bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Dweller on the Threshold: Whiteness, the Family and the End of Classical Cinema
Authors: Cash Conall
Published: January 2025

Through a discussion of two key American films of the 1940s and 1950s – Alfred Hitchcock's Shadow of a Doubt (1943) and John Ford's The Searchers (1956) – this article situates the breakdown of classical cinema, or what Gilles Deleuze calls the “crisis of the action-image”, in relation to the critique of whiteness and the family. Focusing on the figure of the “dweller on the threshold” within these two films, the article shows how this individual's deprivation of action is tied to their status simultaneously as protective of and estranged from the white family. Once whiteness and the family become explicit objects of protection, the myth of their naturalness and goodness is rendered problematic, and in these films, the protector themselves must be excluded in order for the myth to function. Drawing on accounts of the invisibility and dehistoricisation entailed in whiteness in the work of Sara Ahmed, Jacques Derrida, Toni Morrison and Frank B. Wilderson III, the article considers how, in these films, the protection of the white family reveals its mythical status as an ideally ahistorical unit of civilisation. The very effort to protect this myth, these films show, amounts to its collapse. These films enact a deconstruction of the oppositions which constitute the civilisational myths that ground whiteness and return such myths to the moment of their historical institution. They reflect on the very process of erasure and forgetting that produces these myths, through a self-conscious interrogation of the cinematic process of the projection of images itself. Drawing on Deleuze's suggestion that modern cinema promises a new mode of belief in the world, the article argues that such a non-mythic belief can only be realised through an unmaking of whiteness, as a form of life which, being premised upon protection and immunity, denies life itself, and our living connection to the world.
In Memoriam Dr. Mario Mankevich
Authors: Perona-Miguel de Priego Guido Alberto
Published: January 2025

Cuando recibimos la ingrata noticia de la partida de nuestro socio y amigo Dr. Mario Mankevich nos vienen recuerdos compartidos a los que tuvimos la gracia de haberlo conocido y que queremos compartir con aquellos que no tuvieron la suerte de haberlo conocido.
Implementation of i Reading and Literacy Tourism Program at Banjar City Public Library
Authors: Sudarmaji Rahmat , Rifauddin Machsun
Published: January 2025

The purpose of this study is to provide an explanation for the actions taken by the local government work unit in Banjar City to stimulate public interest in reading. The work unit of the Regional Public library, situated on Jalan RE. Kosasih in Banjar City, is the subject of the study. Descriptive qualitative research is employed in conjunction with Campbell J.P.'s theory of effectiveness approach to examine the problem of reading interest services at the Banjar City regional public library in detail and depth, thereby facilitating a more comprehensive discussion of its real-world aspects. the data acquisition process was carried out by interviews, field notes and documentation notes. Based on the data that has been reduced and presented, researchers make conclusions that are supported by strong evidence at the data collection stage. The study's findings show that the effectiveness level is very successful. on the program's sustainability up to this point as well as the target's achievement with community involvement in spite of challenges brought on by the budget shortfall. As a served community, educational services are also met on the program satisfaction criteria; nevertheless, in order to improve library flexibility, collaboration with other stakeholders is required. Excellent planning and resource utilization results in a high level of efficiency in the input and output processes that support activities. In the meantime, the overarching objective of this exercise as a teaching tool has been met with the anticipated success.
Studi In Vitro Perbedaan Pelarut Pada Membran Selulosa Tandan Kosong Kelapa Sawit (TKKS) Terhadap Penurunan Kreatinin
Authors: Jayanti Tri Dewi , Hidayah Nur , Darsono Putri Vidiasari , Alawiyah Tuti
Published: January 2025

Latar belakang: Teknologi membran yang semakin berkembang menjadi salah satu aplikasi penting dalam bidang biomedis yaitu dialisis pada proses hemodialisis. Dimana instrumen dialisis menggunakan membran serat berongga terbuat dari polimer sintesis sehingga hal tersebut membuat harganya menjadi mahal serta di Indonesia teknologi ini masih tertinggal jauh. Oleh karena itu perlu adanya alternatif dalam ketersediaan membran sebagai bahan pembuatan membran. Salah satunya memanfaatkan selulosa dari limbah TKKS.Tujuan: Mengetahui perbedaan efektivitas variasi pelarut pada membran selulosa TKKS dalam menurunkan kadar kreatinin secara in vitro.Metode: Observasi analitik dengan Cross sectional. Pengujian kuantitatif menggunakan Spektrofotometri Uv-Vis.Hasil: Pembuatan membran dengan variasi pelarut dapat menurunkan kadar kreatinin, membran dengan pelarut DMAc lebih efektif dalam menurunkan kadar kreatinin lebih besar disetiap siklus dengan kadar awal 3 mg/dL dan waktu setiap siklus 3 menit 55 detik. Membran DMAc mampu menurunkan kadar setiap siklus yaitu 0,509 mg/dL, 0,486 mg/dL, 0,476 mg/dL, dan 0,463 mg/dL.Simpulan: Membran selulosa TKKS yang dibuat menggunakan pelarut DMAc lebih efektif dalam menurunkan kadar kreatinin. Sehingga perlu dilakukan penelitian lebih lanjut dalam pengaplikasiannya di bidang Kesehatan.
Directions of scientific cooperation and peculiarities of cultural exchange between Russia and the countries of the Middle East and the Mediterranean based on the materials of modern analytics
Authors: Vasilyeva Irina N. , Rebrova Tatyana P. , Li Olga V.
Published: January 2025

Russia has to participate in the struggle for cultural influence,
which is escalating all over the world, and promote its values and ideas. In
this context, the relevance and importance of cultural and humanitarian
cooperation with the countries of the Middle East and the Mediterranean is
increasing. The article identifies key problems and makes recommendations
for improving this cooperation. Methods. The key directions and nature of scientific and technological promising research projects in the states of the
Middle East and the Mediterranean are identified based on the study of the
database of scientists living in the countries of the Middle East, their patent
and publication activity. The cultural and historical roots of the Russian
presence in the region and the practice of cultural cooperation between
Russia and these countries are analyzed on the basis of Internet sources.
Results and Discussion. Over the past 30 years, Russian state scientific
structures have been ousted from scientific cooperation with the countries
of the Middle East and the Mediterranean under the political influence of
competitors. Therefore, publications of modern scientists and public figures
who have devoted their scientific research to this issue are of particular
importance for the stated topic. The results of the analysis for further
cooperation in specific areas are presented and the features of Russia's
cultural exchange with such countries as Bahrain, Egypt, Israel, Jordan, Iraq,
Yemen, Qatar, Cyprus, Kuwait, Lebanon, UAE, Oman, Saudi Arabia, Sudan,
Turkey, Palestinian National Authority, Algeria, Libya, Morocco, Syria,
Tunisia. The results are based on a three-year analytical work carried out
on the instructions of the Ministry of Education and Science of the Russian
Federation by the staff of the Russian Research Institute of Economics,
Politics and Law in the Science and Technology (RIEPP) on the topic
"Research of the modern scientific potential of the countries of the Middle
East and the Mediterranean and prospects for the creation of international
scientific projects and programs with Russian participation." Conclusion.
In order to expand the list of research topics and attract foreign scientists,
among others, to jointly solve problems that ensure the achievement of a
response to the great challenges set out in the Strategy of Scientific and
Technological Development of the Russian Federation, it is necessary to
increase the range of scientific communications. Three main directions
of Russia's humanitarian policy in the Middle East are highlighted. In the
context of the Western sanctions policy, it is important to use the similarity
of approaches between Russia and regional Middle Eastern states, including
such an aspect of international humanitarian and cultural cooperation as a
religious factor.
Influences of Dual Air-Swirler Angles on Swirling Injection and Combustion of Kerosene-Air at a Supercritical Pressure
Authors: Wang Danyang , Huang Dongxin , Xu Jianguo , Meng Hua
Published: January 2025

High-pressure swirling injection and combustion are important phenomena in a modern gas turbine engine as its compression ratio has been significantly increased to improve thermodynamic efficiency. Large eddy simulations are conducted to analyze turbulent flow and combustion of kerosene-air in a dual-air-swirler gas turbine model combustor at a supercritical pressure of 4 MPa, above the critical pressure of kerosene. The present work focuses particularly on effects of the two air swirler angles on flow and combustion dynamics. Numerical results indicate that the inner air swirler exerts strong impact on fuel-air mixing and chemical reactions inside the inner injector, leading to a Y shaped recirculating flow and a V shaped flame at an inner swirler angle of 40°. The precessing vortex core (PVC) is generated by the inner air swirling injection, and detailed analyses reveal that the PVC frequency is controlled mainly by the inner swirl number and the maximum axial velocity from the inner injector. The outer air swirler makes significant impact on the central recirculation structure and turbulent combustion inside the combustion chamber and weakly influences the PVC frequency. For the present supercritical-pressure turbulent combustion in a dual-air-swirler system, it appears that proper combination of the two air swirler angles could avoid chemical reactions deep inside the injector while enhancing fuel-air mixing and combustion in the combustion chamber.
Placement of an elastic, biohybrid patch in a model of right heart failure with pulmonary artery banding
Authors: Hayashi Yasunari , Kim Seungil , Fujii Taro , Pedersen Drake Dalton , Ozeki Takahiro , Jiang Hongbin , D’Amore Antonio , Wagner William R.
Published: January 2025

Introduction

In a model of right heart failure secondary to pulmonary artery banding (PAB), a mechanical approach using an elastic, biodegradable epicardial patch with integrated extracellular matrix digest was evaluated for its potential to inhibit disease progression.

Methods

Adult male syngeneic Lewis rats aged 6–7 weeks old were used. Biohybrid cardiac patches were generated by co-processing biodegradable poly(ester carbonate urethane) urea (PECUU) and a digest of the porcine cardiac extracellular matrix. Three weeks after PAB, the cardiac patch was attached to the epicardium of the right ventricle (RV). Cardiac function was evaluated using echocardiography and catheterization for 9 weeks after PAB, comparing the patch (n = 7) and sham (n = 10) groups.

Results

Nine weeks after PAB, the RV wall was thickened, the RV cavity was enlarged with a reduced left ventricular cavity, and RV wall interstitial fibrosis was increased. However, these effects were diminished in the patch group. Left ventricular ejection fraction in the patch group was higher than in the sham group (p < 0.001), right end-systolic pressure was lower (p = 0.045), and tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion improved in the patch group (p = 0.007). In addition, von Willebrand factor expression was significantly greater in the patch group (p = 0.007).

Conclusions

The placement of a degradable, biohybrid patch onto the RV in a right ventricular failure model with fixed afterload improved myocardial output, moderated pressure stress, and was associated with reduced right ventricular fibrosis.
Myogenesis gone awry: the role of developmental pathways in rhabdomyosarcoma
Authors: Gustafson Annika L. , Durbin Adam D. , Artinger Kristin B. , Ford Heide L.
Published: January 2025

Rhabdomyosarcoma is a soft-tissue sarcoma that occurs most frequently in pediatric patients and has poor survival rates in patients with recurrent or metastatic disease. There are two major sub-types of RMS: fusion-positive (FP-RMS) and fusion-negative (FN-RMS); with FP-RMS typically containing chromosomal translocations between the PAX3/7-FOXO1 loci. Regardless of subtype, RMS resembles embryonic skeletal muscle as it expresses the myogenic regulatory factors (MRFs), MYOD1 and MYOG. During normal myogenesis, these developmental transcription factors (TFs) orchestrate the formation of terminally differentiated, striated, and multinucleated skeletal muscle. However, in RMS these TFs become dysregulated such that they enable the sustained properties of malignancy. In FP-RMS, the PAX3/7-FOXO1 chromosomal translocation results in restructured chromatin, altering the binding of many MRFs and driving an oncogenic state. In FN-RMS, re-expression of MRFs, as well as other myogenic TFs, blocks terminal differentiation and holds cells in a proliferative, stem-cell-like state. In this review, we delve into the myogenic transcriptional networks that are dysregulated in and contribute to RMS progression. Advances in understanding the mechanisms through which myogenesis becomes stalled in RMS will lead to new tumor-specific therapies that target these aberrantly expressed developmental transcriptional pathways.
Data analysis-based framework for the design and assessment of chemical process plants: a case study in amine gas-treating systems
Authors: Gupta Rahul , Navas Gladys , Galatro Daniela
Published: January 2025

This work presents a process-integrity assessment framework to chemical process design that combines first principles, heuristics, vendor specifications, standards/codes, data analysis, and machine learning modelling, hypothesized as an efficient route for optimal process design. Our case study, a gas treating unit, illustrates its implementation compared with traditional process guidelines. Surrogate models are fitted with hybrid data from process simulation and plant values, supporting the integration between process and integrity values, as well as equipment sizing and cost estimation. Considerable errors are obtained when estimating design duty (1.4%–8.7%) and power requirements (11.1%–33.5%) of the main equipment. Potential sources of these deviations might be attributable to the inherent simplification of process guidelines and intrinsic noise of the plant data used for fitting surrogate models. The process design is then assessed by evaluating process variables and corrosion rate within an operational envelope, showing the synergy and integration of these variables. The benefits and challenges of this approach are drawn while future work in engineering education is presented for its future implementation and effectiveness assessment in enhancing the process design workflow.
Case Report: Endovascular embolization under DSA for multivessel supply mixed pulmonary sequestration in young patients
Authors: Li Hong , Li Qinhong , Zhang Xing , Li Feng , Su Zhongjian , Deng Lili , Gong Chuxiong
Published: January 2025

Pulmonary sequestration (PS) is a rare congenital lung developmental anomaly characterized by abnormal lung tissue that receives its blood supply from the aorta. Among the various types, mixed PSrepresents a distinct subtype. Currently, there is a lack of definitive reports regarding the specific management of this condition in infants and young children. We report a case of a 1-year-old patient with mixed PS treated with endovascular occlusion under digital subtraction angiography (DSA). Given the patient's young age and the complexity of the vascular malformation, we opted for endovascular intervention rather than surgery. Utilizing the Seldinger technique, we accessed the right femoral artery and vein for angiography, confirming the abnormal vessels supplying the pulmonary cyst. Subsequently, we placed vascular embolization devices to achieve closure. Postoperatively, the patient did not experience any significant complications. Follow-up revealed substantial absorption of the PS, disappearance of the abnormal vessels originating from the descending aorta, and no recurrence of respiratory infections. This case highlights the efficacy of endovascular intervention in young patients with complex vascular mixed PS.
A review on the magnetotelluric studies over the Central Asian Orogenic Belt—recent developments and future aspects
Authors: Li Yifan , Zhang Letian , Jin Sheng , Zhou Lishui , Zong Qiyao
Published: January 2025

The Central Asian Orogenic Belt (CAOB) was originated from the subduction, closure, convergence, and post-collisional extension of the Paleo-Asian Ocean located between the North China Craton, Tarim Craton, and the Siberian Craton during the late Permian to early Triassic. The Magnetotelluric (MT) method can detect the deep structure and properties of the orogenic belt, and further reveal the crust and mantle deformation mechanism and deep dynamic process inside the orogenic belt. In this paper, we summarize recent developments in the MT studies of the CAOB, including 2 MT studies that we recently conducted for the Beishan and Bainaimiao segments of the CAOB, which briefly describe the complex electrical structure of the crust and upper mantle, and provide valuable information for understanding its deep processes and continental dynamic mechanisms. Finally, we summarize the general characteristics of the lithospheric electrical structure and formation mechanism of low-resistivity zones, based on which we look forward to future MT studies.
Hispanic-serving HBCUs: towards an anti-colonial meso-relevant theory of organizational identity in sacred spaces of Black education
Authors: Bradley Dwuana , Tillis Gina
Published: January 2025

Introduction

This study addresses demographic changes at HBCUs and proposes an anti-colonial organizational framework for Historically Black emerging Hispanic Serving Institutions (HB-eHSIs, also referred to as Hispanic-serving HBCUs) to support both Black and Brown students while preserving the historic mission of HBCUs.

Methods

We use qualitative methodology and rely on 45–60 minute semi-structured interviews with 15 faculty and administrators from three Historically Black emerging HSIs in Texas to develop the proposed organizational framework.

Results

Findings are highlighted through four key tenets, each operationalized based on themes from extant literature and the practices and organizational logics of Black and Brown faculty and staff at HBeHSIs: 1. Tending to white settler colonialism, 2. Tending to fiscal precarity, 3. Tending to sacred spaces, 4. Tending to fallacious notions of essentialism.

Discussion

The proposed framework aims to foster solidarity between Black and Brown students and challenge oppressive systems through a radically inclusive approach to serving both communities. Recommendations include reexamining leadership structures, forming coalitions, and creating consortiums to support HBCUs’ evolving needs and diverse student populations. Findings also emphasize the need for dual federal designation for HB-eHSIs to secure funding and legitimacy.
The atherogenic index of plasma is associated with an increased risk of diabetes in non-obese adults: a cohort study
Authors: Cao Jun , Su Zhaohai , Yang Jiangyong , Zhang Bilong , Jiang Rengui , Lu Weiling , Huang Zhenhua , Xie Zheng
Published: January 2025

Objective

This study aims to investigate the relationship between the atherogenic index of plasma (AIP) and diabetes risk in Chinese non-obese adults. This is important because the incidence of diabetes is significant in non-obese populations, and evidence regarding this association is limited.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective cohort study with 82,977 Chinese non-obese adults. We used Cox proportional hazards regression to assess the relationship between baseline AIP levels and diabetes incidence. We also employed cubic spline functions and smooth curve fitting to investigate potential nonlinear relationships. Sensitivity and subgroup analyses were conducted to validate our findings.

Results

The median follow-up duration for these participants was 3.10 years, during which 1,041 subjects (1.25%) were diagnosed with diabetes. Adjusted analyses demonstrated a strong positive association between AIP and the risk of diabetes onset (HR 2.07; 95% CI: 1.63-2.63; p < 0.001). The risk of diabetes increased with higher AIP quartiles, especially between the highest (Q4) and lowest (Q1) quartiles (adjusted HR 1.55; 95% CI: 1.27-1.89). We also identified a nonlinear relationship between AIP and diabetes risk. Sensitivity and subgroup analyses confirmed these findings. Furthermore, E-value analysis indicated that the results were robust against unmeasured confounding variables.

Conclusion

Our findings highlight a positive, nonlinear association between AIP and diabetes risk in Chinese non-obese adults. Lowering triglycerides (TG) or increasing high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) levels may help reduce this risk.
A corporate approach to enhancing lithium-ion battery safety through flame-retardant electrolyte development
Authors: Lee Beomsu , Jung Cheolsoo
Published: January 2025

Lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) are integral to modern technology, yet their reliance on flammable liquid electrolytes poses significant safety challenges, especially in electric vehicles and large-scale energy storage systems. This paper presents the development of flame-retardant electrolytes utilizing the Define-Measure-Analyze-Design-Optimize-Verify (DMADOV) methodology to enhance both safety and performance of LIBs. The study initiates by defining the correlation between the properties of organic solvents and electrochemical stability, focusing on the overcharging risks that can induce thermal runaway. Through systematic measurement and analysis of candidate components, critical factors influencing the quality of flame-retardant electrolytes are identified. The design phase prioritizes the establishment of solid electrolyte interface (SEI) conditions for γ-butyrolactone (γ-BL), ensuring the electrolyte’s performance and stability in LIBs. The optimization phase further refines the SEI formation conditions to address performance challenges identified during initial design, incorporating related manufacturing processes. The final verification phase confirms the alignment of the flame-retardant electrolyte composition with optimized SEI conditions, establishing a viable electrolyte range for practical applications. The study demonstrates that the use of γ-BL markedly reduces the explosion risk due to overcharging. The final verification phase confirms the alignment of the flame-retardant electrolyte composition with optimized SEI conditions, establishing a viable electrolyte range for practical applications. Significantly, this study emphasizes the importance of robust SEI design in developing flame-retardant electrolytes with high-flash-point organic solvents like γ-BL, supported by validation experiments on patented technology. These advancements not only enhance the safety profile of LIBs but also demonstrate the potential for improved battery performance, paving the way for broader applications in energy storage solutions.
Multidimensional analysis and enhancement strategies for ecological environment quality at the county level under dual carbon goals: a case study of Shaanxi Province, China
Authors: Li Jianfeng , Hu Yongxin , Li Jian , Yang Liangyan , Yan Jie
Published: January 2025

With the intensification of global climate change and environmental degradation, the goals of carbon peaking and carbon neutrality have become crucial strategies for promoting sustainable development in various countries. However, most studies on ecological environment quality (EEQ) focus on urban areas, with limited attention to county-level analyses, particularly regarding the complex interactions between climate, topography, and human activities. This study aims to address this gap by investigating the spatiotemporal evolution and multidimensional driving factors of EEQ in 107 counties of Shaanxi Province, China. Using the Google Earth Engine (GEE) platform and MODIS imagery, along with methods such as the Remote Sensing Ecological Index (RSEI), Hurst exponent, and GeoDetector, this study analyzed the evolutionary characteristics and driving mechanisms of county-level EEQ, and explored improvement and management strategies for different types of county EEQ within the framework of dual carbon goals. The results indicate that: 1) From 2000 to 2020, the overall EEQ in Shaanxi Province showed a fluctuating upward trend, improving from a moderate level to a good level, although some counties experienced slight degradation from 2010 to 2020. 2) The spatial distribution of county-level EEQ displayed a “low-high-low-high” gradient from north to south, indicating superior ecological conditions in the southern and central-northern counties, while northern regions faced significant ecological challenges. 3) The future trend of EEQ in Shaanxi Province is expected to be one of continuous improvement, although attention must be paid to the ongoing degradation risks in highly urbanized areas. 4) The spatial differentiation of county-level EEQ is primarily driven by climate factors and influenced by the synergistic effects of multiple factors. For counties with varying levels of EEQ, it is essential to comprehensively consider the interactions between climate, topography, and human factors, and to implement tailored carbon sequestration enhancement strategies. The results not only propose targeted approaches to reinforce carbon storage but also offer valuable policy guidance, thereby making a significant contribution to achieving the dual carbon goals at the county level.
Tell me y: anticipation of sex discrepancies in cell-free DNA testing due to maternal genetic abnormalities: a case report
Authors: Balaguer Nuria , Mateu-Brull Emilia , Martínez-Conejero Jose Antonio , Cervero Ana , Navarro Roser , Jiménez-Almazán Jorge , Milán Miguel
Published: January 2025

Sex discordance between cell-free DNA (cfDNA) testing and ultrasound examination is rare but can cause significant patient discomfort and uncertainty. Here, we present two clinical cases where a closer examination of raw sequencing data allowed us to anticipate possible discrepancies caused by the insertion of Y-chromosome regions into the maternal genome. We used Illumina’s VeriSeq NIPT Solution v2 and a proprietary bioinformatics pipeline to analyze cfDNA in the maternal bloodstream. Paired-end sequencing data were aligned to the reference genome (hg19). Non-duplicated aligned reads were aggregated into 100-kb bins, adjusted for CG bias, and further aggregated into 5-Mb windows. Z-scores were calculated for autosomes, sex chromosomes, and 5-Mb bins. The two clinical cases were classified as low-risk male fetuses according to the primary statistics (case A: NCVx = 0.3; NCVy = 40.6; native fetal fraction (FFi) = 5.1%, and case B: NCVx = −0.3, NCVy = 40.7, FFi = 10.8%); however, the Y-chromosome-based FF (FFy) was significantly lower than the default FF estimate (FFy ≅ 2% in both cases). Plots of X and Y chromosome Z-scores for each 5-Mb bin, according to genomic position, identified bins with Z-scores significantly higher than those expected for any pregnancy with a male fetus. The genomic coordinates of these bins overlapped with the amelogenin (AMELY) and protein kinase Y-linked (PRKY) genes, respectively. Amplification of these regions in the DNA isolated from the white blood cells fraction confirmed the presence of Y-chromosome insertions in the maternal genome. This study highlights a new source of discrepancy in cfDNA testing due to maternal genomic variations. These findings suggest the need for improvements to current bioinformatics pipelines to identify and exclude possible maternal perturbations from the classification algorithms used for aneuploidy and sex calls.
Comprehensive analysis of the circRNA expression profile and circRNA-miRNA-mRNA network in pelvic organ prolapse
Authors: Wang Qian , He Zuoxi , Ding Lisha , Liu Yuqing , Zhang Xiaoli , Wang Tao , Niu Xiaoyu
Published: January 2025

Pelvic organ prolapse (POP) is a common gynecological disease caused by pathological defects, lesions, or mechanical weakening of the support structures of the pelvic floor. However, its pathogenesis is unclear. Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are covalently closed, endogenous biomolecules, which are thought to play an important role on skeletal muscle development by regulating gene expression. In this study, five pairs of peripheral blood samples from control and POP groups were used for circRNA sequencing analysis to obtain differential expression profiles. A total of 75 differentially expressed circRNAs (DEcircRNAs) were identified (fold change >2.0, P < 0.05). Furthermore, RT-qPCR confirmed that the expression levels of two circRNAs (hsa_circ_0067962 and hsa_circ_0057051) were significantly lower in the POP group. The two validated DEcircRNAs were abundantly involved in the collagen catabolic process. The circRNA-miRNA-mRNA network of two DEcircRNAs comprised nine mRNAs, which indicated that hsa_circ_0067962 and hsa_circ_0057051 may be involved in the pathogenesis of POP by regulating these nine mRNAs.
Like mother like daughter, the role of low human capital in intergenerational cycles of disadvantage: the Pune Maternal Nutrition Study
Authors: Marphatia Akanksha A. , Wells Jonathan C. K. , Reid Alice M. , Bhalerao Aboli , Yajnik Chittaranjan S.
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Maternal nutrition promotes maternal and child health. However, most interventions to address undernutrition are only implemented once pregnancy is known, and cannot address broader risk factors preceding conception. Poverty and socio-economic status are considered systemic risk factors, but both economic growth and cash transfers have had limited success improving undernutrition. Another generic risk factor is low human capital, referring to inadequate skills, knowledge and autonomy, and represented by traits such as low educational attainment and women's early marriage. Few studies have evaluated whether maternal human and socio-economic capital at conception are independently associated with maternal and offspring outcomes.

Methods

Using data on 651 mother-child dyads from the prospective Pune Maternal Nutrition Study in rural India, composite markers were generated of “maternal human capital” using maternal marriage age and maternal and husband's education, and 'socio-economic capital' using household wealth and caste. Linear and logistic regression models investigated associations of maternal low/mid human capital, relative to high capital, with her own nutrition and offspring size at birth, postnatal growth, education, age at marriage and reproduction, and cardiometabolic risk at 18 years. Models controlled for socio-economic capital, maternal age and parity.

Results

Independent of socio-economic capital, and relative to high maternal human capital, low human capital was associated with shorter maternal stature, lower adiposity and folate deficiency but higher vitamin B12 status. In offspring, low maternal human capital was reflected in shorter gestation, smaller birth head girth, being breastfed for longer, poor postnatal growth, less schooling, lower fat mass and insulin secretion at 18 years. Daughters married and had children at an early age.

Discussion

Separating maternal human and socio-economic capital is important for identifying the aspects which are most relevant for future interventions. Low maternal human capital, independent of socio-economic capital, was a systemic risk factor contributing to an intergenerational cycle of disadvantage, perpetuated through undernutrition, low education and daughters' early marriage and reproduction. Future interventions should target maternal and child human capital. Increasing education and delaying girls' marriage may lead to sustained intergenerational improvements across Sustainable Development Goals 1 to 5, relating to poverty, hunger, health, education and gender equality.
TLR10 overexpression modulates immune response in A549 lung epithelial cells challenged with SARS-CoV-2 S and N proteins
Authors: Knez Špela , Narat Mojca , Ogorevc Jernej
Published: January 2025

Toll-like receptors (TLRs) play an important role in the recognition of viral particles and activation of the innate immune system, but their role in SARS-CoV-2 infection is still poorly characterized. In the present study, we investigated the role of Toll-like receptor 10 (TLR10) in modulating the immune response during SARS-CoV-2 infection. The results showed that overexpression of TLR10 in A549 lung epithelial cells, immunostimulated with SARS-CoV-2 proteins S and N mainly downregulated proinflammatory cytokines and interferons and affected gene expression in the cocultured THP-1 monocytes. Our results suggest that TLR10 could mediate the extent of SARS-CoV-2 infection by downregulating the release of inflammatory cytokines and chemokines such as CXCL10, IL6, IL8, and IFNβ. Modulation of TLR10 expression could have implications for the treatment of patients with severe COVID-19, in whom excessive inflammation leading to the development of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is a key feature. However, further research is needed to fully understand the impact of modulating TLR10 expression on the antiviral response and the overall balance of the immune response during SARS-CoV-2 infection.
Toll-like receptor 4 pathway evolutionary trajectory and functional emergence
Authors: Verma Shailya , Sowdhamini Ramanathan
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Toll-like receptors 4 (TLR4) recognize lipopolysaccharides (LPS) from bacteria as their conventional ligands and undergo downstream signaling to produce cytokines. They mediate the signaling either by the TIRAP-MyD88 complex or by the TRAM-TRIF complex. The MyD88 pathway is common to all other TLRs, whereas the TRAM-TRIF complex is largely exclusive to TLR4. Here we study the TIR domain of TRAM and TRIF ortholog proteins that are crucial for downstream signaling. Our previous work on pan-genome-wide survey, indicates Callorhincus milli to be the ancestral organism with both TRAM and TRIF proteins.

Methods

To gain a deeper insight into the protein function and to compare them with Homo sapiens adaptor proteins, we modeled the docking of the TRAM–TRIF complex of representative organisms across various taxa. These modeling experiments provide insights to ascertain a possible interaction surface and calculate the energetics and electrostatic potential of the complex. Furthermore, this enables us to employ normal mode analysis (NMA) to examine fluctuating, interacting, and other specific residue clusters that could have a role in protein functioning in both C. milli and H. sapiens. We also performed molecular dynamics simulations of these complexes and cross-validated the functionally important residues using network parameters.

Results

We compared the stoichiometry of TRAM–TRIF complexes and found that the tetrameric models (TRAM and TRIF dimer) were more stable than the trimeric model (TRAM dimer and TRIF monomer). While the critical residues of TIRAP, TRIF, and MyD88 were preserved, we also found that the important residues of TRAM signaling were not conserved in C. milli.

Discussion

This suggests the presence of functional TIRAP–MyD88-mediated TLR4 signaling and TRIF-mediated TLR3 signaling in the ancestral species. The overall biological function of this signaling domain appears to be gradually acquired through the orchestration of several motifs through an evolutionary scale.
Ingested house dust mite favors sensitization to egg white in mice independently of its proteinase activity
Authors: Benedé Sara , Pérez-Rodríguez Leticia , Menchén-Martínez David , Molina Elena , López-Fandiño Rosina
Published: January 2025

Background

It is well-documented that house dust mite (HDM) exposure can cause tissue damage and activate innate immune responses. However, its role in promoting gastrointestinal sensitization and allergenicity to food proteins has been relatively unexplored.

Methods

This study investigates the immunostimulatory effects of HDM in a murine model of oral sensitization to egg white (EW) in the absence of exogenous adjuvants. Additionally, we examined a proteolytically inactivated form of HDM (iHDM) to assess the contribution of HDM protease activity to its adjuvant potential.

Results

Both HDM and iHDM enhanced allergic responses to EW proteins via the oral route, evidenced by mast cell degranulation in the intestinal tract upon EW challenge. Notably, only iHDM induced detectable concentrations of serum EW-specific IgE and IgG1 antibodies. Whereas HDM increased intestinal expression of genes encoding tight junction proteins and Th2-inducing alarmins to a greater extent than iHDM, active proteinases were not required for its adjuvant activity, as iHDM preferentially promoted Th2 responses in intestinal lymphoid tissues.

Conclusions

These findings suggest that ingestion of environmental dust may contribute to food allergy development and highlight the complex and context-dependent nature of the adjuvant activity of HDM.
Growth performance, intestinal health, and non-specific immunity were significantly affected by feeding different compound lactic acid bacteria supplementation in sea urchin (Strongylocentrotus intermedius)
Authors: Zhang Yuntian , Zhang Rongwei , Chen Yi , Guo Zhixu , Meng Xiangyu , Han Yuzhe , Zhao Xiaoran , Ren Tongjun
Published: January 2025

A 50-day feeding trial was conducted to evaluate the effects of dietary supplementation with different levels of compound lactic acid bacteria on the growth performance, antioxidant capacity, intestinal microbiota composition, and immunity of the Strongylocentrotus intermedius. In this study, S. intermedius with an initial body weight of 26.47 ± 0.27 g was used as the experimental subject. Based on dietary supplementation with compound lactic acid bacteria (containing 56.15% Lentilactobacillus and 20.59% Acetobacter) at different levels, the subjects were categorized into four experimental groups: 0% (RC), 0.5% (RL), 1% (RM), and 2% (RH). The dietary supplementation with compound lactic acid bacteria significantly improved the growth performance of S. intermedius in the RL, RM, and RH groups, including final body weight (FBW), weight gain rate (WGR), specific growth rate (SGR), and gonadosomatic index (GSI). Furthermore, antioxidant and immune indicators such as total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), acid phosphatase (ACP), alkaline phosphatase (AKP), and lysozyme (LZM) were significantly enhanced. Notably, compound lactic acid bacteria improved digestive enzyme activities in the intestine and reduced the feed conversion ratio (FCR). Supplementation with compound lactic acid bacteria reduced Arcobacter and Vibrio colonization in the intestinal tract and enhanced the expression of genes related to antioxidant, stress, and immune responses in the RM and RH groups. Overall, 1% compound lactic acid bacteria supplementation in the diet significantly improved growth performance, digestive capacity, non-specific immune ability, and intestinal microbial stability in S. intermedius.
Precision assembly error analysis of parts based on multi-constraint surface matching
Authors: Tang Wenbin , Yan Tong , Sun Jinshan , Li Yadong
Published: January 2025

Existing assembly analysis methods often fail to accurately capture the complexities involved in the precision assembly of real-world parts. This paper introduces an advanced precision assembly error analysis method based on multi-constraint surface matching, aimed at overcoming these limitations. The proposed approach incorporates interference-free constraints and force stability constraints to develop an assembly positioning model that better reflects the realistic assembly process. To solve the model, Spatial Pyramid Matching with chaotic mapping is employed for population initialization, thereby enhancing population diversity. A nonlinear control mechanism is further introduced to dynamically adjust inertia weight, and a simulated annealing mechanism is integrated into the particle swarm optimization algorithm to enhance the efficiency of the surface matching process. The method ultimately achieves high-precision multi-constraint surface matching and completes a comprehensive assembly error analysis. The effectiveness and enhanced performance of the proposed methodology are validated through the precision assembly of a vibratory bowl feeder, demonstrating its potential to significantly improve assembly accuracy in precision manufacturing contexts.
Mucin-producing urothelial-type adenocarcinoma of the prostate with a gene mutation characteristic of intestinal adenocarcinoma: case report and literature review
Authors: Yu Ao , Su Hongbo , Yu Peiling , Cai Siqi , Mu Shuaixian , Yu Jinhui , Lu Qianting , Miao Yuan , Li Ailin
Published: January 2025

We report an elderly male with mucin-producing urothelial-type adenocarcinoma of the prostate (MPUAP) and oligometastatic lung involvement, initially diagnosed as benign prostatic hyperplasia and treated with transurethral plasma resection of the prostate (TURP). Postoperative pathology indicated mucinous adenocarcinoma, with immunohistochemistry positive for CK7, CK20, and CDX-2. Next-generation sequencing (NGS) identified genetic alterations similar to those found in intestinal adenocarcinoma. After ruling out gastrointestinal and bladder tumors, MPUAP was confirmed. Ablation therapy was performed for the lung metastasis, followed by radical prostate chemoradiotherapy. Post chemoradiotherapy, the patient received XELOX + Bevacizumab regmien but switched to capecitabine monotherapy due to adverse effects. At a 12-month follow-up post-radiotherapy, no prostate recurrence was observed, though previous lung nodule ablation suggested recurrence. By reviewing historical cases, we discussed the role and significance of radical resection and TURP in MPUAP. NGS is recommended for patients with MPUAP, and regarding chemotherapy, treatment options for colorectal cancer are worth considering.
Assessing spacer acquisition rates in E. coli type I-E CRISPR arrays
Authors: Peach Luke J. , Zhang Haoyun , Weaver Brian P. , Boedicker James Q.
Published: January 2025

CRISPR/Cas is an adaptive defense mechanism protecting prokaryotes from viruses and other potentially harmful genetic elements. Through an adaptation process, short “spacer” sequences, captured from these elements and incorporated into a CRISPR array, provide target specificity for the immune response. CRISPR arrays and array expansion are also central to many emerging biotechnologies. The rates at which spacers integrate into native arrays within bacterial populations have not been quantified. Here, we measure naïve spacer acquisition rates in Escherichia coli Type I-E CRISPR, identify factors that affect these rates, and model this process fundamental to CRISPR/Cas defense. Prolonged Cas1–Cas2 expression produced fewer new spacers per cell on average than predicted by the model. Subsequent experiments revealed that this was due to a mean fitness reduction linked to array-expanded populations. In addition, the expression of heterologous non-homologous end-joining DNA-repair genes was found to augment spacer acquisition rates, translating to enhanced phage infection defense. Together, these results demonstrate the impact of intracellular factors that modulate spacer acquisition and identify an intrinsic fitness effect associated with array-expanded populations.
Graph Convolutional Networks for multi-modal robotic martial arts leg pose recognition
Authors: Yao Shun , Ping Yihan , Yue Xiaoyu , Chen He
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Accurate recognition of martial arts leg poses is essential for applications in sports analytics, rehabilitation, and human-computer interaction. Traditional pose recognition models, relying on sequential or convolutional approaches, often struggle to capture the complex spatial-temporal dependencies inherent in martial arts movements. These methods lack the ability to effectively model the nuanced dynamics of joint interactions and temporal progression, leading to limited generalization in recognizing complex actions.

Methods

To address these challenges, we propose PoseGCN, a Graph Convolutional Network (GCN)-based model that integrates spatial, temporal, and contextual features through a novel framework. PoseGCN leverages spatial-temporal graph encoding to capture joint motion dynamics, an action-specific attention mechanism to assign importance to relevant joints depending on the action context, and a self-supervised pretext task to enhance temporal robustness and continuity. Experimental results on four benchmark datasets—Kinetics-700, Human3.6M, NTU RGB+D, and UTD-MHAD—demonstrate that PoseGCN outperforms existing models, achieving state-of-the-art accuracy and F1 scores.

Results and discussion

These findings highlight the model's capacity to generalize across diverse datasets and capture fine-grained pose details, showcasing its potential in advancing complex pose recognition tasks. The proposed framework offers a robust solution for precise action recognition and paves the way for future developments in multi-modal pose analysis.
Undernutrition risk and obesity increase the risk of osteosarcopenia in Mexican adults aged 50 and over: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Omaña-Guzmán Isabel , Kammar-García Ashuin , Gutierrez-Robledo Luis Miguel , Rosas-Carrasco Oscar
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Undernutrition risk in adults is a common but undiagnosed condition, while obesity is highly prevalent in this population. Osteosarcopenia is the coexistence of sarcopenia and osteopenia/osteoporosis and is related to higher morbidity and mortality. Undernutrition has been identified as an associated factor of osteosarcopenia; however, it is unknown whether undernutrition risk is also related to this condition. On the other hand, obesity has been associated with osteosarcopenia, and several biological mechanisms in the relationship between muscle, bone, and fat have been identified. However, in both cases, there is a lack of longitudinal studies that allow evaluation of whether these conditions precede and increase the risk of osteosarcopenia. Therefore, the objective was to evaluate the association between undernutrition risk and obesity with osteosarcopenia among Mexican community-dwelling adults aged 50 and over.

Methods

This is a secondary longitudinal study from the FraDySMex cohort. We considered data from 2014 and 2015 as baseline evaluations and 2019 as the follow-up evaluation. Undernutrition risk was assessed using the Mini Nutritional Assessment, obesity was assessed based on body fat percentage measured by DXA, and osteosarcopenia was diagnosed according to the FNIH criteria. To evaluate the association of obesity and undernutrition risk, we estimated mixed-effects logistic regression models. The final model was adjusted for sex, age, comorbidity, education, physical activity, and cognitive impairment.

Results

A total of 304 participants with two evaluations (baseline and follow-up) were included in the study. The baseline mean age of participants was 69.6 years (SD 9.1), with ages ranging from 50 to 92 years. Most of the participants were female (83.2%), 40% had between 7 and 12 years of education, and almost half were categorized as sedentary (47.8%) at baseline evaluation. Both undernutrition risk and obesity increased the risk of osteosarcopenia, with an OR of 2.24 (95% CI: 1.20–4.19) and an OR of 2.22 (95% CI: 1.17–4.23), respectively.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that undernutrition risk, on the one hand, and obesity, on the other hand, can precede and increase the risk of osteosarcopenia in community-dwelling adults aged 50 and over.