bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Real-world experience with circulating tumor DNA in cerebrospinal fluid from patients with central nervous system tumors
Authors: Hickman Richard A. , Miller Alexandra M. , Holle Bridget M. , Jee Justin , Liu Si-Yang , Ross Dara , Yu Helena , Riely Gregory J. , Ombres Christina , Gewirtz Alexandra N. , Reiner Anne S. , Nandakumar Subhiksha , Price Adam , Kaley Thomas J. , Graham Maya S. , Vanderbilt Chad , Rana Satshil , Hill Katherine , Chabot Kiana , Campos Carl , Nafa Khedoudja , Shukla Neerav , Karajannis Matthias , Li Bob , Berger Michael , Ladanyi Marc , Pentsova Elena , Boire Adrienne , Brannon A. Rose , Bale Tejus , Mellinghoff Ingo K. , Arcila Maria E.
Published: September 2024

The characterization of genetic alterations in tumor samples has become standard practice for many human cancers to achieve more precise disease classification and guide the selection of targeted therapies. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) can serve as a source of tumor DNA in patients with central nervous system (CNS) cancer. We performed comprehensive profiling of CSF circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) in 711 patients using an FDA-authorized platform (MSK-IMPACT™) in a hospital laboratory. We identified genetic alterations in 489/922 (53.0%) CSF samples with clinically documented CNS tumors. None of 85 CSF samples from patients without CNS tumors had detectable ctDNA. The distribution of clinically actionable somatic alterations was consistent with tumor-type specific alterations across the AACR GENIE cohort. Repeated CSF ctDNA examinations from the same patients identified clonal evolution and emergence of resistance mechanisms. ctDNA detection was associated with shortened overall survival following CSF collection. Next-generation sequencing of CSF, collected through a minimally invasive lumbar puncture in a routine hospital setting, provides clinically actionable cancer genotype information in a large fraction of patients with CNS tumors.
Computer vision-based visualization and quantification of body skeletal movements for investigation of traditional skills: the production of Kizumi winnowing baskets
Authors: Yang Peng , Furukawa Yuka , Imaishi Migiwa , Kubo Mitsunori , Ueda Akira
Published: September 2024

This paper explores the application of computer vision and mathematical modeling to analyze the intricate movements involved in weaving a traditional farming tool, the winnowing basket. By utilizing OpenPose algorithms, the study simplifies and visualizes the craftsmen's motions, particularly focusing on wrist movements. Video data of craftsmen in Chiba, Japan, creating Kizumi (place name) winnowing baskets is used as the basis for analysis. The extracted information is used to generate 2D motion trajectories of the wrist, allowing a comparison between beginners who watched parsed videos and those who watched the original videos in terms of skill acquisition and learning time. By visualizing human body behavior and combining statistical results, this study demonstrates the potential of artificial intelligence techniques such as computer vision for observing repetitive human movement and inheriting traditional skills.
New fungal primers reveal the diversity of Mucoromycotinian arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi and their response to nitrogen application
Authors: Seeliger Mirjam , Hilton Sally , Muscatt George , Walker Christopher , Bass David , Albornoz Felipe , Standish Rachel J. , Gray Neil D. , Mercy Louis , Rempelos Leonidas , Schneider Carolin , Ryan Megan H. , Bilsborrow Paul E. , Bending Gary D.
Published: September 2024

Background

Arbuscular mycorrhizas (AM) are the most widespread terrestrial symbiosis and are both a key determinant of plant health and a major contributor to ecosystem processes through their role in biogeochemical cycling. Until recently, it was assumed that the fungi which form AM comprise the subphylum Glomeromycotina (G-AMF), and our understanding of the diversity and ecosystem roles of AM is based almost exclusively on this group. However recent evidence shows that fungi which form the distinctive 'fine root endophyte’ (FRE) AM morphotype are members of the subphylum Mucoromycotina (M-AMF), so that AM symbioses are actually formed by two distinct groups of fungi.

Results

We investigated the influence of nitrogen (N) addition and wheat variety on the assembly of AM communities under field conditions. Visual assessment of roots showed co-occurrence of G-AMF and M-AMF, providing an opportunity to compare the responses of these two groups. Existing ‘AM’ 18S rRNA primers which co-amplify G-AMF and M-AMF were modified to reduce bias against Mucoromycotina, and compared against a new ‘FRE’ primer set which selectively amplifies Mucoromycotina. Using the AM-primers, no significant effect of either N-addition or wheat variety on G-AMF or M-AMF diversity or community composition was detected. In contrast, using the FRE-primers, N-addition was shown to reduce M-AMF diversity and altered community composition. The ASV which responded to N-addition were closely related, demonstrating a clear phylogenetic signal which was identified only by the new FRE-primers. The most abundant Mucoromycotina sequences we detected belonged to the same Endogonales clades as dominant sequences associated with FRE morphology in Australia, indicating that closely related M-AMF may be globally distributed.

Conclusions

The results demonstrate the need to consider both G-AMF and M-AMF when investigating AM communities, and highlight the importance of primer choice when investigating AMF community dynamics.
Feasibility of ultrasound-guided axillary vein access for implantation of cardiac implantable electronic device leads
Authors: Oh Seongtaek , Hwang Jongmin , Park Hyoung-Seob , Chung Tae-Wan , Jung Minsu
Published: September 2024

Background

The axillary vein is preferred over the subclavian vein, and the cephalic vein for cardiac implantable electronic device (CIED) lead insertion. However, studies on ultrasound-guided axillary vein access (US-AVA) in Asia are scarce. This study aims to evaluate the feasibility of US-AVA for CIED lead implantation in Korean patients.

Methods

From September 2021 to September 2023, we employed US-AVA for CIED lead implantation procedures. Patients’ demographic and procedural data were collected and analyzed retrospectively.

Results

US-AVA was successful in 301 patients (97.7%). There were no occurrences of pneumothorax or severe hematoma due to inadvertent arterial puncture, nor were there any other significant vascular access-related acute complications. During the median 1.7 years of follow-up, no CIED infection or lead-related problems have occurred. Compared to a historical cohort of patients who underwent fluoroscopy-guided axillary vein access (FL-AVA), US-AVA significantly reduced procedure and fluoroscopy time and showed a trend toward reduced radiation doses.

Conclusion

US-AVA is a safe and effective technique for CIED lead implantation in Korean patients, with advantages over FL-AVA in terms of procedural efficiency and patient safety.
Pharmacomechanical thrombectomy in management of pulmonary embolism
Authors: Harraz Mohamed M. , Abouissa Ahmed H. , El Eshmawy Ahmed Adel , El Refaey Wael , Tawfik Ahmed Ibrahim
Published: September 2024

Background

Acute pulmonary embolism is recorded as one of the most common and critical medical conditions, resulting in a notable mortality rate requiring a multidisciplinary management. In this series, we address the management of massive and sub-massive pulmonary embolism utilizing catheter-based intervention, in particular the conjunction of mechanical thrombus disruption and aspiration with pharmacological thrombolysis (pharmacomechanical thrombectomy).

Results

37 patients were diagnosed with massive and sub-massive pulmonary embolism based on the clinical and radiological findings. Pre-procedural vital parameters were obtained, including oxygen saturation, pulse rate, and blood pressure. Under continuous monitoring and conscious sedation, a pulmonary angiography via right common femoral vein access was performed for pre-procedural assessment. Pharmacomechanical thrombectomy was performed using the AngioJet Ultra System (Boston Scientific). Using the power pulse option, a fibrinolytic agent was infused into the thrombus. After 5–10 min, mechanical thrombectomy is performed with a maximum 3 passes through the thrombus. This technique is performed in the main pulmonary artery and lower branch. The procedure is repeated on the other side. The maximum duration of thrombectomy is 2–3 min on each side. Procedure success was based on improvement of vital signs and not related to post-procedure angiographic findings. All patients showed immediate improvement of vital signs (blood pressure, 02 saturation, and pulse rate) with progressive improvement over the following days. There were no procedure-related complications.

Conclusion

Pharmacomechanical thrombectomy is a safe and effective technique in the treatment of massive and submassive pulmonary embolism. It can be a first-line treatment even in patients without absolute contraindication to systemic thrombolysis.
Components of slow disease development: a key to enhance resistance in crops
Authors: Shikha Kumari , Chand R. , Mishra N. K. , Singh S. , Sayiprathap B. R. , Nair R. M. , Singh A. K.
Published: September 2024

Plant resistance is a result of interaction between host, pathogen, environment and temporal factors. Major or “R” gene resistance may break down following the emergence of virulent isolates of a pathogen. Limited durability of R genes has opened the door for the utilization of slow disease resistance in crop breeding. Plant pathogens with high reproduction ability exhibit greater genetic diversity leading to loss of major gene-based resistance. Consequently, minor genes-based resistance can be effectively employed against all the available virulent isolates within a pathogen population, including non-elicitor producing pathogens. Several researchers have identified valuable genetic sources by screening germplasm collections and characterizing genes conferring slow disease development. The identification and possible cloning or tagging of such genes obtained from crop wild relatives will create better opportunities for their use in crop improvement. Nevertheless, very little information is available about the nature of individual genes responsible for slow disease development. A thorough understanding of the nature of inheritance of slow disease resistance, interactions, and the possible breeding strategies to enhance resistance governed by slow disease components will help in breeding or developing resistant cultivars with enhanced yield. This review discusses the components of SDD in terms of identification, characterization, factors influencing it, and breeding strategies to enhance resistance governed by SDD components. Furthermore it emphasizes the importance of targeted breeding strategies to exploit the potential of SSD in developing cultivars with enhanced resistance and maintaining a good yield.
Characterization of salt brine sulfated polysaccharides: immunomodulatory activity based on gut microbiota
Authors: Jia Xing , Ma Lin , Xiao Meng , Atehli Dima , Zhang Yiheng , Liu Yongshuai , Wang Wan , Wang Changlu , Guo Qingbin
Published: September 2024

A sulfated polysaccharide consisting of two components with molecular weights of 439 kDa and 16 kDa was extracted from the salt brine. The structural properties, immunomodulatory activity, in vitro fermentation behaviors, and effects of SP on regulating the gut microbiota were investigated. The chemical composition and monosaccharide composition analysis showed that the neutral sugar, protein, uronic acid, and sulfated group contents of SP were 60.42 ± 0.04%, 2.90 ± 0.01%, 13.34 ± 0.01% and 10.51 ± 0.01%, respectively, containing arabinose, galactose, glucose, rhamnose, xylose, mannose, and glucuronic acid in a molar ratio of 33.24:19.18:16.64:13.25:8.31:4.11:5.27. Results from the macrophage cell model showed that SP intervention improved the proliferation activity, phagocytosis of neutral red, and production of IL-6 and TNF-α in RAW 264.7. Furthermore, in vitro fermentation of SP by gut microbiota showed that SCFA production in all treatment groups was significantly higher than that of the blank control group after 48 h of fermentation, especially butyric acid which was 1.70 folds that of the control group. Moreover, long-term fermentation (48 h) of SP improved the diversity of microbiota, decreased the F/B ratio (30.75 at 0 h vs. 1.22 at 48 h), and promoted the growth of probiotics (Parabacteroides, Bacteroidetes, Ruminococcaceae, and Phascolarctobacterium). The positive regulatory effect of SP on the gut microbiota and its metabolites is considered a potential target for its immunomodulatory activity.

Graphical abstract
Mental health services in rural India: a big challenge still to be met
Authors: Mathur Rahul , Chawla Nishtha , Chadda Rakesh K
Published: September 2024

There has been a decline in the rural population of India from nearly 82% to about 65% over the past six decades. The National Mental Health Survey of India (2015–2016) reported a lower prevalence of mental disorders in rural areas compared with urban ones. Mental health services in the country are skewed towards the urban areas, and more families are pushed below the poverty line while getting treatment for a member with mental illness. India has expanded its District Mental Health Programme over the past two decades, and it now covers nearly all the districts in the country. Despite that, significant numbers of people with mental disorders, ranging from 70–90%, do not receive adequate treatment. This paper discusses the rural–urban divide in the mental health services, examining the problem and need, and the initiatives taken by the government of India in this direction.
Electroconvulsive therapy response and remission in moderate to severe depressive illness: a decade of national Scottish data
Authors: Semple David M. , Suveges Szabolcs , Steele J. Douglas
Published: September 2024

Background

Despite strong evidence of efficacy of electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) in the treatment of depression, no sensitive and specific predictors of ECT response have been identified. Previous meta-analyses have suggested some pre-treatment associations with response at a population level.

Aims

Using 10 years (2009–2018) of routinely collected Scottish data of people with moderate to severe depression (n = 2074) receiving ECT we tested two hypotheses: (a) that there were significant group-level associations between post-ECT clinical outcomes and pre-ECT clinical variables and (b) that it was possible to develop a method for predicting illness remission for individual patients using machine learning.

Method

Data were analysed on a group level using descriptive statistics and association analyses as well as using individual patient prediction with machine learning methodologies, including cross-validation.

Results

ECT is highly effective for moderate to severe depression, with a response rate of 73% and remission rate of 51%. ECT response is associated with older age, psychotic symptoms, necessity for urgent intervention, severe distress, psychomotor retardation, previous good response, lack of medication resistance, and consent status. Remission has the same associations except for necessity for urgent intervention and, in addition, history of recurrent depression and low suicide risk. It is possible to predict remission with ECT with an accuracy of 61%.

Conclusions

Pre-ECT clinical variables are associated with both response and remission and can help predict individual response to ECT. This predictive tool could inform shared decision-making, prevent the unnecessary use of ECT when it is unlikely to be beneficial and ensure prompt use of ECT when it is likely to be effective.
Expanding the Spectrum of Endocrine Abnormalities Associated With SOX11-related Disorders
Authors: Sun Bang , Stamou Maria I , Stockman Sara L , Campbell Mark B , Plummer Lacey , Salnikov Kathryn B , Kotan Leman Damla , Topaloglu A Kemal , Hisama Fuki M , Davis Erica E , Seminara Stephanie B , Balasubramanian Ravikumar
Published: September 2024

Context

SOX11 variants cause Coffin-Siris syndrome, characterized by developmental delay, hypogonadotropic hypogonadism, and skeletal and facial defects.

Objective

To examine the contribution of SOX11 variants to the pathogenesis of idiopathic hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (IHH), a disorder caused by hypothalamic GnRH deficiency.

Setting

The Reproductive Endocrine Unit and the Pediatric Endocrinology Division, Massachusetts General Hospital.

Patients or other participants

A cohort of 1810 unrelated IHH probands.

Interventions

Exome sequencing data from the entire cohort were examined for SOX11 rare single nucleotide variants (SNVs) (minor allele frequency in the gnomAD database <0.1%). Rare SOX11 variant association testing was performed between the IHH and gnomAD population. Phenotyping of individuals harboring pathogenic/likely pathogenic SNVs (determined by the American College of Medical Genetics criteria) was performed.

Main Outcomes/Results

Four pathogenic SOX11 SNVs were identified in 5 IHH probands. The IHH cohort was enriched for SOX11 protein truncating SNVs (frameshift/nonsense) across the entire protein (2 SNVs in 3 IHH cases [p.S303X (de novo); p.S345Afs*13]; P = .0004981) and for SOX11 missense SNVs within the SOX11 high-mobility group domain (2 SNVs in 2 IHH cases p.G84D [de novo]; p.P114S; P = .00313922). The phenotypic spectrum of SOX11 variant carriers revealed additional endocrine defects including anosmic and normosmic forms of IHH, GH deficiency, pituitary and hypothalamic structural defects, and hypothyroidism. A pathogenic SOX11 SNV was also identified in a patient with functional hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (p.R100Q). Coffin-Siris syndrome-associated features were present in 4/5 probands.

Conclusion

Deleterious SOX11 variants cause IHH and other pituitary hormone deficiencies, suggesting that the human SOX11-associated disorder may stem from both hypothalamic and pituitary level defects.
OpenAI's Pharmacy? On the Phaedrus Analogy for Large Language Models
Authors: Kitzinger Chloë
Published: September 2024

Plato's dialogue Phaedrus is often used as a cautionary tale about the futility of distrusting new communicative technologies. But in the context of LLMs (large language models), the Phaedrus analogy is substantially misplaced. LLMs exclude the free play of language, producing texts not only without writers, but also without writing (in Jacques Derrida's sense). The Phaedrus analogy thus risks justifying the swift adoption of a commercial tool that is poorly understood, demonstrably flawed, and reliant on laborious human interventions.
Beyond Insiders and Outsiders: Transdisciplinary Critical AI
Authors: Ward Megan
Published: September 2024

Part book review, part thinkpiece, this essay explores the possibilities and limitations for critical AI raised by the edited collection The Cultural Life of Machine Learning: An Incursion into Critical AI Studies (2021). It identifies three practices for scholars in the humanities and social sciences seeking to broaden their research expertise: go beyond identifying the problem; expand cultures of innovation; and understand technological systems as social actors in a transdisciplinary endeavor.
Data transformation and model selection in bivariate allometry
Authors: Packard Gary C.
Published: September 2024

Students of biological allometry have used the logarithmic transformation for over a century to linearize bivariate distributions that are curvilinear on the arithmetic scale. When the distribution is linear, the equation for a straight line fitted to the distribution can be back-transformed to form a two-parameter power function for describing the original observations. However, many of the data in contemporary studies of allometry fail to meet the requirement for log-linearity, thereby precluding the use of the aforementioned protocol. Even when data are linear in logarithmic form, the two-parameter power equation estimated by back-transformation may yield a misleading or erroneous perception of pattern in the original distribution. A better approach to bivariate allometry would be to forego transformation altogether and to fit multiple models to untransformed observations by nonlinear regression, thereby creating a pool of candidate models with different functional form and different assumptions regarding random error. The best model in the pool of candidate models could then be identified by a selection procedure based on maximum likelihood. Two examples are presented to illustrate the power and versatility of newer methods for studying allometric variation. It always is better to examine the original data when it is possible to do so.
Translation elongation inhibitors stabilize select short-lived transcripts
Authors: Rosa-Mercado Nicolle A. , Buskirk Allen R. , Green Rachel
Published: September 2024

Translation elongation inhibitors are commonly used to study different cellular processes. Yet, their specific impact on transcription and mRNA decay has not been thoroughly assessed. Here, we use TimeLapse sequencing to investigate how translational stress impacts mRNA dynamics in human cells. Our results reveal that a distinct group of transcripts is stabilized in response to the translation elongation inhibitor emetine. These stabilized mRNAs are short-lived at steady state, and many of them encode C2H2 zinc finger proteins. The codon usage of these stabilized transcripts is suboptimal compared to other expressed transcripts, including other short-lived mRNAs that are not stabilized after emetine treatment. Finally, we show that stabilization of these transcripts is independent of ribosome quality control factors and signaling pathways activated by ribosome collisions. Our data describe a group of short-lived transcripts whose degradation is particularly sensitive to the inhibition of translation elongation.
A urgência de um urbanismo climático no Brasil
Authors: Arruda Filho Marcos Tavares de , Jacobi Pedro Roberto
Published: September 2024

Objetivo: discutir pontos críticos das políticas voltadas para o clima nos municípios brasileiros e apontar possíveis soluções.
Estado da arte: o conjunto de políticas públicas voltadas para o clima existente nas principais cidades brasileiras ainda apresenta lacunas na prevenção e na adaptação dos impactos climáticos.
Originalidade: o estudo traz um alerta para a ausência de uma efetiva integração sistemática da adaptação nas políticas locais de desenvolvimento e gestão preventiva de desastres climáticos no Brasil.
Impactos: o artigo chama a atenção, especialmente de prefeitos e gestores públicos municipais, para a necessidade do fortalecimento da prevenção de desastres e administração de riscos dentro das políticas climáticas locais.
Nova governança para a mobilidade urbana
Authors: Biderman Ciro
Published: September 2024

Objetivo: produzir um diagnóstico e um prognóstico sobre a mobilidade urbana no Brasil e mostrar como os prefeitos podem melhorar o atual modelo.
Estado da arte: a experiência internacional sobre mobilidade urbana confronta a agenda hegemônica hoje nos municípios brasileiros, particularmente em relação à escolha de eletrificação da frota e à adoção de tarifa zero, e aponta saídas mais efetivas para os problemas.
Originalidade: o artigo mostra que é possível construir uma nova governança para a mobilidade urbana no Brasil, especialmente do ponto de vista das grandes cidades, saindo das soluções-padrão concentradas em uma visão isolada do sistema de transporte público.
Impactos: o artigo apresenta novas saídas para a questão da mobilidade urbana que estão fora do debate atual e têm o potencial de mudar a agenda atual em prol de uma visão centrada nas pessoas, e não nos fornecedores do sistema. Ademais, realça uma visão sistêmica e integrada por soluções tecnológicas que pode alterar profundamente o sentido da mobilidade urbana no Brasil.
SIMEON UROŠ PALAIOLOGOS, EMPEROR OF TRIKALA
Authors: Osswald Brendan
Published: September 2024

The present article presents the sources related to the political career of the King of Thessaly, Symeon Uroš Palaiologos, and subsequently refers to the phases of the life and actions of the Serbo-Byzantine ruler. Specifically, it discusses his youth in Serbia, his years as Despot of Epirus (ca. 1348-1356), his political activities in Serbia, and finally his establishment in Thessaly (from 1359 onwards), as well as his relationship with the regional rulers and those subordinate to him, such as Petros Liosas, Ioannis Spatas, and Thomas Preloubos in Epirus, Despot Ioannis Komnenos in southern Albania, and Radoslav Hlapenos in western Macedonia. Beyond these, the article examines various aspects of his reign, such as his imperial ideology, administration, religious policies, and the issue of the so-called "Serbocracy." Finally, it explores matters concerning his death and legacy.
THESSALY UNDER THE SERBS (1348 - c. 1373)
Authors: Nikolić Maja
Published: September 2024

The rule of the Serbs in Thessaly began in 1348, when the military units of the Serbian Emperor Stefan Dušan, led by his prominent general Preljub, took over and incorporated it into the Serbian Empire. Preljub governed Thessaly until his death, in early 1356. After the short reign of Despot Nikephoros II Orsini (1356–1359), Thessaly was conquered by Dušan’s half-brother Symeon Uroš Palaiologos (1359–c. 1371), who proclaimed himself emperor. He was succeeded by his elder son, John Doukas Uroš Palaiologos, who ruled for a very short time (c. 1371/2–c. 1373), before retiring to Meteora as monk Joasaph, where he lived until his death in 1423, essentially becoming the second ktetor of Meteora. The rule of John Uroš was followed by that of Kaisar (Caesar) Alexios Angelos Philanthropenos, which marked the end of Thessaly’s Serbian period, lasting less than three decades.
Heart of Care: Embracing Grief and Growth in Oncology and Palliative Medicine
Authors: Shanbhag Nandan , Bin Sumaida Abdulrahman , Gurashi Ibrahim Huzaifa , Al-Harassi Amna , Al-Dabbous Tala , Javed Zafar , Araki Mehad , Al-Riyami Nasr , Shanbhag Sneha , Balaraj Khalid
Published: September 2024

Introduction The emotional impact of patient loss in oncology and palliative care profoundly affects healthcare professionals. This study explores clinicians’ experiences, emotional reactions, and coping mechanisms in these fields, focusing on their professional and personal growth. It aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of how healthcare professionals from different regions and with varying years of experience deal with patient loss, emphasizing cultural, social, and institutional influences on their coping strategies. Methods A mixed-methods approach combined qualitative and quantitative elements. Data were collected using a Microsoft® Forms© survey targeting oncology and palliative care healthcare professionals. The survey included questions on experiences with patient loss, coping strategies, personal and professional growth, and beliefs. Statistical methods and thematic analysis were used to analyse quantitative and qualitative data. Ethical approval was obtained, and the survey ensured participant anonymity and confidentiality. Results The survey received 125 responses from nineteen countries. Emotional reactions to patient loss were significant, with various coping strategies reported, including spiritual practices, self-care, and professional support groups. Personal and professional growth were key outcomes of dealing with patient loss. Themes like Emotional Impact, Coping Mechanisms, and Reflections on Death and Dying were prevalent. Analysis revealed no significant correlation between the time taken by the participants to complete the survey and years of healthcare experience. Conclusion Healthcare professionals in oncology and palliative care face significant emotional challenges due to patient loss. The study emphasizes the importance of diverse and effective coping mechanisms, the supportive role of personal beliefs and workplace environments, and the journey of personal and professional growth amidst these challenges. It highlights the resilience of healthcare workers and underscores the need for supportive systems in managing the emotional aspects of patient care.
Neurodiversity in Saudi Arabia: Towards quality education and reduced inequalities
Authors: Almakrob Ahmed Yahya , Alduais Ahmed , Mhone Alex S. M. , Be Borey
Published: September 2024

Traditional educational frameworks in Saudi Arabia have historically adopted a deficit-based approach to special education, potentially overlooking the benefits of neurodiversity. As global educational paradigms shift toward inclusive practices, examining the alignment of Saudi special education laws with neurodiversity principles becomes crucial. This content analysis study aimed to explore the existing literature on special education in Saudi Arabia to ascertain whether the laws and policies support or hinder the practice of neurodiversity, a concept that is gaining international recognition but remains nascent in Saudi Arabia. A systematic literature search was performed in Web of Science and Scopus, yielding 21 relevant studies after screening and application of inclusion criteria. A content analysis was conducted, focusing on the categorization of data relevant to special education laws and their implications for neurodiversity. The analysis identified seven key categories, including Implementation of Inclusive education and transition services, that reflect the current state of special education laws in relation to neurodiversity. A conceptual model was developed, illustrating the potential of special education laws to both support and impede neurodiversity in Saudi Arabia and potentially worldwide.
Prediction of the effects of the top 10 synonymous mutations from 26645 SARS-CoV-2 genomes of early pandemic phase
Authors: Boon Wan Xin , Sia Boon Zhan , Ng Chong Han
Published: September 2024

Background The emergence of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) had led to a global pandemic since December 2019. SARS-CoV-2 is a single-stranded RNA virus, which mutates at a higher rate. Multiple works had been done to study nonsynonymous mutations, which change protein sequences. However, there is little study on the effects of SARS-CoV-2 synonymous mutations, which may affect viral fitness. This study aims to predict the effect of synonymous mutations on the SARS-CoV-2 genome. Methods A total of 26645 SARS-CoV-2 genomic sequences retrieved from Global Initiative on Sharing all Influenza Data (GISAID) database were aligned using MAFFT. Then, the mutations and their respective frequency were identified. Multiple RNA secondary structures prediction tools, namely RNAfold, IPknot++ and MXfold2 were applied to predict the effect of the mutations on RNA secondary structure and their base pair probabilities was estimated using MutaRNA. Relative synonymous codon usage (RSCU) analysis was also performed to measure the codon usage bias (CUB) of SARS-CoV-2. Results A total of 150 synonymous mutations were identified. The synonymous mutation identified with the highest frequency is C3037U mutation in the nsp3 of ORF1a. Of these top 10 highest frequency synonymous mutations, C913U, C3037U, U16176C and C18877U mutants show pronounced changes between wild type and mutant in all 3 RNA secondary structure prediction tools, suggesting these mutations may have some biological impact on viral fitness. These four mutations show changes in base pair probabilities. All mutations except U16176C change the codon to a more preferred codon, which may result in higher translation efficiency. Conclusion Synonymous mutations in SARS-CoV-2 genome may affect RNA secondary structure, changing base pair probabilities and possibly resulting in a higher translation rate. However, lab experiments are required to validate the results obtained from prediction analysis.
An in-depth analysis of data reduction methods for sustainable deep learning
Authors: Perera-Lago Javier , Toscano-Duran Victor , Paluzo-Hidalgo Eduardo , Gonzalez-Diaz Rocio , Gutiérrez-Naranjo Miguel A. , Rucco Matteo
Published: September 2024

In recent years, deep learning has gained popularity for its ability to solve complex classification tasks. It provides increasingly better results thanks to the development of more accurate models, the availability of huge volumes of data and the improved computational capabilities of modern computers. However, these improvements in performance also bring efficiency problems, related to the storage of datasets and models, and to the waste of energy and time involved in both the training and inference processes. In this context, data reduction can help reduce energy consumption when training a deep learning model. In this paper, we present up to eight different methods to reduce the size of a tabular training dataset, and we develop a Python package to apply them. We also introduce a representativeness metric based on topology to measure the similarity between the reduced datasets and the full training dataset. Additionally, we develop a methodology to apply these data reduction methods to image datasets for object detection tasks. Finally, we experimentally compare how these data reduction methods affect the representativeness of the reduced dataset, the energy consumption and the predictive performance of the model.
A cross-sectional analysis identifies a low prevalence of Plasmodium ovale species infections in symptomatic and asymptomatic individuals in Kilifi county, Kenya.
Authors: Akinyi Mercy Yvonne , Chifwete Margaret , Ndwiga Leonard , Kimenyi Kelvin Muteru , Osoti Victor , Ochola-Oyier Lynette Isabella
Published: September 2024

Background The focus on P. falciparum diagnosis has led to an underestimation of the global burden of malaria resulting from neglected Plasmodium species. However, there is still scarce data on the prevalence of P. ovale species (spp) globally. To address this knowledge gap, data collected from cross-sectional studies in Kilifi county were used to: 1) determine the prevalence of P. ovale spp infections; and 2) determine the sensitivity of different diagnostic assays in detecting P. ovale spp infections. Methods A total of 531 individuals were sampled across three study sites in Kilifi County, Kenya between 2009 and 2020. Blood smears were prepared from peripheral blood and screened for Plasmodium parasite stages using light microscopy. Molecular screening involved DNA extraction of dried blood spots and blood in ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid, polymerase chain reaction (PCR) using primers targeting the 18 small ribosomal subunit and sequencing. Results Microscopy screening revealed that the most prevalent species was P. falciparum (32.0%) followed by P. malariae (9.0%) and then P. ovale spp( 1.5%). PCR screening identified additional P. ovale spp positives cases. Overall PCR results indicate that43 (8.1%) out of the 531 individuals harbored P. ovale spp infection with the highest prevalence reported in the tertiary health facility, (14.6%, 95% CI 8-23.6%), followed by the primary health facility (8.3%, 95% CI 5.4-11.9%), and the community from a cross-sectional blood survey, (3.6%, 95% CI 1.2-8.2%). Microscopy screening for P. ovale spp had a low sensitivity of 7% (95% CI 1-19-30%) and a high specificity of 99% (95% CI 98-100%). Sequencing results confirmed the presence of P.ovale curtisi. Conclusions This study provides baseline data for P.ovale spp surveillance in Kilifi County, primarily using PCR to improve diagnosis. These results suggest that malaria elimination and eradication efforts should not only concentrate on P. falciparum but should embrace a holistic approach towards elimination of all Plasmodium spp.
Case Report: Soft tissue infection with Burkholderia thailandensis capsular variant: case report from the Lao PDR
Authors: Vannachone Souphaphone , Luangraj Manophab , Dance David , Chantratita Narisara , Saiprom Natnaree , Seng Rathanin , Tandhavanant Sarunporn , Rattanavong Sayaphet , Simpson Andrew , Roberts Tamalee
Published: September 2024

Background Burkholderia thailandensis is an environmental bacteria closely related to Burkholderia pseudomallei that rarely causes infection in humans. Some environmental isolates have shown to express a capsular polysaccharide known as B. thailandensis capsular variant (BTCV), but human infection has not previously been reported. Although B. thailandednisis has been identified in environmental samples in Laos before, there have not been any human cases reported. Case A 44-year-old man presented to a district hospital in Laos with a short history of fever and pain in his left foot. Physical examination identified a deep soft-tissue abscess in his left foot and an elevated white blood count. A deep pus sample was taken and melioidosis was suspected from preliminary laboratory tests. The patient was initially started on cloxacillin, ceftriaxone and metronidazole, and was then changed to ceftazidime treatment following local melioidosis treatment guidelines. Laboratory methods A deep pus sample was sent to Mahosot Hospital microbiology laboratory where a mixed infection was identified including Burkholderia sp. Conventional identification tests and API 20NE were inconclusive, and the B. pseudomallei-specific latex agglutination was positive. The isolate then underwent a Burkholderia species specific PCR which identified the isolate as B. thailandensis. The isolate was sent for sequencing on the Illumina NovaSeq 6000 system and multi-locus sequence typing analysis identified the isolate had the same sequence type (ST696) as B. thailandensis E555, a strain which expresses a B. pseudomallei-like capsular polysaccharide. Conclusion This is the first report of human infection with B. thailandensis in Laos, and the first report of any human infection with the B. thailandensis capsular variant. Due to the potential for laboratory tests to incorrectly identify this bacteria, staff in endemic areas for B. thailandensis and B. pseudomallei should be aware and ensure that appropriate confirmatory methods are used to differentiate between the species.
A CHILD WITH DISABILITY AS A SUBJECT OF INCLUSIVE PROCESSES
Authors: Afonkina Yulia A. , Zhigunova Galina V.
Published: September 2024

Background. The study of issues of inclusion of children with disabilities from the perspective of subjectivity is determined by the existing need to ensure the proper level of quality of life and well-being of this category of people. Children with disabilities constitute a large group of the child population that faces social barriers in the process of inclusion in social connections and relationships, which leads to their exclusion from typical childhood practices that ensure positive socialization. In this regard, the lifestyle, conditions of personal development and living during the childhood of a child with a disability are of great importance, largely determining his inclusion in society and the implementation of inclusive practices, which determined the perspective of the presented study.
Purpose. To identify the subjective grounds for the inclusion of a disabled child in comparison with normotypical peers.
Materials and methods. In 2023, the authors conducted a sociological study to identify the life competencies and nature of social activity of children with disabilities in comparison with their normotypical peers living in the Euro-Arctic region of the Russian Federation (n=584). Questionnaire and semi-structured interview methods were used.
Results. The level and quality of social activity of children with disabilities is lower than normative children, which is also confirmed by other studies by modern Russian scientists. The main subjective barriers to the inclusion of an “atypical” child are low social activity, low level of productive activity, lack of communication with peers, lack of independence in decisions and underestimation of one’s abilities.
Conclusion. The data obtained indicate the presence of subjective factors that can inhibit the inclusion of a child with disabilities in society. The results are of practical importance for parents, teachers, educational institutions, health care and social protection of the population in the development of preventive programs and measures to increase the effectiveness of the inclusion of children with persistent health problems in society.
PROSPECTS FOR THE USE OF CONTRACEPTIVE VAGINAL PATCH ZB-06
Authors: Kucherenko Yuri A. , Borisenko Daria S. , Borisenko Alexander E. , Avdeeva Yulia A. , Kordysh Alexey S.
Published: September 2024

With the high frequency of unplanned pregnancies in many countries, there is an urgent need for more affordable and effective contraceptives. In recent years, scientists around the world have been actively developing new methods of barrier contraception. This method is very simple and convenient due to the fact that it has no systemic effect, side effects are minimized, and a woman can use it when she needs it. In order to fill the gap in this niche, scientists have developed the ZB-06 vaginal contraceptive film containing the HC4-N human contraceptive antibody (HPA).
Purpose. Study literature sources on the use of contraceptive vaginal film ZB-06.
Materials and methods. Materials from PubMed and PubMedCentral resources of the US National Library of Medicine, Google Scholar, Elsevier Clinical Key and Elsevier Science Direct were used to analyze the literature. For the analysis of scientific literature, a qualitative method based on content analysis was used, namely, the definition of units of analysis - headings, annotations and keywords of articles; calculation of the frequency and percentage distribution of analysis units by analysis categories using the Excel program; interpretation and generalization of analysis results.
Results. This review presents summarized research results that demonstrate that the ZB-06 contraceptive film has a number of advantages and disadvantages. This method of contraception provides effective levels of mucosal antisperm antibodies for at least 3 hours after use.
Conclusion. Contraceptive vaginal film ZB-06 is an innovative, non-hormonal, topically applied vaginal film (containing HC4-N PPA), which in phase 1 of the study showed a high level of effectiveness and met the safety requirements for contraceptives.
La beauté du Christ dans sa condition humiliée selon saint Thomas d’Aquin
Authors: Perrin David
Published: September 2024

Nous examinerons, dans cet article, la manière dont saint Thomas concilie deux versets de l’Écriture au sujet du Christ qui semblent, au premier abord, se contredire. Le premier affirme mystiquement qu’« il est le plus beau des enfants des hommes » (Ps 44, 3), le second « qu’il n’avait ni beauté ni éclat » (Is 53, 2). La confrontation de ces commentaires fera apparaître une lecture kénotique originale, à la fois proche et différente de celles qui ont été développées au xxe siècle.
Festiwal Muzyki Ludowej „Mikołajki Folkowe” a zagrożenia wobec dziedzictwa niematerialnego w myśl Konwencji UNESCO z 2003 r.
Authors: Kościuk-Jarosz Agnieszka
Published: September 2024

Celem artykułu jest próba oceny Festiwalu Muzyki Ludowej „Mikołajki Folkowe” w Lublinie w kontekście zagrożeń dla niematerialnego dziedzictwa kulturowego. W pierwszej części została ogólnie scharakteryzowana muzyka folk jako twórczość inspirowana folklorem muzycznym, a także przedstawiony tytułowy festiwal. Część główna pracy jest poświęcona rozważaniom, czy festiwal „Mikołajki Folkowe” generuje zagrożenia wobec niematerialnego dziedzictwa kulturowego, a z drugiej strony – czy jest w stanie im przeciwdziałać i w jaki sposób. W części podsumowującej autorka wskazuje, że omawiane cykliczne wydarzenie muzyczne wpisuje się w strategię ochrony niematerialnego dziedzictwa kulturowego w myśl zapisów przyjętej przez Polskę Konwencji UNESCO z 2003 r.
Rodzinna pamiątka czy makulatura? Pośmiertne losy dzienników na przykładzie zapisków Hélène Berr i Mary Berg
Authors: Adamczyk Małgorzata Joanna
Published: September 2024

Artykuł dotyczy dzienników prowadzonych w czasie wojny przez dwie dorastające Żydówki: mieszkającą w okupowanym Paryżu Hélène Berr i żyjącą w warszawskim getcie Mary Berg. Dziennik Hélène Berr ukazał się drukiem w 2008 roku, ponad sześćdziesiąt lat po śmierci diarystki; jako rękopis i maszynopis był przechowywany przez dawnego narzeczonego zmarłej oraz w archiwum rodzinnym. Gdy rodzina wyraziła zgodę na wydanie tekstu, publikację przygotowano na podstawie rękopisu, który w międzyczasie został przekazany do paryskiego Mémorial de la Shoah. Dziennik Mary Berg w formie skrótowych, niemal stenograficznych zapisków w dwunastu notesach trafił natomiast w marcu 1944 roku do Nowego Jorku. Po przyjeździe do Stanów Mary chciała jak najszybciej opublikować dziennik, jednak gdy tekst ukazał się drukiem, diarystka zerwała kontakt z redaktorem zapisków i odcięła się od swojej przeszłości. Po jej śmierci rozmaite dokumenty osobiste trafiły na sprzedaż, a niesprzedane rzeczy do śmieci. Tym samym dwanaście rękopiśmiennych notesów najprawdopodobniej już nie istnieje, ale fragmentarycznie zachowały się maszynopisy: tłumaczenie z jidysz na polski autorstwa Stanisława Wygodzkiego z 1979 roku oraz fragmenty polskiego maszynopisu z 1944 roku. Maszynopisy te nie zostały wzięte pod uwagę podczas przygotowywania obecnie publikowanych reedycji dziennika, tymczasem porównanie ich z wersją książkową pokazuje, że oryginalny tekst przeszedł wiele głębokich zmian.
Ku rekonstrukcji portretu. Julia Dickstein-Wieleżyńska w zwierciadle listów do Jerzego Eugeniusza Płomieńskiego
Authors: Wilczak Mariola
Published: September 2024

Edycja wyboru listów Julii Dickstein-Wieleżyńskiej do Jerzego Eugeniusza Płomieńskiego, pochodzących ze zbiorów Biblioteki Zakładu Narodowego im. Ossolińskich we Wrocławiu, pozwala nie tylko na odtworzenie losów ich znajomości, a następnie przyjaźni. Umożliwia również rozpoznanie kilku istotnych wątków składających się na biografię ich autorki: jej działalności przekładowej, kulturotwórczej, rozwoju kariery naukowej, relacji zarówno z naukowcami i wydawcami, jak i członkami rodziny. Zawiera ślady poglądów na twórczość własną i innych autorów, a także trudności życiowych, w tym uporczywych i utrudniających pracę problemów zdrowotnych. Staje się więc nieocenionym materiałem biograficznym, zwłaszcza wobec faktu zniszczenia archiwum Dickstein-Wieleżyńskiej w czasie II wojny światowej. Uwydatnia również rolę listu jako źródła do portretu twórcy i jego indywidualnego stylu pisania.
Dzienniki Racheli Auerbach i Marylki w kontekście materialności świadectw Zagłady
Authors: Leociak Jacek
Published: September 2024

Autor zajmuje się materialnością zapisów doświadczenia Zagłady, a szczególnie fenomenem tekstów w różny sposób uszkodzonych (na skutek oddziaływania wilgoci, czynników chemicznych czy biologicznych, a także zniszczonych mechanicznie). Uszkodzenia te są efektem ukrywania tekstów, przede wszystkim pod ziemią w źle zabezpieczonych pojemnikach – jak dokumenty z Archiwum Ringelbluma. Powstałe podczas ukrywania rozliczne skazy tekstu odciskają się na jego substancji materialnej, przekształcają ją w taki sposób, który nie leżał w intencji autora, a jest wynikiem oddziaływania przypadkowych czynników zewnętrznych. Stanowią często zasadniczą trudność w odczytaniu tekstu i jego edycji. Można je jednak traktować (i tak czyni autor) jako szczególny stygmat Zagłady. Uszkodzone teksty uzyskują przez to podwójne odniesienie. Po pierwsze – wskazują na swego autora i opisywany przez niego świat. Po drugie – wskazują na siebie. Stają się cenne nie tylko przez to, o czym mówią, lecz także dzięki temu, że w ogóle są. Tak jak przedmioty ocalałe z katastrofy, teksty te nabierają wartości już przez to samo, że istnieją. Autor koncentruje się na dokumentach z Archiwum Ringelbluma i opisuje różne rodzaje uszkodzeń ocalałych tam tekstów. Skupia się przede wszystkim na fragmencie dziennika Racheli Auerbach – na ostatnim wpisie sporządzonym 26 lipca 1942 roku, w piątym dniu trwania wielkiej akcji likwidacyjnej w getcie warszawskim.