bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Surface charge change of inceptisol ameliorated with closed house chicken coop waste compost
Authors: Prasetyo T B , Monikasari M , Darfis I , Maulana A , Herviyanti H
Published: September 2024

Increasing the potential of closed house chicken coop waste (CHCCW) as a soil ameliorant can be done through composting utilizing microorganisms that break down organic matter through composting techniques from several activators which are then aplicated on Inceptisol. This research focuses on assessing the maturity of compost and its effect on the charge of the soil. The characteristics of compost will affect the charge exchange in the soil in its ability to absorb and exchange cations as nutrients for soil fertility and plant growth. This study aims to evaluate the properties of compost from multiple activators and identify the optimal formulation to be applied to soil. This research was conducted by composting CHCCW with activators: Tricoderma sp.; Local Microorganisms (MOL), Stardec, and EM4. The result of treatment using Tricoderma sp. is faster in weathering the raw material so that the composting process is faster (pH 8.45, CEC 46.8 Cmol Kg−1, organic carbon 5.58%, Total N 2.06%). Testing through application on soil (0; 20; 40; 60; 80 tons/ha) found that a dose of 60 tons/ha of CHCCW compost with Tricoderma sp. activator could increase pH from 5.33 to 6.17 units, CEC from 61.99 to 68.80 Cmol.Kg−1, and point of zero charge (PZC) from 4.67 to 5.29 units. Amelioration technology using CHCCW compost with Tricoderma sp. activator is more effective in terms of composting time than other treatments and a dose of 60 tons/ha is recommended to increase the surface charge change on Inceptisol.
Powering the future of farming: RF energy harvesting for environmental sustainability
Authors: Zahari M K , Pebrian D El , Shamsi S M , Sulaiman H , Mustaffha S , Shairi N A
Published: September 2024

Modern agriculture faces several challenges, including meeting the needs of an expanding population, mitigating the consequences of climate change, depleting natural resources, and reducing the industry’s environmental impact. This paper explores the possibilities of microwave and radio frequency (RF) energy harvesting technologies as alternative and innovative means of advancing sustainable agriculture towards providing solutions for battery replacement. RF energy harvesting has the potential to power precision agriculture equipment, reduce power outages in distant areas, and facilitate the transition to more resource-efficient practices, according to a review of the industry’s current and future issues. RF energy harvesting involves capturing ambient radio frequency signals and converting them into usable electrical energy. This technology harnesses energy from RF sources like cellular towers, Wi-Fi signals, and broadcast transmitters. The process includes capturing RF energy using antennas, converting it to DC power using rectifiers, and storing or using it to power devices. Despite the promise, RF energy harvesting faces challenges such as low energy density, limited efficiency of conversion, and fluctuations in signal strength. However, ongoing advancements in rectifiers, antennas, and integration with IoT devices could significantly enhance its viability. Moreover, as smart farming increasingly relies on IoT devices, RF energy harvesting could become a crucial power source for these low-power sensors and devices, promoting more sustainable farming practices by reducing reliance on conventional batteries. The future of RF energy harvesting looks promising with potential advancements in technology, new materials, and supportive policy and regulatory frameworks.
The potential of cinnamon-derived edible coating to prolong tomato freshness and quality
Authors: Mukhtar N K , Marzuki N H B Ahmad , Zain N Md , Naher L , Mohmad Hairin N E , Mat Arsab N F
Published: September 2024

Tomatoes commonly face challenges in shelf life, typically lasting only seven days to two weeks under normal before deterioration. Pathogen attacks, particularly from fungi and bacteria, significantly contribute to the storage deterioration of tomatoes. This study was conducted to investigate the potential of natural edible coating from cinnamon (Cinnamomum verum) extract to extend the shelf life and improve the quality of tomato (Solanum lycopersicum). The objective of this study was to determine the best treatment of cinnamon coating in prolonging the shelf life and quality of tomatoes. The quality parameters of tomatoes for total soluble solids (TSS), pH, firmness, colour, and weight loss were analyzed. The study involved seven sample treatments, totalling 35 tomatoes. Five tomato samples were coated with varying percentages of cinnamon (0 %,3 %, 6 %, 9 %, 12 %, and 15 %), one sample was coated with chitosan (positive control), and uncoated (negative control) for 0 % cinnamon. All samples were stored at 28 °C and observed within twelve days. The parameter data was recorded and observations were made every three days. The coating process was replicated three times. The 15% cinnamon treatment demonstrated effectiveness similar to the chitosan positive control across colour, firmness, total dissolved solids, and pH, with insignificant differences (P ≥ 0.05). This highlights cinnamon coating’s efficacy in extending tomato shelf life and quality. Specifically, the 15% cinnamon treatment emerged as the most promising, indicating the potential for significant shelf life extension and preservation of tomato quality.
Influential factors on consumer intention of instant noodle consumption: Evidence from Kelantan Malaysia
Authors: Liew J Y , Loo B W , Boon J G , Ahmad N , Abu Bakar T H S T , Lum W C
Published: September 2024

The instant food market, particularly instant noodles, has gained considerable traction worldwide over time. Previous literature has revealed that consumers’ convenience-seeking lifestyles, diverse tastes, etc. are essential parameters driving instant noodle consumption. Instant noodles are pre-cooked noodles offering quick meal solutions. The Asia Pacific region dominates instant noodle consumption. The association between instant noodles and food security is complex and can be a double-edged sword. An excessive craving for instant food without considering food distribution, food nutrition, etc., may jeopardize food security in no time. Evidence concerning dimensions sparking the instant noodle consumption intention among consumers in the context of Malaysia, especially East Coast Malaysia, is limited. Thus, the study aimed to explore the key factors influencing Kelantan consumer intention toward instant noodle consumption. A questionnaire survey was conducted, conveniently sampling data from 384 respondents from all 10 Kelantan districts without a sampling frame, which is adequate for conducting a factor analysis to explore the significant dimensions. The districts included Kota Bharu, Pasir Mas, Tumpat, Tanah Merah, Kuala Krai, Machang, Pasir Puteh, Bachok, Gua Musang, and Jeli. The questionnaire’s reliability was confirmed by Cronbach’s Alpha reliability test before data collection. Using the SPSS, the descriptive analysis summarized the respondents’ demographic characteristics. The factor analysis inferred six underlying factors, with “convenience, product attributes, and price perception” being the most significant, explaining nearly 40% variance explained. The findings represent a promising tipping point for meeting consumer needs among instant food marketers while safeguarding the nation’s food security and preventing a malnutrition crisis.
Knowledge, attitude and practices of smart farming technology for small scale farmers in paddy production: A case study in Melaka
Authors: Idris N A M , Zulkifli Z
Published: September 2024

Rice production improvement is determined by several factors, including the farmers’ knowledge, attitude, and practice towards technology. Production increases in quantity and quality when technology is used instead of traditional methods. Thus, this study aims to assess the level of farmers’ knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) of smart farming technologies on paddy farmers agricultural practices. A modified KAP questionnaire was adapted and tailored to interview 110 respondents. The respondents are 100% males. 54.5% of respondents are between 46 to 60 years old, and only 47.3% respondents have completed their secondary level education. From the finding, only 11.8% can demonstrate and sharing about smart farming, which indicates the knowledge mastery of smart farming among the farmers is still low. However, in terms of attitude, 50% show a deep interest and are willing to learn more. Lastly, finding on practice shows that 16.8% of the respondents have utilized drones as their farming tool whereas 1.8% have used other technological tools. These numbers further substantiate the earlier finding on the farmers’ low level of knowledge on smart farming. For correlation analysis, there is a positive and significant correlation between Knowledge and Attitude scores (r = 0.626, p < 0.001) and between Knowledge and Practice (r = 0.792). Similarly, Practice score and Attitude score are positively and significantly correlated (r=0.570, p<0.001), indicating the importance of attitudes in shaping farming practices. Farmers in Melaka district have mixed understanding of smart farming technologies but are positive about learning and applying them. They express interest in government programs and a community-driven approach to knowledge sharing.
Influence of stacking sequence on flexural properties of hybrid carbon fibre reinforced polymer laminates
Authors: Banhart Dirk , Monir Shafiul , Kochneva Maria , Day Richard J , Luhyna Nataliia , Vagapov Yuriy
Published: September 2024

This paper presents a numerical investigation of the influence of the stacking sequence and fibre variation of the plies on the flexural properties of carbon fibre-reinforced polymer laminates. The numerical approach utilised a three-point flexural test to evaluate different quasi-isotropic stacking sequences. It also analysed attempts to reinforce failure-prone plies only using a stronger prepreg material to reduce the cost of the laminate. The results were validated by conducting a cantilever bending test and compared with calculations based on classical lamination theory. The beam deflection, normal stress per ply, and the Puck failure criterion inverse reverse factor per ply were used for evaluation and result comparison. The results showed that the quasi-isotropic stacking sequence [0/90/+45/−45]s is the most suitable for beam applications. Replacement of the outer plies of the composite laminate by a stronger ply material made the hybrid laminate performance almost identical to a pure composite laminate consisting of stronger material only.
Mechanical mechanism of dip effect on bearing capacity of the pillar strength
Authors: Su Yuan , Luo Binyu , Huang Tengda , Liu Xiaoyun , Li Dazhong
Published: September 2024

The dip effect on pillar strength in underground ore-body mining is well established, but the variation in stress path (magnitude and direction of stress) due to changing inclination angles requires further study. Using elasticity theory, the Euclidean mean stress tensor characterizes the stress state in pillar zones. Numerical simulations provided the second-order tensor of peak stress for each pillar unit. Through tensor statistical analysis, the Euclidean mean stress tensor matrix was calculated, and its eigenvalues and eigenvectors, representing the magnitude and direction of the principal stress, were derived. This analysis explained the intrinsic dip effect on pillar strength through principal stress characteristics. Finally, the pillar strength envelope function for varying width-height ratios at any dip angle was obtained using the random gradient descent algorithm. Results indicate that in the peak stress state, the average principal stress directions of the pillar change with orebody dip angle, affecting the stress path. The average principal stress increases with pillar size due to increased constraints. These findings offer theoretical insights for pillar design and stability analysis.
The Efficacy Potential of Cyber Security Advice as Presented in News Articles
Authors: Quinlan Mark , Ceross Aaron , Simpson Andrew
Published: September 2024

Cyber security advice is a broad church: it is thematically expansive, comprising expert texts, user-generated data consumed by individual users via informal learning and much in-between. While there is evidence that cyber security news articles play a role in disseminating cyber security advice, the nature and extent of that role are not clear. We present a corpus of cyber security advice generated from mainstream news articles. The work was driven by two research objectives. The first objective was to ascertain what kind of actionable advice is being disseminated; the second was to explore ways of determining the efficacy potential of news-mediated security advice. The results show an increase in the generation of cyber security news articles, together with increases in vocabulary complexity and reading difficulty. We argue that these could present challenges for vulnerable users. We believe that this corpus and the accompanying analysis have the potential to inform future efforts to quantify and improve the efficacy potential of security advice dissemination.
Antler size in red deer: declining selection and increasing genetic variance with age, but little senescence
Authors: Mittell Elizabeth A , Mandaliya Priyam , Pemberton Josephine M , Morris Alison , Morris Sean , Johnston Susan E , Kruuk Loeske E B
Published: September 2024

While senescence is a common occurrence in wild populations, not all traits decline with age simultaneously and some do not show any senescence. A lack of senescence in secondary sexual traits is thought to be due to their importance for reproductive success. However, if reproductive success senesces, why would secondary sexual traits apparently not senesce? Here, we explored this question in a wild population of red deer (Cervus elaphus) using antler form (number of points), a secondary sexual trait which shows little senescence, despite the occurrence of reproductive senescence. In line with expectations for traits that senesce, genetic variance in antler form increased with age and selection weakened with age. Therefore, there was no indication that a stronger selection on individuals that survived to older ages was countering the dilution of selection due to fewer individuals being alive. Furthermore, the effect of selective disappearance masking a slight decline in antler form in the oldest years was small. Interestingly, although genetic variance and positive selection of antler form were found, there was no evidence of a response to selection, supporting a genetic decoupling of antler senescence and reproductive senescence. Finally, a positive genetic covariance in antler form among age classes provides a possible explanation for the lack of senescence. These findings suggest that the antler form is under a genetic constraint that prevents it from senescing, providing an interesting evolutionary explanation for negligible senescence in a secondary sexual trait, and consequently, the existence of asynchrony in senescence among traits within populations.
Low CD86 expression is a predictive biomarker for clinical response to the therapeutic human papillomavirus vaccine IGMKK16E7: results of a post hoc analysis
Authors: Ando Hanano , Katoh Yuki , Kobayashi Osamu , Ikeda Yuji , Yahata Hideaki , Iwata Takashi , Satoh Toyomi , Akiyama Azusa , Maeda Daichi , Hori-Hirose Yumiko , Uemura Yukari , Nakayama-Hosoya Kaori , Katoh Kanoko , Nakajima Takahiro , Taguchi Ayumi , Komatsu Atsushi , Kamata Saki , Tomita Naoko , Kato Kiyoko , Aoki Daisuke , Igimi Shizunobu , Kawana-Tachikawa Ai , Schust Danny J , Kawana Kei
Published: September 2024

Background

Although therapeutic human papillomavirus vaccines could offer a noninvasive treatment for patients with cervical intraepithelial neoplasia, none has been clinically implemented. Oral administration of the therapeutic human papillomavirus vaccine IGMKK16E7 results in the histological regression of human papillomavirus 16–positive cervical intraepithelial neoplasia 2/3 to normal (complete response). We investigated biomarkers that could predict complete response after oral administration of IGMKK16E7.

Methods

Forty-two patients administered high-dose oral IGMKK16E7 in a phase I/II trial were included. Cervix-exfoliated cells were collected before vaccine administration. Gene expression of CD4, CD8, FOXP3, programmed cell death 1 protein, CTLA4, CD103, CD28, CD80, CD86, and programmed cell death 1 ligand 1 in the cells was measured by quantitative reverse transcriptase–polymerase chain reaction. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis and Mann-Whitney tests were used to explore potential biomarkers. Pearson correlation coefficient analysis was used to correlate gene expression profiles with clinical outcome.

Results

The only predictive biomarker of vaccine response for which receiver operating characteristic curve analysis showed significant diagnostic performance with histological complete response was CD86 (area under the curve = 0.71, 95% confidence interval = 0.53 to 0.88, P = .020). Patients with complete response had significantly lower CD86 expression (CD86-low) than patients with no complete response (P = .035). The complete response rates for CD86-low and CD86-high patients were 50% and 19%, respectively, and CD86-low patients had a significantly higher complete response rate (P = .047). Compared with all patients, the CD86-low group had a 1.5-fold increase in the complete response rate. Gene expression of CD86 and CTLA4 showed the strongest positive correlation with clinical outcomes in the incomplete response group (P < .001).

Conclusion

Low expression of CD86 in exfoliated cervical cells can be used as a pretreatment biomarker to predict histological complete response after IGMKK16E7 administration.
Parental Socioeconomic Status and an Infant’s Risk of Hospital Admission for Respiratory Syncytial Virus
Authors: Koivisto Karoliina M , Nieminen Tea , Hermunen Teemu , Rantanen Matti , Saxén Harri , Madanat-Harjuoja Laura
Published: September 2024

Background

While clinical risk factors for respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) bronchiolitis are well established, data on socioeconomic risk factors is lacking. We explored the association of parental education, income, and employment status on an infant’s risk of hospitalization for RSV bronchiolitis.

Methods

This population-based retrospective case-control study covered all RSV-related hospital admissions of under 1-year-old children in Finland between 2004 and 2018. Controls were matched by month and year of birth, sex, province of residence, and family size. Registry data were linked using unique personal identity codes. Cases and controls were compared using adjusted odds ratios (aOR) calculated for socioeconomic outcomes including maternal and paternal education, household income, and parental employment.

Results

A total of 10 767 infants and 50 054 controls were included in the study. Lower parental education significantly raised the risk for RSV hospital admission in infants, the risk growing with decreasing education levels; aOR 1.03 (0.96-1.09) with post-secondary education, 1.12 (1.05-1.2) with secondary education, and 1.33 (1.2-1.47) with primary education. Combined parental income was not significant: aOR 0.97 (confidence interval [CI] 0.91-1.05), 1.02 (CI 0.95-1.1), 1 (CI 0.92-1.08), and 0.94 (CI 0.85-1.04), respectively with decreasing income level. Unemployment of both parents seemed to be a risk factor for the child’s RSV hospital admission, aOR 1.24 (1.12-1.38).

Conclusions

Lower parental socioeconomic status may increase the risk of an infant’s RSV hospitalization. Socioeconomic risk factors should be considered when designing RSV infection primary prevention strategies.
Development and epigenetic regulation of Atypical teratoid/rhabdoid tumors in the context of cell-of-origin and halted cell differentiation
Authors: Huhtala Laura , Karabiyik Goktug , Rautajoki Kirsi J
Published: September 2024

Atypical teratoid/rhabdoid tumors (AT/RTs) are aggressive brain tumors primarily observed in infants. The only characteristic, recurrent genetic aberration of AT/RTs is biallelic inactivation of SMARCB1 (or SMARCA4). These genes are members of the mSWI/SNF chromatin-remodeling complex, which regulates various developmental processes, including neural differentiation. This review explores AT/RT subgroups regarding their distinct SMARCB1 loss-of-function mechanisms, molecular features, and patient characteristics. Additionally, it addresses the ongoing debate about the oncogenic relevance of cell-of-origin, examining the influence of developmental stage and lineage commitment of the seeding cell on tumor malignancy and other characteristics. Epigenetic dysregulation, particularly through the regulation of histone modifications and DNA hypermethylation, has been shown to play an integral role in AT/RTs’ malignancy and differentiation blockage, maintaining cells in a poorly differentiated state via the insufficient activation of differentiation-related genes. Here, the differentiation blockage and its contribution to malignancy are also explored in a cellular context. Understanding these mechanisms and AT/RT heterogeneity is crucial for therapeutic improvements against AT/RTs.
Fusariosis in the Sphere
Authors: Aguilar-Zapata Daniel
Published: September 2024

In 2012, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported a fungal meningitis outbreak due to Exserohilum rostratum, caused by methylprednisolone administration. Twelve years later, an iatrogenic outbreak of Fusarium meningitis was documented in Mexico after epidural anesthesia.
Obstructive sleep apnea and cerebral small vessel disease in community-based older people: an aspirin in reducing events in the elderly imaging substudy
Authors: Ward Stephanie A , Storey Elsdon , Naughton Matthew T , Wolfe Rory , Hamilton Garun S , Law Meng , Kawasaki Ryo , Abhayaratna Walter P , Webb Katherine L , O’Donoghue Fergal J , Gasevic Danijela , Stocks Nigel P , Trevaks Ruth E , Robman Liubov D , Kolbe Scott , Fitzgerald Sharyn M , Orchard Suzanne G , Wong Tien Y , McNeil John J , Reid Christopher M , Sinclair Ben , Woods Robyn L
Published: September 2024

Study Objectives

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) may increase the risk of dementia. A potential pathway for this risk is through cerebral small vessel disease (CSVD). In the context of an existing randomized trial of aspirin for primary prevention, we aimed to investigate OSA’s impact on CSVD imaging measures and explore whether aspirin effects these measures over 3 years that differ in the presence or absence of OSA.

Methods

A substudy of the aspirin in reducing events in the elderly (ASPREE) randomized placebo-controlled trial of low-dose aspirin. Community-dwelling participants aged 70 years and above, without cognitive impairment, cardiovascular disease, or known OSA completed an unattended limited-channel sleep study that calculated the oxygen desaturation index and apnea–hypopnea index. At baseline and 3 years later, volumes of white matter hyperintensities (WMH) and silent brain infarctions (SBI) were measured on 1.5 Tesla brain magnetic resonance imaging, and retinal vessel calibers were calculated from retinal vascular imaging.

Results

Mild and moderate/severe OSA was detected in 48.9% and 29.9%, respectively, of the 311 participants, who had a mean age of 73.7 years (SD 3.4 years), 38.6% female. OSA of any severity was not associated with WMH volumes, SBI, nor retinal vessel calibers at baseline, nor with change in these measures in the 277 participants with repeated measures acquired after 3 years. OSA of any severity did not interact with aspirin on change in these measures over 3 years.

Conclusions

In healthy older adults undiagnosed OSA was not associated with retinal vascular calibers and neuroimaging measures of CSVD.

Clinical Trial Information

ASPREE trial has registration with the International Standard Randomized Controlled Trial Number (ISRCTN) www.isrctn.com, ISRCTN83772183 and with www.clinicaltrials.gov, NCT01038583. SNORE-ASA has registration with the Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (ANZCTR) at www.anzctr.org.au, ACTRN12612000891820.
Exploring P2X7 receptor antagonism as a therapeutic target for neuroprotection in an hiPSC motor neuron model
Authors: Johns Alexandra E , Taga Arens , Charalampopoulou Andriana , Gross Sarah K , Rust Khalil , McCray Brett A , Sullivan Jeremy M , Maragakis Nicholas J
Published: September 2024

ATP is present in negligible concentrations in the interstitium of healthy tissues but accumulates to significantly higher concentrations in an inflammatory microenvironment. ATP binds to 2 categories of purine receptors on the surface of cells, the ionotropic P2X receptors and metabotropic P2Y receptors. Included in the family of ionotropic purine receptors is P2X7 (P2X7R), a non-specific cation channel with unique functional and structural properties that suggest it has distinct roles in pathological conditions marked by increased extracellular ATP. The role of P2X7R has previously been explored in microglia and astrocytes within the context of neuroinflammation, however the presence of P2X7R on human motor neurons and its potential role in neurodegenerative diseases has not been the focus of the current literature. We leveraged the use of human iPSC-derived spinal motor neurons (hiPSC-MN) as well as human and rodent tissue to demonstrate the expression of P2X7R on motor neurons. We extend this observation to demonstrate that these receptors are functionally active on hiPSC-MN and that ATP can directly induce death via P2X7R activation in a dose dependent manner. Finally, using a highly specific P2X7R blocker, we demonstrate how modulation of P2X7R activation on motor neurons is neuroprotective and could provide a unique pharmacologic target for ATP-induced MN death that is distinct from the role of ATP as a modulator of neuroinflammation.
The Global Burden of Disease Due to Benign Gynecological Conditions: A Call to Action
Authors: Wijeratne Dileep , Gibson Joanna F. E. , Fiander Alison , Rafii-Tabar Elizabeth , Thakar Ranee
Published: September 2024

(Abstracted from Int J Gynecol Obstet 2024;164:1151–1159)

Benign gynecological conditions (BGCs) are responsible for a significant burden of unrecognized morbidity, preventable suffering, and poor quality of life for women and girls, particularly in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). The consequences of BGCs extend beyond immediate symptoms, with menstrual disorders, for example, being strongly associated with girls’ absenteeism from school.
Living well
Authors: Mackel Erin , Breda Karen Lucas
Published: September 2024

Self-management of chronic diseases, which increase with age, is vital. This article discusses the benefits of chronic disease self-management and how nurses and other healthcare professionals can provide supportive care. It also presents an evidence-based intervention project that promoted chronic disease self-management among community-dwelling older adults.
Optimizing peripheral I.V. access outcomes – Part 2
Authors: Nickel Barb
Published: September 2024

Peripheral I.V. access failure is a source of patient discomfort and dissatisfaction with a significant financial impact on healthcare. This article reviews the benefits and the risks of peripheral I.V. catheter (PIVC) utilization, infusate characteristics and their impact on peripheral vasculature, PIVC site assessment and management, and PIVC research priorities. Part 1 of this series was published in Nursing's September 2024 issue.
Unusual Maternal and Fetal Findings With Cell-Free DNA Screening
Authors: Santoli Carmen M. A. , Anastasio Mary Katherine , Sparks Teresa N. , Dotters-Katz Sarah K. , Kuller Jeffrey A.
Published: September 2024

Importance

With advances in prenatal cell-free DNA (cfDNA) technology, the information available with cfDNA continues to expand beyond the common fetal aneuploidies such as trisomies 21, 18, and 13. Due to the admixture of maternal and fetal/placental DNA, prenatal cfDNA remains a screening test with the possibility of false-positive and false-negative results.

Objective

This review aims to summarize unusual incidental maternal and fetal genomic abnormalities detectable by cfDNA and to provide anticipatory guidance regarding management.

Evidence Acquisition

Of 140 articles identified with keywords such as “incidental” and “discordant” cfDNA, 55 original research articles, review articles, case series, and societal guidelines were reviewed.

Results

Prenatal cfDNA may incidentally identify a spectrum of maternal genomic abnormalities such as malignancy, mosaicism, and copy number variants. When discordant with fetal diagnosis, these cases require additional investigation with maternal genetic testing and follow-up evaluation. Such incidental fetal/placental abnormalities may include rare autosomal trisomies, uniparental disomy, and triploidy. Further evaluation of fetal/placental abnormalities can be pursued with a combination of ultrasound and prenatal diagnosis with chorionic villous sampling and/or amniocentesis. Societal guidelines do not currently recommend cfDNA screening for rare autosomal trisomies, microdeletions, or copy number variants, and some experts suggest that sex chromosome screening should be opted in after counseling.

Conclusions

Knowledge about possible incidental findings with prenatal cfDNA is needed to inform pretest and posttest counseling with appropriate follow-up evaluation.

Relevance

As cfDNA technology has advanced to include genome-wide findings, it is important for clinicians, genetic counselors, and societal guidelines to acknowledge the spectrum of possible results outside of the traditional and sex chromosome aneuploidies.

Target Audience

Obstetricians and gynecologists, family physicians

Learning Objectives

After completing this activity, the learner will be better able to describe maternal and fetal/placental abnormalities detectable by cfDNA that are outside of the traditional aneuploidies; discuss pretest and posttest counseling and follow-up recommendations; and explain societal guidelines regarding the recommended scope of prenatal cfDNA screening.
Pembrolizumab or Placebo With Chemoradiotherapy Followed by Pembrolizumab or Placebo for Newly Diagnosed, High-Risk, Locally Advanced Cervical Cancer (ENGOT-cx11/GOG-3047/KEYNOTE-A18): A Randomized, Double-Blind, Phase 3 Clinical Trial
Authors: Lorusso Domenica , Xiang Yang , Hasegawa Kosei , Scambia Giovanni , Leiva Manuel , Ramos-Elias Pier , Acevedo Alejandro , Sukhin Vladyslav , Cloven Noelle , Pereira de Santana Gomes Andrea J. , Mejía Fernando Contreras , Reiss Ari , Ayhan Ali , Lee Jung-Yun , Saevets Valeriya , Zagouri Flora , Gilbert Lucy , Sehouli Jalid , Tharavichitkul Ekkasit , Lindemann Kristina , Lazzari Roberta , Chang Chih-Long , Lampé Rudolf , Zhu Hong , Oaknin Ana , Christiaens Melissa , Polterauer Stephan , Usami Tomoka , Li Kan , Yamada Karin , Toker Sarper , Keefe Stephen M. , Pignata Sandro , Duska Linda R. ,   on behalf of the ENGOT-cx11/GOG-3047/KEYNOTE-A18 Investigators
Published: September 2024

(Abstracted from Lancet 2024;403:1341–1350)

Prognosis for locally advanced cervical cancer is poor, with 5-year progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival ranging from 47% to 80%. For the past several decades, treatment has included external beam radiotherapy with concurrent chemotherapy followed by brachytherapy, and novel therapeutic options are needed.
Sustained nerve growth factor-induced C-nociceptor sensitization to electrical sinusoidal stimulation in humans
Authors: Solinski Hans Jürgen , Schmelz Martin , Rukwied Roman
Published: September 2024

Introduction:

Injection of recombinant human nerve growth factor (rhNGF) evokes acute heat and prolonged “polymodal” (mechanosensitive [CM]) and “silent” (mechanoinsensitive [CMi]) C-nociceptor sensitization. Both nociceptor classes can be activated differentially using slowly depolarizing electrical sinusoidal stimuli.

Objectives:

To explore the temporal profile of nociceptor sensitization to heat and mechanical and electrical stimuli in humans after rhNGF.

Methods:

Recombinant human nerve growth factor (1 µg) and NaCl (0.9%) was injected into human forearm skin (n = 9, 50 µL/injection). Pain ratings (numeric rating scale) to transcutaneous electrical stimuli (1 ms 20 Hz rectangular pulses, 500-ms half-period sine wave [1 Hz] and 4 Hz sine wave pulses [2.5 and 60 seconds]) were assessed at days 3, 21, and 49 after injection, in addition to heat pain thresholds (HPTs, 9 × 9 mm thermode) and mechanical impact pain (4 and 8 m/second).

Results:

Suprathreshold sinusoidal stimulation for specific CM (1 Hz) and combined CM and CMi (4 Hz) activation resulted in enhanced pain from day 3 post rhNGF and lasted throughout 7 weeks. These temporal dynamics contrasted minimum HPTs at day 3 (normalized by day 49) or mechanical impact pain (developing slowly until day 21 before declining depending on stimulus intensity). Correlation analyses of electrical pain indicated diverging kinetics when assessed for CM with or without concomitant CMi activation at days 3 and 21, which converged 7 weeks post rhNGF.

Conclusions:

Exceptionally long sensitization of CM and CMi nociceptors by rhNGF, uncovered by suprathreshold electrical sinusoidal stimulation, indicates a signal transduction–independent long-lasting hyperexcitability of C-nociceptors that clinically may contribute to rhNGF-maintained chronic inflammatory pain.
Towards explaining the fertility gap in farmed Pekin ducks
Authors: Beyts Cammy H , Wright Jonathan , Araya-Ajoy Yimen , Watson Kellie
Published: September 2024

Maximising reproductive success is crucial to animal production systems, particularly in meeting global demands for animal products and improving commercially important traits. However, while social interactions and mating strategies are known to influence reproductive success in wild populations, their consideration in agricultural systems remains limited. Using an interdisciplinary framework that combines concepts from behavioural ecology and quantitative genetics in an animal breeding context, we investigated the role of sperm limitation and polygynous mating strategies (female polyandry, male monopolisation of females and male polygamy) in limiting female reproductive success in farmed Pekin ducks (Anas platyrthynchos domestica). We assessed the impact of these behaviours on chick production and quantified their genetic and environmental (co)variance. Our results revealed that the number of dam mates positively influenced chick production in female ducks. However, contrary to our expectation, skew in chick paternity (our measure of male monopolisation) was associated with increased female chick production, challenging the hypothesis that male monopolisation limits the sperm available to females and reduces their reproductive success. We found no evidence that male polygamy led to decreased female chick production. Genetic analysis revealed that female mate number and reproductive skew exhibit genetic variance, providing opportunities for targeted selection to enhance chick production. However, there was a negative genetic association between female polyandry and skew in chick paternity, suggesting a trade-off between these traits that would need to be considered in future selection programmes. Our findings highlight how concepts from behavioural ecology can be incorporated into breeding programmes, providing new opportunities to develop effective and sustainable breeding strategies.
A mosaic of whole-body representations in human motor cortex
Authors: Deo Darrel R. , Okorokova Elizaveta V. , Pritchard Anna L. , Hahn Nick V. , Card Nicholas S. , Nason-Tomaszewski Samuel R. , Jude Justin , Hosman Thomas , Choi Eun Young , Qiu Deqiang , Meng Yuguang , Wairagkar Maitreyee , Nicolas Claire , Kamdar Foram B. , Iacobacci Carrina , Acosta Alexander , Hochberg Leigh R. , Cash Sydney S. , Williams Ziv M. , Rubin Daniel B. , Brandman David M. , Stavisky Sergey D. , AuYong Nicholas , Pandarinath Chethan , Downey John E. , Bensmaia Sliman J. , Henderson Jaimie M. , Willett Francis R.
Published: September 2024

Understanding how the body is represented in motor cortex is key to understanding how the brain controls movement. The precentral gyrus (PCG) has long been thought to contain largely distinct regions for the arm, leg and face (represented by the “motor homunculus”). However, mounting evidence has begun to reveal a more intermixed, interrelated and broadly tuned motor map. Here, we revisit the motor homunculus using microelectrode array recordings from 20 arrays that broadly sample PCG across 8 individuals, creating a comprehensive map of human motor cortex at single neuron resolution. We found whole-body representations throughout all sampled points of PCG, contradicting traditional leg/arm/face boundaries. We also found two speech-preferential areas with a broadly tuned, orofacial-dominant area in between them, previously unaccounted for by the homunculus. Throughout PCG, movement representations of the four limbs were interlinked, with homologous movements of different limbs (e.g., toe curl and hand close) having correlated representations. Our findings indicate that, while the classic homunculus aligns with each area’s preferred body region at a coarse level, at a finer scale, PCG may be better described as a mosaic of functional zones, each with its own whole-body representation.
Pan-Cancer Genetic Analysis of Mitochondrial DNA Repair Gene Set
Authors: Dong Angela , Rasteh Ayana Meegol , Liu Hengrui
Published: September 2024

Background

The mitochondrial DNA repair has gained attention for its potential impact on pan-cancer genetic analysis. This study investigates the clinical relevance of mitochondrial DNA repair genes: PARP1, DNA 2, PRIMPOL, TP53, MGME1.

Methods

Using multi-omics profiling data and Gene Set Cancer Analysis (GSCA) with normalized SEM mRNA expression, this research analyzes differential expression, gene mutation, and drug correlation.

Results

TP53 was the most commonly mutated mitochondrial-related gene in cancer, with UCS and OV having the highest mutation rates. CPG mutations linked to lowest survival rates. Breast cancer, with various subtypes, was potentially influenced by mitochondrial DNA repair genes. ACC was shown to be high in gene survival analysis. BRCA, USC, LUCS, COAD, and OV showed CNV levels impacting survival. A negative gene expression-methylation correlation was observed and was weakest in KIRC. Mitochondrial DNA repair genes were linked to Cell cycle_A activation. A weak correlation was found between immune infiltration and mitochondrial genes. Few drug compounds were shown to be affected by mitochondrial-related genes.

Conclusion

Understanding mitochondrial-related genes could redefine cancer diagnosis, and prognosis, and serve as therapeutic biomarkers, potentially altering cancer cell behavior and treatment outcomes.
The L1CAM SAX-7 is an antagonistic modulator of Erk Signaling
Authors: Moseley-Alldredge Melinda , Aragón Caroline , Vargus Marcus , Alley Divya , Somia Nirali , Chen Lihsia
Published: September 2024

L1CAMs are immunoglobulin superfamily cell adhesion molecules that ensure proper nervous system development and function. In addition to being associated with the autism and schizophrenia spectrum disorders, mutations in the L1CAM family of genes also underlie distinct developmental syndromes with neurological conditions, such as intellectual disability, spastic paraplegia, hypotonia and congenital hydrocephalus. Studies in both vertebrate and invertebrate model organisms have established conserved neurodevelopmental roles for L1CAMs; these include axon guidance, dendrite morphogenesis, synaptogenesis, and maintenance of neural architecture, among others. InCaenorhabditis elegans, L1CAMs, encoded by thesax-7gene, are required for coordinated locomotion. We previously uncovered a genetic interaction betweensax-7and components of synaptic vesicle cycle, revealing a non-developmental role forsax-7in regulating synaptic activity. More recently, we determined thatsax-7also genetically interacts with extracellular signal-related kinase (ERK) signaling in controlling coordinated locomotion.C. elegansERK, encoded by thempk-1gene, is a serine/threonine protein kinase belonging to the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) family that governs multiple aspects of animal development and cellular homeostasis. Here, we show this genetic interaction betweensax-7andmpk-1occurs not only in cholinergic neurons for coordinated locomotion, but also extends outside the nervous system, revealing novel roles for SAX-7/L1CAM in non-neuronal processes, including vulval development. Our genetic findings in both the nervous system and developing vulva are consistent with SAX-7/L1CAM acting as an antagonistic modulator of ERK signaling.
Age-related alterations in functional and structural networks in the brain in macaque monkeys
Authors: Ouchi Kazuya , Yamamoto Shinya , Obara Makoto , Sugase-Miyamoto Yasuko , Tsurugizawa Tomokazu
Published: September 2024

Resting-state networks (RSNs) have been used as biomarkers of brain diseases and cognitive performance. However, age-related changes in the RSNs of macaques, a representative animal model, are still not fully understood. In this study, we measured the RSNs in macaques aged 3–20 years and investigated the age-related changes from both functional and structural perspectives. The proportion of structural connectivity in the RSNs significantly decreased, whereas functional connectivity showed an increasing trend with age. Additionally, the amplitude of low-frequency fluctuations tended to increase with age, indicating that resting-state neural activity may be more active in the RSNs may increase with age. These results indicate that structural and functional alterations in typical RSNs are age-dependent and can be a marker of aging in the brain.
Global and compartmentalized serotonergic control of sensorimotor integration underlying motor adaptation
Authors: Haruvi Ravid , Barbara Rani , Shainer Inbal , Rosenberg Ayelet , Moshe Lihi , Malamud Dorel , Toledano Jonathan , Braun Dotan , Baier Herwig , Kawashima Takashi
Published: September 2024

The vertebrate serotonergic system plays a critical role in modulating adaptive behavior. Yet, it has been challenging to unravel the downstream targets and the effects of serotonin on ongoing neural dynamics due to its widespread innervation and the complex nature of receptor signaling. Here, we show that the serotonergic system controls brain-wide neural dynamics in a spatially dualistic manner, global and compartmentalized, during motor adaptation behavior in zebrafish. Larval zebrafish adapt the vigor of tail motions depending on environmental drag force during visual pursuit behavior in a serotonin-dependent manner. Whole-brain imaging of serotonin release and systematic spatial mapping of serotonin receptors showed highly compartmentalized patterns that span multiple brain areas. Interestingly, whole-brain neural activity imaging combined with the perturbation of tph2+ raphe serotonin neurons revealed dualistic modulation of neural activity depending on behavioral encoding: global suppression of locomotor networks and the compartmentalized enhancement of midbrain sensory networks, both of which synergistically enabled motor adaptation. The compartmentalized modulation resulted from local serotonin release and receptor expression, while the global effect was due to modulation of a key network hub that broadcasts behavioral state signals. Our results reveal how the serotonergic system interacts with brain-wide neural dynamics through its parallel interactions and provide a conceptual framework for understanding the neural mechanisms of widespread serotonergic behavioral control.
A Hopfield network model of neuromodulatory arousal state
Authors: Osman Mohammed Abdal Monium , Fox Kai , Stern Joshua Isaac
Published: September 2024

Neural circuits display both input-driven activity that is necessary for the real-time control of behavior and internally generated activity that is necessary for memory, planning, and other cognitive processes. A key mediator between these intrinsic and evoked dynamics is arousal, an internal state variable that determines an animal’s level of engagement with its environment. It has been hypothesized that arousal state acts through neuromodulatory gain control mechanisms that suppress recurrent connectivity and amplify bottom-up input. In this paper, we instantiate this longstanding idea in a continuous Hopfield network embellished with a gain parameter that mimics arousal state by suppressing recurrent interactions between the network’s units. We show that dynamics capturing some essential effects of arousal state at the neural and cognitive levels emerge in this simple model as a single parameter—recurrent gain—is varied. Using the model’s formal connections to the Boltzmann machine and the Ising model, we offer functional interpretations of arousal state rooted in Bayesian inference and statistical physics. Finally, we liken the dynamics of neuromodulator release to an annealing schedule that facilitates adaptive behavior in ever-changing environments. In summary, we present a minimal neural network model of arousal state that exhibits rich but analytically tractable emergent behavior and reveals conceptually clarifying parallels between arousal state and seemingly unrelated phenomena.
Effectiveness of Ghana’s COVID-19 policy responses and lessons learnt for the future: A multi-methods evaluation
Authors: Crankson Shirley , Pokhrel Subhash , Anokye Nana
Published: September 2024

Ghana implemented various mitigating policies in response to the COVID-19 outbreak. This study examined the effectiveness of these policies to contribute to the ongoing discussions on proactive and pre-emptive interventions for similar future outbreaks.

A mix of qualitative and quantitative methods were used for the analysis. Data were drawn from multiple sources, including peer-reviewed and grey literature, and academic experts from Ghanaian universities. The data from the literature informed a questionnaire that was sent to independent academic experts to explore their opinions on whether the policies met their intended objectives. The experts’ opinions were collected on a 5-point Likert scale and from an open-ended question using an online data collection platform, Qualtrics. The data were evaluated using narrative synthesis, descriptive statistics and thematic analysis.

We identified and evaluated eight key COVID-19 policy responses in Ghana: (1) partial lockdown of epicentres; (2) COVID-19 public awareness campaigns; (3) ban on public gatherings; (4) COVID-19 vaccination; (5) border closures; (6) entry border COVID-19 screening; (7) incentives for healthcare workers (HCWs); and (8) the Ghana Alleviation and Revitalisation of Enterprises Support (GCARES). Two policies - the COVID-19 awareness campaigns and border closure - effectively improved public awareness of COVID-19 and helped to reduce COVID-19 case importation (median score ≥4).

Ghana’s COVID-19 public awareness campaigns and border closure policies could serve as a valuable model for informing proactive interventions to address future infectious disease outbreaks.