bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Top caregiver concerns in Rett syndrome and related disorders: data from the US natural history study
Authors: Neul Jeffrey L. , Benke Timothy A. , Marsh Eric D. , Suter Bernhard , Silveira Lori , Fu Cary , Peters Sarika U. , Percy Alan K. ,   for the Rett syndrome Natural History Study Group, Skinner Steven A. , Heydemann Peter T. , Ryther Robin C. , Haas Richard H. , Lieberman David N. , Beisang Art A. , Feyma Timothy , Standridge Shannon M.
Published: October 2023

Objective

Recent advances in the understanding of neurodevelopmental disorders such as Rett syndrome (RTT) have enabled the discovery of novel therapeutic approaches that require formal clinical evaluation of efficacy. Clinical trial success depends on outcome measures that assess clinical features that are most impactful for affected individuals. To determine the top concerns in RTT and RTT-related disorders we asked caregivers to list the top caregiver concerns to guide the development and selection of appropriate clinical trial outcome measures for these disorders.

Methods

Caregivers of participants enrolled in the US Natural History Study of RTT and RTT-related disorders (n = 925) were asked to identify the top 3 concerning problems impacting the affected participant. We generated a weighted list of top caregiver concerns for each of the diagnostic categories and compared results between the disorders. Further, for classic RTT, caregiver concerns were analyzed by age, clinical severity, and common RTT-causing mutations in MECP2.

Results

The top caregiver concerns for classic RTT were effective communication, seizures, walking/balance issues, lack of hand use, and constipation. The frequency of the top caregiver concerns for classic RTT varied by age, clinical severity, and specific mutations, consistent with known variation in the frequency of clinical features across these domains. Caregivers of participants with increased seizure severity often ranked seizures as the first concern, whereas caregivers of participants without active seizures often ranked hand use or communication as the top concern. Comparison across disorders found commonalities in the top caregiver concerns between classic RTT, atypical RTT, MECP2 duplication syndrome, CDKL5 deficiency disorder, and FOXG1 syndrome; however, distinct differences in caregiver concerns between these disorders are consistent with the relative prevalence and impact of specific clinical features.

Conclusion

The top caregiver concerns for individuals with RTT and RTT-related disorders reflect the impact of the primary clinical symptoms of these disorders. This work is critical in the development of meaningful therapies, as optimal therapy should address these concerns. Further, outcome measures to be utilized in clinical trials should assess these clinical issues identified as most concerning by caregivers.
lifex-ep: a robust and efficient software for cardiac electrophysiology simulations
Authors: Africa Pasquale Claudio , Piersanti Roberto , Regazzoni Francesco , Bucelli Michele , Salvador Matteo , Fedele Marco , Pagani Stefano , Dede’ Luca , Quarteroni Alfio
Published: October 2023

Background

Simulating the cardiac function requires the numerical solution of multi-physics and multi-scale mathematical models. This underscores the need for streamlined, accurate, and high-performance computational tools. Despite the dedicated endeavors of various research teams, comprehensive and user-friendly software programs for cardiac simulations, capable of accurately replicating both normal and pathological conditions, are still in the process of achieving full maturity within the scientific community.

Results

This work introduces$$\texttt {life}^{\text{x}}$$lifex, a publicly available software for numerical simulations of the electrophysiology activity of the cardiac muscle, under both normal and pathological conditions.$$\texttt {life}^{\text{x}}$$lifexemploys the monodomain equation to model the heart’s electrical activity. It incorporates both phenomenological and second-generation ionic models. These models are discretized using the Finite Element method on tetrahedral or hexahedral meshes. Additionally,$$\texttt {life}^{\text{x}}$$lifexintegrates the generation of myocardial fibers based on Laplace–Dirichlet Rule-Based Methods, previously released in Africa et al., 2023, within$$\texttt {life}^{\text{x}}$$lifex. As an alternative, users can also choose to import myofibers from a file. This paper provides a concise overview of the mathematical models and numerical methods underlying$$\texttt {life}^{\text{x}}$$lifex, along with comprehensive implementation details and instructions for users.$$\texttt {life}^{\text{x}}$$lifexfeatures exceptional parallel speedup, scaling efficiently when using up to thousands of cores, and its implementation has been verified against an established benchmark problem for computational electrophysiology. We showcase the key features of$$\texttt {life}^{\text{x}}$$lifexthrough various idealized and realistic simulations conducted in both normal and pathological scenarios. Furthermore, the software offers a user-friendly and flexible interface, simplifying the setup of simulations using self-documenting parameter files.

Conclusions

$$\texttt {life}^{\text{x}}$$lifexprovides easy access to cardiac electrophysiology simulations for a wide user community. It offers a computational tool that integrates models and accurate methods for simulating cardiac electrophysiology within a high-performance framework, while maintaining a user-friendly interface.$$\texttt {life}^{\text{x}}$$lifexrepresents a valuable tool for conducting in silico patient-specific simulations.
CanISO: a database of genomic and transcriptomic variations in domestic dog (Canis lupus familiaris)
Authors: Yang In Seok , Jang Insu , Yang Jin Ok , Choi Jinhyuk , Kim Min-Seo , Kim Ka-Kyung , Seung Byung-Joon , Cheong Jae-Ho , Sur Jung-Hyang , Nam Hojung , Lee Byungwook , Kim Junho , Kim Sangwoo
Published: October 2023

Background

The domestic dog, Canis lupus familiaris, is a companion animal for humans as well as an animal model in cancer research due to similar spontaneous occurrence of cancers as humans. Despite the social and biological importance of dogs, the catalogue of genomic variations and transcripts for dogs is relatively incomplete.

Results

We developed CanISO, a new database to hold a large collection of transcriptome profiles and genomic variations for domestic dogs. CanISO provides 87,692 novel transcript isoforms and 60,992 known isoforms from whole transcriptome sequencing of canine tumors (N = 157) and their matched normal tissues (N = 64). CanISO also provides genomic variation information for 210,444 unique germline single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) from the whole exome sequencing of 183 dogs, with a query system that searches gene- and transcript-level information as well as covered SNPs. Transcriptome profiles can be compared with corresponding human transcript isoforms at a tissue level, or between sample groups to identify tumor-specific gene expression and alternative splicing patterns.

Conclusions

CanISO is expected to increase understanding of the dog genome and transcriptome, as well as its functional associations with humans, such as shared/distinct mechanisms of cancer. CanISO is publicly available at https://www.kobic.re.kr/caniso/.
Comparative transcriptome analysis of high- and low-embryogenic Hevea brasiliensis genotypes reveals involvement of phytohormones in somatic embryogenesis
Authors: Li Ling , Sun Xiaolong , Yu Wencai , Gui Mingchun , Qiu Yanfen , Tang Min , Tian Hai , Liang Guoping
Published: October 2023

Background

Rubber plant (Hevea brasiliensis) is one of the major sources of latex. Somatic embryogenesis (SE) is a promising alterative to its propagation by grafting and seed. Phytohormones have been shown to influence SE in different plant species. However, limited knowledge is available on the role of phytohormones in SE in Hevea. The anther cultures of two Hevea genotypes (Yunyan 73477-YT and Reken 628-RT) with contrasting SE rate were established and four stages i.e., anthers (h), anther induced callus (y), callus differentiation state (f), and somatic embryos (p) were studied. UPLC-ESI-MS/MS and transcriptome analyses were used to study phytohormone accumulation and related expression changes in biosynthesis and signaling genes.

Results

YT showed higher callus induction rate than RT. Of the two genotypes, only YT exhibited successful SE. Auxins, cytokinins (CKs), abscisic acid (ABA), jasmonic acid (JA), salicylic acid (SA), gibberellins (GAs), and ethylene (ETH) were detected in the two genotypes. Indole-3-acetic acid (IAA), CKs, ABA, and ETH had notable differences in the studied stages of the two genotypes. The differentially expressed genes identified in treatment comparisons were majorly enriched in MAPK and phytohormone signaling, biosynthesis of secondary metabolites, and metabolic pathways. The expression changes in IAA, CK, ABA, and ETH biosynthesis and signaling genes confirmed the differential accumulation of respective phytohormones in the two genotypes.

Conclusion

These results suggest potential roles of phytohormones in SE in Hevea.
Influencing factors of anthracycline-induced subclinical cardiotoxicity in acute leukemia patients
Authors: Zhou Xi , Weng Yue , Jiang Tiantian , Ou Wenxin , Zhang Nan , Dong Qian , Tang Xiaoqiong
Published: October 2023

Background

Current treatment of acute leukemia is based on anthracycline chemotherapy. Anthracyclines, despite improving patient survival, have serious cardiotoxicity and therefore cardiac monitoring should be a priority. The purpose of this study is to explore the possible early predictors of anthracycline-induced subclinical cardiotoxicity(AISC)in acute leukemia patients.

Methods

We conducted a prospective observational study involving 51 patients with acute leukemia treated with anthracycline. Demographic data, clinical variables, echocardiography variables and biochemical variables were collected at baseline and after 3 cycles of chemotherapy. Patients were divided into the AISC and No-AISC groups according to changes of global longitudinal peak systolic strain. Regression models and receiver operating characteristic curve analysis were used to explore the relationship between the variables and AISC.

Result

17 of the patients suffered subclinical cardiotoxicity after 3 cycles of anthracycline treatment. Multiple logistic regression analysis showed a significant association of DBil (OR 0.612, 95% CI 0.409–0.916, p = 0.017), TBil (OR 0.841, 95% CI 0.717–0.986, p = 0.033), PLT (OR 1.012, 95% CI 1.002–1.021, p = 0.016) and Glu (OR 1.873, 95% CI 1.009–3.475, p = 0.047) with the development of AISC. After 3 cycles of chemotherapy, there was a significant difference in PLT between the AISC and NO-AISC groups. Moreover, the dynamic changes in PLT from baseline to after 3 cycles of chemotherapy were each statistically significant in the AISC and NO-AISC groups. The combination of PLT and N-terminal pro–B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) had the highest area under curves (AUC) for the diagnosis of AISC than PLT and NT-proBNP alone (AUC = 0.713, 95%CI: 0.56–0.87, P = 0.017).

Conclusion

Total bilirubin (TBil), direct bilirubin (DBil), platelets (PLT) and blood glucose (Glu) are independent influencing factors for AISC in acute leukemia patients receiving anthracycline therapy. Bilirubin may be a protective factor and PLT may be a contributing factor for AISC. The combination of baseline PLT and baseline NT-proBNP shows satisfactory predictive ability for AISC in acute leukemia cases treated with 3 cycles of chemotherapy.
Genomic analysis reveals limited hybridization among three giraffe species in Kenya
Authors: Coimbra Raphael T. F. , Winter Sven , Muneza Arthur , Fennessy Stephanie , Otiende Moses , Mijele Domnic , Masiaine Symon , Stacy-Dawes Jenna , Fennessy Julian , Janke Axel
Published: October 2023

Background

In the speciation continuum, the strength of reproductive isolation varies, and species boundaries are blurred by gene flow. Interbreeding among giraffe (Giraffa spp.) in captivity is known, and anecdotal reports of natural hybrids exist. In Kenya, Nubian (G. camelopardalis camelopardalis), reticulated (G. reticulata), and Masai giraffe sensu stricto (G. tippelskirchi tippelskirchi) are parapatric, and thus, the country might be a melting pot for these taxa. We analyzed 128 genomes of wild giraffe, 113 newly sequenced, representing these three taxa.

Results

We found varying levels of Nubian ancestry in 13 reticulated giraffe sampled across the Laikipia Plateau most likely reflecting historical gene flow between these two lineages. Although comparatively weaker signs of ancestral gene flow and potential mitochondrial introgression from reticulated into Masai giraffe were also detected, estimated admixture levels between these two lineages are minimal. Importantly, contemporary gene flow between East African giraffe lineages was not statistically significant. Effective population sizes have declined since the Late Pleistocene, more severely for Nubian and reticulated giraffe.

Conclusions

Despite historically hybridizing, these three giraffe lineages have maintained their overall genomic integrity suggesting effective reproductive isolation, consistent with the previous classification of giraffe into four species.
Majority of new patient referrals to a large pediatric rheumatology center result in non-rheumatic diagnosis
Authors: Reiff Daniel D , Bridges John M , Rife Eileen C , Gennaro Victoria L , McAllister Linda , Reed Annelle , Smith Carolyn , Walker Bethany , Weiser Peter , Smitherman Emily A , Stoll Matthew L , Mannion Melissa L , Cron Randy Q
Published: October 2023

Objective

Pediatric rheumatology faces a looming supply-demand crisis. While strategies have been proposed to address the supply shortfall, investigation into the increased demand for pediatric rheumatic care has been limited. Herein, we analyze new patient visits to a large tertiary care pediatric rheumatology center to identify emerging trends in referrals and areas for potential intervention to meet this increased demand.

Methods

All patients referred to and seen by the University of Alabama at Birmingham Pediatric Rheumatology Division between January 2019 and December 2021 for a new patient evaluation were identified. Patient data was retrospectively abstracted, de-identified, and analyzed to develop trends in referrals and frequency of rheumatic disease, non-rheumatic disease, and specific diagnoses.

Results

During the study period, 2638 patients were referred to and seen in by the pediatric rheumatology division. Six hundred and ten patients (23.1%) were diagnosed with rheumatic disease. The most common rheumatic disease was juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) at 45.6%, followed by primary Raynaud phenomenon (7.4%), recurrent fever syndromes (6.9%), vasculitides (6.7%), and inflammatory eye disease (6.2%). Of the 2028 patients (76.9%) diagnosed with a non-rheumatic condition, benign musculoskeletal pain was the most common (61.8%), followed by a combination of somatic conditions (11.6%), and non-inflammatory rash (7.7%).

Conclusion

In this analysis of new patient referrals to a large pediatric rheumatology center, the majority of patients were diagnosed with a non-rheumatic condition. As a worsening supply-demand gap threatens the field of pediatric rheumatology, increased emphasis should be placed on reducing non-rheumatic disease referrals.
Can plant hormonomics be built on simple analysis? A review
Authors: Vrobel Ondřej , Tarkowski Petr
Published: October 2023

The field of plant hormonomics focuses on the qualitative and quantitative analysis of the hormone complement in plant samples, akin to other omics sciences. Plant hormones, alongside primary and secondary metabolites, govern vital processes throughout a plant's lifecycle. While active hormones have received significant attention, studying all related compounds provides valuable insights into internal processes. Conventional single-class plant hormone analysis employs thorough sample purification, short analysis and triple quadrupole tandem mass spectrometry. Conversely, comprehensive hormonomics analysis necessitates minimal purification, robust and efficient separation and better-performing mass spectrometry instruments. This review summarizes the current status of plant hormone analysis methods, focusing on sample preparation, advances in chromatographic separation and mass spectrometric detection, including a discussion on internal standard selection and the potential of derivatization. Moreover, current approaches for assessing the spatiotemporal distribution are evaluated. The review touches on the legitimacy of the term plant hormonomics by exploring the current status of methods and outlining possible future trends.
A randomized controlled trial of mindfulness: effects on university students’ mental health
Authors: Gallo Giovana Gonçalves , Curado Daniela Fernandez , Machado Mayra Pires Alves , Espíndola Marília Ignácio , Scattone Vitor Villar , Noto Ana Regina
Published: October 2023

Background

The development of mental health disorders is common in the university population, and mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) seem to be effective in addressing them in different contexts. Thus, this study investigated the impact of an 8-week MBI adapted to university students from the Mindfulness-Based Relapse Prevention (MBSR) on different symptoms related to mental health problems, specifically symptoms of anxiety, depression, stress and insomnia.

Methods

University students (n = 136) were randomized into MBI group (n = 71) or wait-list group (n = 65). All participants completed self-administered questionnaires before and after the intervention, and the experimental group answered questionnaires weekly during intervention. Generalized mixed models were used to assess the effects of the intervention.

Results

There were improvements in the symptoms of stress (B = 5.76, p < 0.001), depression (B = 1.55, p < 0.01) and insomnia (B = 1.35, p = 0.020) from the beginning of the intervention to the final assessment when it was compared to the control group. No effect was found in respect of trait anxiety. The MBI was found to be effective in reducing important symptoms related to university students’ mental health, possibly grounding further research on the intervention’s potential of preventing the development of mental disorders.

Trial registration

The research was registered in the Brazilian Registry of Clinical Trials (ReBEC) - number RBR-63qsqx, approved at 09/16/2019.
Novel ultra-stretchable and self-healing crosslinked poly (ethylene oxide)-cationic guar gum hydrogel
Authors: Bernal-Chávez Sergio Alberto , Alcalá-Alcalá Sergio , Almarhoon Zainab M. , Turgumbayeva Aknur , Gürer Eda Sönmez , De Los Dolores Campos-Echeverria Ma. , Cortés Hernán , Romero-Montero Alejandra , Del Prado-Audelo María Luisa , Sharifi-Rad Javad , Leyva-Gómez Gerardo
Published: October 2023

Hydrogels are three-dimensional structures with specific features that render them useful for biomedical applications, such as tissue engineering scaffolds, drug delivery systems, and wound dressings. In recent years, there has been a significant increase in the search for improved mechanical properties of hydrogels derived from natural products to extend their applications in various fields, and there are different methods to obtain strengthened hydrogels. Cationic guar gum has physicochemical properties that allow it to interact with other polymers and generate hydrogels. This study aimed to develop an ultra-stretchable and self-healing hydrogel, evaluating the influence of adding PolyOX [poly(ethylene oxide)] on the mechanical properties and the interaction with cationic guar gum for potential tissue engineering applications. We found that variations in PolyOX concentrations and pH changes influenced the mechanical properties of cationic guar gum hydrogels. After optimization experiments, we obtained a novel hydrogel, which was semi-crystalline, highly stretchable, and with an extensibility area of approximately 400 cm2, representing a 33-fold increase compared to the hydrogel before being extended. Moreover, the hydrogel presented a recovery of 96.8% after the self-healing process and a viscosity of 153,347 ± 4,662 cP. Therefore, this novel hydrogel exhibited optimal mechanical and chemical properties and could be suitable for a broad range of applications in different fields, such as tissue engineering, drug delivery, or food storage.
Excretory/secretory products from Trichinella spiralis adult worms ameliorate myocardial infarction by inducing M2 macrophage polarization in a mouse model
Authors: Wu Lingqin , Yin Wenhui , Wen Jutai , Wang Shuying , Li Huihui , Wang Xiaoli , Zhang Weixiao , Duan Shuyao , Zhu Qiuyu , Gao Erhe , Wu Shili , Zhan Bin , Zhou Rui , Yang Xiaodi
Published: October 2023

Background

Ischemia-induced inflammatory response is the main pathological mechanism of myocardial infarction (MI)-caused heart tissue injury. It has been known that helminths and worm-derived proteins are capable of modulating host immune response to suppress excessive inflammation as a survival strategy. Excretory/secretory products from Trichinella spiralis adult worms (Ts-AES) have been shown to ameliorate inflammation-related diseases. In this study, Ts-AES were used to treat mice with MI to determine its therapeutic effect on reducing MI-induced heart inflammation and the immunological mechanism involved in the treatment.

Methods

The MI model was established by the ligation of the left anterior descending coronary artery, followed by the treatment of Ts-AES by intraperitoneal injection. The therapeutic effect of Ts-AES on MI was evaluated by measuring the heart/body weight ratio, cardiac systolic and diastolic functions, histopathological change in affected heart tissue and observing the 28-day survival rate. The effect of Ts-AES on mouse macrophage polarization was determined by stimulating mouse bone marrow macrophages in vitro with Ts-AES, and the macrophage phenotype was determined by flow cytometry. The protective effect of Ts-AES-regulated macrophage polarization on hypoxic cardiomyocytes was determined by in vitro co-culturing Ts-AES-induced mouse bone marrow macrophages with hypoxic cardiomyocytes and cardiomyocyte apoptosis determined by flow cytometry.

Results

We observed that treatment with Ts-AES significantly improved cardiac function and ventricular remodeling, reduced pathological damage and mortality in mice with MI, associated with decreased pro-inflammatory cytokine levels, increased regulatory cytokine expression and promoted macrophage polarization from M1 to M2 type in MI mice. Ts-AES-induced M2 macrophage polarization also reduced apoptosis of hypoxic cardiomyocytes in vitro.

Conclusions

Our results demonstrate that Ts-AES ameliorates MI in mice by promoting the polarization of macrophages toward the M2 type. Ts-AES is a potential pharmaceutical agent for the treatment of MI and other inflammation-related diseases.

Graphical Abstract
Association of triglyceride-glucose index with cardiovascular disease among a general population: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Wan Yiming , Zhang Ziliang , Ling Yong , Cui Hui , Tao Zihan , Pei Jianfeng , Maimaiti Aikedan , Bai Haifan , Wu Yiling , Li Jing , Zhao Genming , Zaid Maryam
Published: October 2023

Background

The impact of triglyceride-glucose (TyG) index, a surrogate marker for insulin resistance, on the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) in general populations remains controversial. We aimed to comprehensively study the relationship between TyG index with the risk of incident CVD events in the general population in Shanghai.

Methods

A total of 42,651 participants without previous history of CVD events from Shanghai Suburban Adult Cohort and Biobank (SSACB) were included. SSACB was a community-based natural population cohort study using multistage cluster sampling method. TyG index was calculated as Ln [fasting serum triglyceride (mg/dL) * fasting blood glucose (mg/dL)/2]. Kaplan-Meier curves, log-rank test and cox proportional hazards model were used to calculate the association between TyG index and incident CVD, including stroke and coronary heart disease (CHD). Restricted cubic spline analyses were used to determine whether there was a non-linear relationship between TyG index and CVD events.

Results

During a median follow-up of 4.7 years, 1,422 (3.3%) individuals developed CVD, including 674 (1.6%) cases of stroke and 732 (1.7%) cases of CHD. A one unit increment higher TyG index was associated with [HR(95%CI)] 1.16(1.04–1.29) in CVD and with 1.39(1.19–1.61) in stroke. Only linear relationships between TyG and CVD/stroke were observed, while no relationship was observed with CHD after adjustments for confounders. In subgroup analyses, younger (< 50y) and diabetic participants had higher risk of CVD than their counterpart groups, while hypertensive and dyslipidemic participants depicted lower risks than their counterparts.

Conclusion

Elevated TyG index was associated with a higher risk of incident CVD and stroke. TyG index may help in the early stage of identifying people at high risk of CVD.
Schatten class operators on exponential weighted Bergman spaces
Authors: Wang Xiaofeng , Xia Jin , Liu Youqi
Published: October 2023

In this paper, we study Toeplitz and Hankel operators on exponential weighted Bergman spaces. For $0< p<\infty $
0
<
p
<
∞
, we obtain sufficient and necessary conditions for Toeplitz and Hankel operators to belong to Schatten-p class by the averaging functions of symbols. For a continuous increasing convex function h, the Schatten-h class Toeplitz and Hankel operators are also characterized.
Designing and evaluating a big data analytics approach for predicting students’ success factors
Authors: Fahd Kiran , Miah Shah J.
Published: October 2023

Reducing student attrition in tertiary education plays a significant role in the core mission and financial well-being of an educational institution. The availability of big data source from the Learning Management System (LMS) can be analysed to help with the attrition issues. This study aims to use an integrated Design Science Research (DSR) methodology to develop and evaluate a novel Big Data Analytical Solution (BDAS) as an educational decision support artefact. The BDAS as DSR artefact utilises Artificial Intelligence (AI) approaches to predict potential students at risk. Identifying students at risk helps to take timely intervention in the learning process to improve student academic progress for increasing their retention rate. To evaluate the performance of the predictive model, we compare the accuracy of the collection of representational AI algorithms in the literature. The study utilized an integrated DSR methodology founded on the similarities of DSR and design based research (DBR) to design and develop the proposed BDAS employing an specific evaluation framework that works on real data scenarios. The BDAS does not only aimto replace any existing practice but also support educators to implement a variety of pedagogical practices for improving students’ academic performance.
Stepwise integration of analytical hierarchy process with machine learning algorithms for landslide, gully erosion and flash flood susceptibility mapping over the North-Moungo perimeter, Cameroon
Authors: Mfondoum Alfred Homère Ngandam , Nguet Pauline Wokwenmendam , Seuwui Dieudonné Tchokona , Mfondoum Jean Valéry Mefire , Ngenyam Henry Bang , Diba Ibrahima , Tchindjang Mesmin , Djiangoue Bertin , Mihi Ali , Hakdaoui Sofia , Batcha Roseline , Tchatchouang Frédéric Chamberlain Lounang , Petcheu Igor Casimir Njombissie , Beni Luc Moutila
Published: October 2023

Background

The Cameroon Volcanic Line (CVL) is an oceanic-continental megastructure prone to geo-hazards, including landslide/mudslide, gully erosion and flash floods targeted in this paper. Recent geospatial practices advocated a multi-hazard analysis approach supported by artificial intelligence. This study proposes the Multi-Geoenvironmental Hazards Susceptibility (MGHS) tool, by combining Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) with Machine Learning (ML) over the North-Moungo perimeter (Littoral Region, Cameroon).

Methods

Twenty-four factors were constructed from satellite imagery, global geodatabase and fieldwork data. Multicollinearity among these factors was quantified using the tolerance coefficient (TOL) and variance inflation factor (VIF). The AHP coefficients were used to weigh the factors and produce a preliminary map per Geoenvironmental hazard through weighted linear combination (WLC). The sampling was conducted based on events records and analyst knowledge to proceed with classification using Google Earth Engine (GEE) cloud computing interface. Classification and Regression Trees (CART), Random Forest (RF) and Gradient Boosting Regression Trees (GBRT), were used as basic learners of the stacked hazard factors, whereas, Support Vector Regression (SVR), was used for a meta-learning.

Results

The rainfall was ranked as the highest triggering factor for all Geoenvironmental hazards according to AHP, with a coefficient of 1, while the after-learning importance assessment was more varied. The area under receiver operating characteristic (AUROC/AUC) was always more than 0.96, and F1-score is between [0.86–0.88] for basic classifiers. Landslides, gully erosion and flash floods showed different spatial distributions, confirming then their probability of co-occurrence. MGHS outputs clearly displayed two and three simultaneous occurrences. Finally, the human vulnerability assessed with population layer and SVR outputs showed that high human concentrations are also the most exposed, using the example of Nkongsamba’s extract.

Conclusions

Combining AHP with single learners, then a meta-learner, was efficient in modelling MGHS and related human vulnerability. Interactions among geo-environmental hazards are the next step and city councils are recommended to integrate results in the planning process.
Application and prospects of AI-based radiomics in ultrasound diagnosis
Authors: Zhang Haoyan , Meng Zheling , Ru Jinyu , Meng Yaqing , Wang Kun
Published: October 2023

Artificial intelligence (AI)-based radiomics has attracted considerable research attention in the field of medical imaging, including ultrasound diagnosis. Ultrasound imaging has unique advantages such as high temporal resolution, low cost, and no radiation exposure. This renders it a preferred imaging modality for several clinical scenarios. This review includes a detailed introduction to imaging modalities, including Brightness-mode ultrasound, color Doppler flow imaging, ultrasound elastography, contrast-enhanced ultrasound, and multi-modal fusion analysis. It provides an overview of the current status and prospects of AI-based radiomics in ultrasound diagnosis, highlighting the application of AI-based radiomics to static ultrasound images, dynamic ultrasound videos, and multi-modal ultrasound fusion analysis.
A method for TAT-Cre recombinase-mediated floxed allele modification in ex vivo tissue slices
Authors: Cheong Sek-Shir , Luis Tiago C. , Stewart Michelle , Hillier Rosie , Hind Matthew , Dean Charlotte H.
Published: October 2023

Precision-cut lung slices (PCLS) are used for a variety of applications. However, methods to manipulate genes in PCLS are currently limited. We developed a new method, TAT-Cre recombinase-mediated floxed allele modification in tissue slices (TReATS), to induce highly effective and temporally controlled gene deletion or activation in ex vivo PCLS. Treatment of PCLS from Rosa26-flox-stop-flox-EYFP mice with cell-permeant TAT-Cre recombinase induced ubiquitous EYFP protein expression, indicating successful Cre-mediated excision of the upstream loxP-flanked stop sequence. Quantitative real-time PCR confirmed induction of EYFP. We successfully replicated the TReATS method in PCLS from Vangl2flox/flox mice, leading to the deletion of loxP-flanked exon 4 of the Vangl2 gene. Cre-treated Vangl2flox/flox PCLS exhibited cytoskeletal abnormalities, a known phenotype caused by VANGL2 dysfunction. We report a new method that bypasses conventional Cre-Lox breeding, allowing rapid and highly effective gene manipulation in ex vivo tissue models.
Characterizing the dependency and drug sensitivity landscape of 1q-amplified multiple myeloma
Authors: Σκλαβενίτης-Πιστοφίδης Ρωμανός
Published: October 2023

Το Πολλαπλούν Μυέλωμα (ΠΜ) είναι μία ανίατη πλασματοκυτταρική κακοήθεια του μυελού των οστών που χαρακτηρίζεται από σημαντική γενετική ετερογένεια. Η ενίσχυση του χρωμοσώματος 1q (Amp1q) είναι μία από τις ελάχιστες συχνές γενετικές ανωμαλίες του ΠΜ, και η παρουσία της σχετίζεται με υποτροπή της νόσου και δυσμενή πρόγνωση. Συνεπώς, η διαμόρφωση θεραπείας βασισμένης στην ιατρική ακριβείας για ασθενείς με Amp1q ΠΜ μπορεί να ωφελήσει μεγάλο αριθμό ασθενών και ενδεχομένως να βελτιώσει την επιβίωσή τους. Στην παρούσα μελέτη, πραγματοποιήσαμε δύο μεγάλης κλίμακας CRISPR/shRNA screens και δύο φαρμακευτικά screens σε κυτταρικές σειρές ΠΜ με ή χωρίς Amp1q, που αναλύσαμε σε συνδυασμό με αποτελέσματα δύο ακόμα γενωμικών screens, ώστε να ανακαλύψουμε τις γενετικές εξαρτήσεις του ΠΜ με Amp1q και θεραπευτικούς παράγοντες με αυξημένη αποτελεσματικότητα εναντίον του. Η μελέτη ανέδειξε ότι το ΠΜ με Amp1q εξαρτάται σε σημαντικό βαθμό από τη δραστηριότητα του αντιαποπτωτικού παράγοντα MCL-1 και του μοριακού μονοπατιού PI3K, ενώ αποδείξαμε in vitro ότι η συνδυαστική θεραπεία με MCL-1 και PI3K αναστολείς είναι συνεργική και περισσότερο κυτταροτοξική στο ΠΜ με Amp1q. Εφαρμόζοντας RNA αλληλούχηση μονήρους κυττάρου σε κοόρτη 5 ασθενών με μονοκλωνική γαμμοπάθεια αδιευκρίνιστης σημασίας ή ασυμπτωματικό ΠΜ με Amp1q, παρατηρήσαμε ότι πλασματοκύτταρα με περισσότερα αντίγραφα 1q εκφράζουν υψηλότερα επίπεδα MCL-1 και PI3K μονοπατιού συγκριτικά με τα υπόλοιπα, εύρημα που εξηγεί μηχανιστικά την αυξημένη ευαισθησία. Επιπλέον, απομονώνοντας κυτταρικούς κλώνους με διαφορετικό αριθμό αντιγράφων για μέρος του χρωμοσώματος 1q, παρατηρήσαμε αυξημένη ευαισθησία έναντι MCL-1 και PI3K αναστολέων στα κύτταρα με ενίσχυση ολόκληρου του 1q συγκριτικά με εκείνα με τοπική ενίσχυση του τμήματος 1q21-1q25. Τέλος, εφαρμόζοντας RNA αλληλούχηση μονήρους κυττάρου σε δύο κυτταρικές σειρές ΠΜ με Amp1q πριν και μετά τη θεραπεία με MCL-1 αναστολέα, PI3K αναστολέα ή συνδυαστική θεραπεία, περιγράψαμε τον μηχανισμό δράσης των αναστολέων στο ΠΜ με Amp1q. Συμπερασματικά, το ΠΜ με Amp1q χαρακτηρίζεται από γενετικές εξαρτήσεις που μπορούν να χρησιμοποιηθούν θεραπευτικά με τον συνεργικό συνδυασμό MCL-1 και PI3K αναστολέων. Καθώς οι εν λόγω παράγοντες είναι ήδη εγκεκριμένοι για άλλες ενδείξεις, η μετάφραση αυτών των ευρημάτων στην κλινική πράξη μπορεί να είναι ταχύτερη.
Deformation theory of curves with automorphisms
Authors: Τερεζάκης Αλέξιος
Published: October 2023

Σε αυτή τη διατριβή μελετούμε τη θεωρία παραμορφώσεων καμπυλών με αυτομορφισμούς χρησιμοποιώντας το κανονικό ιδεώδες. Ανάγουμε το πρόβλημα της ανύψωσης καμπυλών με αυτομορφισμούς σε ένα πρόβλημα ανύψωσης γραμμικών αναπαραστάσεων. Αποδεικνύουμε μια ικανή και αναγκαία συνθήκη για το πότε μια modular αναπαράσταση μιας ομάδας G, η οποία είναι το ημιευθές γινόμενο μιας κυκλικής p-ομάδας με μια κυκλική τάξης πρώτης προς το p, σε ένα σώμα χαρακτηριστικής p, ανυψώνεται σε μια αναπαράσταση πάνω από μια τοπική περιοχή κυρίων ιδεωδών χαρακτηριστικής μηδέν που περιέχει τις ρίζες της μονάδας κάποιας δύναμης του p, και το οποίο είναι το απαραίτητο απαραίτητο εργαλείο για το κύριο μας αποτέλεσμα. Τέλος, κοιτάμε το τοπικό πρόβλημα ανύψωσης δράσεων της G. Εισάγουμε ένα κριτήριο βασισμένο στην Harbater-Katz-Gabber συμπαγοποίηση των τοπικών δράσεων, το οποίο μας επιτρέπει να αποφασίσουμε εάν μια τοπική δράση μπορεί να ανυψωθεί ή όχι. Ειδικότερα, για την περίπτωση της διεδρικής ομάδας, βρίσκουμε ένα παράδειγμα διεδρικής τοπικής δράσης που δεν μπορεί να ανυψωθεί, παρέχοντας έτσι ένα αντιπαράδειγμα για την γενικευμένη εικασία του Oort και ένα ισχυρότερο εμπόδιο από το KGB-εμπόδιο.
In the footsteps of the living word
Authors: Lazarev Andrey
Published: October 2023

The monograph reveals the scientific and pedagogical significance of the publications of the journal "Philological Notes", which stood at the cradle of Russian linguistics and pedagogy; the publication on the pages of which the heuristic methodology of intellectual and moral development "The Living Word" was formed.
The study of the history of the appearance of the metaphor "living word" in the Russian literary language, presented by modern philologists for the ethno-cultural constant of linguistic consciousness, is similar to the investigation of a detective case about the dramatic fate of domestic comparative linguistics and Slavic studies. The reader will be able to recognize the Russian national and cultural code as originally Slavic in the light of the mythological Indo-European and biblical heritage expressed in state symbols; against the background of the history and philosophy of the language.
It is of interest to specialists in the field of the history of Russian pedagogy and philology, for teachers and students of pedagogical universities and faculties, for school teachers.
Comparative History of Foreign Law in 2 tt.
Authors: Poldnikov Dmitriy
Published: October 2023

The textbook presents an up-to-date view of the history of the law of foreign countries through the prism of identity, equivalence and diversity of legal traditions of the peoples of the East and West. The subject of study is the content of the leading legal traditions that give an idea of the range of historical types of law, the trends and conditions of their development from archaic forms to more complex ones, the possibilities of their renewal and reception when changing social patterns. Each legal tradition is considered according to a common analytical model: 1) historical context and bearers of tradition, 2) forms of law, the basis of its understanding, interpretation, application, 3) characteristic institutions in the most important areas of legal regulation.
The first volume of the textbook explains the theoretical foundations of the historical and legal narrative, as well as the legal traditions of agrarian societies of Eurasia from the perspective of three ideal types: "the law of judges" (a means of resolving disputes in Mesopotamia, republican Rome, medieval England), "the law of scientists" (the path of righteous life in India, Islamic countries of the Middle East, medieval Western Europe), "the right of the ruler" (a means of managing society in imperial China).
The textbook meets the requirements of the Federal State Educational Standard of Higher Education and the educational standards of MGIMO of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Russia in the field of "Jurisprudence".
For undergraduate students, postgraduates and teachers of law schools and faculties of Russia and CIS countries.
Business Law of the Russian Federation
Authors: Gubin Evgeniy , Lahno Petr , Vaypan Viktor , Shitkina Irina , Haritonova Yuliya , Paraschuk Sergey , Lauts Elizaveta , Kichik Kuz'ma , Afanas'eva Ekaterina , Frolov Igor' , Karelina Svetlana , Molotnikov Aleksandr
Published: October 2023

The textbook was prepared at the Department of Business Law of Lomonosov Moscow State University. The second volume of the textbook covers general issues of legal regulation of markets, including energy, securities markets, banking, insurance, audit services and valuation activities; issues of legal regulation of innovations and investments, foreign economic activity; involvement of intellectual property results in commercial turnover.
A separate section is devoted to the protection and protection of the rights of entrepreneurs and legal work in the field of entrepreneurship. The material is presented on the basis of the latest legislation with the involvement of judicial practice.
For students, postgraduates and teachers of law schools, as well as for students of economic universities, state and municipal employees, heads of enterprises and organizations, other practitioners, primarily entrepreneurs.
Ortensio Lando wśród książek – rozterki erudyty
Authors: Salwa Piotr
Published: October 2023

Among the numerous works by Ortensio Lando (ca. 1510 – ca. 1558), there are two relatively short pieces – La spherza de’ scrittori antichi et moderni and the accompanying Una brieve essortazione allo studio delle lettere. In a manner typical of this writer who eludes unambiguous interpretations, these texts discuss the value of the works of recognized literary and academic authorities, the sense of book studies and the accumulation of huge book collections. Not for the first time, Lando seems to express diametrically opposed views – he at the same time discourages and encourages the study of the writings of famous authors. This deliberately provocative (and self-deprecating) pose can be seen as an encouragement to reflect on stereo- typical views, engage in implicit polemics with fellow authors, as well as a way to express uncomfortable or controversial views.
Francesco Guicciardini jako historyk. Zarys problematyki badawczej
Authors: Bielański Stefan
Published: October 2023

The starting point for consideration on the role of Francesco Guicciardini (1483-1540) as a historian is a reflection on his diplomatic career and political activity, firstly in Florence, then in Rome in the times of the Medici Popes. In this period, his contacts with Niccolò Machiavelli were very important. The political realism of the author of The Prince corre- sponded with the opinions contained in Guicciardini’s twenty-volume book La Historia d'Italia, especially with regard to the origins and history of the 16th century Italian Wars. When presenting a review of research on Guicciardini’s diplomatic and political activities, one cannot ignore publications related to the final phase of the history of the Florentine Republic and the return to power of the Medici, as well as the history of the province of the Papal States in the first half of the 16th century. On the other hand, the scientific bi- ographies of the author of La Historia d’Italia published during the 20th century and at the beginning of the 21st century have become the basis of the phenomenon known as riscoperta di Guicciardini. These interdisciplinary studies require combining technical skills in relation to the history of Italian states in the 15th and 16th centuries with competence in the field of research on the political thought and philosophy of the Renaissance era.
Carlo Gozzi Marfisa bizzarra, czyli o zgubnym wpływie modnych lektur
Authors: Dygul Jolanta
Published: October 2023

In 1759, Carlo Gozzi began writing a humorous poem entitled Marfisa bizzarra. Although he took the idea primarily from Dragoncina da Fano, equally important is his inspiration by Luigi Pulci’s Il Morgante (written in the convention of an epic in comic-satirical stylization) and the reference to the characters from the poems of Matteo Maria Boiardo and Ludovico Ariosto. Gozzi’s work is, on the one hand, a tribute to literary tradition, and on the other, a satire on his contemporary Venetian reality. The article shows the evolution of the title character, a proud and implacable warrior, into an extravagant and hysterical reader of fash- ionable romances and comedies. Marfisa opens a gallery of grotesque female characters in Gozzi’s theater – women who become depraved, capricious and fickle under the influence of bad contemporary readings (Clarice from The Love of Three Oranges, Turandot, queen Gulindì from Il mostro turchino, Barbarina from L’augelino belverde, Semiramide from La figlia dell’aria and Theodora from Principessa filosofa).
Deep palm burn treated with enzymatic debridement followed by autologous skin cell suspension: a case study
Authors: Yamashita Kento , Aoki Kohei , Yokota Ayuka , Yamaguchi Mai , Konishi Hiroyuki , Ito Norihito , Shimada Kazuki , Komiya Takako , Tettelbach William , Matsumura Hajime
Published: October 2023

Despite improvements in treatment methods and outcomes, burns remain one of the principal causes of mortality and morbidity worldwide. Burns involving the hands are estimated to occur in >80% of people with burns. Hand burns have also been associated with long-term social, psychological and physical consequences that can impede a patient's full reintegration to the community and decrease their overall quality of life. Clinically, when the trajectory towards complete re-epithelialisation stalls in deep burn wounds of the hand, skin grafting is indicated, but cosmetic problems often remain. A recent publication highlighted common complications for burns involving the hand such as scar disturbances (26%) and scar contractures (14%). Innovative approaches with the potential to reduce the occurrence of complicating scar disturbances and contractures are sought by healthcare providers specialising in burns. This case report describes a novel approach to wound closure using a topical concentrate of proteolytic enzymes followed by the application of an autologous skin cell suspension. This combination was effective in achieving early and complete re-epithelialisation of a deep burn of the palm of a 28-year-old male patient, while potentially affording a favourable impact on hypertrophic scarring or scar contracture.
“In situ bone flap” combined with vascular pedicled mucous flap to reconstruction of skull base defect
Authors: Qian Ming , Chen Xi , Zhang Long-Yao , Wang Zhi-Feng , Zhang Yi , Wang Xue-Jian
Published: October 2023

Time series analysis is a valuable tool in epidemiology that complements the classical epidemiological models in two different ways: Prediction and forecast. Prediction is related to explaining past and current data based on various internal and external influences that may or may not have a causative role. Forecasting is an exploration of the possible future values based on the predictive ability of the model and hypothesized future values of the external and/or internal influences. The time series analysis approach has the advantage of being easier to use (in the cases of more straightforward and linear models such as Auto-Regressive Integrated Moving Average). Still, it is limited in forecasting time, unlike the classical models such as Susceptible-Exposed-Infectious-Removed. Its applicability in forecasting comes from its better accuracy for short-term prediction. In its basic form, it does not assume much theoretical knowledge of the mechanisms of spreading and mutating pathogens or the reaction of people and regulatory structures (governments, companies, etc. ). Instead, it estimates from the data directly. Its predictive ability allows testing hypotheses for different factors that positively or negatively contribute to the pandemic spread; be it school closures, emerging variants, etc. It can be used in mortality or hospital risk estimation from new cases, seroprevalence studies, assessing properties of emerging variants, and estimating excess mortality and its relationship with a pandemic.