bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ARHGAP4 Inhibits Proliferation and Growth of SW620 Colon Cancer Cells by Cell Cycle and Differentiation Pathways
Authors: Fu Ming-Sheng , Pan Shu-Xian , Cai Xun-Quan , Lv Cui-Ting , Pan Qin-Cong
Published: June 2024

The aim of this study is to explore the mechanism by which ARHGAP4 regulates the proliferation and growth of colon cancer cells, and it relates to the metastasis of colorectal cancer (CRC). Various techniques including western blot, CCK8, qRT‐PCR, RNA seq assay, plate cloning, subcutaneous tumorigenesis assays, and bioinformatics tools were employed to identify genes that were upregulated or downregulated upon ARHGAP4 knockdown and their involvement in tumor cell proliferation and growth. The expression of ARHGAP4 in T and M stages of CRC uses immunohistochemistry. The expression levels of ARHGAP4 were found to be high in SW620, SW480, and HCT116 cell lines, while they were being low in HT29, LoVo, and NCM460 cell lines. Depletion of ARHGAP4 resulted in inhibited proliferation and growth in SW620 cells and inhibited subcutaneous tumorigenesis in nude mice, whereas overexpression of ARHGAP4 promoted proliferation and growth in HT29 cells and promoted subcutaneous tumorigenesis in nude mice. A total of 318 upregulated genes and 637 downregulated genes were identified in SW620 cells upon ARHGAP4 knockdown. The downregulated genes were primarily associated with cell cycle pathways, while the upregulated genes were enriched in differentiation‐related pathways. Notable upregulated genes involved in cell differentiation included KRT10, KRT13, KRT16, IVL, and CD24, while significant downregulation was observed in genes related to the cell cycle such as CCNA2, CDKN2C, CDKN3, CENPA, and CENPF. ARHGAP4 expression is markedly elevated in the M1 stage of CRC compared to the M0 stage, suggesting ARHGAP4 linked to the metastatic in CRC. ARHGAP4 regulates the proliferation and growth of colon cancer cells by up‐ and downregulated cell cycle and differentiation‐related molecules, which may be related to the metastasis of CRC.
Improved Stability and Instability Results for Neutral Integro‐Differential Equations including Infinite Delay
Authors: Tunç Cemil , Akyildiz Fahir Talay
Published: June 2024

In this article, we consider nonlinear neutral Volterra integro‐differential equations (NVIDEs) including infinite delay. We prove three new theorems with regard to the stability, the uniform stability, and the instability of zero solution of the NVIDEs. The new results of this article include sufficient conditions and the technique of the proofs is based on the Lyapunov‐Krasovskiĭ functional (LKF) approach. By this article, some results that can be found in the literature are extended and improved from the linear case to nonlinear cases and contributed.
A Smile Reimagined: Gummy Smile Resolution with Cutting Edge Method Using Chu’s Gauge and Polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) Bone Cement
Authors: Mundra Shalini , Shetty Neetha. J.
Published: June 2024

Excessive gingival display (EGD) is one of the most common aesthetic concerns, and its correction often presents a challenge to periodontists. It has a multifactorial etiology, and this article describes a case involving hypermobile upper lip (HUL), altered passive eruption (APE), and vertical maxillary excess (VME). Upon investigation, a positive collum angle and marked subnasal skeletal depression were observed. In this context, it is noted that during a spontaneous smile, the upper lip retracts and gets lodged in this depression. The rehabilitation plan includes included aesthetic crown lengthening via gingivectomy using Chu’s proportional gauge for altered passive eruption and filling the subnasal depression by PMMA (polymethylmethacrylate) bone cement. The entire treatment plan was digitalised using cutting edge methods such as computed tomography (CT), cone beam computed tomography (CBCT), and 3D printers for virtual planning of the defect’s position, size, and shape. No postoperative complications were reported. After six months, the patient exhibited a harmonious smile with reduced exposed gingiva.
Heterogeneous UAV Swarm Collaborative Search Mission Path Optimization Scheme for Dynamic Targets
Authors: Cheng Kaixin , Hu Tao , Wu Di , Li Tingli , Wang Shu , Liu Kaiyue , Tian Zhifu , Yi Dong
Published: June 2024

To solve the problem of collaborative search mission planning (CSMP) for a heterogeneous unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) swarm for dynamic targets, this paper proposes a new CSMP scheme for a heterogeneous UAV swarm. First, a new polar coordinate system motion method is used to establish the UAV motion model and decision input solution model, which effectively solves the path‐unified coding problem of a heterogeneous UAV swarm. Then, in the mission area, a dynamically updated multisearch situation map model is established. Finally, to improve the global searching capability of a UAV, an improved path optimization algorithm PSO‐Rolling Horizon Control (PSO‐RHC) is designed. Multiple Monte Carlo simulations are performed for three time‐sensitive moving target types and three constraint types. The simulation results show that the task execution efficiency indexes of the proposed scheme for the decision input solution model, pheromone update mechanism, and optimization algorithm are improved by 188%, 72%, and 102%, respectively, and the overall performance is improved by 227%.
Plasma Inflammatory Biomarkers Indicative of Aging and Overweight in Brazilian Women
Authors: Toledo Débora Nonato Miranda de , Santos Priscilla Vilela dos , Guimarães Nathalia Sernizon , Carli Alessandra de Paula , Souza Patrícia Regina Soares de , Perucci Luiza Oliveira , Alves Caio César de Souza , Talvani André
Published: June 2024

Immunosenescence is a process of immune system remodeling based on the natural aging process. Factors such as diet, physical exercise, mental health, and genetic/metabolic conditions can influence the development of age‐related inflammation. In senescence, overweight and obesity are silent inflammatory conditions that predispose individuals to cardiovascular diseases and other comorbidities. This study aimed to evaluate the concentration of obesity‐related plasma biomarkers (creatine kinase (CK), CXCL16, IL‐33, leptin, and resistin) in clinically stable women of different ages and weights. A cross‐sectional study was conducted in Minas Gerais State, Brazil, involving 54 women (aged 20–85 years), assisted by the Brazilian Public Health Service. Socioeconomic and anthropometric parameters were assessed, and plasma levels of CK, CXCL16, IL‐33, leptin, and resistin were measured using immunological and biochemical assays. Out of the total study participants, 54 women (mean age 44.9 years) were overweight and presented high plasma levels of CK, CXCL16, IL‐33, and leptin. Specifically, plasma CK levels were similar in adults, middle‐aged, and elderly women, but there was an increase in its release associated with overweight in adults and elderly women. Plasma IL‐33, CXCL16, and resistin were reduced in elderly clinically stable women but not leptin. However, when volunteers were grouped according to body mass index, CXCL16, IL‐33, and leptin were elevated and associated with overweight. Together, plasma levels of CK, CXCL16, IL‐33, and leptin were identified as promising indicators of immunosenescence, regardless of weight parameters. Moreover, CXCL16 levels evaluated as an isolated parameter were a stronger indicator of obesity, regardless of aging.
Retrospective Study of Diabetic Retinopathy and Macular Edema in Southern Part of Bangladesh
Authors: Hasan Md. Asif , Islam Sheikh Md. Rabiul , Pathan Md. Arif Hayat Khan
Published: June 2024

Background. Diabetic mellitus is a vision‐threatening disease because it causes diabetic retinopathy worldwide. The main focus of this research is to determine the prevalence and assess the visual outcome in diabetic retinopathy and macular edema patients by injecting Bevacizumab clinically. Methods. This hospital‐based trial case was conducted in Khulna BNSB Eye Hospital, Bangladesh. This study is based on a prospective cohort with a population of macular edema in 41 eyes of 25 diabetic patients, of whom 94 were diagnosed with diabetic retinopathy in 320 type 2 diabetes mellitus patients. The treating physician inserts 1.25 mg (0.05 ml) into the patient’s eye. We have used optical coherence tomography (OCT) and colour fundus photography (CFP) for an eye check performed on all patients before and after the injection of Bevacizumab. The method results analyze the effects of the technique using IBM SPSS 25. Results. The study population selected 25 patients with 41 eyes for clinical investigation by injection of Bevacizumab. The net effects of this study on five eyes with macular edema were entirely resolved. It was BCVA from 6/6 to 6/9. The 29 eyes were partially resolved, which is called improved visual acuity, and BCVA was 6/12 to 6/60. In the case of seven eyes, we found that the vision did not change before or after the Avastin injection. No change was seen in seven eyes of macular edema due to the effects of the Avastin injection before and after. Conclusions. In clinical trial‐based research, Bevacizumab (Avastin) is best effective for diabetic retinopathy (DR) and diabetic macular edema (DME) patients.
Solvent‐Free Synthesized Zeolites NaA‐Supported Binary Nickel‐Silver Nanoparticles and Their Use as an Efficient Catalyst for Hydrodechlorination of 2,4‐Dichlorophenol
Authors: Co Thanh Thien , Nguyen Thi Yen Nhi , Du Ngoc Thao Nguyen , Nguyen Thien An , Nguyen Thanh Binh , Diep Thi Duyen , Huynh Le Thanh Nguyen , Le Viet Hai
Published: June 2024

Using a solvent‐free method, zeolite NaA was synthesized from raw kaolin, collected from Binh Duong, Vietnam. The synthesis involved thermal hydration under an alkaline solution. The catalysts based on binary nickel‐silver nanoparticles were prepared through in situ reduction of metal salts in aqueous zeolitic suspension using sodium borohydride as a reducing agent. The catalysts were fully characterized by various techniques such as X‐ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared (FT‐IR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy‐dispersive X‐ray (EDX), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET). The physicochemical properties of these catalysts were studied in detail, in which the formation of body‐centered cubic crystal zeolite NaA (1‐2 μm) containing the spherical shape of metallic nanoparticles with a particle size around 8–20 nm was observed. The hydrodechlorination of 2,4‐dichlorophenol was performed to confirm the high catalytic activity and stability of the 10%NiAg/ZA catalyst. The results showed that the catalyst achieved over 91% conversion initially and 73% conversion after five re‐uses.
Solitary Bone Cyst in the Lumbar Spine: Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Ramírez-Villaescusa José , Ruiz-Picazo David , Verdejo-González Ana , Canosa-Fernández Adriana , Torres-Lozano Pedro , Guerrero-Álvarez Gracia
Published: June 2024

Introduction. To describe a rare case of solitary bone cyst in the vertebral body of the lumbar vertebra in an adult patient. The solitary bone cyst is defined as a cystic lesion with liquid content. Few cases have been described in the vertebral location without preference for the posterior arch or vertebral body. Most have been treated with resection, curettage, and/or grafting. No case described to date has been treated with polymethylmetacrylate (PMMA) injection in the vertebral location. Case Presentation. A 50‐year‐old male patient was consulted for lumbar pain with no traumatic history and no neurologic deficit. The radiological study showed lumbar arthrodesis with L2‐L4 instrumentation due to an L3 fracture twenty years earlier. Computed tomography (CT) scan showed a lytic lesion occupying practically the entire vertebral body of L5, with incomplete septum and sclerotic edge, without cortical rupture. The previous steel instrumentation was removed, to avoid the presence of artifacts when performing the magnetic resonance (MR), and a biopsy of L5 vertebra was performed via transpedicular in the same act. The MR study findings and biopsy were compatible with the simple bone cyst. Finally, a new intervention was performed by filling the lesion with PMMA. Follow‐up at 5 years was satisfactory without lumbar pain as well as the radiological study and with a return to previous activity. Conclusions. The spinal location of the simple bone cyst is extremely infrequent. Its diagnosis excludes other lesions and is made by imaging studies and biopsy. Treatment can be performed by excision, curettage, or filling with graft or as in this case, with PMMA.
The Catechol‐O‐Methyltransferase (COMT) Val158Met Polymorphism Is Associated with Oxycodone Requirements, Adverse Effects, and Pain Sensitivity in Cancer Patients
Authors: Xu Silu , Wu Nan , Liu Xin , Zhu Jiali , Liu Zhixian
Published: June 2024

Purpose. Catechol‐O‐methyltransferase (COMT) participates in the regulation of dopaminergic and adrenergic neurotransmission. COMT Val158Met polymorphism influences the efficacy and safety of opioids, but its association with oxycodone treatment in patients with cancer pain is yet to be elucidated. Hence, this study aimed to investigate the influence of COMT Val158Met polymorphism on oxycodone requirements, drug adverse effects, and pain sensitivity in patients with cancer. Methods. Patients with moderate to severe cancer pain treated with oxycodone were enrolled, of which 101 patients completed the study. All patients were genotyped for COMT Val158Met polymorphism using DNA from blood samples and were categorized into the wild‐type group (n = 50) comprising individuals with the Val/Val genotype and the mutant group (n = 51) encompassing those with the Val/Met or Met/Met genotype. Numerical rating scale (NRS) scores, oxycodone requirements, and the incidence of oxycodone‐related adverse drug reactions were compared between the two groups. Results. Patients in the mutant group exhibited higher NRS scores (6.18 ± 1.40) before the oxycodone treatment than those in the wild‐type (5.48 ± 1.54) group (P = 0.017). Patients in the wild‐type group required more oxycodone (96.00 ± 146.19 mg/24 h) than those in the mutant (77.25 ± 83.91 mg/24 h) group (P = 0.0365). The incidence rates of dysuria (2.0% vs. 16.0%, P = 0.016) and fatigue (0.0% vs. 12.0%, P = 0.013) were significantly lower in the mutant group than those in the wild‐type group. Moreover, patients with at least one Met allele showed a lower risk of suffering from oxycodone‐related side effects than those with the wild homozygote (41.2% vs. 68.0%, P = 0.007). Conclusion. Genetic variations in the COMT Val158Met gene may contribute to variability in the efficacy and safety of oxycodone in cancer pain treatment. The findings from this study emphasize the potential of pharmacogenetics in personalizing pain management. Furthermore, oxycodone therapeutic strategies can be designed based on genetic polymorphisms.
Excision of Intra‐articular Knee Heterotopic Ossification Using a 70° Arthroscope
Authors: Hoffer Alexander J. , Lin Eugenia A. , Kalani Maziyar A. , Lyons Mark K. , Richardson Meghan
Published: June 2024

Heterotopic ossification is ectopic lamellar bone formation within soft tissue and can result in significant functional limitations. There are multiple underlying etiologies of HO including musculoskeletal trauma and traumatic brain injury. Intra‐articular HO of the knee is rare and is typically located within the cruciate ligaments. We report a case of a 24‐year‐old female who presented with worsening right knee pain and limited knee extension two and a half years after a motor vehicle crash with multiple lower extremity fractures. Physical examination of the knee revealed anterior pain, limited extension, and a palpable infrapatellar prominence. Imaging showed a retropatellar tendon, intra‐articular excrescence of bone proximal to the anterior tibial plateau. Diagnostic arthroscopy with a 70° arthroscope identified HO at the proximal anterior tibial plateau, which was excised with a high‐speed burr under direct visualization. At the three‐month follow‐up, the patient remained asymptomatic and returned to sport. Retropatellar tendon, intra‐articular anterior knee HO is a rare but debilitating clinical entity that can be successfully and safely managed with excision under direct visualization using a 70° arthroscope.
Figure S8 from Epigenetic Priming by Hypomethylation Enhances the Immunogenic Potential of Tolinapant in T-cell Lymphoma
Authors: Ward George A. , Zhang Zhiqiang , Jueliger Simone , Potapov Ilya S. , Davis Matthew P. , Boxall Adam R. , Taylor Jason , Keer Harold , Biondo Andrea , Lyons John F. , Sims Martin , Smyth Tomoko
Published: June 2024

Figure S8. Additional EL4 & EL4-C8KO model in vivo efficacy data. (Refers to Figure 6)
Figure S7 from Epigenetic Priming by Hypomethylation Enhances the Immunogenic Potential of Tolinapant in T-cell Lymphoma
Authors: Ward George A. , Zhang Zhiqiang , Jueliger Simone , Potapov Ilya S. , Davis Matthew P. , Boxall Adam R. , Taylor Jason , Keer Harold , Biondo Andrea , Lyons John F. , Sims Martin , Smyth Tomoko
Published: June 2024

Figure S7. Additional in vivo PD data. (Refers to Figure 5)
Figure S5 from Epigenetic Priming by Hypomethylation Enhances the Immunogenic Potential of Tolinapant in T-cell Lymphoma
Authors: Ward George A. , Zhang Zhiqiang , Jueliger Simone , Potapov Ilya S. , Davis Matthew P. , Boxall Adam R. , Taylor Jason , Keer Harold , Biondo Andrea , Lyons John F. , Sims Martin , Smyth Tomoko
Published: June 2024

Figure S5. Combination viability assay raw data. (Refers to Figure 3)
FIGURE 6 from Epigenetic Priming by Hypomethylation Enhances the Immunogenic Potential of Tolinapant in T-cell Lymphoma
Authors: Ward George A. , Zhang Zhiqiang , Jueliger Simone , Potapov Ilya S. , Davis Matthew P. , Boxall Adam R. , Taylor Jason , Keer Harold , Biondo Andrea , Lyons John F. , Sims Martin , Smyth Tomoko
Published: June 2024

Dosing with a combination of tolinapant plus decitabine drives increased efficacy in necroptosis-model of TCL (EL4-C8KO model). Volumes of EL4-PAR (A) and C8KO (B) EL4 tumors in wild-type mice treated with decitabine (0.3 mg/kg i.p., every day × 3 doses) and tolinapant dosing (25 mg/kg orally, every day × up to 46 doses) as single agents or in combination. C, Kaplan–Meier plot showing survival (tumors reaching 1,000 mm3 as endpoint) of mice bearing EL4-C8KO (C8KO) tumors.
Efficacy of Platelet-Rich Plasma versus Mesotherapy with Recombinant Growth Factors and Stem Cell-Conditioned Media in Androgenetic Alopecia: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Stefanis Athanasios J. , Arenberger Petr , Arenbergerova Monika , Rigopoulos Dimitris
Published: June 2024

Introduction: Androgenetic alopecia (AGA) is the most common type of hair loss. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and mesotherapy (MZT) injections of various solutions fortified with growth factors are popular treatment options for AGA. The aim of this study was to compare the efficacy of RPP and MZT products in the treatment of AGA. Methods: This retrospective study included 72 AGA patients treated with two PRP formulations and two MZT products, administered manually or with a gun injector. Hair parameters (hair thickness, hair density, and hair count) on frontal and vertex areas were measured before and after 6 months. Results: Over 6 months, trichoscopic parameters showed significant intragroup and intergroup variability. MZT1 and PRP2 groups exhibited statistically significant improvement in most parameters, while MZT2 significantly increased vertex hair density. Hair thickness changes differed significantly between PRP1 and PRP2 groups (unadjusted p value <0.001) and possibly between MZT1 and PRP1 groups (unadjusted p value = 0.049) in both regions. Discussion: Injections of PRP and MZT formulations can significantly enhance trichoscopic parameters in AGA patients within a 6-month period, but the extent of improvement varies among different PRP and MZT products.
Celiac Disease and the Risk of Micronutrient Deficiencies in Ethnic Minority Populations: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: DiJoseph Kara , Weismiller Scott , Ssentongo Paddy , Dalessio Shannon , Clarke Kofi
Published: June 2024

Introduction: Celiac disease (CD) is a chronic immune-mediated disorder triggered by gluten ingestion in genetically predisposed individuals. Historically, CD was primarily recognized and described as a disease of the Caucasian population. Data from a national survey in 2015 revealed that 0.79% of the population was formally diagnosed with celiac disease, with the non-Hispanic white population having a prevalence of 4–8 times higher than other underrepresented races. Although there is evidence that CD affects minorities at higher than reported rates, there is little data on its effects on minority populations. Our study aimed to characterize celiac-related complications among underrepresented populations in a large health database. Methods: We performed a cohort study among patients aged ≥18, utilizing the TriNetX US Collaborative Network. Two cohorts of patients (minority and non-Hispanic white) with CD were identified between 2016 and 2021. Cohorts were propensity scores matched on demographics and baseline clinical characteristics. Outcomes were assessed up to 1 year after the index event (CD diagnosis), including vitamin/mineral deficiencies and hospital visits. Data were analyzed using the TriNetX Analytics function. Results: Each group was matched with 817 patients. Compared to the non-Hispanic white population, the minority group had a similar incidence of iron, vitamin B, and zinc deficiencies. The minority group had a higher risk of vitamin D deficiency, anemia secondary to iron deficiency, inpatient hospital stays, and emergency department visits. Conclusion: Our results indicate that minority patients with celiac disease have a higher incidence of vitamin D and iron deficiency.
Association between Serum Magnesium Levels and Risk of Acute Kidney Injury in Patients with Traumatic Brain Injury: A Retrospective Cohort Study from the MIMIC-IV Database
Authors: Ma Jinbang , Li Xiumin , Wang Xinzhi , Xin Zhenxue , Wang Chuangang
Published: June 2024

Introduction: The occurrence of acute kidney injury (AKI) is associated with a higher risk of mortality in patients with traumatic brain injury (TBI). This study aimed to explore the relationship between serum magnesium levels and the risk of AKI in patients with TBI. Methods: Patients with TBI were identified from the Medical Information Mart Intensive Care IV (MIMIC-IV) 2008–2019. The relationship between serum magnesium levels at admission and magnesium coefficient of variation (CV) during hospitalization and the risk of AKI was analyzed using multivariable logistic regression analysis and expressed as odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI). Subgroup analyses were performed according to Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) score (<14, ≥14), sepsis (no, yes), and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR; <60, ≥60). Results: Of the 991 patients included, 140 (14.13%) developed AKI during hospitalization. Patients with magnesium levels ≤1.7 mg/dL (tertile 1) (OR = 1.68, 95% CI: 1.01–2.81) were associated with a higher risk of AKI compared to those with magnesium levels of 1.7–2.0 mg/dL (tertile 2), but no association was found in those with magnesium levels >2.0 mg/dL (tertile 3) (p = 0.479). For magnesium CV, patients with magnesium CV >10% (tertile 3) (OR = 2.26, 95% CI: 1.16–4.41) were linked to an increased risk of AKI compared to those with magnesium CV ≤4% (tertile 1), but there may be a slight association between magnesium CV of 4%–10% (tertile 2) and AKI risk (OR = 1.86, 95% CI: 0.99–3.48; p = 0.053). Subgroup analyses showed that lower magnesium levels (≤1.7 mg/dL) or greater magnesium CV (>10%) were associated with a higher risk of AKI only in patients with a GCS score ≥14, non-sepsis, or eGFR ≥60 mL/min/1.73 m2 (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Lower serum magnesium levels at admission or greater magnesium CV during hospitalization were associated with a higher risk of AKI in patients with TBI.
Tips dan Trik Klinis Radiografis Mendeteksi Abnormalitas Kelenjar Saliva
Authors: Cahyati Miftakhul , Septina Farihah , Fitriana Fitriana
Published: June 2024

Saliva merupakan campuran kompleks elektrolit, cairan, enzim, serta molekul makro yang berguna sebagai pelumas untuk membantu menelan dan mencerna makanan, membantu metabolism pati dengan amilase saliva, mengatur rasa, melindungi dari karies gigi, dan mempertahankan tubuh dari patogen. Terdapat tiga pasang kelenjar saliva utama yaitu kelenjar parotis, kelenjar submandibular dan sublingual, serta kelenjar saliva minor pada lapisan mukosa pada bibir, lidah, rongga mulut, dan faring. Penyebab kelainan kelenjar saliva sendiri terdiri dari beberapa hal seperti karena adanya infeksi/inflamasi, karena adanya trauma, dan karena adanya neoplasia. Infeksi dan pembengkakan kelenjar saliva juga memiliki berbagai macam presentasi untuk jumlahnya. Pemeriksaan yang sistematis akan meningkatkan kemungkinan diagnosis yang benar dan tatalaksana pengobatan yang tepat. Buku ini adalah hasil kolaborasi yang memuat “Tips dan Trik Klinis Radiografis Mendeteksi Kelainan Kelenjar Saliva”. Buku ini dilengkapi dengan gambar sehingga akan memberikan panduan dan pemahaman bagaimana mengenali dan mendeteksi dengan mudah kelainan kelenjar saliva dalam praktik kedokteran gigi yang dilakukan oleh dokter gigi umum, dokter gigi spesialis, mahasiswa kedokteran gigi atau perawat gigi.
A descoberta dos marsupiais e a “simivulpa”, um esquecido símbolo do Novo Mundo
Authors: Teixeira Dante Martins , Papavero Nelson
Published: June 2024

Subject to several controversies and speculations, the voyage of Vicente Yáñez Pinzón to the New World (1499-1500) led to the discovery of the first marsupial ever seen by an European. Described as a “monstrous beast” by the chronicler Pietro Martire d’Anghiera, this quadruped attracted great attention for having a pouch in its belly in which it carried its young. Based on this account, Martin Waldseemüller included a fanciful image of this mammal in his famous “Carta Marina” of 1516. Although more accurate figures and reports already existed in the first half of the 16th century, Martire d’Anghiera and Waldseemüller would define much of the later narratives and illustrations, being reproduced or adapted on numerous occasions. Under the name of “simivulpa” (“apish fox”), this “prodigious animal” was regarded as a symbol of the Americas for several decades, with a well marked presence in the cartography. Such a view finally disappeared at the end of the 17th century, but the reluctance of scholars to consider marsupials as a distinct group of mammals, with characteristics very different from those of placentals, has given rise to many doubts and misconceptions, some of which destined to persist at least until the beginning of the 20th century.
Lugar de Vida em tempos de pandemia: 30 anos depois e a continuidade das invenções
Authors: Bechara Laura Carrasqueira , Lavrador Marina Belém , Pesaro Maria Eugênia , Oliveira Mariana Trenche de , Merletti Cristina Keiko Inafuku de
Published: June 2024

Cet article traite des transformations qui ont eu lieu dans la pratique clinique du Lugar de Vida - Centro de Educação Terapêutica, pendant la période de distanciation sociale à cause de la pandémie COVID-19. L'histoire de l'institution est citée, soulignant le caractère inventif de la clinique psychanalytique des enfants avec des barrières structurelles dans leur constitution psychique. Situations cliniques déclenchent la reformulation des projets thérapeutiques et la manière dont l'institution poursuit son travail. Pour certains enfants, on considère que la séance à distance peut être une manière de traiter l'Autre, puisque ça possibilite des nouvelles façons de bloquer l'Autre invasif ou chaotique de l’enfant autiste ou psychotique. Donc, les écrans peuvent être des dispositifs subjectivants s'il y aura d’un côté un sujet-interlocuteur et de l'autre un sujet-supposé.
"Da cidade à rede, tem parada?" : Estação Psicanálise na pandemia de Covid-19
Authors: Oliveira Gabriel Lima de , Mondoni Daniel , Palma Lucas
Published: June 2024

Cet article analyse la traversée de la pandémie de Covid-19 dans le collectif Station Psychanalyse, un groupe hétérodoxe de psychanalystes qui fournissent des services dans l'espace public à Campinas. Avec les mesures d'isolement, notre dispositif a été transformé. Le texte présente des réflexions sur ces transformations, à partir de trois lectures différentes sur l'impact de la pandémie sur le dispositif: sur son histoire, sur la formation de l'analyste et sur les effets psychiques sur les sujets écoutés par les analystes du collectif.
Anna Kariênina: interfaces ilustrativas da personagem
Authors: Moreira Elisabet Gonçalves
Published: June 2024

This study analyzes and compares three illustrations of Anna Karenina, a character from Liev Tolstoy’s novel. They were published in media channels with diverse objectives and audiences. The first illustration is translated into an artistic and personal portrait of Anna K. by a Polish artist in a digital magazine. The second illustration in an American magazine, also accessible online, refers to a character’s speech in Tolstoy’s novel, illustrated with a traditional matryoshka doll. The third illustration is from a Japanese manga, translated and edited in Spain in a pocket book format. In the manga that bears her name, Anna Karenina’s illustration showcases the invariant traits of this comic book style but gives the signifier another connotation as a specific means of mass communication. Far beyond the verbal vs. non-verbal opposition, these interfaces articulate perceptions and points of view. The awareness of the dialogical relationship between the symbols and the reader highlights fundamental ideologies as pathways of interpretation, with emphasis on semiotic analysis.
Ressurreição: uma leitura ética
Authors: Mattos Eliana Moura
Published: June 2024

This article seeks to describe and analyze how, in Resurrection, in an exercise much less aesthetic than ethical, Tolstoy aims to point out the problems of a society controlled by the Church and the values of Modernity, a consequence of his particular interpretation of Christianity, which led him to criticize and reject the configuration of a society such as Russia in the 19th century. This analysis proposes to demonstrate how the particular understanding of Christianity and religion appears in a general way in Tolstoy's mature art, starting from his critique of bourgeois civilization and art as his language of resistance and his favorable vehicle for the dissemination of values that are common to all the humanity. The article develops, in a more contributory view of Tolstoy's work, the relationship between art and religion as an establishment of meaning, shaping an ethical proposal for art, demonstrating how, in Resurrection, we find the religious answers that the author wants to give to his ultimate questions, exegeting reality and reacting to modernity, overcoming it.
LncRNA DCRT Protects Against Dilated Cardiomyopathy by Preventing NDUFS2 Alternative Splicing by Binding to PTBP1
Authors: Du Hengzhi , Zhao Yanru , Wen Jianpei , Dai Beibei , Hu Guo , Zhou Yufei , Yin Zhongwei , Ding Nan , Li Huaping , Fan Jiahui , Nie Xiang , Wang Feng , Liu Qian , Wen Zheng , Xu Gang , Wang Dao Wen , Chen Chen
Published: June 2024

BACKGROUND:

Dilated cardiomyopathy is characterized by left ventricular dilation and continuous systolic dysfunction. Mitochondrial impairment is critical in dilated cardiomyopathy; however, the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. Here, we explored the cardioprotective role of a heart-enriched long noncoding RNA, the dilated cardiomyopathy repressive transcript (DCRT), in maintaining mitochondrial function.

METHODS:

The DCRT knockout (DCRT
−/−
) mice and DCRT knockout cells were developed using CRISPR-Cas9 technology. Cardiac-specific DCRT transgenic mice were generated using α-myosin heavy chain promoter. Chromatin coimmunoprecipitation, RNA immunoprecipitation, Western blot, and isoform sequencing were performed to investigate the underlying mechanisms.

RESULTS:

We found that the long noncoding RNA DCRT was highly enriched in the normal heart tissues and that its expression was significantly downregulated in the myocardium of patients with dilated cardiomyopathy. DCRT
−/−
mice spontaneously developed cardiac dysfunction and enlargement with mitochondrial impairment. DCRT transgene or overexpression with the recombinant adeno-associated virus system in mice attenuated cardiac dysfunction induced by transverse aortic constriction treatment. Mechanistically, DCRT inhibited the third exon skipping of NDUFS2 (NADH dehydrogenase ubiquinone iron-sulfur protein 2) by directly binding to PTBP1 (polypyrimidine tract binding protein 1) in the nucleus of cardiomyocytes. Skipping of the third exon of NDUFS2 induced mitochondrial dysfunction by competitively inhibiting mitochondrial complex I activity and binding to PRDX5 (peroxiredoxin 5) and suppressing its antioxidant activity. Furthermore, coenzyme Q10 partially alleviated mitochondrial dysfunction in cardiomyocytes caused by DCRT reduction.

CONCLUSIONS:

Our study revealed that the loss of DCRT contributed to PTBP1-mediated exon skipping of NDUFS2, thereby inducing cardiac mitochondrial dysfunction during dilated cardiomyopathy development, which could be partially treated with coenzyme Q10 supplementation.
Previously unknown diversity: the marine sponge (Porifera) fauna from Rio Grande do Norte State, NE Brazil
Authors: PRAXEDES RAYRAN ARAÚJO , RABELO EMANUELLE FONTENELLE , CAVALCANTI THAYNÃ , BRANDÃO SIMONE NUNES , PINHEIRO ULISSES , ALBUQUERQUE CRISTIANO QUEIROZ DE
Published: June 2024

The Brazilian spongiofauna is still one of the least known worldwide, and the Northeastern region of Brazil is the one with the greatest recorded diversity. Previous studies on sponges in the Rio Grande do Norte State focused on deeper regions of the Potiguar Basin and oceanic islands, lacking any records from intertidal environments. The present study aimed to investigate the biodiversity of marine sponges from two beaches on the northern coast of Rio Grande do Norte. The specimens were collected in intertidal beachrocks of Baixa Grande and Ponta do Mel beaches (Areia Branca, RN) quarterly between August 2018 and May 2019, using the active search method for 2 hours during low tide. We identified 19 species belonging to the Demospongiae class, four taxa were considered dominant and six were considered rare according to the sampling period. Our study considerably improved the knowledge of the spongiofauna for the Rio Grande do Norte State, with six new taxa occurrences: Placospongia sp., Dysidea robusta, Haliclona (Reniera) manglaris, Haliclona (Reniera) tubifera, Haliclona (Soestella) caerulea and Amorphinopsis atlantica.
Compsanthias, new genus of Pacific Anthiadidae (Teleostei)
Authors: GILL ANTHONY C.
Published: June 2024

Compsanthias new genus is described for Anthias ventralis Randall (type species) and A. hawaiiensis Randall, which had been previously classified in the genus Pseudanthias Bleeker. Compsanthias is distinguished from other anthiadid genera in having the following combination of characters: dorsal-fin rays X,16–18, usually X,17; anal-fin rays III,9–10, usually III,9; pectoral-fin rays 14–16, usually 15, most rays branched; branched caudal-fin rays 7+6; tubed scales in lateral series 39–46. Three characters are presented as evidence for monophyly, although each needs further investigation: relatively large infraorbital 3, modally III,9 anal-fin rays, and presence of red to purple oblique stripe from behind upper part of eye to upper part of head. Additional potential synapomorphies relevant to the phylogenetic position of the genus are discussed.
A new species of planthopper in the genus Patara (Hemiptera: Auchenorrhyncha: Fulgoroidea: Derbidae) from central Jamaica
Authors: BAHDER BRIAN W. , MYRIE WAYNE , HELMICK ERICKA E. , BARTLETT CHARLES R.
Published: June 2024

During survey work for planthoppers associated with palms in Jamaica, one new species of Patara was collected at the Castleton Botanic Garden and is here described as Patara euryfrons sp. n. The species is unusual in having a much broader head than is normally found in members of the genus. Supplementary molecular data for the barcoding region (5’ half) of the cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI), 18S rRNA gene and D9-D10 expansion region of the 28S rRNA gene is provided to support the placement of the novel taxon in Patara.
Mechanised Removal of Cocoa Beans from the Pod and Strategies to Optimize the Technique: A Review
Authors: Randy Amuaku , Asante Eric , Bobobee E. , Amano Godwin
Published: June 2024

Confronted with problems associated with removing cocoa beans, methods, technologies and equipment have been developed and applied over the years. This paper comprehensively reviews the most effective method and technology to split cocoa pods and remove the beans. The working principle of the technique was explained with the cocoa pod opening mechanism, structures applicability and cost of the working method. The forces involved in opening cocoa pods are shearing, compressive, and impact depending on the machine type and the process used. The techniques applied in opening cocoa pods are grouped into traditional (manual) and improved (mechanised). The manual method of opening the cocoa pod is time-consuming and prone to accidents leading to injury to beans and farmers. The strength of the labour force available during harvest also affects the manual method. When cocoa beans are damaged, they deteriorate and are not appropriate for fermentation. The mechanised splitting has a high initial investment but very fast and reduced losses. Information gathered on cocoa pod mechanization shows that despite the countless efforts in developing various opening mechanisms. a high bean damage ratio and separation problems are still yet to be controlled. The current trends and techniques in cocoa pod opening mechanisms are also presented.
Effect of Input Subsidy Reduction on Greenhouse Emission Reduction Potential in Paddy Production Systems in Karnataka State of India
Authors: Blay James , Lokesha Huchaiah , Abunyuwah Isaac
Published: June 2024

Increasing concerns and call for reduction in Greenhouse gas (GHG) emission have necessitated the search for broader and all-inclusive policy initiatives, extending into agricultural production, where high carbon energy inputs are used. One classical policy strategy for GHG emission reduction, has been taxation. However, given the critical role of agriculture, especially in developing economies, policies that directly or indirectly increase agricultural inputs costs and reduce their demand require stronger theoretical, conceptual and empirical support to ensure that while agri-environmental quality is promoted, welfare of farming households, food security and overall economic growth are not compromised. Using paddy production in Karnataka state in India, the study assessed effects of agricultural input taxation (reduction in rice input subsidy) on future demand for such inputs and their effect on GHG emission reduction, vis-a-viz production and welfare losses. In microeconomic modelling framework, we applied quadratic almost ideal demand system and stochastic efficiency functions in the analysis of the data. Data for the study, a micro-level farm data, was obtained from Cost of Cultivation Scheme (CSS) for irrigated and non-irrigated production systems, covering the period 2009 -2018 production seasons. Specifically, the study used three future tax regime scenarios- 10%, 20% and 30% input subsidy reduction rates, to model an optimum greenhouse emission reduction potential. The results revealed that inputs evaluated were normal with inelastic demand functions; many input coefficients implied significant complementary relationships; irrigated paddy production system had higher estimates of GHG emissions. Input taxation (reduction in subsidy) under all the three scenarios effectively, resulted in declined inputs consumption patterns, and subsequently led to significant decrease in greenhouse emissions. The highest GHG emission reduction potential was observed in irrigated farming system. Greenhouse emission reduction potential was optimal at moderate subsidy reduction policy rate of 10%. It is recommended that, given the inelastic estimates derived, moderate tax (reduction in subsidy) policy option on inputs would yield effective greenhouse mitigation with appropriate compensation through effective integrative schemes.
Predicting Attack Paths from Application Security Vulnerabilities Using a Multi-Layer Perceptron
Authors: Kasturi Santanam , Li Xiaolong , Li Peng , Pickard John
Published: June 2024

This paper is in the series of continuing research and proposes an approach to predicting possible attack paths from application security vulnerability-based attack trees. The attack trees are formed by stringing together weaknesses discovered in an application code and a group of applications within a domain. The Common Weakness Enumeration (CWE) and Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures (CVE) linked together as a string of vulnerabilities in the attack trees can be visualized as pathways for attacks. These pathways become potential attacks that can spread vertically and horizontally leading to a multi-path attack that can involve multiple software applications. With more data, and huge number of vulnerabilities, it will become impossible to identify all attack paths unless a full-scale implementation of an autonomous processing mechanism is in place. Machine Learning (ML) and Deep Learning (DL) techniques have been adopted in the cybersecurity space for decades, however all the studies have been around networks, endpoints, and device monitoring. This paper focuses on application security and building on earlier work cited, the use of a vulnerability map that uses attack vectors in a Deep Learning (DL) method implementing a Multi-Layer Perceptron (MLP) forms the basis for developing a predictive model that relates a set of linked vulnerabilities to an attack path. The results are encouraging, and this approach will help in identifying successful or failed attack paths involving multiple applications, isolated or grouped, and will help focus on the right applications and the vulnerabilities associated as priority for remediation.
Underestimates of Orographic Precipitation in Idealized Simulations. Part II: Underlying Causes
Authors: Tierney Lydia , Durran Dale
Published: June 2024

Warm-sector orographic precipitation in a midlatitude cyclone encountering a ridge is simulated in a “Cyc+Mtn” experiment. A second “Shear” simulation is conducted with horizontally uniform unidirectional flow over the same mountain having thermodynamic and cross-mountain wind profiles identical to those on the centerline in the “Cyc+Mtn” simulation. The relationship between integrated vapor transport (IVT) and orographic precipitation in the Mtn+Cyc case is consistent with observations, yet the same IVT in the Shear simulation produces far less precipitation. The difference between the precipitation rates in the Cyc+Mtn and Shear cases is traced to differences in the cross-mountain moisture-flux convergence and is further isolated to differences in the cross-mountain-velocity convergence over the windward slope. The winds at the ridge crest are stronger in the Shear case, leading to more velocity divergence and decreased moisture-flux convergence. The stronger ridge-crest winds in the Shear case are produced by a stronger mountain wave, which persists after being generated during the artificial startup of the Shear simulation. Initializing with a gradually ramped-up unidirectional flow and integrating to a quasi-steady state fails to adequately capture the processes regulating the leeside circulations. Even worse results are obtained if the shear flow is instantaneously accelerated from rest. An alternative microphysical explanation for the precipitation difference between the Cyc+Mtn and Shear simulations is examined using additional numerical experiments that enhance the seeder–feeder process. Although such enhancements increase precipitation, the increase is too small to account for the differences between the Cyc+Mtn and Shear simulations.

Significance Statement

Our results highlight the difficulty in conducting studies of mesoscale atmospheric circulations in isolation from their surrounding environment. This approach often allows for more computationally efficient and detailed analysis of the target phenomena by reducing the size of the computational domain. But, at least in the case of orographic precipitation, such isolation can significantly limit the realism of the simulated process.
Underestimates of Orographic Precipitation in Idealized Simulations. Part I: Evidence from Unidirectional Warm-Sector Environments
Authors: Tierney Lydia , Durran Dale
Published: June 2024

Heavy precipitation in midlatitude mountain ranges is largely driven by the episodic passage of weather systems. Previous studies have shown a high correlation between the integrated vapor transport (IVT) in the airstream striking a mountain and the precipitation rate. Using data collected during the Olympic Mountain Experiment (OLYMPEX) project from a pair of sounding stations and a dense precipitation network, we further document the tight relation between IVT and precipitation rate and obtain results consistent with earlier work. We also survey previous studies that simulated orographic precipitation forced by unidirectional shear flows. Some of these simulations were performed using models that produce reasonably accurate rainfall totals in nested simulations of actual events driven by large-scale flows. Nevertheless, the increase in precipitation with IVT in all the simulations with unidirectional upstream flows is far lower than what would be expected based on the observationally derived correlation between IVT and precipitation rate. As a first step toward explaining this discrepancy, we conduct idealized simulations of a midlatitude cyclone striking a north–south ridge. The relationship between IVT and rainfall rate in this “Cyc+Mtn” simulation matches that which would be expected from observations. In contrast, when the conditions upstream of the ridge in the Cyc+Mtn case were used as upstream forcing in a horizontally uniform unidirectional flow with the same IVT over the same mountain ridge, far less precipitation was produced. These idealized simulations will, therefore, be used to study the discrepancy in rainfall between simulations driven by unidirectional shear flows and observations in a companion paper.

Significance Statement

Idealized simulations of orographic precipitation using horizontally uniform environmental forcing fail to capture the observed relationship between integrated water vapor flux impinging on the mountain and the precipitation rate. This suggests we need to improve the design of such idealized simulations.