bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clinical characteristics and treatment outcomes for metastatic early-onset small bowel adenocarcinoma treated with first-line chemotherapy.
Authors: Yamaguchi Shotaro , Hirano Hidekazu , Sano Momoko , Hirose Toshiharu , Okita Natsuko Tsuda , Shoji Hirokazu , Takashima Atsuo , Kato Ken
Published: January 2025

796

Background:
Small bowel adenocarcinoma (SBA) is an aggressive rare cancer with its incidence on the rise. Although early-onset SBA (EO-SBA: diagnosed at < 50 years old) accounts for approximately 10% of all SBA, characteristics and survival outcomes of advanced EO-SBA remains under-evaluated. This study aims to evaluate clinical features and treatment outcomes of patients with advanced EO-SBA receiving first-line chemotherapy.
Methods:
We retrospectively analyzed the clinical data of patients who received fluoropyrimidine plus oxaliplatin as first-line treatment for recurrent or metastatic SBA at our hospital between January 2012 and July 2024 Patients were divided into two groups: those who were diagnosed at age of < 50 years old (EO-SBA) and those who were diagnosed at age of ≥50 years old (late-onset SBA, LO-SBA). Clinicopathological characteristics and treatment outcomes (objective response rate [ORR], progression-free survival [PFS], overall survival [OS], and adverse events [AEs]) were compared between two groups. Survival outcomes were estimated using the Kaplan–Meier method and compared by the log-rank test. Hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (95%CIs) were calculated by univariable and multivariable Cox regression analyses.
Results:
A total of 69 patients (EO-SBA 18, LO-SBA 51) were included in this study. Compared to the LO-SBA group, the EO-SBA group were more likely to have non-duodenum tumor (89% vs. 49%, p = 0.002), lesser number of metastatic sites (≤2, 100% vs.78%, p = 0.007), and prior resection of primary tumor (83% vs 49%, p = 0.008). The EO-SBA group had longer PFS compared to the LO-SBA group (median PFS: HR = 0.32 [95% CI 0.12 - 0.85] p = 0.022). The EO-SBA group had a trend of longer OS compared to the LO-SBA group (median OS: HR = 0.39 [95%CI 0.15 - 1.01] p = 0.053). Age group was not identified as an independent prognostic factor for OS (HR = 0.63 [95% CI: 0.21 - 1.85], p = 0.40) and PFS (HR = 0.47 [95% CI: 0.16 - 1.37], p = 0.17) by multivariable analyses adjusted for previously reported prognostic factors (performance status, liver metastasis, primary site, histological classification, prior resection of primary tumor, and carcinoembryonic antigen [CEA] elevation). Among patients with measurable lesions (EO-SBA 9, LO-SBA 41), the EO-SBA group showed a numerically higher ORR compared with the LO-SBA group (63% vs 29%, p = 0.07). There were no significant differences of AE frequencies between two groups except for anemia (grade 3/4. EO-SBA 0% vs LO-SBA 22%, p < 0.001).
Conclusions:
Our study indicates the difference of clinical characteristics between two age groups in patients with advanced SBA. EO-SBA was not identified as independent prognostic factor for OS and PFS in patients treated with first-line chemotherapy.
Comparing outcomes for early and late drainage of malignant ascites.
Authors: Baskar Suriya , Sharma Anuj , Turku Davin , Desai Chaula , Vasikaran Anush
Published: January 2025

842

Background:
Malignant ascites (MA) is a common sequela of peritoneal carcinomatosis resulting in significant morbidity and poses substantial management challenges for clinicians. Large volume paracentesis remains the gold standard treatment. The impact of time to drainage of MA is poorly studied. The purpose of this study was to compare clinical outcomes of hospitalized patients with MA that had drainage performed within 48 hours of admission and after 48 hours of admission.
Methods:
The NIS was queried between the years 2016 and 2020 to identify all adult patients hospitalized with malignant ascites (ICD-10 code R18.0) and had a drainage procedure performed (ICD-10 Procedure code 0W9Gx). These patients were then stratified into an early cohort (<48 hours after admission) and late cohort (>48 hours after admission). Baseline characteristics and clinical outcomes were collected and analyzed using chi squared tests, independent sample t-tests, and binary logistic regression (adjusted for age, gender, and Charlson comorbidity index or CCI). Adjusted Odds ratios (aOR) are presented with 95% Confidence intervals (CI).
Results:
A total of 129,040 patients were analyzed, with 89,905 (69.7%) hospitalizations in the early cohort and 39,135 (30.3%) in the late cohort. Baseline characteristics were similar between the groups, with no significant differences in age (63.8 vs 63.6, p = .06) or gender distribution (63.6% vs 63.1%, p = .09). However, patients in the early paracentesis group exhibited a lower CCI (9.8 vs 10.2, p<.001). Notably, early paracentesis was associated with significantly improved outcomes, including lower mortality (aOR 0.67, 95% CI 0.64–0.69), reduced incidence of sepsis (aOR 0.67, 95% CI 0.65–0.69), decreased need for transfusions (aOR 0.69, 95% CI 0.66–0.71), lower rates of mechanical ventilation (aOR 0.44, 95% CI 0.42–0.47) and vasopressor use (aOR 0.79, 95% CI 0.73–0.87).
Conclusions:
Early paracentesis in patients with malignant ascites was found to be associated with significantly improved clinical outcomes, independent of comorbidity burden. These findings underscore the importance of timely intervention to mitigate complications and enhance quality of life.

Late ParacentesisN=39,135
EarlyN=89,905
p-value

Age (years)
63.6 ± 13.1
63.8 ± 13.0
.06

Gender (% female)
24665 (63.1%)
57120 (63.6%)
.09

CCI
10.2 ± 3.1
9.8 ± 3.2

<.001

Mortality
5720 (14.6%)
9030 (10.0%)aOR .67 (.64 - .69)

<.001

Sepsis
7675 (19.6%)
12525 (13.9%)aOR .67 (.65 - .69)

<.001

Transfusion
5275 (13.5%)
8605 (9.6%)aOR .69 (.66 - .71)

<.001

Ventilation
2130 (5.4%)
2190 (2.4%)aOR .44 (.42 - .47)

<.001

Vasopressor
770 (2.0%)
1385 (1.5%)aOR .79 (.73 - .87)

<.001
Biomarkers associated with recurrence after salvage surgery for localized anal cancer (AC).
Authors: Lim Mir , Morris Van K. , Hernandez Sharia D. , Lin Kangyu , You Y. Nancy , Huey Ryan W , Lu Wei , Kostousov Larisa , Campos Clemente Leticia , Parra Cuentas Edwin Roger , Solis Luisa Maren
Published: January 2025

9

Background:
While most patients with localized AC are cured by chemoradiation (cRT), some recur and require salvage surgery (SS). No adjuvant therapies are effective after SS. We profiled cRT-refractory AC tumors from SS to identify biomarkers linked to recurrence.
Methods:
Using an IRB-approved protocol, patients with localized, cRT-refractory AC were classified as recurrent (R; N=19) or non-recurrent (NR; N=10) according to outcome after SS. Digital spatial profiling whole transcriptome analysis (GeoMx) on FFPE AC evaluated expression of 18000+ genes on 40 regions of interest (ROI) for R vs 25 ROIs for NR AC cores, separated into “tumor” (panCK+) and “tumor microenvironment” (TME; panCK-). log2 transformed RNA counts were compared for expression between ROIs of R and NR AC (limma). For GSEA hallmark pathway analysis, normalized enrichment scores (NES) were calculated using genes with differential gene expression. Expression of immune biomarkers using multiplex immunofluorescence (mIF) were quantified (N/mm2) and compared with a student’s t-test.
Results:
With a median follow up of 26.6 months, median OS (29.1 months vs NR; p< .001) was shorter for R AC. For NR AC, higher expression of genes associated with immune activation (p-adj< .0001 for all) - B2M (fold change (FC) 33.0), HLA-DPA1 (FC 30.1), and HLA-DPB1 (FC 15.0) – and higher NES for “interferon alpha response” (NES 3.2) and “interferon gamma response” (NES 3.1) (FDR < .05 for both) were observed. R AC had higher expression of genes (p-adj < .0001 for all) regulating TGF-beta signaling – LY6K (FC 10.3) and BCAR3 (FC 3.6), and higher “EMT” (NES 2.1) and “TGF-beta” (NES 1.6) GSEA signatures (FDR< .05 for both). On mIF, greater CD3+CD8+ T cells were observed in tumor (148 vs 42 N/mm2; p=.02) and TME (8.2 vs 2.8 N/mm2; p=.008) for NR AC. Increased Thy1+ cancer-associated fibroblasts were noted in tumor (4.2 vs 1.2 N/mm2; p=.04) and in TME (149 vs 69 N/mm2; p=.04) for R AC.
Conclusions:
Signatures of immune activation were observed with gene expression and mIF in AC patients cured by SS. R AC had higher immune suppressing profiles. These data support developing novel therapeutics that promote immune activation in trials of patients with cRT-refractory AC at high risk for recurrence after SS.
A randomized phase 2 study of an individualized neoantigen-targeting immunotherapy in patients with newly diagnosed metastatic microsatellite stable colorectal cancer (MSS-CRC).
Authors: Hecht Joel R. , Spira Alexander I. , Nguyen Anthony V. , Berim Lyudmyla Derby , Starodub Alexander , Pelster Meredith , Gallinson David , Kasi Anup , Reilley Matthew , Pimentel Agustin , Chung Ki Young , Lee Fa-Chyi , Chauder Brian , Bae Kyounghwa , Schneck Desiree , Allen Andrew R. , Jooss Karin , Ferguson Andrew R. , Beck J. Thaddeus
Published: January 2025

LBA13

Background:
Neoantigen-targeting immunotherapy aims to provide therapeutic benefit to patients by generating potent neoantigen-specific T cells. GRANITE is an immunotherapy regimen that uses chimpanzee adenovirus and self-amplifying mRNA vaccines encoding patient-specific neoantigens in combination with immune checkpoint inhibitors. Preliminary efficacy was noted in MSS-CRC (Palmer et al Nature Medicine 2022) and this regimen is being assessed in a randomized Phase 2 study in 1L metastatic MSS-CRC (NCT05141721).
Methods:
Patients (pts) with 20 neoantigens based on the EDGEÔ prediction model were randomized 1:1 to receive the GRANITE regimen in addition to 1L standard of care (SOC) (GRANITE vaccine arm), or 1L SOC alone (control arm).
Results:
Baseline demographics and disease characteristics were balanced between arms. As of 15 Oct 2024, GRANITE pts had an improvement in PFS relative to control pts (HR=0.73, 90% CI [0.44, 1.21]). In this study, high and low disease burden groups were identified using baseline ctDNA assessed by Gritstone’s validated, highly sensitive, tumor-informed assay. Patients with low disease burden benefited more than those with high disease burden, consistent with emerging data suggesting neoantigen-targeting immunotherapy having greater activity in minimal disease settings (e.g., adjuvant setting). Furthermore, in the low disease burden group at the most recent study visit, more patients were free of progression with very low ctDNA levels (ie, below the limit of quantification of the assay) in the GRANITE arm, 41% (7/17), versus the control arm, 21% (3/14). The greater proportion of GRANITE patients both free of progression and with very low ctDNA, suggests potential further separation of PFS cuves with additional follow up. Neoantigen-specific T cell responses were observed in 100% of patients in the GRANITE arm with evaluable PBMC samples (17/17 assessed by ex vivo and in vitro stimulation ELISpots). Molecular responses based on a reduction in ctDNA at a single timepoint was similar between arms (39% in GRANITE and 40% in control arms). Most common (≥20%) treatment-related adverse events (TRAE) included pyrexia and influenza like illness and no pts discontinued due to a TRAE.
Conclusion:
This randomized study shows GRANITE may benefit patients, especially those with low burden disease, in this front line setting of metastatic MSS-CRC that has not benefitted from immunotherapy. Updated analysis will be presented.
Clinical trial information: NCT05141721
.
Phase I study of autologous CD8+ and CD4+ transgenic T cells expressing high-affinity KRAS G12V mutation-specific T cell receptors (FH-A11KRASG12V-TCR) in patients with metastatic pancreatic, colorectal, and non-small cell lung cancers with KRAS G12V mutations.
Authors: Safyan Rachael A. , Redman Mary Weber , Coveler Andrew L. , Cohen Stacey A. , Lee Sylvia , Yeung Cecilia , Schmitt Thomas , Chapuis Aude , Greenberg Philip D. , Chiorean E. Gabriela
Published: January 2025

TPS792

Background:
KRAS, the most common driver oncogene in human malignancies, has predictable mutations. 85% of RAS mutations occur at the Glycine (G) 12 position with G12V being amongst the most common. Cancers driven by mutant KRAS include pancreatic (PDAC), colorectal (CRC), and non-small cell lung (NSCLC) malignancies. The prognosis of patients with activating KRAS mutations remains poor. Preliminary anti-tumor activity has been observed with T cell receptor (TCR) T cell therapies targeting KRAS mutations, but durable clinical benefit is lacking. FH-A11KRASG12V-TCR is an autologous CD8+ and CD4+ transgenic T cell product expressing (1) an HLA-A*11-restricted, high affinity KRASG12V mutation-specific T cell receptor (TCR) and (2) the wildtype CD8α/β coreceptor enabling CD4+ T cell recognition of KRAS G12V presented on an MHC class I allele mediating helper T cell activity and cytotoxicity. The TCR sequence is derived from the peripheral blood of a healthy HLA-A*11+ adult based on a strong pre-clinical dataset.
Methods:
This is an ongoing, investigator-initiated, phase 1, first-in-human, single-center, dose escalation study of FH-A11KRASG12V-TCR. The aims are to evaluate the safety, tolerability, maximum tolerated dose (MTD), and preliminary anti-tumor activity of FH-A11KRASG12V-TCR in patients with advanced PDAC, CRC, and NSCLC who express the HLA-A*11-restricted KRAS G12V mutation. Dose modification is guided by the Bayesian Optimal Interval design (BOIN). Patients are initially treated in cohorts of 3 at each dose level (DL). BOIN will be used to identify the recommended dose for subsequent patients. The planned target doses are 5 x 10
9
transgenic TCR T cells in DL 1 with dose escalation up to 15 x 10
9
transgenic TCR T cells in DL 3. This study enrolls patients who are 18 years or older, HLA-A*11:01-positive, with KRAS G12V mutated metastatic PDAC, CRC, or NSCLC. Patients must have progressed on or be intolerant of at least one line of prior therapies including any targeted therapies indicated for their current malignancy. Patients undergo leukapheresis prior to treatment and receive lymphodepleting chemotherapy with either cyclophosphamide intravenously (IV) and fludarabine IV on days -6, -5, and -4 or bendamustine IV on days -4 and -3. FHA11KRASG12V-TCR is administered IV on day 0. The dose-limiting toxicity observation period is 28 days. Patients may receive an additional FHA11KRASG12V-TCR IV infusion at the same or lower dose as soon as 28 days or up to 1 year after the first infusion. The study is actively recruiting.
Clinical trial information: NCT06043713
.
Dendritic cells in developing and adult zebrafish arise from different origins and display distinct flt3 dependencies
Authors: Lin Guanzhen , Wang Youqi , Pham Thi Giang , Wen Zilong
Published: January 2025

Dendritic cells (DCs) are key cellular components of the immune system and perform crucial functions in innate and acquired immunity. In mammals, it is generally believed that DCs originate exclusively from hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs). Using a temporal-spatial resolved fate-mapping system, here we show that, in zebrafish, DCs arise from two sources: dorsal aorta-born endothelium-derived hematopoietic progenitors (EHPs) and HSCs. The EHP-derived DCs emerge early, predominantly colonizing the developing thymus during larval stages and diminishing by juvenile stages. In contrast, HSC-derived DCs emerge later and can populate different tissues from late larval stages to adulthood. We further document that the EHP- and HSC-derived DCs display different dependencies on Fms-like tyrosine kinase 3 (Flt3), a pivotal receptor tyrosine kinase crucial for DC development in mammals. Our study reveals the presence of two distinct waves of DC development in zebrafish, each with unique origins and developmental controls.
Portais eletrônicos na accountability: Abrindo a “caixa-preta”
Authors: Colman Sanabria Daniel , Cintra Renato Fabiano
Published: January 2025

O estudo explora a fronteira do conhecimento sobre accountability e técnicas utilizadas para a coleta de dados em portais eletrônicos. Foi realizada uma revisão sistemática da literatura para explorar modelos ou métodos capazes de mensurar accountability em portais eletrônicos. Foram examinados cerca de oito mil estudos e 51 deles atenderam aos critérios de inclusão. Os documentos foram analisados e resultaram em sete grupos primários: governos municipais, governos locais em geral, governos estaduais, instituições educacionais, terceiro setor; dados abertos; e outras abordagens. Os documentos identificados podem contribuir para a promoção e estruturação da accountability nas organizações. A contribuição teórica consiste na síntese do tema e na apresentação de direções pra futuras pesquisas, que farão avançar o campo. Além disso, mostra um aparato para compreensão da coleta de dados em portais eletrônicos em accountability.
Accounting for the expansion of the universe using an energy/momentum model to construct the space-time metric
Authors: James Hugh
Published: January 2025

Background The success of the theories of special and general relativity in describing localised phenomena, such as objects undergoing high speed motion or located in gravitational fields, needs no further elaboration. However, when applied to the evolution of the universe several problems arise which can require an additional model, e.g., inflation during the early expansion, and adjustments to parameters to account for phenomena such as the late-time acceleration of the universe. Methods Focusing on the difference between the ways in which space and time are measured, this paper shows that there are two paths which allow the equations of special relativity to be produced from the same basic postulates. Results Both the standard theory and the energy/momentum, or dynamic model, utilise the Minkowski metric, but with different coordinate systems. The dynamic model transforms Cartesian coordinates into an Euclidean form by multiplying the coordinates by functions of γ (= (1– ν 2/c 2)-1/2). When utilising these coordinates, the relativistic equations are unchanged for local phenomena such as the Lorentz coordinate transformation and the energy/momentum equation for high-velocity objects. Conclusions However, the derived coordinates alter the perceived overall structure of the universe in a manner that, for the simplest model under this system, allows the reproduction of observed cosmological features, such as the intrinsic flatness of the universe and the apparent late-time acceleration of its expansion, without the need of additional models or changes in parameter values.
Zero-dose children in Latin America: analysis of the problem and possible solutions
Authors: Avila-Aguero Maria L. , Brenes-Chacon Helena , Melgar Mario , Becerra-Posada Francisco , Chacon-Cruz Enrique , Gentile Angela , Ospina Martha , Sandoval Nancy , Sanwogou Jennifer , Urena Analia , Valenzuela Maria T. , Morice Ana
Published: January 2025

Introduction Zero-dose children (ZDC) are defined as those that have never been reached by routine immunization services. In Latin America, almost 2.7 million infants younger than 1 year of age, have incomplete vaccination schedules, and vaccine preventable diseases such as measles or polio have increase worldwide. ZDC are reported to reside in high risk and fragile settings, including remote-rural areas, urban slums, and conflict-affected areas. Identifying the problem and settings in each country is mandatory to propose possible solutions to the immunization coverage situation. Areas covered In November 2023, a group of experts of the Latin America Society of Pediatric Infectious Diseases (SLIPE) analyzed the global and regional reality of ZDC, and present in this document an updated reality of the Latin American region and the weight of the possible interventions to overcome this problem. Expert commentary Communication is a key element to improve vaccination coverage, as it is quality and use of vaccination data. Campaigns that deliver targeted and effective messages to communities and families, provide education about vaccination, avoid missed vaccination opportunities, and coordinate efforts across different sectors and communities, among other strategies, could improve the current immunization situation.
Heavy Metal Contamination: Sources, Health Impacts, and Sustainable Mitigation Strategies with Insights from Nigerian Case Studies
Authors: Laoye Babafemi , Olagbemide Peter , Ogunnusi Tolulope , Akpor Oghenerobor
Published: January 2025

Heavy metal contamination has gradually become a very much important significant global issue due to its continual existence in the environment and bioaccumulation in the ecosystems, posing deleterious risks to human health. This review aims to investigate the sources, pathways, and toxicological impacts of heavy metals such as cadmium, lead, mercury, and arsenic, elucidating their health consequences and plausible mitigation strategies. Furthermore, the review explores the dual origins of heavy metal contamination; natural geological processes and anthropogenic activities such as industrial emissions, mining, and agricultural practices. These heavy metals sip into soil, water, and food chains, leading to bioaccumulation, bio-magnification and causing significant health risks, including cardiovascular diseases, neurological disorders, and reproductive toxicity. Additionally, the addition of indigenous case studies from Nigeria, such as lead poisoning in Zamfara State and contamination in the Great Kwa River of Cross Rivers State underscores the disproportionate impact of heavy metal pollution in developing nations. These case studies reveal the socio-economic and environmental dimensions of the issue, providing a contextual understanding of region-specific vulnerabilities and health outcomes. To address these problems, the review evaluates already existing mitigation strategies, including chelation therapy and phytoremediation, while proposing sustainable, cost-effective solutions for reducing exposure and mitigating impacts. It emphasizes the importance of integrative approaches involving policy, community engagement, and technological innovations to fight heavy metal contamination effectively. In conclusion, this seminar contributes to the understanding of heavy metal toxicity, giving and showcasing very much important insights into the sources and health implications of contamination. By integrating theoretical perspectives with practical solutions, this review provides a robust framework for informing policy makers and advancing sustainable environmental management practices.
Unending dialectical politics of identity in Ethiopia
Authors: Assefa Tefera
Published: January 2025

Background Identity politics is one of political terminology which is subjected to continuous and increasingly contested conceptualization and use. Moreover, identity exists in all social level starting for individual to international level, which makes identity a multi-layer concept. There has been a great deal of identity-based terminological distortion and misconception in Ethiopian political discourses and practice since its formation in the modern form. One of the primary challenges in Ethiopian present political discourse is misconception, complexity, and contradiction between ethnic identity (የብሄር ማንነት) and civic identity or citizenship (የዜግነት ማንነት), which must be addressed in Ethiopian political discourse. Methods In this paper, critical post-modernism research philosophy and Dialectical Method is used to analyze the rotation of contradiction between Pan-Ethiopianism and Pan-ethnic nationalism. The narrative analysis is used to make a critical investigation of the vicious cycle unending dialectics of identity politics in Ethiopia. Discussion The current political situation is an indication of unending dialectics of Ethiopian politics. The existing politics of ethnic identity and citizenship indicate unending dialectic of political friction with the rotation of thesis and anti-thesis which left the state building projection of country incomplete and weak dialectical process. Wrong policy and political responses of successive regime to the nationality questions (quests for power sharing and autonomous self-government) resulted in the sustained and vicious circle of conflict. Conclusion Generally, it is argued that prescription of one side of nationalism at the expense of the other will never resolve the political crisis of the country. Therefore, it is recommended that both integrationist and accommodationist institutional design and multinational democratic federalism should be implemented effectively to cope with the salience of identity politics in the country.
Human brain organoid research: An analysis of public attitudes and ethical concerns in Japan
Authors: Sawai Tsutomu , Koike Mayu , Kataoka Masanori
Published: January 2025

Human brain organoids are three-dimensional neural structures derived from human pluripotent and tissue stem cells. They have become a focal point in scientific research due to their potential to elucidate brain functions, disease mechanisms, and therapeutic strategies. However, the ethical implications of this research have sparked significant debate, particularly concerning the potential for consciousness and effects of transplanting organoids into animals. Given the complexity and novelty of these issues, it is essential to gauge public opinion to ensure that the research aligns with societal values and ethical standards. To understand public perceptions of human brain organoid research, we conducted an online survey targeting Japanese individuals. The survey explored expectations, concerns, and agreements regarding this type of research. The results revealed high expectations for applied and clinical outcomes but significant ethical concerns, particularly regarding unanticipated risks and commercialization. Moreover, comprehension test scores were positively correlated with support for various research objectives, indicating that informed individuals may view this type of research favorably. These findings underscore the need for public engagement and informed discussions to foster responsible innovation in this emerging field.
The genome sequence of Dolichopus griseipennis Stannius, 1831
Authors: Ashworth Mike , McCulloch James , Crowley Liam M. , Drake C. Martin ,   Natural History Museum Genome Acquisition Lab,   University of Oxford and Wytham Woods Genome Acquisition Lab,   Darwin Tree of Life Barcoding collective,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Tree of Life Management, Samples and Laboratory team,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Scientific Operations: Sequencing Operations,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Tree of Life Core Informatics team,   Tree of Life Core Informatics collective,   Darwin Tree of Life Consortium
Published: January 2025

We present a genome assembly from an individual male Dolichopus griseipennis (Arthropoda; Insecta; Diptera; Dolichopodidae). The genome sequence has a total length of 897.50 megabases. Most of the assembly is scaffolded into 6 chromosomal pseudomolecules, including the X sex chromosome. The mitochondrial genome has also been assembled and is 16.12 kilobases in length. Gene annotation of this assembly on Ensembl identified 12,532 protein-coding genes.
Czy UNESCO uda się zbudować „kultury ludzi ziemi” w Kanadzie?
Authors: Hlebowicz Bartosz
Published: January 2025

Recenzja: Agnieszka Pawłowska-Mainville, Stored in the Bones. Safeguarding Indigenous Living Heritages, University of Manitoba Press, Winnipeg 2023.
Revisiting the collapse of the Hospitaller priory of Dacia in Late Medieval Scandinavia (1429‒1493)
Authors: Ljungar Wilhelm
Published: January 2025

The Hospitaller priory of Dacia was one of the richest and most influential religious institutions in Medieval Scandinavia. Despite this, scholarship dealing with the Order’s Scandinavian history has been sparse, especially with regards to the latter part of the Middle Ages. While the Dacian relationship with the Order at large during the period has been covered in previous research, the institutional developments, power struggles and eventual breakdown of the priory itself have only received a cursory treatment. In this article, I revisit the collapse of relations between the Danish and Swedish branch of the Order, focusing on the violent ousting of prior Olaus Nicolai in the 1460s. By introducing previously overlooked sources, I present both a new understanding about how the breakdown of relations occurred, as well as an unique insight into the Scandinavian Hospitallers and their changing political relationship to both the Kalmar Union and the Grand Master on Rhodes.
Identifying the Most Impactful Research Fronts in the Digital Education Ecosystem: Formulation, Metrics, and Insights
Authors: Chung Nguyen Huu Thanh , Cam Tran Ai
Published: January 2025

Research fronts are dynamic, knowledge-driven clusters of scholarly activity that emerge in response to pressing problems and/or groundbreaking discoveries. Clarivate Analytics provided a valuable tool based on Citation Productivity and Trajectory (CPT) indicator, which successfully identified particularly hot research fronts on a global scale. To enhance the accuracy and comprehensiveness of identifying both active and emerging research trends, this study develops an extended Clarivate formulation incorporating a novel Impact Factor (IF) metric. The refined approach incorporates growth rates, publication productivity, and the average publication gap between published and citing publications. This method is applied to exploring key research fronts in the digital education ecosystem using bibliometric data from the Scopus database in the period of 2019-2023. The results reveal that artificial intelligence and online learning are the most prominent and influential fields, with virtual reality, blockchain, hybrid learning, and digital literacy representing fast-growing areas. By analyzing both quantitative and qualitative aspects, this work informs key stakeholders about the evolving priorities and trends in the digital educational landscape.
Changes in the shape of the lumbar curve during growth
Authors: Pelleg-Kallevag Ruth , Borgel Sarah , Kedar Einat , Peled Nathan , May Hila
Published: January 2025

Aims

The development of lumbar lordosis has been traditionally examined using angular measurements of the spine to reflect its shape. While studies agree regarding the increase in the angles during growth, the growth rate is understudied, and sexual dimorphism is debated. In this study, we used a novel method to estimate the shape of the lumbar curve (LC) using the landmark-based geometric morphometric method to explore changes in LC during growth, examine the effect of size and sex on LC shape, and examine the associations between angular measurements and shape.

Methods

The study population included 258 children aged between 0 and 20 years (divided into five age groups) who underwent a CT scan between the years 2009 and 2019. The landmark-based geometric morphometric method was used to capture the LC shape in a sagittal view. Additionally, the lordosis was measured via Cobb and sacral slope angles. Multivariate and univariate statistical analyses were carried out to examine differences in shape between males and females and between the age groups.

Results

The overall shape of the LC overlapped between males and females in most age groups, except for the nine- to 12-year age group. However, size did not affect LC shape. LC shape changed significantly during growth from straight to curved, reaching its mature shape earlier in females. This corresponded with the results obtained by the lordosis and sacral slope angles. A significant positive correlation was found between the LC shape and angles, although the angles demonstrated poor distinction between age groups, as opposed to the LC shape.

Conclusion

New insights into LC shape development were achieved using the geometrical morphometric method. The LC shape was sex-independent in most age groups. However, the LC reached its mature shape earlier in females than males. The method and data of this study are beneficial for future studies examining aetiological factors for spinal pathologies and maldevelopment.

Cite this article: Bone Joint Res 2025;14(1):58–68.
Secure space division multiplexing system based on multi-channel chaos random encryption with synchronized Fabry–Perot lasers
Authors: Gao Zhensen , Gao Yanhua , Wen Zhuolin , An Yuehua , Wang Anbang , Fu Songnian , Li Zhaohui , Wang Yuncai , Qin Yuwen
Published: January 2025

Chaotic optical communication has recently garnered considerable research interest for providing physical layer security. In this work, we propose and demonstrate a secure space-division-multiplexing (SDM) system based on multi-channel chaos random en/decryption with remotely synchronized Fabry–Perot (FP) lasers. By a random combination of multi-longitudinal modes from the FP lasers, multi-channel low-correlated chaotic signals can be produced and then utilized for encrypting the confidential data, which effectively provides multiple possibilities of optical encryption from a single chaotic laser source. As a proof-of-principle demonstration in a multi-core fiber-based SDM system, 28 Gb/s/core on–off keying (OOK) and 64 Gb/s/core quadrature phase-shift keying (QPSK) signals are successfully encrypted and securely transmitted over a 10 km seven-core fiber. The demonstrated scheme may provide a new way for a physical-layer secure SDM system with enhanced capacity and security.
Single-pixel diffractive imaging via regularized complex-amplitude retrieval
Authors: Huang Guancheng , Shuai Yong , Liu Zhengjun , Li Ziyang , Qiao Ziling , Li Qi , Wu Zhengyu , Liu Shutian , Li Yutong
Published: January 2025

For high-fidelity single-pixel complex-amplitude measurement, we implement robust and regularized wavefront separation by integrating multi-distance correlated reconstruction with constrained alternating projection retrievals. An adaptive dynamic weighting mechanism for group-wise wavefront updates further reinforces the stability and accuracy of imaging convergence. Additionally, a compressed phase retrieval driven by sparsity priors markedly optimizes efficiency by enabling wavefront reconstruction with single-frame diffraction. The proposed method allows flexible imaging with different-frame diffraction, promising it as a plug-and-play solution for high-fidelity single-pixel complex-field detection.
The WHO Disease Outbreak News during the Covid-19 pandemic
Authors: Weets Ciara M. , Carlson Colin J. , Robertson Hailey , Toole Kate , McGivern Lauren , Graeden Ellie , Katz Rebecca
Published: January 2025

During the Covid-19 pandemic, the World Health Organization (WHO) was an important public source of information – not only about the pandemic, but also thousands of other potential health emergencies. Here, we examine the 242 reports published in the WHO Disease Outbreak News (DON) during the first four years of the Covid-19 pandemic (2020 to 2023), and document the diseases and regions that were reported. We find that multinational epidemics of diseases like Ebola virus and MERS-CoV continue to dominate the DON. However, recent years have also seen more reports of climate-sensitive infectious diseases, as well as a state shift in influenza outbreak reporting in both China and the rest of the world. Surprisingly, the DON was only minimally used to document the Covid-19 pandemic and the global clade II mpox epidemic, almost exclusively before the declaration of a public health emergency of international concern. Notably, inconsistent reporting related to Covid-19 variants of concern speaks to the ongoing evolution of the DON as a resource, and potentially, to its complicated relationship with international travel and trade restrictions. We suggest that researchers should continue to exercise caution when treating the DON as a global record of outbreak history, but that the DON is a compelling record of the WHO itself, including the process it uses to assess outbreak risk.
A comprehensive review of biological and genetic control approaches for leishmaniasis vector sand flies; emphasis towards promoting tools for integrated vector management
Authors: Kumari Yasoda , Gunathilaka Nayana , Amarasinghe Deepika
Published: January 2025

Background

Leishmaniasis is a health problem in many regions with poor health and poor life resources. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), an estimated 700,000–1 million new cases arise annually. Effective control of sand fly vector populations is crucial for reducing the transmission of this disease. Therefore, this review aims to comprehensively examine and evaluate the current methods for controlling sand fly populations, focusing on biological and gene drive techniques.

Methods and findings

A detailed, comprehensive literature search was carried out using databases including Google Scholar, PubMed, ScienceDirect, and the National Library of Medicine (NIH). These searches were done using specific keywords related to the field of study. This current review identified several promising methods, including genetically modified sand flies, using transgenic approaches by taking advanced gene editing tools like Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats (CRISPR/Cas9) and genetic modification of symbiotic microorganisms for controlling sand fly populations, which appeared to be proven under laboratory and field settings.

Conclusion

Genetic control approaches have many benefits over chemical control, including long-lasting effects on targets, high specificity, and less environmental impact. Advances in genetic engineering technologies, particularly CRISPR/Cas9, sterile insect techniques, and gene drive insect modification, offer new avenues for precise and efficient sand fly management. Future research should prioritize optimizing rearing and sterilization techniques, conducting controlled field trials, and fostering collaboration across disciplines to realize the potential of genetic control strategies in combating leishmaniasis.
“Energetics of the outer retina II: Calculation of a spatio-temporal energy budget in retinal pigment epithelium and photoreceptor cells based on quantification of cellular processes”
Authors: Kiel Christina , Prins Stella , Foss Alexander J. E. , Luthert Philip J.
Published: January 2025

The outer retina (OR) is highly energy demanding. Impaired energy metabolism combined with high demands are expected to cause energy insufficiencies that make the OR susceptible to complex blinding diseases such as age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Here, anatomical, physiological and quantitative molecular data were used to calculate the ATP expenditure of the main energy-consuming processes in three cell types of the OR for the night and two different periods during the day. The predicted energy demands in a rod dominated (perifovea) area are 1.69 x 1013 ATP/s/mm2 tissue in the night and 6.53 x 1012 ATP/s/mm2 tissue during the day with indoor light conditions. For a cone-dominated foveal area the predicted energy demands are 6.41 x 1012 ATP/s/mm2 tissue in the night and 6.75 x 1012 ATP/s/mm2 tissue with indoor light conditions during daytime. We propose the likely need for diurnal/circadian shifts in energy demands to efficiently stagger all energy consuming processes. Our data provide insights into vulnerabilities in the aging OR and suggest that diurnal constraints may be important when considering therapeutic interventions to optimize metabolism.
Political participation and voluntary associations : A hypergraph case study
Authors: Azaiez Amina , Salot Robin
Published: January 2025

Civic organizations, ranging from interest groups to voluntary associations, significantly influence policy formation in representative democracies. This work presents a local case study that examines the relationship between voluntary associations and local political institutions in a village with nearly two thousand residents. Traditionally, sociologists’ approaches have focused on individual characteristics such as age, gender, or socio-professional status. In this study, we analyze social interactions between members of organizations modeled through a hypergraph. Specifically, we model interactions as hyperedges that correspond to activities proposed by organizations and involve the individuals who participate in those activities. Our analysis reveals a community-based structure, where members of similar types of organizations tend to interact more frequently. To quantify ‘political participation,’ we introduce an interaction-based measure that extends degree centrality. We also introduce the ‘diversity coefficient’ as an extension of degree centrality to capture an individual’s ability to participate in activities composed of members from different communities. Among other centrality measures, we find that the diversity coefficient is the most significant factor in explaining political participation among members of associations.
Data quality in centenarian research: The proxy-centenarian relationship and item nonresponse in the SWISS100 study
Authors: Zaccaria Daniele , Falciola Justine , Masotti Barbara , von Gunten Armin , Herrmann François , Jopp Daniela S. , Cavalli Stefano
Published: January 2025

Background

In recent years, there has been a growing interest in the investigation of very old individuals. However, various challenges arise when collecting data from this age group. Given potential health and cognitive impairments and the difficulty of retrieving accurate self-reported data, involving individuals knowledgeable of the target person as proxy respondents are an invaluable solution. The primary goal of this study is to explore the association between proxy-centenarian relationship and item nonresponse, a pivotal data quality measure.

Data and methods

We used data from the phone study conducted within SWISS100, a study on centenarians in Switzerland, focusing on a subsample of 94 centenarians and 75 proxy respondents. We compared characteristics of centenarians who provided self-reports with those interviewed through proxy respondents using descriptive analyses, and Firth’s regression models to investigate the association of different types of proxies (children, other relatives, and non-relatives) with item nonresponse.

Results

We noted differences between centenarians participating themselves in interviews and those represented by proxies, observing higher proportions of men and private home residents in the self-report group. There was a low prevalence of item nonresponse among proxy respondents. Proxy type significantly impacted item nonresponse, particularly with non-relatives showing notably higher unanswered question rates. A robust association between non-relatives as proxies and increased item nonresponse persisted even when controlling for potential confounding factors.

Discussion and conclusions

This study enhances the understanding of data quality, particularly item nonresponse, and highlights the impact of the proxy-centenarian relationship when studying the oldest-old. The findings stress the importance of carefully choosing proxy respondents, preferably children, to improve data quality and inclusivity for those individuals hard to reach or to interview. Future research should investigate various data quality indicators and rely on larger samples to enhance the representation and methodological rigour in the study of the oldest-old.
Ecological filters shape arbuscular mycorrhizal fungal communities in the rhizosphere of secondary vegetation species in a temperate forest
Authors: Vázquez-Santos Yasmin , Castillo-Argüero Silvia , Espinosa-García Francisco Javier , Montaño Noé Manuel , Martínez-Orea Yuriana , Hernández-Cuevas Laura V.
Published: January 2025

The community assembly of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) in the rhizosphere results from the recruitment and selection of different AMF species with different functional traits. The aim of this study was to analyze the relationship between biotic and abiotic factors and the AMF community assembly in the rhizosphere of four secondary vegetation (SV) plant species in a temperate forest. We selected four sites at two altitudes, and we marked five individuals per plant species at each site. Soil rhizosphere samples were collected from each SV plant species, during the rainy and dry seasons. Soil samples from the rhizosphere of each plant species were analyzed for AMF spores, organic matter (OM), pH, soil moisture, and available phosphorus, and nitrogen. Three ecological filters influenced the AMF community assembly: host plant identity, abiotic factors, and AMF species co-occurrence. This assembly consisted of 61 AMF species, with different β-diversity values among plant species across seasons and altitudes. Canonical correspondence analysis revealed that AMF community composition is linked to OM and available P and N, with only a few AMF species co-occurring, while most do not. Our study highlights how ecological filters shape AMF structure, which is essential for understanding how soil and environmental factors affect AMF in SV plant species across seasons and altitudes.
Estimation of stationary and non-stationary moving average processes in the correlation domain
Authors: Dodek Martin , Miklovičová Eva
Published: January 2025

This paper introduces a novel approach for the offline estimation of stationary moving average processes, further extending it to efficient online estimation of non-stationary processes. The novelty lies in a unique technique to solve the autocorrelation function matching problem leveraging that the autocorrelation function of a colored noise is equal to the autocorrelation function of the coefficients of the moving average process. This enables the derivation of a system of nonlinear equations to be solved for estimating the model parameters. Unlike conventional methods, this approach uses the Newton-Raphson and Levenberg–Marquardt algorithms to efficiently find the solution. A key finding is the demonstration of multiple symmetrical solutions and the provision of necessary conditions for solution feasibility. In the non-stationary case, the estimation complexity is notably reduced, resulting in a triangular system of linear equations solvable by backward substitution. For online parameter estimation of non-stationary processes, a new recursive formula is introduced to update the sample autocorrelation function, integrating exponential forgetting of older samples to enable parameter adaptation. Numerical experiments confirm the method’s effectiveness and evaluate its performance compared to existing techniques.