bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Autonomous driving enhanced: a fusion framework integrating LiDAR point clouds with monovision depth-aware transformers for robust object detection
Authors: Liu Hui , Su Tong , Guo Jing
Published: January 2025

In the evolving landscape of autonomous driving technology, the ability to accurately detect and localize objects in complex environments is paramount. This paper introduces an innovative object detection algorithm designed to enhance the perception capabilities of autonomous vehicles. We propose a novel fusion framework that integrates LiDAR point clouds with monocular depth estimations, utilizing a Depth-Aware Transformer (DAT) architecture. The DAT, a recent advancement in transformer models, is uniquely equipped to handle spatial hierarchies and depth cues, making it ideal for interpreting three-dimensional scenes from two-dimensional images. Our approach leverages the complementary strengths of LiDAR and monocular vision, where LiDAR provides precise depth information while the monocular camera offers rich visual textures and color information. The adaptive fusion strategy dynamically adjusts the weight given to each sensor modality based on the reliability and quality of the data in real-time, ensuring optimal performance under varying environmental conditions. We validate our method using the extensive KITTI dataset, a benchmark in autonomous driving research. Extensive experiments demonstrate that our algorithm outperforms state-of-the-art object detection models, achieving higher accuracy in object localization and classification. Moreover, our solution showcases improved robustness and generalization across diverse driving environments, thanks to the enhanced depth perception enabled by the DAT architecture. To further validate the effectiveness of our model, we conducted both comparative and ablation experiments, which confirmed the performance improvements of our approach and demonstrated the critical contributions of the DAT and Adaptive Fusion components. The proposed fusion of LiDAR and monocular depth estimation using Depth-Aware Transformers represents a significant step forward in autonomous driving perception systems. It not only advances the field of object detection but also paves the way for more sophisticated applications in autonomous navigation, where a deep understanding of the environment is crucial for safe and efficient operation.
Replicating the Expected and the Unexpected: Neuropsychological and Symptom Profiles in a Neurotypical Romanian-English Bilingual Sample
Authors: Crișan Iulia , Bunghez Cătălina , Avram Luisa , Pîrciu Alexandru , Erdodi Laszlo A
Published: January 2025

Establishing the effect of limited English proficiency (LEP) on cognitive performance within linguistically diverse populations is central to cross-cultural neuropsychological assessments. The present study was designed to replicate previous research on cognitive profiles in Romanian-English bilinguals. Seventy-six participants (54 women, MAge = 23.16, SDAge = 5.91; MEducation = 14.49, SDEducation = 1.57) completed a neuropsychological battery in English. The Digit Span, Animal and Emotion Fluency, and several symptom-report scales were also administered in Romanian. Performance patterns were similar to previous findings: verbal fluency, auditory verbal learning, and picture and speeded color naming were highly sensitive to LEP. In contrast, visuomotor processing speed and mental flexibility were robust to LEP. Participants performed better when ability tests were administered in their native language; there was no difference on symptom inventories. Test performance was related to the degree of LEP, operationalized as performance on the Boston Naming Test—Short Form. Level of verbal mediation and LEP are independent predictors of cognitive performance. Administering tests in the native language may provide a more accurate measure of cognitive functioning in examinees with LEP (especially at the low end of English proficiency). Developing population-specific norms is a necessary safeguard against the multiple confounding factors in the neuropsychological assessment of individuals with LEP.
Botulinum Toxin in Aesthetic Medicine: A Bibliometric Analysis of Research Trends and Methodological Quality of the Top 100 Cited Publications
Authors: Wong Zhen Yu , Damavandi Pegah , Richards Maksim , Danpanichkul Pojsakorn , Adegboye Oluwatobi , Faderani Ryan , Kanapathy Muholan , Mosahebi Afshin
Published: January 2025

Background

Botulinum toxin is widely used in aesthetic medicine, with numerous studies examining its efficacy and safety.

Objectives

This bibliometric analysis aims to describe research trends and assess the methodological quality of the highest-impact botulinum toxin research in aesthetic applications.

Methods

The authors of this study identified the 100 most-cited publications on botulinum toxin in aesthetics using Web of Science, covering all available journal years (from inception to October 2024). The Oxford Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine Level of Evidence (LOE) was used to assess the methodological quality of each study.

Results

The authors identified 1728 articles on the aesthetic uses of botulinum toxin, with the top 100 most-cited articles spanning from 1994 to 2021. The United States dominated the research landscape with 50 articles, followed by Canada (15). The University of California (United States) and the University of British Columbia (Canada) emerged as the top contributing institutions. Among journals, Dermatologic Surgery led in publication count, followed by Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and Aesthetics Surgery Journal. Notably, Professors Jean Carruthers and Alastair Carruthers from Canada were the leading researchers, topping both publication count and citation metrics. Notably, more than half of the studies were classified as LOE 5 (Expert Opinion/Narrative Review).

Conclusions

This bibliometric analysis reveals a paucity of high-quality studies in the field of botulinum toxin in aesthetic medicine, with research predominantly concentrated in western countries. These findings highlight the need for more rigorous, evidence-based studies and increased global collaboration to advance the understanding and application of botulinum toxin in aesthetics.

Level of Evidence: 4 (Therapeutic)
Erythema variation in dermatomyositis across subtypes and racial groups: importance of outcome measure for dermatomyositis clinical trials
Authors: Shen Catherine , Zeidi Ari , Xie Lillian , Lopes Almeida Gomes Lais , Feng Rui , Werth Victoria P
Published: January 2025

Two measurement tools are currently used to assess skin disease activity in dermatomyositis (DM) clinical trials: the Cutaneous Dermatomyositis Disease Area and Severity Index (CDASI) and the Cutaneous Dermatomyositis Investigator Global Assessment (CDM-IGA). This cross-sectional study assessed variability in erythema presentation across DM subtypes and among racial groups by comparing these two measurement tools: the CDASI and the CDM-IGA. With the increasing need to standardize DM trial outcome measures for cutaneous disease, our findings support the use of the CDASI as the primary scoring tool to determine cutaneous trial outcomes.
Prevalence and predictors of Barrett’s esophagus and esophageal cancer in patients with eosinophilic esophagitis
Authors: Zhou Margaret J , Hsing Ann W , Clarke John O
Published: January 2025

Data on Barrett’s esophagus (BE) and esophageal cancer (EC) outcomes in patients with eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) are limited. We aimed to determine the risk of prevalent BE (<1 year after endoscopy), incident BE (≥1 year after endoscopy), and incident EC in patients with versus without EoE, and to identify predictors of BE/EC in EoE patients. We identified adult patients in the Merative MarketScan Database who underwent first-time upper endoscopy between 2008 and 2020. Chi-square analysis compared proportions of patients with versus without EoE who had BE or EC. Multivariate Cox regression determined associations between demographics/comorbidities and incident BE/EC in the EoE cohort, adjusting for established BE risk factors. Among 2,947,003 patients who underwent upper endoscopy, 20,588 patients (0.70%) had EoE (mean age 40.6 years, 63.8% male, gastroesophageal reflux disease in 44.9%). Prevalent BE, incident BE, and incident EC was found in 1.03%, 0.57%, and 0.06% of patients with EoE versus 1.06%, 0.54%, and 0.05% of patients without EoE, respectively (P = 0.13, 0.21, and 0.36, respectively). Among individuals with EoE, older age, male sex, presence of a hiatal hernia, gastroesophageal reflux disease, and location in North Central or Southern USA were independently associated with incident BE. Older age and prevalent BE were independently associated with incident EC. BE/EC risk in EoE is comparable to that of the baseline population undergoing upper endoscopy. Our findings support current understanding that EoE is not associated with an increased risk of BE/EC and reinforce that conventional BE screening strategies can be applied in patients with EoE.
Does incisor inclination change during orthodontic treatment affect gingival thickness and the width of keratinized gingiva? A prospective controlled study.
Authors: Kloukos Dimitrios , Koukos George , Doulis Ioannis , Stavropoulos Andreas , Katsaros Christos
Published: January 2025

Objective

This prospective controlled study aimed to assess whether changes in mandibular incisor inclination during orthodontic treatment with fixed appliances affect gingival thickness (GT) and the width of keratinized gingiva (WKG), and having as reference an untreated group of participants.

Materials and methods

Forty consecutively recruited adult orthodontic patients and 40 untreated volunteers, matched for age and gender and selected from the same background population serving as controls, were included. Mandibular incisor inclination was measured in lateral cephalograms before treatment commencement (T0) and 1 month before fixed appliances’ removal (T1). Gingival thickness was measured using an Ultrasound Device (US) and width of keratinized gingiva (WKG) using a standard periodontal probe within the frames of a full periodontal examination at T0, T1, and 1 year after bracket removal (T2), that is, at about 30 months from T1.

Results

Nineteen females and 21 males in each group [mean age in years (range): intervention group 23.1 (16.8–43.3); control: 21.85 (18.2–43.9)] were analysed. Overall, change in incisor proclination [mean change in Incisor Mandibular Angle Plane—IMPA (ΔIMPA) was 6.35° (SD 5.08°)] was not associated with any significant change in soft tissue thickness and with alterations in WKG. The group receiving fixed appliances did not exhibit thickening or thinning of GT in comparison to the control group; the WKG was reduced in the intervention group in comparison to the untreated group, where it essentially remained unchanged (#41: coeff.: −0.29, P value: .1, 95% CIs: −0.65, 0.06; #31: coeff.: −0.51, P value: .01, 95% CIs: −0.88, −0.14).

Conclusions

Lower incisor proclination during orthodontic treatment does not appear to significantly alter GT and WKG, but orthodontic treatment, overall, leads to reduction of the WKG.
Vanishing twins, selection in utero, and infant mortality in the United States
Authors: Catalano Ralph , Casey Joan , Stolte Allison , Lee Hedwig , Gemmill Alison , Bustos Brenda , Bruckner Tim
Published: January 2025

Background and Objectives

Research to identify fetal predictors of infant mortality among singletons born in the United States (US) concludes that poorly understood and unmeasured “confounders” produce a spurious association between fetal size and infant death. We argue that these confounders include Vanishing Twin Syndrome (VTS)—the clinical manifestation of selection against frail male twins in utero. We test our argument in 276 monthly conception cohorts conceived in the US from January 1995 through December 2017.

Methodology

We use Box-Jenkins transfer function modeling to test the hypothesis that among infants born from 276 monthly conception cohorts conceived in the US from January 1995 through December 2017, the sex ratio of twins born in the 37th week of gestation will correlate inversely with infant mortality among singleton males born at the 40th week of gestation.

Results

We find support for our hypothesis and infer that the contribution of survivors of VTS to temporal variation in infant mortality among the hardiest of singleton male infants, those born at 40 weeks gestation, ranged from a decrease of about 7% to an increase of about 5% over our 276 monthly conception cohorts.

Conclusions and Implications

We conclude that an evolutionary perspective on fetal loss makes a heretofore “unmeasured confounder” of the relationship between fetal size and infant mortality both explicable and measurable. This finding may help clinicians better anticipate changes over time in the incidence of infant mortality.
Methylmercury in subarctic amphibians: environmental gradients, bioaccumulation, and estimated flux
Authors: Hossack Blake R , Davenport Jon M , Mattison C Kabryn , Eagles-Smith Collin A , Fishback LeeAnn , Tornabene Brian J , Smalling Kelly L
Published: January 2025

Rapid warming in polar regions is causing large changes to ecosystems, including altering environmentally available mercury (Hg). Although subarctic freshwater systems have simple vertebrate communities, Hg in amphibians remains unexplored. We measured total Hg (THg) in wetland sediments and methylmercury (MeHg) in multiple life-stages (eggs to adults) of wood frogs (Rana sylvatica) and larval boreal chorus frogs (Pseudacris maculata) from up to 25 wetlands near Churchill, Manitoba (Canada), during the summers of 2018–2019. We used egg mass counts for wood frogs from 24 wetlands (2015–2019) and per-ovum MeHg concentrations to estimate site-level MeHg flux by metamorphs from wetlands to the terrestrial environment. Total Hg in wetland sediment was unrelated to MeHg concentrations of amphibian larvae, but sediment THg increased with from coastal tundra vegetation to inland boreal forests. Methylmercury concentrations of wood frog eggs (geometric mean = 35.9; range: 6.7–77.9 ng/g dry wt) exceeded previous reports for amphibians, including from sites contaminated by industrial sources of Hg. Methylmercury concentrations of adult wood frogs (298.9 ng/g dry wt) were also higher than that for frogs included in a recent assessment of MeHg in amphibians across the contiguous United States. Within wetlands, MeHg concentrations of wood frog larvae were strongly correlated with MeHg concentrations in eggs earlier in the summer, and concentrations increased with each life stage. We estimate there would have been 1,971.8–3,286.4 ng MeHg exported from wetlands by wood frog metamorphs, which is 3.4–5.6 times more MeHg than inputted by eggs. Collectively, these data provide an initial assessment of Hg concentrations, body burdens, and dynamics in subarctic food webs that are expected to experience large changes from climate warming.
Occurrence, toxicity, ecological risk, and remediation of diclofenac in surface water environments: a review with a focus on China
Authors: An Xiding , Tao Yanru , Wu Jiaqing , Li Zechan , Li Huixian , Chen Shuqin , Pang Yan
Published: January 2025

Diclofenac (DCF) is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug commonly used in health care, livestock, and pharmaceuticals and widely detected in surface water environments globally. Here, we reviewed the occurrence characteristics, migration pathways, and aquatic toxicity of DCF in surface water environments. Asian and African populations are exposed to high concentrations of DCF (> 8,000 ng L−1). Wastewater discharge, livestock, and industrial pollution are the primary factors influencing the concentration and distribution of DCF. Diclofenac can cause acute toxicity, oxidative stress, and other toxic effects on aquatic organisms. We focused on China and analyzed the ecological risks of DCF in surface water environments and found low risk in the south and high risk in the north, as well as low risk during the rainy season and high risk during the dry season. Finally, we discuss the removal methods for DCF and propose the potential of metal-organic frameworks as a new material to replace conventional methods for DCF removal. This study comprehensively reveals the pollution status of DCF and the ecological risk it poses to surface water environments, providing a reference for the environmental management of DCF.
Coffee drinking timing and mortality in US adults
Authors: Wang Xuan , Ma Hao , Sun Qi , Li Jun , Heianza Yoriko , Van Dam Rob M , Hu Frank B , Rimm Eric , Manson JoAnn E , Qi Lu
Published: January 2025

Background and Aims

To identify the patterns of coffee drinking timing in the US population and evaluate their associations with all-cause and cause-specific mortality.

Methods

This study included 40 725 adults from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 1999–2018 who had complete information on dietary data and 1463 adults from the Women’s and Men’s Lifestyle Validation Study who had complete data on 7-day dietary record. Clustering analysis was used to identify patterns of coffee drinking timing.

Results

In this observational study, two distinct patterns of coffee drinking timing [morning type (36% of participants) and all-day-type patterns (14% of participants)] were identified in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey and were validated in the Women’s and Men’s Lifestyle Validation Study. During a median (interquartile range) follow-up of 9.8 (9.1) years, a total of 4295 all-cause deaths, 1268 cardiovascular disease deaths, and 934 cancer deaths were recorded. After adjustment for caffeinated and decaffeinated coffee intake amounts, sleep hours, and other confounders, the morning-type pattern, rather than the all-day-type pattern, was significantly associated with lower risks of all-cause (hazard ratio: .84; 95% confidential interval: .74–.95) and cardiovascular disease-specific (hazard ratio: .69; 95% confidential interval: .55–.87) mortality as compared with non-coffee drinking. Coffee drinking timing significantly modified the association between coffee intake amounts and all-cause mortality (P-interaction = .031); higher coffee intake amounts were significantly associated with a lower risk of all-cause mortality in participants with morning-type pattern but not in those with all-day-type pattern.

Conclusions

Drinking coffee in the morning may be more strongly associated with a lower risk of mortality than drinking coffee later in the day.
Decoding deception: the binding affinity of cuttlefish ink on shark smell receptors
Authors: Lawless Colleen , Simonitis Lauren E , Finarelli John A , Hughes Graham M
Published: January 2025

Chemical signaling can play a crucial role in predator–prey dynamics. Here, we present evidence that ink from the common cuttlefish (Sepia officinalis) targets olfactory receptor proteins in sharks, potentially acting as a predator deterrent. We apply in silico 3D docking analysis to investigate the binding affinity of various odorant molecules to shark olfactory receptors of 2 shark species: cloudy catshark (Scyliorhinus torazame) and white shark (Carcharodon carcharias). Pavoninin-4 (a known shark repellent compound) displayed selectivity in binding to receptors in the white shark. In contrast, the primary component of cuttlefish ink, melanin, displayed the highest binding affinities to all shark olfactory receptor proteins in both species. Taurine, another important ink component, exhibited standard to strong bindings for both species. Trans-4,5-epoxy-(E)-2-decenal (“blood decenal”), an odorant associated with the smell of blood, displayed strong binding affinities to all shark olfactory receptors, similar to that of melanin. These findings provide new insights into the molecular interplay between cephalopod inking behavior and their shark predators, with cuttlefish ink likely exploiting the narrow band of the shark olfactory repertoire.
An ecosystem for producing and sharing metadata within the web of FAIR Data
Authors: Jacob Daniel , Ehrenmann François , David Romain , Tran Joseph , Mirande-Ney Cathleen , Chaumeil Philippe
Published: January 2025

Background

Descriptive metadata are vital for reporting, discovering, leveraging, and mobilizing research datasets. However, resolving metadata issues as part of a data management plan can be complex for data producers. To organize and document data, various descriptive metadata must be created. Furthermore, when sharing data, it is important to ensure metadata interoperability in line with FAIR (Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, Reusable) principles. Given the practical nature of these challenges, there is a need for management tools that can assist data managers effectively. Additionally, these tools should meet the needs of data producers and be user-friendly, requiring minimal training.

Results

We developed Maggot (Metadata Aggregation on Data Storage), a web-based tool to locally manage a data catalog using high-level metadata. The main goal was to facilitate easy data dissemination and deposition in data repositories. With Maggot, users can easily generate and attach high-level metadata to datasets, allowing for seamless sharing in a collaborative environment. This approach aligns with many data management plans as it effectively addresses challenges related to data organization, documentation, storage, and the sharing of metadata based on FAIR principles within and beyond the collaborative group. Furthermore, Maggot enables metadata crosswalks (i.e., generated metadata can be converted to the schema used by a specific data repository or be exported using a format suitable for data collection by third-party applications).

Conclusion

The primary purpose of Maggot is to streamline the collection of high-level metadata using carefully chosen schemas and standards. Additionally, it simplifies data accessibility via metadata, typically a requirement for publicly funded projects. As a result, Maggot can be utilized to promote effective local management with the goal of facilitating data sharing while adhering to the FAIR principles. Furthermore, it can contribute to the preparation of the future EOSC FAIR Web of Data within the European Open Science Cloud framework.
Q241R mutation of Braf causes neurological abnormalities in a mouse model of cardio-facio-cutaneous syndrome, independent of developmental malformations
Authors: Moriya Akira , Inoue Shin-ichi , Saitow Fumihito , Keitoku Moe , Suzuki Noato , Oike Etsumi , Urano Eriko , Matsumoto Eiko , Suzuki Hidenori , Aoki Yoko , Ohnishi Hiroshi
Published: January 2025

Constitutively active mutants of BRAF cause cardio-facio-cutaneous (CFC) syndrome, characterized by growth and developmental defects, cardiac malformations, facial features, cutaneous manifestations, and mental retardation. An animal model of human CFC syndrome, the systemic BrafQ241R/+ mutant mouse, has been reported to exhibit multiple CFC syndrome-like phenotypes. In this study, we analyzed the effects of Braf mutations on neural function, separately from their effects on developmental processes. To this end, we generated Braf mutant mice expressing BRAFQ241R specifically in mature excitatory neurons (n-BrafQ241R/+). We found no growth retardation or cardiac malformations in n-BrafQ241R/+ mice, indicating normal development. Behavioral analysis revealed that n-BrafQ241R/+ mice exhibited reduced home cage activity and learning disability, which were similar to those of systemic BrafQ241R/+ mice. The active form of ERK was increased in the hippocampus of n-BrafQ241R/+ mice, whereas basal synaptic transmission and synaptic plasticity in hippocampal Schaffer collateral-CA1 synapses seems to be normal. Transcriptome analysis of the hippocampal tissue revealed significant changes in the expression of genes involved in regulation of the RAS/mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathway, synaptic function and memory formation. These data suggest that the neuronal dysfunction observed in the systemic CFC mouse model is due to the disruption of homeostasis of the RAS/MAPK signaling pathway by the activated Braf mutant after maturation, rather than abnormal development of the brain. A similar mechanism may be possible in human CFC syndrome.
Difficult Stories that Haunt: Towards Research Otherwise in Transitional Justice
Authors: Lühe Ulrike , Baines Erin
Published: January 2025

ABSTRACT∞

Stories of suffering, loss and injury encountered in transitional justice research are difficult. They generate affective responses of sadness, guilt, shame and, often, denial of responsibility. Difficult stories are also haunting. They reveal ongoing structural injustices, and in their insistence, challenge claims that the past is over and done with. In this article, we argue that engaging with difficult stories as haunting can propel us towards research otherwise. We first demonstrate how Western modes of research governance silence ghosts through the extraction and translation of difficult stories into data. We consider the possibilities of doing research otherwise when difficult stories refuse, demand return, re-story and claim new ways of seeing, being and doing research. Significantly, in a moment of global reckoning, when the promise of ‘never again’ has become a signifier of ‘ever again,’ the calculus and relevance of scholarship in transitional justice is measured by such ‘ghostly matters.’
Outbreak of Rotavirus Diarrheal Infection Among Adults in King County, Washington, January–June 2023
Authors: Ma Jimmy , Kumbhakar Raaka G , Casto Amanda , Chow Eric J , Englund Janet A , Gautam Rashi , Jaimes Jose , Tate Jacqueline E , Smart Sarah , Mani Nandita S , Cohen Seth A , Hussein Abby , Rietberg Krista , Bryson-Cahn Chloe , Fang Ferric C
Published: January 2025

Rotavirus is a leading cause of diarrhea among children but less known as a cause among adults. We describe clinical, epidemiologic, and genotypic characteristics of a rotavirus outbreak among adults in King County, Washington, occurring during January–June 2023. Adult rotavirus incidence in 2023 was 10 times higher than the same period in 2022 (5% vs 0.5% of samples). Disease severity was mild. G9P[4], an uncommon, nonvaccine strain in the United States, was the predominant genotype. Genotyping suggested spillover from children with subsequent spread among adults. Our study highlights benefits of routine testing and genotyping during outbreaks for surveillance, tracking, and understanding implications on vaccination.
GTF2I acts as a novel tumor suppressor transcription factor and shows Favorable prognosis in renal cancer
Authors: Dakal Tikam Chand , Thakur Mony , George Nancy , Singh Tiratha Raj , Yadav Vinod , Kumar Abhishek
Published: January 2025

The role of GTF2I (General Transcription Factor2I) alteration has already been reported in thymic cancer as a valuable biomarker. However, the association of GTF2I mutation with renal cancer for prognosis of immunotherapy is not yet examined. The biologic and oncologic significance of GTF2I in renal cancer was examined at multiomics level such as mutation, copy number alteration, structural variants. The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA), Human Protein Atlas (HPA) were used to retrieve the omics data. The expression of GTF2I mRNA was quite significant in case of renal caner. Correlation among the GTF2I mRNA, mutation, CNA and structural variants was also studied. Interactome of GTF2I was also constructed using STRING database. Gain, amplification, and missense mutation exhibited a positive correlation between GTF2I mRNA expression and non-structural variants. Similarly, GTF2I mRNA expression and copy number alterations from GISTIC were positively correlated. High expression of GTF2I was associated with better overall survival indicating the less aggressive clinical features.

Insight Box Investigating GTF2I's complex function as a tumor suppressor transcription factor in renal carcinoma provides fresh insights into its biologic and oncologic importance, especially when considering the prognosis of immunotherapy. Little is known about its possible use as a biomarker for renal cancer. Using a multiomics approach and utilizing information from the Human Protein Atlas (HPA) and The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA), our study clarifies the intricate relationship between mRNA expression, GTF2I changes, and clinical outcomes in renal cancer. Our results indicate that GTF2I expression may be used as a prognostic indicator because it is positively correlated with favorable survival outcomes. Furthermore, the molecular interactions behind GTF2I's functional significance in renal cancer are revealed by interactome analysis utilizing the STRING database, providing important information for further study and treatment approaches.
Early differentiation of committed erythroid cells defined by miR-144/451 expression
Authors: Li Xiaohong , Dong Yong , Xu Pan , Sun Wencui , Xue Yuan , Zhou Ya , Lai Mowen , Zhang Yonggang , Ma Feng
Published: January 2025

Before committing to an erythroid cell lineage, hematopoietic stem cells differentiate along a myeloid cell pathway to generate megakaryocyte–erythroid biopotential progenitor cells in bone marrow. Recent studies suggest that erythroid progenitors (EryPs) could be generated at the level of common myeloid progenitors (CMPs). However, due to a lack of suitable markers, little is known about the early differentiation of these committed EryP cells during CMP development. Herein, using miR-144/451-eGFP knock-in mice, we found that early differentiation of committed erythroid cells could be defined by miR-144/451 expression within CMPs. Single-cell RNA sequencing showed that miR-144/451+ progenitors had obvious differentiation characteristics of erythroid lineage cells and diverged from megakaryocyte and other myeloid cell lineages. These progenitors exclusively gave rise to erythroid cells, both in vitro and in vivo, and the commitment to an erythroid cell lineage was accompanied by loss of CD53 expression. Our findings will facilitate further understanding of the molecular mechanisms governing erythroid development and support the identification of therapeutic targets for diseases related to erythrocyte development.
Forced displacement and utilization of maternal health care services in host communities: micro-level evidence from Sub-Saharan Africa, 1986–2016
Authors: Østby Gudrun , Tollefsen Andreas Forø
Published: January 2025

Despite a growing literature on refugee health challenges, the effects of inflows of refugees on the utilization of health services in host communities remain largely ignored. Linking data on the location of displaced populations and geo-referenced survey data on the use of maternal health services in 30 sub-Saharan African countries, we explore whether geographical proximity to refugee- and internally displaced person (IDP) camps and settlements affects the utilization of maternal health care among women in host communities. More specifically, we apply a mother fixed-effects analysis isolating the effect of hosting refugees and IDPs on the probability of delivering at a health facility. We find that living within 25 km of displaced population significantly increases the likelihood of institutional births. This effect is stronger for the poorest mothers. Our study disproves the common misconception that refugees and IDPs have a negative impact on their host communities. Rather, we find a positive effect of hosting displaced populations.
Chemical characterization and evaluation of antiviral activity of two fucoidans extracted from Mediterranean brown seaweeds, Padina pavonica and Dictyopteris membranacea
Authors: Amri Safa , Bouslama Lamjed , Mzoughi Zeineb , Nouira Fatma , Majdoub Hatem , Bouraoui Abderrahman
Published: January 2025

Brown seaweeds are known for their bioactive compounds, particularly sulfated polysaccharides such as fucoidans, which have demonstrated antiviral properties. However, limited studies have focused on the antiviral potential of fucoidans extracted from Mediterranean brown seaweeds. In this study, two brown seaweeds Padina pavonica and Dictyopteris membranacea (Fuc-Pad and Fuc-Dic, respectively) were collected from monastir coasts, Tunisia, and a specific extraction protocol was employed to obtain fucoidans. The main objective of this study was to evaluate their antiviral activity against Herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) and coxsackievirus B3 (CVB-3). Fuc-Pad and Fuc-Dic exhibited potent antiviral activity with high selectivity indexes (>158 780 and 3125 for Fuc-Pad and 6101 and 84 for Fuc-Dic against HSV-2 and CVB-3, respectively). On the other hand, the two brown algae demonstrated different mechanisms of antiviral action according to virus type since they inhibited HSV-2 during the adsorption and penetration stages likely through interaction with cellular receptors that block viral binding while directly inhibiting CVB-3 by blocking specific viral ligands, preventing their attachment to host cell receptors. This antiviral activity seems to be associated with the high degree of sulfating of the fucoidans. These results may suggest the possibility of developing new antiviral drugs.
Migrant people, (in)mobility and art on a borderland: Tijuana, Mexico
Authors: Montes Veronica , Busse Erika , Cantú Nelly
Published: January 2025

By examining the border town of Tijuana, Mexico, we explore the artistic production in this distinctive migratory landscape. We seek to answer a central question: What insights does art provide about migration that traditional social sciences do not? Due to its geopolitical location, Tijuana serves as a crossroads for thousands of individuals who confront the stark contrast between their aspirations to enter the United States and the harsh realities of border securitization that impede their access. These contradictions create a fertile environment for diverse and rich artistic expression. We highlight three key moments that establish Tijuana as a vibrant hub attracting artists from around the globe. Among these moments, we focus more deeply on one that emphasizes the active participation of migrants in artistic projects initiated by Civil Society Organizations and migrant shelters. Notably, we examine the project “Jugamos a Leer” (Let’s Play to Read), which employs reading and playful, creative writing as pedagogical tools. This project aims to foster peace, identity, belonging, and memory among groups facing vulnerable circumstances, especially within migrant communities. We believe these projects enable individuals to present themselves as whole persons rather than being confined to a single identity, such as “deported,” “asylum seeker,” or “economic migrant.” These inclusive spaces allow participants to temporarily set aside their everyday challenges. Furthermore, by appealing to a fundamental aspect of humanity—creativity—participants, including those migrating without proper documents and those awaiting immigration procedures, can recognize and connect with each other’s humanity.
Quiescent or dusty? Unveiling the nature of extremely red galaxies at z > 3
Authors: Barrufet L , Oesch P A , Marques-Chaves R , Arellano-Cordova K , Baggen J F W , Carnall A C , Cullen F , Dunlop J S , Gottumukkala R , Fudamoto Y , Illingworth G D , Magee D , McLure R J , McLeod D J , Michałowski M J , Stefanon M , van Dokkum P G , Weibel A
Published: January 2025

The advent of the JWST has revolutionized our understanding of high-redshift galaxies. In particular, the NIRCam instrument on-board JWST has revealed a population of red galaxies that had largely evaded detection with Hubble Space Telescope (HST), potentially due to significant dust obscuration, quiescence, or extreme redshift. Here, we present the first NIRSpec spectra of 23 red, HST faint or dark galaxies ($\mathrm{H-F444W\gt 1.75}$), unveiling their nature and physical properties. This sample includes both dusty and quiescent galaxies with spectroscopic data from NIRSpec/PRISM, providing accurate spectroscopic redshifts with $\mathrm{\overline{z}_{spec} = 4.1 \pm 0.7}$. The spectral features demonstrate that, while the majority of red galaxies are dusty, a substantial fraction, $\mathrm{13^{+9}_{-6} \%}$, are quiescent. For the dusty galaxies, we have quantified the dust attenuation using the Balmer decrement ($\mathrm{H\,\alpha / H\,\beta }$), finding attenuations $\mathrm{A_{V} \gt 2\ mag}$. We find that red dusty galaxies are $\mathrm{H\,\alpha }$ emitters with equivalent widths spanning the range $\mathrm{ 68 \mathring{\rm A}\lt EW_{H\alpha } \lt 550 \mathring{\rm A}}$, indicative of a wide range of recent star-formation activity. Whether dusty or quiescent, we find that red galaxies are predominantly massive, with 85 per cent of the galaxies in the sample having masses $\mathrm{log({\it M}_{*}/{\rm M}_{\odot }) \gt 9.8}$. This pilot NIRSpec programme reveals the diverse nature of HST-dark galaxies and highlights the effectiveness of NIRSpec/PRISM spectroscopic follow-up in distinguishing between dusty and quiescent galaxies and properly quantifying their physical properties. Upcoming research utilizing higher-resolution NIRSpec data and combining JWST with ALMA observations will enhance our understanding of these enigmatic and challenging sources.
A critical evaluation of the elemental abundances and evolutionary status of 15 Vul (HD 189849): the first identification of an evolved Am star
Authors: Çay M Taşkın , Çay İpek H , Civelekler Betül
Published: January 2025

Understanding the evolution of metallic-line (${\rm A}_{\rm m}$) stars requires well-determined atmospheric parameters and abundance patterns of the selected candidates. In this study, we present a detailed abundance analysis of 15 Vul (HD 189849), identified as a marginal ${\rm A}_{\rm m}$ star, using a combination of equivalent width and spectrum synthesis techniques, under the local thermodynamic equilibrium assumption. We compare our findings with previous analyses of the star, providing critique on both their results and our own. Our results suggest that, although 15 Vul exhibits some underabundances of calcium and scandium, which are typically associated with ${\rm A}_{\rm m}$ stars, it might more accurately be identified as a normal A star in terms of its abundance pattern of all other elements and microturbulence velocity. The star’s position on the Hertzsprung–Russell diagram, along with our findings, may indicate that it is potentially a classical ${\rm A}_{\rm m}$ star that has evolved into the subgiant phase as a ‘quasi-normal’ star. This may be the first identification of an evolved ${\rm A}_{\rm m}$ star.
Highly accurate Korean draft genomes reveal structural variation highlighting human telomere evolution
Authors: Kim Jun , Park Jong Lyul , Yang Jin Ok , Kim Sangok , Joe Soobok , Park Gunwoo , Hwang Taeyeon , Cho Mun-Jeong , Lee Seungjae , Lee Jong-Eun , Park Ji-Hwan , Yeo Min-Kyung , Kim Seon-Young
Published: January 2025

Given the presence of highly repetitive genomic regions such as subtelomeric regions, understanding human genomic evolution remains challenging. Recently, long-read sequencing technology has facilitated the identification of complex genetic variants, including structural variants (SVs), at the single-nucleotide level. Here, we resolved SVs and their underlying DNA damage–repair mechanisms in subtelomeric regions, which are among the most uncharted genomic regions. We generated ∼20 × high-fidelity long-read sequencing data from three Korean individuals and their partially phased high-quality de novo genome assemblies (contig N50: 6.3–58.2 Mb). We identified 131 138 deletion and 121 461 insertion SVs, 41.6% of which were prevalent in the East Asian population. The commonality of the SVs identified among the Korean population was examined by short-read sequencing data from 103 Korean individuals, providing the first comprehensive SV set representing the population based on the long-read assemblies. Manual investigation of 19 large subtelomeric SVs (≥5 kb) and their associated repair signatures revealed the potential repair mechanisms leading to the formation of these SVs. Our study provides mechanistic insight into human telomere evolution and can facilitate our understanding of human SV formation.
edgeR v4: powerful differential analysis of sequencing data with expanded functionality and improved support for small counts and larger datasets
Authors: Chen Yunshun , Chen Lizhong , Lun Aaron T L , Baldoni Pedro L , Smyth Gordon K
Published: January 2025

edgeR is an R/Bioconductor software package for differential analyses of sequencing data in the form of read counts for genes or genomic features. Over the past 15 years, edgeR has been a popular choice for statistical analysis of data from sequencing technologies such as RNA-seq or ChIP-seq. edgeR pioneered the use of the negative binomial distribution to model read count data with replicates and the use of generalized linear models to analyze complex experimental designs. edgeR implements empirical Bayes moderation methods to allow reliable inference when the number of replicates is small. This article announces edgeR version 4, which includes new developments across a range of application areas. Infrastructure improvements include support for fractional counts, implementation of model fitting in C and a new statistical treatment of the quasi-likelihood pipeline that improves accuracy for small counts. The revised package has new functionality for differential methylation analysis, differential transcript expression, differential transcript and exon usage, testing relative to a fold-change threshold and pathway analysis. This article reviews the statistical framework and computational implementation of edgeR, briefly summarizing all the existing features and functionalities but with special attention to new features and those that have not been described previously.
Digital health intervention reconnects war-affected people living with HIV to healthcare: Ukraine case study
Authors: Aleksandrenko Hlib , Shevchenko Maryna , Chervak Olga
Published: January 2025

The unprovoked full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022 severely damaged the national health system, disconnecting thousands of people living with human immunodeficiency virus (PLHIV) from essential health services. Digital health interventions (DHIs) offer the potential to reconnect war-affected PLHIV to healthcare and improve health system resilience in case of emergencies. This study aimed to present a comprehensive case study of the implementation and lessons learned from a DHI aimed at reconnecting Ukrainian PLHIV to healthcare in the context of war. A DHI called ‘#ARTporuch’ was implemented in Ukraine in response to the war-related challenges for PLHIV. The case study methodology was used to present the DHI’s life cycle, from creation to maintenance. Usage and geographic coverage data were analyzed descriptively. The multi-component DHI, consisting of a website, chatbot, database and information campaign, was implemented. The case study yielded pivotal insights into the DHI lifecycle, including rapid conceptualization, security considerations, agile implementation and continuous adaptation. The online advertising generated >10 million impressions within the information campaign. The website attracted 20 619 visitors, while the chatbot was activated by 2950 users. This case study underscores the potential of DHI as a crisis-response component to reconnect PLHIV to healthcare during wartime. While quantitative evidence of effectiveness is limited due to wartime constraints, the study provides insights into the implementation of DHI in conflict-affected or resource-constrained settings, contributing to the ongoing efforts to achieve universal health coverage and enhance health system resilience planning.
What Constitutes an American Racial Institutional Order? Review Article on America's New Racial Battle Lines: Protect Versus Repair
Authors: Hochschild Jennifer
Published: January 2025

Following up on their 2011 book, Still a House Divided, Rogers M. Smith and Desmond King argue in America's New Racial Battle Lines: Protect versus Repair, that the United States has recently entered a new racial institutional order. Its battle lines are organized around two alliances, each with social networks, control of some institutions, core political and ideological commitments, and specific policy goals. One alliance seeks to protect the historical and continuing hierarchy in which white people enjoy social, economic, and political dominance; the other seeks to repair American society so that Black people and other people of color become fully equal citizens and participants.

In this review, I describe their analysis and then examine two questions emerging from it: what distinguishes an institutional order from a less fundamental and perhaps less durable political contest or social movement? And does an analysis centered on the Black-white binary sufficiently capture the complex nature of the United States' history and practice involving Native Americans, European immigrants, Latinos, Asian Americans, and other groups? I suggest how the protect versus repair battle lines might shift if a majority of Latinos move toward racialization or toward whiteness, or whether “racial” categories should be understood predominantly as varying intersections of race and class.
Effect of gamma dose rate on the public from soil samples collected from industrial areas of Tamil Nadu
Authors: Karthikayini Seenuvasan , Chandrasekaran Ananthanarayanan , Sathish Vilvanathan , Musthafa Mohamed Saiyad
Published: January 2025

The present work is the first and foremost radiological study of soil samples collected from industrial estates in Tamil Nadu. The magnetic susceptibility measurement revealed that 74.19% of the samples have medium %χFD, which denotes a commixture of coarser grains or the SP grains with a size of <0.005 μm. The range of measured activities of 210Po and 210Pb were 3 ± 0.3–38 ± 2.6 Bq kg−1 and 16 ± 1.5–48 ± 2.9 Bq kg−1. The mean activity concentrations of 238U (33 Bq kg−1) and 40K (467 Bq kg−1) marginally exceeded the Indian recommended values of 28.67 and 400 Bq kg−1, respectively, whereas 232Th (47 Bq kg−1) did not exceed 63.83 Bq kg−1. The 238U and 232Th are the significant contributors to the production of radiogenic heat in the study area. Pearson correlation analysis confirmed the prime role of 232Th in radiation hazards and the insignificant relation between magnetic minerals and natural radioactivity.