduce 50% of tibial translation and internal rotation, protecting the graft and minimizing the risk of re-rupture. Interestingly, anatomic and non-anatomic medial patellofemoral ligament reconstruction increased the pressure applied to the patellofemoral joint by increasing patellar contact pressure to 0.14 MPa at 30° of knee flexion using the semitendinosus as a graft. After all the advances in medical imaging technologies, future studies should take into consideration patient-specific data on both anatomy and mechanics, in order to better personalize the experimental model.
Genomic predictors of fat mass response to the standardized exercise
training
Authors: Yang Xiaolin , Li Yanchun , Bao Dapeng , Yan Bing , Mei Tao , Liu Xiaoxi , Cięszczyk Pawel , Ahmetov IldusI. , Mc Naughton LarsRobert , He Zihong
Published: October 2024

To explore the genetic architecture underlying exercise-induced fat mass change,
we performed a genome-wide association study with a Chinese cohort consisting of
442 physically inactive healthy adults in response to a 12-week exercise
training (High-intensity Interval Training or Resistance Training). The
inter-individual response showed an exercise-induced fat mass change and ten
novel lead SNPs were associated with the response on the level of
P<1×10−5. Four of them (rs7187742, rs1467243, rs28629770 and
rs10848501) showed a consistent effect direction in the European ancestry. The
Polygenic Predictor Score (PPS) derived from ten lead SNPs, sex, baseline body
mass and exercise protocols explained 40.3% of the variance in fat mass
response, meanwhile importantly the PPS had the greatest contribution. Of note,
the subjects whose PPS was lower than −9.301 had the highest response in
exercise-induced fat loss. Finally, we highlight a series of pathways and
biological processes regarding the fat mass response to exercise, e.g. apelin
signaling pathway, insulin secretion pathway and fat cell differentiation
biological process.
Symptomerleben und Coping-Strategien bei Patient*innen mit Primär
Biliärer Cholangitis: eine qualitative Interviewstudie im Rahmen von
SOMA.LIV
Authors: Hasenbank Nele , Buck Laura , Maehder Kerstin , Hartl Johannes , Löwe Bernd , Schramm Christoph , Toussaint Anne
Published: October 2024

Patient*innen mit Primär Biliärer Cholangitis (PBC) leiden unter einer Vielzahl
körperlicher Beschwerden wie Müdigkeit, Juckreiz oder Gelenkschmerzen. Da über
das Beschwerdeerleben und die entsprechenden Coping-Strategien in dieser
Patient*innengruppe bislang wenig bekannt ist, wurde eine qualitative
Interviewstudie durchgeführt, in der 15 Patient*innen mit PBC befragt wurden.
Die Patient*innen berichteten in ihrem Alltag durch zahlreiche Körperbeschwerden
belastet zu sein, die teilweise umfangreiche Bewältigungs- und
Anpassungsprozesse erfordern. Mit Hilfe der Thematischen Analyse konnten aus dem
Datenmaterial zwei übergeordnete Themen herausgearbeitet werden:
„Einschränkungen hinnehmen und Grenzen verschieben“ beschreibt die
Herausforderung der Patient*innen, eigene Belastungsgrenzen neu zu definieren
sowie Ansprüche und Erwartungen an die eigene Leistungsfähigkeit anzupassen.
„Normalität erhalten und neu orientieren“ beschreibt das Spannungsfeld zwischen
dem Wunsch nach Aufrechterhaltung von Normalität und der Herausforderung, die
Beschwerden als wahrnehmbare Anzeichen ihrer Erkrankung in das eigene Selbstbild
zu integrieren. Die Ergebnisse verdeutlichen die zentrale Rolle körperlicher
Beschwerden im Alltag vieler Patient*innen mit PBC, die Komplexität des
Beschwerdeerlebens und die Herausforderungen im Umgang mit diesen Beschwerden.
Zudem unterstreichen sie die unterstützende und vermittelnde Funktion von
Behandler*innen bei der individuellen Symptombewältigung.
Acid-Catalyzed Condensation of Primary/Secondary Amines with 2-Oxo-2-aryl-N-arylethanethioamides: A Highly Regioselective Synthesis of α-Oxoamidines
Authors: Rangappa Kanchugarakoppal S , Mantelingu Kempegowda , Honnabandar Kanaka Vijayashankar , Suresh Rajaghatta N , Kavya Kumar , Swaroop Toreshettahally R
Published: October 2024

In this letter, we present a synthesis of a-oxoamidines by the condensation of primary/secondary amines with N-aryl-α-oxothioamides catalyzed by benzoic acid in toluene at 80 °C. The required N-aryl-α-oxothioamide substrates were synthesized by the sodium hydride-induced condensation of aromatic amines with α-oxodithioesters. The amines reacted with high regioselectivity toward thiocarbonyl groups over carbonyl groups to afford α-oxoamidines. The present method overcomes the limitations of previously reported methods.
Fire severity and plant productivity recovery in a mixed grass prairie wildfire driven by extreme winds
Authors: Grover Sera A , Vera-Velez Roy , Guo Xulin , Lamb Eric G.
Published: October 2024

Background Wildfire on rangelands in the mixed grassland can severely disrupt livestock operations. Understanding how fire severity impacts post-fire production recovery is important for grazing management. Aims We examined how topography and other environmental factors influence wildfire severity, or the consumption of biomass and exposure of soil, under extreme (>120 km h−1) wind conditions in native mixed grass prairie in western Canada. We also examined how variation in fire severity impacts grassland production recovery. Methods Fire severity and production recovery were measured using the bare soil index (BSI) and normalised difference vegetation index (NDVI). Impacts of topography, wind exposure, and site capability on fire severity and production recovery were assessed using generalised additive models. Key results Fire severity varied as a function of slope, wind exposure and fuel load. Severity peaked at NDVI between 0 and 0.4, values associated with high litter content and minimal green vegetation. Interactions between slope and aspect with respect to dominant wind direction generated very high fire severity on slopes greater than 15° that faced into the wind. Production recovery increased moderately with higher fire severity and recovery was generally higher on sites with lower potential productivity. Implications Post-fire production recovery was rapid; fire severity and site capability had only modest impacts on recovery rates demonstrating the resilience of grassland ecosystems to even severe wildfire.
Facilitating and restraining virus infection using cell-attachable soluble viral receptors
Authors: Zhang Heng , Wang Zhengli , Nguyen Huong T. T. , Cornejo Pontelli Marjorie , Qi Wanrong , Rao Liem , Liu Zhuoming , Whelan Sean P. J. , Zhu Jieqing
Published: October 2024

SARS-CoV-2 uses the receptor binding domain (RBD) of its spike protein to recognize and infect host cells by binding to the cell surface receptor angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (ACE2). The ACE2 receptor is composed of peptidase domain (PD), collectrin-like domain, transmembrane domain, and short cytoplasmic domain, and may exist as a dimer on cell surface. The RBD binding site is located atop of the ACE2 PD, but the involvement of other domains in virus infection is uncertain. We found that the ACE2 PD alone, whether anchored to cell membrane via a glycosylphosphatidylinositol anchor or attached to another surface protein, is fully functional as a receptor for spike-mediated cell fusion and virus infection. However, for ACE2 to function as the viral receptor, the RBD binding site must be positioned in close proximity to the cell membrane. Elevating the surface height of ACE2 using long and rigid protein spacers reduces or eliminates cell fusion and virus infection. Moreover, we found that the RBD-targeting neutralizing antibodies, nanobodies, and de novo designed miniprotein binders, when present on cell surface, also act as viral receptors, facilitating cell fusion and virus infection. Our data demonstrate that RBD binding and close membrane proximity are essential properties for a receptor to effectively mediate SARS-CoV-2 infection. Importantly, we show that soluble RBD-binders can be engineered to make cells either susceptible or resistant to virus infection, which has significant implications for antiviral therapy and various virus-mediated applications.
Interpreting technologized
Authors: Pöchhacker Franz , Liu Minhua
Published: October 2024

As an introduction to a selection of current research on the theme of interpreting and technology this article
offers an overview of the technologization of interpreting in the course of the past century, with particular emphasis on
developments during recent decades. The application of various types of technology in different professional domains and settings
is discussed with reference to the main functions of technology: enabling service delivery, assisting the process and replacing
human agency. A brief review of some (proto)typical applications of technology in different settings and modalities of interaction
then serves as a backdrop to a summary discussion of the technology-related literature to date and an introduction to the current
research presented in Interpreting 26:2 (2024).
Multispecies language landscapes
Authors: Lamb Gavin
Published: October 2024

The Hawaiian monk seal is the most endangered of all pinnipeds (walruses, sea lions, and seals). The threat of
extinction has loomed large for these seals, especially as sea-level rise threatens to inundate their primary habitat, but an
alliance of conservation actors, from federal agencies to non-profit volunteer groups, are working to bring this species back from
the brink in Hawai‘i. Today, the monk seal population is finally beginning to recover, but as monk seals make a comeback and
reclaim busy beaches, new and unpredictable human relationships with monk seals are taking shape in an uncertain time of climate
change. Drawing on data from my ethnographic research of the monk seal-human contact zone in Hawai‘i, in this article, I explore
possibilities for a multispecies approach to linguistic and semiotic Landscape research that seeks to ‘multiply’ our understanding
of social life and meaning-making in public space as a rich, multispecies entanglement.
The influence of lattice anharmonicity on the thermal transport properties of two-dimensional MgF2
Authors: She Aixian , Zhao Yinchang , Ni Jun , Dai Zhenhong
Published: October 2024

Graphene research has ignited interest in two-dimensional (2D) materials. In addition to their unique electronic, mechanical, and optical properties, 2D materials exhibit distinctive thermal transport characteristics. A profound understanding of the microscopic mechanisms underlying the thermal transport properties of 2D materials is crucial for applications in energy conversion and storage devices. However, current studies lack insights into the influence of higher-order lattice anharmonicity on the transport behavior of 2D materials. Thus, this paper focuses on the 2D 1T phase MgF2, analyzing its microscopic thermal transport properties through an anharmonic lattice dynamics approach. Our methodology comprehensively accounts for the effects of quartic anharmonicity and four-phonon scattering on the thermal transport properties of 2D materials.
Scaling of HeatLMD-simulated impurity outflux from COMPASS-U liquid metal divertor
Authors: Horacek J. , Lukes S. , Jaulmes F. , Cecrdle J. , Tskhakaya D. , Komm M.
Published: October 2024

The liquid metal divertor (LMD) concept offers a promising solution to manage extreme heat loads in plasma devices. This study presents predictive simulations using the HeatLMD model for the COMPASS-U tokamak with a full toroidal liquid metal divertor, expected to achieve reactor-relevant divertor heat flux densities. We derive the scaling of the Li|Sn outflux over 7 assumed independent parameters, transferable to other tokamaks. Its transport to LCFS (via ERO2.0) and its radiation (via Aurora and FACIT) predicts acceptably low lithium concentration and negligible plasma cooling. However, for tin, the medium power scenario requires backside cooling beyond the capability of the ITER-like water-cooled divertor, though a temporary heat absorber can approximate this for a 1 s plasma pulse. For incident divertor power exceeding 2 MW and strike point T
e < 10 eV, HeatLMD predicts significant tin plasma radiative disruption.
First principles investigation of elastic, electronic and thermoelectric properties of lead-free Cs–X–I (X = Pb, Gd, Nd, Y) perovskites
Authors: Alruqi Adel Bandar , Ongwen Nicholas O
Published: October 2024

Perovskites have become the center of recent research for their possible application in perovskite solar cells, owing to their desirable optical and electronic properties, flexibility, tunability, and low–cost fabrication. Most of the perovskites are however made of lead, which is a highly poisonous element. It is therefore necessary to seek alternative perovskites for this application that are less toxic. This study investigated the elastic, electronic, and thermoelectric properties of Cs–X–I (X = Pb, Gd, Nd, and Y) as possible replacements to the leaded CsPbI3 due to their less toxic nature. The density functional theory was utilized in the computations, with quantum espresso and BoltzTrap packages. The results showed that all the materials were structurally stable. The computed mechanical properties also showed that all the other materials had better elastic constants compared to those of CsPbI3. CsPbI3 was observed to exhibit the lowest band gap, unlike the others. Moreover, the other materials possessed higher elastic constants, electrical conductivities, and lowest thermal conductivities, which are highly needed in the perovskite solar cells. However, an experimental treatment needs to be done on the studied structures in order to confirm the properties obtained in this work.
Fermion and boson pairs in beamsplitters and Mach–Zehnder interferometers
Authors: Hance Jonte R
Published: October 2024

In this short topical review, we look at something typically considered trivial, but not given formally elsewhere—the behaviour of first multiple fermions, then multiple bosons, in a beamsplitter. Extending from this, we then describe the behaviour of multiple fermions and multiple bosons in Mach–Zehnder interferometers. We hope that by showing how to go from mathematically simple but unintuitive quantum field theory to a phenomenological description, this review will help both researchers and students build a stronger intuition for the behaviour of quantum particles.
Design and experimental evaluation of a non-contact ultrasonic motor using acoustic phase holography
Authors: Ghavami Namin Behzad , Hojjat Yousef
Published: October 2024

Non-contact ultrasonic motors address certain limitations of conventional ultrasonic motors. However, they continue to have intricate designs and electronics. Acoustic holography has emerged as a technique for its flexibility and dynamicity in manipulating acoustic phase and amplitude patterns in the nearfield, offering a reduction in mentioned complexities. Therefore, this technique may find utility in the development of non-contact ultrasonic motors. This paper discusses a novel design for non-contact rotary ultrasonic motor using acoustic holography. Acoustic holographic technique modulates the acoustic phase to create a phase gradient, resulting in a rotary flow that drives the rotor in the interface of aqueous media and air. The motor’s performance is influenced by factors such as the acoustic pressure amplitude, the number of 0 to

2
π

pitches, and the rotor’s geometry. An empirical study using the Response Surface Method (RSM) identified an optimal number of pitches for maximum rotational speed at a constant voltage. The motor torque was measured by calculating the drag forces applied to the rotor blades. It was found that the minimum output torque occurs when the stator phase pitches match the rotor blades. The ideal motor performance is achieved with eight rotor blades and six phase pitches. The motor’s top speed reached 40 rpm, and the output torque varied around 0.1 μN.m, depending on the phase pitches and rotor blades. In summary, the research highlights the potential of acoustic holography in designing a non-contact ultrasonic motor, with specific configurations yielding optimal speed and torque.
Rapid parameter estimation for merging massive black hole binaries using continuous normalizing flows
Authors: Liang Bo , Du Minghui , Wang He , Xu Yuxiang , Liu Chang , Wei Xiaotong , Xu Peng , Qiang Li-e , Luo Ziren
Published: October 2024

Detecting the coalescences of massive black hole binaries (MBHBs) is one of the primary targets for space-based gravitational wave observatories such as laser interferometer space antenna, Taiji, and Tianqin. The fast and accurate parameter estimation of merging MBHBs is of great significance for the global fitting of all resolvable sources, as well as the astrophysical interpretation of gravitational wave signals. However, such analyses usually entail significant computational costs. To address these challenges, inspired by the latest progress in generative models, we explore the application of continuous normalizing flows (CNFs) on the parameter estimation of MBHBs. Specifically, we employ linear interpolation and trig interpolation methods to construct transport paths for training CNFs. Additionally, we creatively introduce a parameter transformation method based on the symmetry in the detector’s response function. This transformation is integrated within CNFs, allowing us to train the model using a simplified dataset, and then perform parameter estimation on more general data, hence also acting as a crucial factor in improving the training speed. In conclusion, for the first time, within a comprehensive and reasonable parameter range, we have achieved a complete and unbiased 11-dimensional rapid inference for MBHBs in the presence of astrophysical confusion noise using CNFs. In the experiments based on simulated data, our model produces posterior distributions comparable to those obtained by nested sampling.
Competing Conceptions of the Freedom to Conduct a Business as a Fundamental Right
Authors: O'Connor Niall
Published: October 2024

This chapter explores the consequences of the enactment of the European Union Charter of Fundamental Rights for the Court of Justice of the European Union’s interpretation and application of the freedom to conduct a business as a fundamental right. It is demonstrated that the relative continuity with the pre-existing general principles was interrupted by a series of deregulatory judgments within the employment context in which the freedom to conduct a business was a relied on to undermine the competing social rights of employees. Particular attention is paid to the decision in Alemo-Herron, which sits at the crossroads between the Court’s restrictive and expansive approaches to the freedom to conduct a business as a fundamental right. Absent from the Court’s case law is any in-depth examination of the meaning of freedom of contract as a component of the freedom to conduct a business, or indeed the value to be placed on freedom of contract within European Union law more generally.
The Systemic Implications of the Freedom to Conduct a Business as a Fundamental Right
Authors: O'Connor Niall
Published: October 2024

This chapter advances a ‘socialized’ conception of the freedom to conduct a business as a fundamental right through an examination of the interrelation between that freedom and the right to work found in Article 15 of the European Union Charter of Fundamental Rights. The freedom to pursue a trade or occupation and business freedoms have been deeply connected since the earliest case law of the Court of Justice of the European Union recognizing fundamental rights as general principles of European Union law. Lessons are drawn from the Lochner discourse in the United States to demonstrate the potential systemic consequences of the reliance by courts on deregulatory constitutional concepts such as freedom of contract. At the same time, it is shown that competing (social) constitutional values can lead to a reconceptualization of economic freedoms through a proper recognition of their social dimension.
Sampson Against the Philistines
Authors: Funk Kellen R
Published: October 2024

This chapter introduces a distinctively liberal American approach to codification that undergird the successful movement to codify legal practice in mid-nineteenth-century New York. Codification in New York resounded with overtones of anti-English political and religious dissent—dissent that could speak in a democratic voice but often did not, favoring instead the interests of lawyers more than legislators. This voice was typified by the Orangeist reformer William Sampson and, in the next generation, Sampson’s admirer David Dudley Field. For codifiers like Field, codification was a tool for managing judges and judicial precedent without sacrificing the property protections those precedents secured. This approach to codification reflected the interests of workaday practitioners who sought to manage the explosion of legal publishing after the 1820s. More broadly, codifiers in and outside New York argued the virtues of codification in terms distinctive of liberal Protestantism, with a commitment to self-elucidating texts, unmediated access to truth, and, above all, limited state authority. By focusing codification on the concerns of legal practitioners, trial lawyers like Field and Sampson managed the tensions inherent in a drive toward codification that was paradoxically indifferent to legislative power.
Healthcare Access Domains and Treatment as Mediators of Ovarian Cancer Racial Disparities in Survival: A Structural Equation Modeling Analysis in SEER-Medicare
Authors: Meernik Clare , Chen Quan , Wilson Lauren E , Joshi Ashwini , Rahman Fariha , Pisu Maria , Liang Margaret , Ward Kevin C , Kuliszewski Margaret Gates , Tucker Thomas , Berchuck Andrew , Huang Bin , Akinyemiju Tomi
Published: October 2024

Racial differences in healthcare access (HCA) may contribute to disparities in ovarian cancer (OC) survival. We used structural equation models (SEM) to examine associations between race and HCA domains (affordability, availability, accessibility) in relation to overall and OC-specific mortality. Non-Hispanic (NH)-Black and non-Black (Hispanic, NH-White) women diagnosed with OC in 2008-2015 were identified from SEER-Medicare. Cox proportional hazards regression was used to conduct mediation analysis for associations between race and HCA domains with overall and OC-specific mortality. SEM models adjusting for demographic and clinical covariates were used to estimate hazard ratios (HR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI). A total of 4,629 eligible OC patients were identified, including 255 (5.5%) patients who were NH-Black. In SEM adjusting for demographic, clinical, and HCA latent variables, there was a total effect of NH-Black race on overall (HR: 1.11, 95% CI: 1.03,1.19) and OC-specific mortality (HR: 1.16, 95% CI: 1.08, 1.24), which was primarily driven by a direct effect. There was a modest indirect association between NH-Black race and mortality through decreased treatment receipt, though not through HCA. There is a need for studies investigating additional social and biological mechanisms that contribute to worse cancer survival among NH-Black patients.
Advances in recombinant protein production in microorganisms and functional peptide tags
Authors: Ojima-Kato Teruyo
Published: October 2024

Recombinant protein production in prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells is a fundamental technology for both research and industry. Achieving efficient protein synthesis is key to accelerating the discovery, characterization, and practical application of proteins. This review focuses on recent advances in recombinant protein production and strategies for more efficient protein production, especially using Escherichia coli and Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Additionally, this review summarizes the development of various functional peptide tags that can be employed for protein production, modification, and purification, including translation-enhancing peptide tags developed by our research group.
Evidence-Informed Provision of Doxycycline Postexposure Prophylaxis for Prevention of Bacterial Sexually Transmitted Infections
Authors: Dombrowski Julia C , Donnell Deborah , Grabow Cole , Cohen Stephanie E , Cannon Chase A , Brown Clare E , Buchbinder Susan P , Celum Connie , Luetkemeyer Anne F
Published: October 2024

Doxycycline postexposure prophylaxis (doxy-PEP) reduces the risk of bacterial sexually transmitted infections among men who have sex with men and transgender women. In the United States, doxy-PEP is in an early stage of integration into clinical practice, and national guidelines for its use were recently released. The goal of this manuscript is to provide practical guidance for clinicians who are considering or currently prescribing doxy-PEP. We address 5 clinical questions using post hoc analyses of data from the DoxyPEP randomized controlled trial and discuss the potential implications and limitations of each question with the goal of informing clinical practice and implementation of doxy-PEP programs. The questions address patient eligibility criteria for doxy-PEP, the expected benefit and associated doxy-PEP doses for the average patient, the initial number of doses prescribed, and laboratory monitoring of persons taking doxy-PEP.
Experimental assessment of warming effects on the architecture and growth of the subalpine species Nothofagus pumilio
Authors: Torres Cristian D , Aparicio Alejandro G , Puntieri Javier G , Soliani Carolina , Stecconi Marina , Pastorino Mario J
Published: October 2024

Global warming can pose a significant threat to forest tree species, particularly those inhabiting subalpine forests in temperate regions. Plasticity and adaptation are essential for the persistence of these forests. Nothofagus pumilio, the dominant tree species at the high-altitude limits of Patagonian temperate forests, is well adapted to cold conditions. To assess its potential responses to global warming, we established a genetic multi-environment field trial across three altitudes, 1200 (the current optimal for N. pumilio in North Patagonia), 800, and 400 m a.s.l., using plants from three provenances. Our hypothesis was that warmer conditions would reduce plant survival and promote the early expression of developmental attributes associated with advanced ontogenetic stages. After three growing seasons from trial planting, we measured survival, growth, and architectural traits. Plant survival and radial growth were lower at warmer, suboptimal sites. Warmer conditions induced the early expression of traits associated with advanced ontogenetic stages, particularly in two provenances, highlighting significant genotype-by-environment interactions. Additionally, plants at intermediate altitudes exhibited reduced height and a less hierarchical trunk structure, suggesting that juvenile growth and architecture in N. pumilio may be affected not only linearly with rising temperatures, but by interactions with stochastic factors, such as episodic frosts, which could operate on warming-induced effects decoupling plants from normal seasonality.
Abelian Covers of ℙ1 of p-Ordinary Ekedahl–Oort Type
Authors: Lin Yuxin , Mantovan Elena , Singhal Deepesh
Published: October 2024

Given a family of abelian covers of ${\mathbb{P}}^{1}$ and a prime $p$ of good reduction, by considering the associated Deligne–Mostow Shimura variety, we obtain non-trivial bounds for the Ekedahl–Oort types, and the Newton polygons, at prime $p$ for the curves in the family. In this paper, we investigate whether such bounds are sharp. In particular, we prove sharpness when the number of branching points is at most five and $p$ sufficiently large. Our result is a generalization under stricter assumptions of [ 2, Theorem 6.1] by Bouw, which proves the analogous statement for the $p$-rank, and it relies on the notion of Hasse–Witt triple introduced by Moonen in [ 12].
Use of an Ethinyl Estradiol/Etonogestrel Vaginal Ring Alters Vaginal Microbial Communities in Women With HIV
Authors: Tobin Nicole H , Brooker Sarah L , Li Fan , Coombs Robert W , Cohn Susan E , Moran Laura , Leon Mey , Chotirosniramit Nuntisa , Jalil Emilia M , Chakalisa Unoda A , Scarsi Kimberly K , Zorrilla Carmen D , Godfrey Catherine , Aldrovandi Grace M
Published: October 2024

Background

Human immunodeficiency virus 1 (HIV-1) antiretroviral therapy (ART) alters hormonal contraceptive levels delivered via intravaginal ring (IVR) in a regimen-specific manner. We explored the role of the IVR on vaginal microbial communities, vaginal short chain fatty acids (SCFAs), vaginal HIV shedding, and the effect of vaginal microbes on hormone concentrations in cisgender women with HIV (WWH).

Methods

Vaginal microbes were assessed by 16S RNA sequencing of weekly vaginal swabs, vaginal SCFA by mass spectrometry, HIV-1 shedding by nucleic acid amplification on vaginal aspirates, and bacterial vaginosis by Nugent scoring from 74 participants receiving an etonogestrel/ethinyl estradiol (ENG/EE) intravaginal ring while on no ART (n = 25), efavirenz-based ART (n = 25), or atazanavir-based ART (n = 24).

Results

At baseline, microbial communities of the 64 substudy eligible participants robustly classified as Lactobacillus crispatus-dominant (n = 8), Lactobacillus gasseri-dominant (n = 2), Lactobacillus iners-dominant (n = 17), or mixed anaerobic communities (n = 37). During IVR therapy, there was an increased probability of Lactobacillus-dominant community state types (CSTs) (odds ratio = 1.61, P = .04). Vaginal CSTs were associated with Nugent scores. Bacterial vaginosis-associated bacteria were associated with significantly higher and L. iners with lower Nugent scores (all P adjusted <.1). Lactic acid levels were correlated with the relative abundance of Lactobacillus species (r2 = 0.574; P < .001). Vaginal shedding of HIV-1 was less common in women with L. crispatus-dominant microbiomes (P = .04). Mixed anaerobic vaginal communities modulated EE concentrations in a regimen-specific manner.

Conclusions

Combined ENG/EE IVR therapy was associated with an increase in Lactobacillus-dominant vaginal microbial communities in WWH and may benefit those with bacterial vaginosis. EE levels were altered by the vaginal microbiota.
Comparing the long-term effectiveness and safety of dolutegravir/lamivudine versus bictegravir/emtricitabine/tenofovir alafenamide fumarate as first-line regimens: a real life multicentre cohort
Authors: Ciccullo Arturo , Baldin Gianmaria , Cervo Adriana , Moschese Davide , Lagi Filippo , Cossu Maria Vittoria , Grimaldi Alessandro , Giacomelli Andrea , Rusconi Stefano , Sterrantino Gaetana , Borghetti Alberto , Antinori Spinello , Mussini Cristina , Di Giambenedetto Simona
Published: October 2024

Objectives

We compared the effectiveness and safety of bictegravir/emtricitabine/tenofovir alafenamide fumarate (BIC/FTC/TAF) and dolutegravir plus lamivudine (DTG + 3TC) in our cohort of treatment-naive people with HIV (PWH).

Methods

In a multicentre cohort of treatment-naive PWH starting a first-line regimen with either dolutegravir plus lamivudine or BIC/FTC/TAF, Kaplan–Meier survival analysis was used to estimate time to virological failure (VF) and time to treatment discontinuation (TD), whereas Cox regression was used to evaluate predictors of VF and TD. Changes in CD4+ cell count were assessed via non-parametric tests, and linear regression analyses were performed to explore predictors of CD4+ cell count changes.

Results

One hundred and seventy individuals were included: 66 started dolutegravir plus lamivudine (DTG group) and 104 started BIC/FTC/TAF (BIC group). During follow-up, we observed two VFs in the DTG group [1.7 per 100 person-years of follow-up (PYFU)] and two in the BIC group (1.7 per 100 PYFU). Estimated probability of remaining free from VF at Week 144 was 95.9% in the DTG group and 95.2% in the BIC group (log-rank P = 0.955). Four TDs were observed in the DTG group (3.4 per 100 PYFU) and 21 in the BIC group (17.6 per 100 PYFU). Estimated probability of maintaining the study regimen at Week 144 was 90.3% in the DTG group and 70.0% in the BIC group; individuals in the BIC group had a higher probability of TD (log-rank P = 0.003). In both groups, the CD4+ count improved significantly during follow-up.

Conclusions

Our study shows that both strategies are effective and safe, with few VFs and TDs due to tolerability issues.
Quantifiers in connexive logic (in general and in particular)
Authors: Wansing Heinrich , Weber Zach
Published: October 2024

Connexive logic has room for two pairs of universal and particular quantifiers: one pair, $\forall $ and $\exists $, are standard quantifiers; the other pair, $\mathbb{A}$ and $\mathbb{E}$, are unorthodox, but we argue, are well-motivated in the context of connexive logic. Both non-standard quantifiers have been introduced previously, but in the context of connexive logic they have a natural semantic and proof-theoretic place, and plausible natural language readings. The results are logics that are negation inconsistent but non-trivial.
Xpert MTB/RIF Ultra as a diagnostic tool for pleural tuberculosis: a study at Indian tertiary care centre
Authors: Sharma Sumedha , Kaur Prabhdeep , Aggarwal Ashutosh N , Kaur Khushpreet , Yadav Rakesh , Sethi Sunil , Verma Indu
Published: October 2024

Despite the advent of Xpert MTB/RIF, pleural tuberculosis (TB) diagnosis in pleural fluid is still difficult. Hence, we assessed the diagnostic efficacy of its advanced version, Xpert MTB/RIF Ultra, for pleural TB diagnosis using pleural fluid as a sample. Tuberculosis pleuritis (TBP) suspects (n = 261) were enrolled in the study, of which 29 were excluded. The remaining patients (n = 232) were categorized into definite TBP (n = 31), probable TBP (n = 28), and non-TB controls (n = 173) based on the composite reference standard consisting of smear, culture, histopathology, and Xpert MTB/RIF as well as follow-up/clinical response to anti-TB therapy. Among the TBP suspects, 59 were diagnosed as TBP patients. The sensitivity of Xpert MTB/RIF Ultra (52.5%) using pleural fluid for TBP diagnosis was higher than sensitivity obtained with smear (22.4%), culture (17.6%), and Xpert MTB/RIF (25%) alone, carried out using either pleural fluid or pleural biopsy or both the samples. In cases of probable TBP, where none of the laboratory tests were positive, Xpert MTB/RIF Ultra use led to an increased diagnostic percentage of definite TBP from 52.5% to 69.4%. Overall, Xpert MTB/RIF Ultra showed promising results for a definitive diagnosis of TBP in pleural fluid samples.
Metallo-supramolecular complexes enantioselectively target monkeypox virus RNA G-quadruplex and bolster immune responses against MPXV
Authors: Yang Jie , Qin Geng , Huang Baoying , Song Hualong , Sun Jiewei , Postings Miles , Scott Peter , Zhao Chuanqi , Wang Chunyu , Tan Wenjie , Ren Jinsong , Qu Xiaogang
Published: October 2024

The Mpox virus (MPXV) has emerged as a formidable orthopoxvirus, posing an immense challenge to global public health. An understanding of the regulatory mechanisms of MPXV infection, replication and immune evasion will benefit the development of novel antiviral strategies. Despite the involvement of G-quadruplexes (G4s) in modulating the infection and replication processes of multiple viruses, their roles in the MPXV life cycle remain largely unknown. Here, we found a highly conservative and stable G4 in MPXV that acts as a positive regulatory element for viral immunodominant protein expression. Furthermore, by screening 42 optically pure chiral metal complexes, we identified the Λ enantiomer of a pair of chiral helical compounds that can selectively target mRNA G4 and enhance expression of the 39-kDa core protein encoded by the MPXV A5L gene. Mechanistically, RNA G4-specific helicase DHX36 inhibits A5L protein expression by unwinding G4s. In contrast, MH3 Λ enhanced mRNA stability by specifically targeting G4 structures and subsequently increased protein expression. Furthermore, given the pivotal role of the 39-kDa core protein in activating immune responses and facilitating virion maturation, modulation of MPXV G4 folding by MH3 Λ exhibited inhibitory effects on MPXV replication through enhancing the immune response. Our findings underscore the critical involvement of G4 in the MPXV life cycle and offer potential avenues for developing antiviral drugs that target G4.
Public transport across models and scales: A case study of the Munich network
Authors: Mölter Jan , Ji Joanna , Lienkamp Benedikt , Zhang Qin , Moreno Ana T , Schiffer Maximilian , Moeckel Rolf , Kuehn Christian
Published: October 2024

The use of public transport systems is a striking example of complex human behavior. Modeling, planning, and managing public transport is a major future challenge considering the drastically accelerated population growth in many urban areas. The desire to design sustainable cities that can cope with a dynamically increasing demand requires models for transport networks since we are not able to perform real-life experiments before constructing additional infrastructure. Yet, there is a fundamental challenge in the modeling process: we have to understand which basic principles apply to the design of transit networks. In this work, we are going to compare three scientific methods to understand human behavior in public transport modeling: agent-based models, centralized optimization-based models, and minimal physics-based models. As a case study, we focus on the transport network in Munich, Germany. We show that there are certain universal macroscopic emergent features of public transport that arise regardless of the model chosen. In particular, we can obtain with minimal basic assumptions a common and robust distribution for the individual passenger in-vehicle time as well as for several other distributions. Yet, there are other more microscopic features that differ between the individual and centralized organization and/or that cannot be reproduced by a minimal nonlocal random-walk type model. Finally, we cross-validate our results with observed public transport data. In summary, our results provide a key understanding of the basic assumptions that have to underlie transport modeling for human behavior in future sustainable cities.
Explorations of using a convolutional neural network to understand brain activations during movie watching
Authors: Sohn Wonbum , Di Xin , Liang Zhen , Zhang Zhiguo , Biswal Bharat B
Published: October 2024

Background

Naturalistic stimuli, such as videos, can elicit complex brain activations. However, the intricate nature of these stimuli makes it challenging to attribute specific brain functions to the resulting activations, particularly for higher-level processes such as social interactions.

Objective

We hypothesized that activations in different layers of a convolutional neural network (VGG-16) would correspond to varying levels of brain activation, reflecting the brain's visual processing hierarchy. Additionally, we aimed to explore which brain regions would be linked to the deeper layers of the network.

Methods

This study analyzed functional MRI data from participants watching a cartoon video. Using a pre-trained VGG-16 convolutional neural network, we mapped hierarchical features of the video to different levels of brain activation. Activation maps from various kernels and layers were extracted from video frames, and the time series of average activation patterns for each kernel were used in a voxel-wise model to examine brain responses.

Results

Lower layers of the network were primarily associated with activations in lower visual regions, although some kernels also unexpectedly showed associations with the posterior cingulate cortex. Deeper layers were linked to more anterior and lateral regions of the visual cortex, as well as the supramarginal gyrus.

Conclusions

This analysis demonstrated both the potential and limitations of using convolutional neural networks to connect video content with brain functions, providing valuable insights into how different brain regions respond to varying levels of visual processing.
Metastatic Mesothelioma of the Tunica Vaginalis Presenting as Scrotal and Abdominal Nodules: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Gilbert Aubre , Wieland Rebekah , Zacher Natasha , Rieger Kerri , Berry Gerald J. , Novoa Roberto
Published: October 2024

Mesothelioma of the tunica vaginalis testis (MMTVT) is a rare neoplasm comprising <3% of all cases of malignant mesothelioma (MM). MMTVT derives from the tunica vaginalis testis, an outpouching of the mesothelial-lined abdominal peritoneum that detaches from the abdominal cavity after the descent of the testis. Similar to pleural mesothelioma, asbestos exposure is a known risk factor. However, MMTVT has a better prognosis than pleural mesothelioma. Cutaneous metastases from MMTVT are exceedingly rare. Herein, we describe a case of a 67-year-old man with a history of asbestos exposure presenting with scrotal pain and indurated plaques on his lower abdomen and scrotum. Histologic sections showed a sheet-like dermal proliferation comprising epithelioid cells with necrosis and increased mitotic activity. The clinical and histologic differential diagnosis was broad, including metastatic carcinoma, melanoma, sarcoma, germ cell tumor, hematologic malignancy, neuroendocrine carcinoma, and malignant mesothelioma. By immunohistochemistry, the neoplastic cells were positive for WT1, D2-40, and AE1/AE3, with rare positivity for calretinin, consistent with a diagnosis of mesothelioma. Additional immunohistochemical studies provided no support for the other diagnostic considerations listed above. BAP1 showed retained nuclear expression (normal) by immunohistochemistry. A DNA sequencing panel identified copy number losses in CDKN2A, MTAP, CDKN2B, and NF2, which are frequently identified genetic alterations in malignant mesothelioma. Subsequent testicular imaging demonstrated a diffusely thickened scrotal wall with an enlarged left testicle. Overall, this represents a case of malignant mesothelioma presenting with cutaneous metastases to the scrotum and lower abdomen, with clinical and imaging features suggestive of primary MMTVT. The International Mesothelioma Interest Group recommends using at least 2 mesothelial markers, such as calretinin, WT1, CK5/6 or D2-40, and 2 epithelial markers, such as claudin-4, CEA, MOC-31, as well as a broad-spectrum cytokeratin stain (AE1/AE3) as part of an initial immunohistochemical panel. Metastatic mesothelioma should be included in the differential diagnosis of malignant epithelioid dermal tumors with unusual staining patterns.
Update on Platelet-Rich Plasma and Platelet-Rich Fibrin for Dermatologic Surgery: Addressing Knowns and Unknowns
Authors: Proffer Sydney L. , Wyles Saranya P. , Hausauer Amelia K.
Published: October 2024

BACKGROUND

Autologous and allogeneic platelet-rich plasma (PRP) in addition to its derivatives, such as platelet-rich fibrin (PRF), are broadly accepted therapeutic approaches in orthopedics, otolaryngology, sports medicine, plastic surgery, and oral and maxillofacial surgery. However, the absence of expert consensus, standardized protocols, and varying outcomes pose challenges to their broader acceptance in cosmetic dermatology and dermatologic surgery.

OBJECTIVE

To offer a contemporary literature overview of PRP and PRF, focusing on fundamental aspects of the technology, diversity of commercially accessible systems, and shed light on present-day controversies within the field.

METHODS

A systemic review of PRP and PRF literature was conducted, utilizing search engine databases: Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, Embase, Ovid MEDLINE, and PubMed. Emphasis was placed on scrutinizing higher level-of-evidence articles, specifically randomized control trials, systematic reviews, and meta-analyses (Level 1A–2A), with particular emphasis on recent data that have not been well reviewed in other publications from January 2022 to May 2024.

RESULTS

An increasing body of literature affirms advantages of PRP products in dermatology, spanning wound care, facial rejuvenation, scar revision, and hair growth.

CONCLUSION

A foundational understanding of variation in preparation protocol, outcomes, and timing of administration is needed to better comprehend market dynamics, patient demand, and strategies for integrating PRP into dermatologic practice.
Piggyback Scleral Contact Lens to Enhance Cosmesis and Comfort in Uniocular Stevens–Johnson Syndrome
Authors: Subramanian Madhumathi , Balaji Janani
Published: October 2024

Stevens–Johnson syndrome often results in a significant reduction in vision, dryness, and photophobia based on severity. Scleral lenses are well-considered visual interventions that enhance vision and comfort, resulting in an increased quality of life for patients. This case report describes the enhancement of comfort, cosmesis, and reduction of photophobia using a piggyback system (scleral contact lenses over a prosthetic contact lens), whereas the other modalities were unsatisfactory.