bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Abstract P58: Utilizing Cancer Vulnerabilities and Dependencies to Explore Cancer Biomarkers by Triangulating Large-Scale Gene Knockout and Drug Response Data
Authors: Yeo Shen Yong , Wong Wai Yee , Jesslyn  , Toh Tan Boon , Yang Valerie Shiwen , Woo Xing Yi
Published: April 2024

The identification of biomarkers of therapeutic response for different cancers presents significant challenges owing to the heterogeneity of these diseases. Whole-genome CRISPR gene knockout screening (DepMap) and large-scale drug dosing (e.g. PRISM, and Sanger GDSC) performed across large panels of cancer cell lines reveal a whole spectrum of cancer vulnerabilities and dependencies that can be used to identify potential biomarkers and perturbed pathways in subtypes of cancers.

In this study, we identified tumor type-specific dependent genes with CRISPR screening data. Functional relationships among genes were systematically examined by clustering genes with pronounced dependencies based on established biological pathways and conducting a co-dependency analysis. We found that both tumor type and subtype-specific analysis allowed the classification of cell lines based on gene dependency. Next, we correlated gene dependency of the selected dependent genes with normalised drug sensitivity scores (AUC) to triangulate potential biomarkers of drug response. We first applied this method to several tumor types which are well-characterised by known cancer drivers, and successfully identified known biomarkers and targeted pathways. However, we also identified previously unknown gene-drug relationships which will be further explored. Subsequent analysis of rarer cancers, including soft tissue sarcoma, yielded promising gene targets.

This analysis pipeline can be used extensively to mine DepMap data using any subset of cell lines of interest for biomarker discovery.

Citation Format: Shen Yong Yeo, Wai Yee Wong, Jesslyn, Tan Boon Toh, Valerie Shiwen Yang, Xing Yi Woo. Utilizing Cancer Vulnerabilities and Dependencies to Explore Cancer Biomarkers by Triangulating Large-Scale Gene Knockout and Drug Response Data [abstract]. In: Proceedings of Frontiers in Cancer Science; 2023 Nov 6-8; Singapore. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2024;84(8_Suppl):Abstract nr P58.
Abstract P61: Distinct Roles of BRD4 Isoforms in Tumor Progression and Metastasis in Embryonal Rhabdomyosarcoma
Authors: Das Dipanwita , Yu Leung Jia , Loh Amos Hong Pheng , Taneja Reshma
Published: April 2024

The deregulation of BRD4, a bromodomain and extraterminal (BET) protein, has been implicated in various cancers, positioning it as a promising target for drug development. Yet, the specific roles of the two primary BRD4 isoforms, BRD4-L and BRD4-S, remain poorly understood across most cancer types. This knowledge gap poses challenges in assessing the effectiveness of pan-BET inhibitors as potential therapies. This study seeks to address this gap by employing functional and transcriptomic analyses to elucidate the distinct contributions of BRD4 isoforms in embryonal rhabdomyosarcoma (ERMS).

Through a comprehensive investigation, the research uncovers that BRD4-L and BRD4-S isoforms exert discrete functions in ERMS. Specifically, BRD4-L is found to exert an oncogenic role by inhibiting myogenic differentiation, partially through the activation of myostatin expression. Importantly, depletion of BRD4-L in vivo is shown to impede tumor progression without significantly affecting metastasis. In contrast, the absence of BRD4-S has an unexpected impact-while it has a minimal effect on tumor growth, it markedly enhances metastatic potential in vivo. Intriguingly, the depletion of BRD4-S leads to the heightened presence of BRD4-L and RNA Polymerase II at integrin gene promoters, consequently activating these genes. This novel insight underscores that BRD4-S acts as a gatekeeper, restraining the full scope of oncogenic activities driven by BRD4-L.

Collectively, this study reveals distinctive roles for BRD4 isoforms and uncovers a delicate interplay in ERMS. Importantly, the findings indicate that pan-BRD4 inhibition might not be the optimal therapeutic strategy for ERMS due to the intricate interplay between isoforms. By illuminating the intricate functions of BRD4 isoforms, this research advances our understanding of the complex regulatory mechanisms underlying tumor progression and metastasis in ERMS.

Citation Format: Dipanwita Das, Jia Yu Leung, Amos Hong Pheng Loh, Reshma Taneja. Distinct Roles of BRD4 Isoforms in Tumor Progression and Metastasis in Embryonal Rhabdomyosarcoma [abstract]. In: Proceedings of Frontiers in Cancer Science; 2023 Nov 6-8; Singapore. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2024;84(8_Suppl):Abstract nr P61.
Supplementary Figure from The YAP-Interacting Phosphatase SHP2 Can Regulate Transcriptional Coactivity and Modulate Sensitivity to Chemotherapy in Cholangiocarcinoma
Authors: Buckarma EeeLN H. , Werneburg Nathan W. , Conboy Caitlin B. , Kabashima Ayano , O'Brien Daniel R. , Wang Chen , Ilyas Sumera , Smoot Rory L.
Published: April 2024

Supplementary Figure from The YAP-Interacting Phosphatase SHP2 Can Regulate Transcriptional Coactivity and Modulate Sensitivity to Chemotherapy in Cholangiocarcinoma
Figure S8 from The Cross-talk Between Intestinal Microbiota and MDSCs Fuels Colitis-associated Cancer Development
Authors: Ashkenazi-Preiser Hadas , Reuven Or , Uzan-Yulzari Atara , Komisarov Sharon , Cirkin Roy , Turjeman Sondra , Even Carmel , Twaik Nira , Ben-Meir Kerem , Mikula Ivan , Cohen-Daniel Leonor , Meirow Yaron , Pikarsky Eli , Louzoun Yoram , Koren Omry , Baniyash Michal
Published: April 2024

Supplementary Figure S8 shows that fecal dysbiotic bacteria from CAC mice had a more pronounced impact on the morphology of PMN-MDSCs compared to M-MDSCs.
Figure S5 from The Cross-talk Between Intestinal Microbiota and MDSCs Fuels Colitis-associated Cancer Development
Authors: Ashkenazi-Preiser Hadas , Reuven Or , Uzan-Yulzari Atara , Komisarov Sharon , Cirkin Roy , Turjeman Sondra , Even Carmel , Twaik Nira , Ben-Meir Kerem , Mikula Ivan , Cohen-Daniel Leonor , Meirow Yaron , Pikarsky Eli , Louzoun Yoram , Koren Omry , Baniyash Michal
Published: April 2024

Supplementary Figure S5 shows the beneficial ABX treatment effects on CAC mice with established tumors and colonic inflammation as indicated by lessening colonic inflammation and leading to tumor regression as compared to non-ABX treated CAC mice.
Figure S1 from The Cross-talk Between Intestinal Microbiota and MDSCs Fuels Colitis-associated Cancer Development
Authors: Ashkenazi-Preiser Hadas , Reuven Or , Uzan-Yulzari Atara , Komisarov Sharon , Cirkin Roy , Turjeman Sondra , Even Carmel , Twaik Nira , Ben-Meir Kerem , Mikula Ivan , Cohen-Daniel Leonor , Meirow Yaron , Pikarsky Eli , Louzoun Yoram , Koren Omry , Baniyash Michal
Published: April 2024

Supplementary Figure S1 shows established tumors and colonic inflammation in CAC mice as compared to control mice.
FIGURE 1 from The Cross-talk Between Intestinal Microbiota and MDSCs Fuels Colitis-associated Cancer Development
Authors: Ashkenazi-Preiser Hadas , Reuven Or , Uzan-Yulzari Atara , Komisarov Sharon , Cirkin Roy , Turjeman Sondra , Even Carmel , Twaik Nira , Ben-Meir Kerem , Mikula Ivan , Cohen-Daniel Leonor , Meirow Yaron , Pikarsky Eli , Louzoun Yoram , Koren Omry , Baniyash Michal
Published: April 2024

CAC-bearing mice display site specific and systemic inflammation during disease progression. A, Schematic presentation of the AOM/DSS-based CAC model used. Created with BioRender.com. B, Weight change during disease progression, normalized to the start point (n = 8 per group). C, Representative images of colons. D, H&E staining of the colon (top) and spleen (bottom) tissue sections of control and CAC mice; Magnification: 10x, Scale bar: 200 µm. E, Spleen weights (n = 8). Levels of TNFα (F), IL6 (G), IL1β (H), and IL10 (I) in supernatants of cultured colon punch biopsies (n = 5 or 10). In J–M, black dots represent the control group and red dots represent the CAC group. Flow cytometry data showing percentages of PMN-MDSCs (J) and M-MDSCs (K) in the blood, spleen, BM, and colon. Cell percentages were calculated from total cell populations. L, Flow cytometry data showing expression levels of CD247 (presented by MFI) in CD3ε+ T cells in blood, spleen, BM, and colon (n = 3–8). M, Flow cytometry data showing expression levels of CD3ε (presented by MFI) in blood, spleen, BM, and colon (n = 3–8). Expression levels of CD247 were calculated from CD3+ cells. Representative data from one out of three independent experiments. N, Representative histograms illustrate the proliferation of activated T cells cocultured with different ratios of M-MDSCs isolated from the spleens of CAC mice (left). The corresponding proliferation index is summarized on the right (n = 4). O, Representative histograms of CD247 expression levels in naïve T cells cocultured with different ratios of PMN-MDSCs isolated from spleen of CAC mice (left). The corresponding CD247 levels are summarized as MFI on the right (n = 4). Results are represented as mean ± SEM. *, P < 0.05; **, P < 0.01; ***, P < 0.001; ****, P < 0.0001.
Komplikationen nach Enukleation – das Post-Enucleation Socket Syndrome
Authors: Seibel Ira
Published: April 2024

Purpose: To evaluate socket outcomes of enucleation for uveal melanoma. Methods: This study was a retrospective chart review conducted in December 2022 of all patients who underwent enucleation surgery for uveal melanoma between 2010 and 2015 in the Royal Victoria Eye and Ear Hospital, to evaluate socket outcomes including completion of revision surgery, type of surgery, and completion of multiple revision surgeries, and potential associations. Results: Between June 2010 and December 2015, 72 patients underwent enucleation for uveal melanoma in the ocular oncology service, including 25 females and 47 males, mean age 65, range 11–91 years old. There were 68 primary enucleations and 4 secondary enucleations. Complete follow-up data was available for mean 4 years, range 1–11 years. Fourteen patients underwent further surgery, including one exenteration for local recurrence. Oculoplastic surgery (n = 6, 8%), implant exposure repair (n = 3, 6%), and orbit volume expanding surgery (n = 4, 6%) were also performed. Eight patients (11%) underwent one further surgery and five patients (7%) underwent a series of procedures. There was a significant association with younger age at enucleation (age <65) with undergoing further surgery (p = 0.03, Fisher’s Exact Test (FET)), and also an association of younger age with undergoing multiple further surgeries (p = 0.02, FET). There was no association found with other predictor variables, including primary versus secondary enucleation status. Most patients (75%) with PESS underwent more than one surgery. Conclusion: Post enucleation surgery 82% of patients did not undergo further surgery, but younger patients were more likely to undergo anophthalmic socket revision or oculoplastic surgery. Management of post enucleation socket syndrome was challenging and usually involved a series of procedures.
Os guardadores de carro e a apropriação de espaço na Cidade de Maputo, Moçambique
Authors: Matos Elmer Agostinho Carlos
Published: April 2024

The production of urban space in Maputo city is result of two combined circuits of the urban economy. Families precariously integrated in the capitalist system are (re)produced through the lower circuit. This article explores how the development of certain activities, such as car guarding, become an important part of the social (re)production of segments of the population that are weakly included in urban dynamics. Yet, through these activities workers appropriate spaces to outline new forms of (re)existence. I examine these dynamics based on the theoretical and methodological approach to the production of “territories of the territory” associated with two circuits of the urban economy.
Quando o Estado importa: gasto governamental e transferência de renda direta na pandemia da Covid-19
Authors: Arrais Tadeu Alencar
Published: April 2024

The monetary flow from direct income transfers, as well as the mass of salaries of public employee, softened the negative economic effects of the Covid-19 pandemic in municipal economies. Based on this premise, we evidenced the coverage and regionality of direct income transfer programs, advocating about the positive effects of social politics of a distributive nature for the most vulnerable part of the Brazilian population.
Alterações antropogeomorfológicas na bacia hidrográfica Córrego Lajeado, Campo Grande - MS
Authors: Capoane Viviane , Fushimi Melina
Published: April 2024

A urbanização na bacia hidrográfica do Córrego Lajeado foi rápida e sem planejamento, o que desencadeou e/ou agravou impactos socioeconômicos e ambientais. Com o objetivo de gerar informações técnico-científicas para subsidiar o planejamento territorial e ambiental, este estudo realizou uma análise do relevo e do uso e cobertura da terra nesta bacia hidrográfica. Os atributos topográficos foram derivados de um Modelo Digital de Elevação (MDE) com resolução de 5 metros usando o software ArcMap e SAGA GIS. Os dados de uso e cobertura da terra para 1985 e 2021 foram obtidos da Rede MapBiomas. Índices radiométricos de vegetação foram derivados de imagens Sentinel-2 para o ano de 2021 usando o software SNAP. Os resultados obtidos mostram que a urbanização acelerou os processos morfodinâmicos, levando à criação de relevo antropogênico. Apesar de 50% da área da bacia estar localizada em uma Unidade de Conservação, que fornece 16% da água para a cidade de Campo Grande, a área está altamente degradada.
Evaluación hidrogeomorfológica en la cuenca hidrográfica del río Duas Bocas: Un abordaje histórico en los siglos XX y XXI
Authors: Marchioro Eberval , Ollero Alfredo
Published: April 2024

A bacia hidrográfica do rio Duas Bocas (BHRDB) tem pasado por mudanças na paisagem ao longo do tempo e em função disso, este artigo tem como objetivo avaliar a sua qualidade hidrogeomorfológica entre os séculos XX e XXI. A BHRDB sitúa-se na Região Metropolitana da Grande Vitória, no Estado do Espírito Santo (Brasil). Para a realização deste trabalho foram utilizadas fotografías aéreas do século XX, com resolução espacial de 1 m e ortofotos do século XXI, com resolução espacial de 50 cm. Para a classificação do rio principal da BHRDB foram estabelecidos 05 (cinco) setores com 5,66 km de comprimento. Os resultados apontam, de maneira geral, para uma deterorização na qualidade hidrogeomorfologíca do rio Duas Bocas entre o siglo XX e XXI, com exceção do setor 1 (um), que melhorou a sua qualidade, sendo a melhor qualificada nos dois séculos avaliados. Em função da deteriorização hidrogeomorfológica dos demais setores, recomenda-se promover o reflorestamento do corredor ribeirinho e a restauração fluvial para melhorar a qualidade hidrogeomorfológica do rio.
Učestalost urinarnih infekcija povezanih s upotrebom urinarnog katetera u jedinici intenzivnog liječenja
Authors: Mrša Roka , Šimunić Nevena , Banovac Antonija , Višnjić Junaković Nikolina , Bušac Vesna , Vrcić Sunčica , Šimunić Roko
Published: April 2024

Uvod: Kateterizacija je rutinski postupak kojim se omogućava drenaža urina iz mokraćnog sustava. Komplikacija vezana za kateterizaciju jest infekcija mokraćnog sustava koja uzrokuje značajan morbiditet. Cilj: Cilj je rada utvrditi učestalost urinarnih infekcija povezanih s upotrebom urinarnih katetera kod pacijenata koji su hospitalizirani u jedinici intenzivnog liječenja (JIL) tijekom 2009. i 2018. godine, koristeći se protokolom iz 2005. godine prema kojem se urinarni kateter mijenjao svaka dva tjedna i iz 2015. godine prema kojem se mijenjao svaka tri tjedna. Ispitanici i metode: U istraživanje su uključeni pacijenti koji su bili hospitalizirani u JIL-u Opće bolnice Šibensko-kninske županije od 1. 1. do 31. 12. 2009. godine i od 1. 1. do 31. 12. 2018. godine. Ukupan broj liječenih tijekom te dvije godine čini 761 pacijent, od kojih je 386 pacijenata liječeno u 2009. godini i 375 pacijenata u 2018. godini. Rezultati: Tijekom 2009. godine, od ukupno 386 pacijenata, uzorkovano je njih 114 (29,5 %), a od ukupno 375 pacijenata u 2018. godini, uzorkovano je 77 (20,5 %) pacijenata. Pacijenata s nesterilnim nalazom urinokulture značajno je više tijekom 2009. godine, njih 60 (52,6 %) (χ 2 test, P = 0,02), u odnosu na broj pacijenata s nesterilnim nalazom iz 2018. godine, njih 27 (35,1 %). Međutim, nema značajne razlike u nalazima u odnosu na promatrane godine. Zaključak: Primjena protokola kod pacijenata s urinarnim kateterom koji su liječeni u JIL-u nije imala statistički značajnu razliku na učestalost urinarnih infekcija u uspoređivanim godinama.
Korištenje videoigara kao distraktora kod djece i adolescenata
Authors: Novak Valentina , Šimić Josip
Published: April 2024

Najčešće su maligne bolesti u dječjoj dobi leukemije, limfomi i tumori središnjeg živčanog sustava. Incidencija malignih bolesti kod djece i adolescenata iznosi 1 % i ima tendenciju rasta. Maligne se bolesti mogu manifestirati putem širokog spektra simptoma. Često se javljaju bol, depresija, anksioznost, kronični umor, ali i brojne nuspojave liječenja poput mučnina, povraćanja, alopecije, malaksalosti i/ili nesanice. Bol se može javiti zbog same patofiziologije malignih bolesti i zbog brojnih bolnih dijagnostičkih i terapijskih procedura, a povećava je neizvjesnost prognoze bolesti i strah od smrti. Sve zajedno narušava kvalitetu života djece, adolescenata i njihovih obitelji, te možemo govoriti o totalnoj boli. Depresija i anksioznost mogu, osim narušavanja kvalitete života, negativno utjecati na rezultate liječenja. Rezultati istraživanja pokazuju da je razina depresije i anksioznosti povećana na početku bolesti i smanjuje se do prve godine liječenja, no ne vraća se do razine prije oboljenja. Ukoliko nedostaje socijalna podrška, utoliko se može razviti i posttraumatski sindrom. Prevalencija kroničnog umora kod djece i adolescenata kreće se od 30 % pa do više od 90 % oboljelih. Osim same bolesti i terapijskih postupaka, čest uzrok kroničnog umora jest stres zbog izostanaka s nastave, gubitka prijatelja, pojave komplikacija, neizvjesnosti oko ishoda intervencija i liječenja, proceduralne boli i socijalne izolacije. U zbrinjavanju svih ovih simptoma pozitivne rezultate pokazuje upotreba distraktora. Širokom upotrebom računalnih tehnologija kao distraktor, ali i kao alat za edukaciju djece i adolescenata u pripremi za zahvate i intervencije, počinju se koristiti videoigre. Najčešće se koriste videoigre virtualne stvarnosti koje su interaktivna i multisenzorna aktivnost koja zahtijeva uronjenost u zabavne sadržaje te na taj način smanjuje okupiranost simptomima bolesti. Osim u dječjoj onkologiji, upotreba videoigara pokazala je dobre rezultate u liječenju i rehabilitaciji bolesnika oboljelih od neuroloških, mišićno-koštanih, psihijatrijskih, ali i brojnih drugih skupina bolesti.
Sustainable Approach to Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Through Better Quality Measurement
Authors: Okeke Nkem , Hennessey Kerrilynn C. , Sitapati Amy M. , Weisshaar Dana , Shah Nishant P. , Alicki Rebecca , Haft Howard
Published: April 2024

The US health care industry has broadly adopted performance and quality measures that are extracted from electronic health records and connected to payment incentives that hope to improve declining life expectancy and health status and reduce costs. While the development of a quality measurement infrastructure based on electronic health record data was an important first step in addressing US health outcomes, these metrics, reflecting the average performance across diverse populations, do not adequately adjust for population demographic differences, social determinants of health, or ecosystem vulnerability. Like society as a whole, health care must confront the powerful impact that social determinants of health, race, ethnicity, and other demographic variations have on key health care performance indicators and quality metrics. Tools that are currently available to capture and report the health status of Americans lack the granularity, complexity, and standardization needed to improve health and address disparities at the local level. In this article, we discuss the current and future state of electronic clinical quality measures through a lens of equity.
Buffering Mechanism in Aortic Arch Artery Formation and Congenital Heart Disease
Authors: Ramirez AnnJosette , Vyzas Christina A. , Zhao Huaning , Eng Kevin , Degenhardt Karl , Astrof Sophie
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND:

The resiliency of embryonic development to genetic and environmental perturbations has been long appreciated; however, little is known about the mechanisms underlying the robustness of developmental processes. Aberrations resulting in neonatal lethality are exemplified by congenital heart disease arising from defective morphogenesis of pharyngeal arch arteries (PAAs) and their derivatives.

METHODS:

Mouse genetics, lineage tracing, confocal microscopy, and quantitative image analyses were used to investigate mechanisms of PAA formation and repair.

RESULTS:

The second heart field (SHF) gives rise to the PAA endothelium. Here, we show that the number of SHF-derived endothelial cells (ECs) is regulated by
VEGFR2
(vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2) and
Tbx1
. Remarkably, when the SHF-derived EC number is decreased, PAA development can be rescued by the compensatory endothelium. Blocking such compensatory response leads to embryonic demise. To determine the source of compensating ECs and mechanisms regulating their recruitment, we investigated 3-dimensional EC connectivity, EC fate, and gene expression. Our studies demonstrate that the expression of VEGFR2 by the SHF is required for the differentiation of SHF-derived cells into PAA ECs. The deletion of 1 VEGFR2 allele (

VEGFR2
SHF-HET

) reduces SHF contribution to the PAA endothelium, while the deletion of both alleles (

VEGFR2
SHF-KO

) abolishes it. The decrease in SHF-derived ECs in

VEGFR2
SHF-HET

and

VEGFR2
SHF-KO

embryos is complemented by the recruitment of ECs from the nearby veins. Compensatory ECs contribute to PAA derivatives, giving rise to the endothelium of the aortic arch and the ductus in

VEGFR2
SHF-KO

mutants. Blocking the compensatory response in

VEGFR2
SHF-KO

mutants results in embryonic lethality shortly after mid-gestation. The compensatory ECs are absent in
Tbx1
+/-
embryos, a model for 22q11 deletion syndrome, leading to unpredictable arch artery morphogenesis and congenital heart disease.
Tbx1
regulates the recruitment of the compensatory endothelium in an SHF-non-cell-autonomous manner.

CONCLUSIONS:

Our studies uncover a novel buffering mechanism underlying the resiliency of PAA development and remodeling.
Possibilities of the Cultural-Historical Approach to Gender Issues
Authors: Tkhostov Alexander Sh. , Kumchenko Sergey K.
Published: April 2024

Background. The relevance of gender issues is associated with discussions outside the scientific field, while in the science itself, the popularity of gender studies is increasing every year. Objectives. The present article aims at the application of the conceptual mechanism of the cultural-historical approach to gender issues. Methods. Abstraction, analysis and synthesis of literary data, comparison of theoretical models, and generalization were used. Results. Sex as a biological entity is divided into an innate “natural” category and a gender as a culturological one. A number of examples demonstrate the non-identity of sex and gender as well as variants of their combination and interaction. It is proposed to disidentify gender and gender identity as a psychological category. The latter is understood as an analogue of the higher mental function which forms intravitally under specific social conditions, it is mediated by gender signs (appearance, manners, norms, preferences, values, taboos, etc.) and is possible to self-regulate. In the meantime, the limitations in mastering one's own behaviour are emphasized, since the origin of the gender identity is connected to the biological parameters of sex, inconsistency of gender norms and their wide field of influence. Here the field of cultural pathology in the sphere of gender identity and intersex interaction reveals itself. Conclusions. The cultural-historical approach is seen to be heuristic in the multifactorial understanding of gender issues which include biological, cultural, psychological, and ontogenetic aspects.
Transition from Letters to Words: Meaningfulness in Preschoolers’ and First Graders’ Initial Reading
Authors: Vysotskaya Elena V. , Lobanova Anastasia D. , Sidneva Anastasia N.
Published: April 2024

Background. Problems of finding meaning of what is being read can accompany students’ already formed skills of fluent reading, reducing their academic success. The issues of reader's literacy are in the focus of modern psychological and pedagogical research, and the consideration of the mechanisms of its formation at the initial stages of learning to read is therefore relevant. Objectives. The study performs the analysis of the quality of children’s orientation in the initial period of learning to read and of the conditions for its actualization. Study Participants. 26 subjects (6–7 years old) took part in the diagnostic examination, including 10 first-graders and 16 senior preschoolers who studied reading in the kindergarten preparatory group or as a part of preschool training. Experimental teaching for children aged 6–7 years was conducted in two preschool groups of 4 people and in one group of 6 first-graders. Methods. The assessment of children’s capability to read meaningfully (the first part of the study) was carried out individually according to the modified technique of D.B. Elkonin “fusion of words” (Elkonin, 1998). To test and refine the designed training materials (the second part of the study), 30 half-hour classes were conducted within experimental teaching in each group. Results. A qualitative analysis of the filled in diagnostic forms and videotaped children's actions and reasoning allowed us to identify and describe reading strategies demonstrated by children, which we defined as formal (found in 73 % of the subjects) and meaningful (27 %) — in accordance with the nature of attempts to comprehend what they read, which participants resorted to in the process of deciphering the “fusion of words”. The results of our experimental teaching showed the effectiveness of the approach we developed to create some conditions for meaningful mediation of initial reading. Conclusions. One of the important conditions for the formation of the meaningfulness in reading during the transition “from letters to words” is to provide the orientative function of referring to reality, standing both for the word itself and for the sentence in which it should be read correctly. The method of “end-forward” reading of deformed words and simplest texts, which we developed, can be considered as a resource for improving the literacy in initial reading.
The Magian Position: Legal Consequences for Creedal Ignorance in the Far Maghrib, 8th/14th-11th/17th century
Authors: Olson Caitlyn
Published: April 2024

This article analyzes a series of legal opinions from the Far Maghrib between the 8th/14th and 11th/17th centuries in which the authors promote a remarkable position: that members of the Muslim community deemed ignorant of creedal doctrine should be accorded the legal status of Magians (ḥukm al-majūs). The primary consequence of categorizing people as Magians – meaning here something different than Zoroastrians – was the annulment of their marriages. After discussing the sources and offering comments on the social, political, and religious circumstances that may have conditioned this position (Section 1), I explain its intellectual architecture. I show that while the concepts animating the concern with creedal ignorance were rooted in Ashʿarī theology (Section 2), the tools of enforcement came from Mālikī law (Section 3). The “Magian position” thus sheds light on historical interactions between Islamic theology and law, as well as on the functioning of orthodoxy in Muslim societies.
Morphological and genetic data challenge species and subspecies in the Lerista microtis group (Squamata: Scincidae)
Authors: FARQUHAR JULES E. , PRATES IVAN , DOUGHTY PAUL , RABOSKY DANIEL L. , CHAPPLE DAVID G.
Published: April 2024

The subspecies rank has been widely applied by taxonomists to capture infraspecific variation within the Linnaean classification system. Many subspecies described throughout the 20th century were recognised largely based on perceived variation in single morphological characters yet have since been found not to correspond to separately evolving population lineages, thus requiring synonymy or elevation to full species under lineage-based views of species. These modern lineage-based taxonomic resolutions have resulted from a combination of new molecular genetic techniques, improved geographical sampling of specimens, and more sophisticated analyses of morphological variation (e.g., statistical assessments rather than solely univariate descriptive ones). Here, we revisit the current taxonomic arrangement of species-level and subspecific taxa in the Lerista microtis (Gray) group, which is distributed along a narrow ~2000 km strip on the southern coast of Australia. From specimens of the L. microtis group, an additional species (Lerista arenicola) and two additional subspecies (L. m. intermedia and L. m. schwaneri) were described. We collected data on mensural, meristic, and colour pattern characters to explore morpho-spatial relationships among these taxa. Although our morphological analyses revealed some distinctiveness among specimens from locations assigned to each taxon, this variation is continuous along Australia’s southern coastline, assuming the form of a geographic cline rather than discrete forms. For many characters, however, spatial patterns were inconsistent with the original descriptions, particularly of the subspecies. Moreover, analysis of genome wide restriction-associated DNA loci revealed multiple instances of paraphyly among taxa, with phylogenetic clustering of specimens assigned to distinct species and subspecies. These emerging patterns provide no support for L. arenicola as a species evolving separately from L. microtis. Additionally, our findings challenge the presumed distinctiveness and coherence of the three subspecies of L. microtis. We thus synonymise L. arenicola and the L. microtis subspecies with L. microtis and provide a redescription of a single yet morphologically variable species—an arrangement that best reflects evolutionary history and the continuous nature of morphological variation across space.
Taxonomic notes on the Zethus olmecus de Saussure, 1875 species group (Hymenoptera, Vespidae, Eumeninae), with the description of five new species
Authors: LOPES ROGÉRIO B. , NOLL FERNANDO B.
Published: April 2024

Zethus Fabricius is the largest genus within Vespidae with nearly 300 species. The genus has a central role on discussion of social evolution, once some species share behavioral features between solitary and social representatives of vespids and the genus has been recovered as phylogenetically closer to social wasps than to other Eumeninae. The Zethus olmecus species group is even more remarkable since there are observations of communal nesting behavior, a fact misused as support for the hypothesis of closer relationship to social wasps. Herein we closely investigate the taxonomy of this group of species, the first step needed for future studies to properly approach its evolution. The taxonomic approach involved examination of external morphology and male genitalia. Five new species are described for the group: Z. bolivari n. sp., Z. hermesi n. sp., Z. hexacirratus n. sp., Z. perilloi n. sp., and Z. utingensis n. sp. The unknown female of Z. peruvicus is also described. An illustrated taxonomic key is presented. Geographical distribution is expanded for Z. peruvicus, Z. pygmaeus, Z. thoracicus, and Z. toltecus. Finally, additional notes and corrections of existing literature are given.
Additions to the taxonomy of the genus Ophionea Klug, 1821 (Coleoptera: Carabidae: Lebiinae) and a new species from India
Authors: ANAGHA V. S. SUDHAKAR , SABU THOMAS K.
Published: April 2024

A new ground beetle species Ophionea vvrei sp. nov. is described from South India, with revised key to the species of the genus Ophionea, revised descriptions of O. bhamoensis bhamoensis (Bates, 1892) and O. interstitialis Schmidt-Göbel, 1846, first report of Ophionea ceylonica (Baehr, 1996) from Indian mainland and designation of the lectotype of O. indica (Thunberg, 1784).
Two new species and some new records of Darwin wasps (Hymenoptera: Ichneumonidae) from northwest of Iran
Authors: KARIMI SOROUSH , GHASSEMI-KAHRIZEH AKBAR , HOSSEINZADEH ABBAS , LOTFALIZADEH HOSSEIN , RIEDEL MATTHIAS , MOHAMMADI-KHORAMABADI ABBAS
Published: April 2024

During a survey of the family Ichneumonidae in northwestern Iran, a total of 17 species belonging to the subfamilies Banchinae, Cryptinae, Ichneumoninae, Mesochorinae, Metopiinae, Orthopelmatinae, Phygadeuontinae and Tersilochinae were identified. Two species, Lissonota (Lissonota) rufofacies Riedel nov. sp. and Orthopelma mukriyana Riedel nov. sp. are new to science and are described and illustrated. Their diagnostic characters are provided. We also provide collecting details for the fifteen species recorded for the first time from Iran.
Comparison of 3 Different Surgical Techniques for Rotator Cuff Repair in a Rabbit Model: Direct Suture, Inlay Suture, and Polyether Ether Ketone (PEEK) Suture Anchor
Authors: Du Cancan , Chen Wei , Fang Jingchao , Zhang Yarui , Yan Wenqiang , Dai Wenli , Hu Xiaoqing , Ao Yingfang , Ren Shuang , Liu Zhenlong
Published: April 2024

Background:

Rotator cuff tears have been repaired using the transosseous method for decades. The direct suture (DS) technique has been widely used for rotator cuff tears; however, the retear rate is relatively high. Suture anchors are now used frequently for rotator cuff repair (RCR) in accordance with recent developments in materials. However, polyether ether ketone (PEEK) may still cause complications such as the formation of cysts and osteophytes. Some studies have developed the inlay suture (IS) technique for RCR.

Purpose/Hypothesis:

To compare how 3 different surgical techniques—namely, the DS, IS, and PEEK suture anchor (PSA)—affect tendon-bone healing after RCR. We hypothesized that the IS technique would lead to better tendon-to-bone healing and that the repaired structure would be similar to the normal enthesis.

Study Design:

Controlled laboratory study.

Methods:

Acute infraspinatus tendon tears were created in 36 six-month-old male rabbits, which were divided into 3 groups based on the technique used for RCR: DS, IS, and PSA. Animals were euthanized at 6 and 12 weeks postoperatively and underwent a histological assessment and imaging. The expression of related proteins was demonstrated by immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence staining. Mechanical properties were evaluated by biomechanical testing.

Results:

At 12 weeks, regeneration of the enthesis was observed in the 3 groups. However, the DS group showed a lower type I collagen content than the PSA and IS groups, which was similar to the results for scleraxis. The DS group displayed a significantly inferior type II collagen expression and proteoglycan deposition after safranin O/fast green and sirius red staining. With regard to runt-related transcription factor 2 and alkaline phosphatase, the IS group showed upregulated expression levels compared with the other 2 groups.

Conclusion:

Compared with the DS technique, the PSA and IS techniques contributed to the improved maturation of tendons and fibrocartilage regeneration, while the IS technique particularly promoted osteogenesis at the enthesis.

Clinical Relevance:

The IS and PSA techniques may be more beneficial for tendon-bone healing after RCR.
Factors Causing Unintended Sagittal and Axial Alignment Changes in High Tibial Osteotomy: Comparative 3-Dimensional Analysis of Simulation and Actual Surgery
Authors: Jung Se-Han , Jung Min , Chung Kwangho , Kim Sungjun , Park Jisoo , Lee Ju-Hyung , Lee So-Heun , Choi Chong-Hyuk , Kim Sung-Hwan
Published: April 2024

Background:

Unintended secondary changes in the posterior tibial slope (PTS) and tibial torsion angle (TTA) may occur after medial open-wedge high tibial osteotomy (MOWHTO). In surgical procedures using patient-specific instruments (PSIs), it is essential to reproduce the PTS and TTA that were planned in simulations.

Purpose:

To analyze the factors causing unintended sagittal and axial alignment changes after MOWHTO.

Study Design:

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

Overall, 63 patients (70 knees) who underwent MOWHTO using a PSI between June 2020 and June 2023 were retrospectively reviewed. Preoperative and postoperative computed tomography scans were 3-dimensionally reconstructed. Simulated osteotomy was performed so that the weightbearing line could pass through the target point. A PSI gapper was 3-dimensionally printed to fit the posteromedial corner of the osteotomy gap in the simulated HTO model. After MOWHTO using the PSI gapper, the actual postoperative model was compared with the preoperative or simulation model. This assessment included PTS, TTA, hinge axis, and osteotomy-related parameters. Cortical breakage around the lateral hinge was evaluated to assess stability.

Results:

The mean PTS and TTA did not change in the simulation. However, significant changes were observed in the actual postoperative PTS and TTA (change, –2.4°± 2.2° and −3.9°± 4.7°, respectively). The PTS was reduced, while the TTA decreased with internal rotation of the distal fragment. The difference in the axial hinge axis angle (AHA) between the simulation and actual surgery was the factor most correlated with the difference in the PTS ( r = 0.625; P < .001). In regression analysis, the difference in the AHA was the only factor associated with the difference in the PTS (β = 0.558; P = .001), and there were no factors that showed any significant associations with the difference in the TTA. In subgroup analyses for the change in the TTA, the correction angle and anterior osteotomy angle were significantly higher in the more internal rotation group ( P = .023 and P = .010, respectively). The TTA change was significantly higher in the unstable group with lateral cortical breakage ( P = .018). The unstable group was more likely to show an internal rotation of ≥5° (odds ratio, 5.0; P = .007).

Conclusion:

The AHA was associated with a difference in the PTS between the simulation and actual surgery. The change in the TTA was caused by a combination of multiple factors, such as a large correction angle and anterior osteotomy angle, but mainly by instability of the lateral cortical hinge.
Comparison of Return to Sports and Competition After the Arthroscopic Bristow-Latarjet Procedure Versus Arthroscopic Bankart Repair in Adolescents With Recurrent Anterior Shoulder Instability
Authors: Rosello Olivier , Barret Hugo , Langlais Tristan , Boileau Pascal
Published: April 2024

Background:

The use of isolated soft tissue repair versus bone block stabilization for the treatment of recurrent anterior shoulder instability in adolescents has no scientific evidence.

Purpose:

To compare the clinical outcomes of adolescent patients who underwent isolated arthroscopic Bankart (iB) repair with those who underwent the arthroscopic Bristow-Latarjet procedure in addition to Bankart (BLB) repair.

Study Design:

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

A total of 60 shoulders in adolescents (aged 13-18 years) were reviewed with a minimum 2 years’ follow-up: iB repair (n = 36) and arthroscopic Bankart repair with an additional Bristow-Latarjet procedure (BLB; n = 24). The characteristics of the patients in each group in terms of age at the first instability episode, age at surgery, hyperlaxity, participation in at-risk sports, and Instability Severity Index Score were comparable. The mean follow-up was longer in the iB group (7.7 vs 4.1 years, respectively), whereas the rates of patients engaged in competition and those with glenoid lesions were higher in the BLB group. The primary outcome measures were failure, defined as the recurrence of instability (clinical dislocation or subluxation), and return to sports. The mean follow-up was 6.2 years (range, 2-16 years).

Results:

At the last follow-up, the rate of recurrence was significantly higher in the iB group, with 22% (8/36) failures, than in the BLB group, with 8% (2/24) instability recurrences ( P < .05). The rate of return to sports at the same level was significantly higher after the BLB repair than after iB repair (79% vs 47%, respectively; P < .001). No statistical difference was found in patient-reported outcome scores between treatment groups ( P > .05). Although failures occurred early after the BLB repair, 88% of failures after iB repair occurred after 2 years. On multivariate analysis, adolescents in the iB group with >3 episodes of preoperative dislocation and shoulder hyperlaxity (external rotation >90°) had a 60% recurrence rate ( P < .005).

Conclusion:

Adolescent patients undergoing the BLB repair had a lower rate of recurrent instability and higher rates of return to sports and competition than those undergoing iB repair. Patients with shoulder hyperlaxity (external rotation >90°) and >3 dislocations had an unacceptable failure rate of 60% after iB repair.
Research on two stage obstacle-avoidance trajectory planning and trajectory tracking control in curves
Authors: Hou Baolong , Sun Qinyu , Guo Yingshi
Published: April 2024

The existing obstacle-avoidance trajectory planning and trajectory tracking control algorithms have limitations such as long-time consumption, high failure rate in dynamic traffic environments, and insufficient trajectory tracking accuracy in curved roads. Based on the above problems, this paper designs a two stage obstacle-avoidance trajectory planner based on nonlinear optimization theory. In first stage Part-NLP, only considering the safety obstacle avoidance, a point mass model and linearization constraints are established to quickly solve the initial trajectory. In the second stage Full-NLP, considering smooth soft constraints comprehensively, the initial trajectory is optimized by establishing driving corridors and a lightweight iterative framework. In control module, this paper selects a linear quadratic form lateral trajectory tracking controller, and the parameters were optimized through the carnivorous plant algorithm. The joint simulation results show that in dynamic traffic environment of curved roads, the two stage planner proposed can accurately plan safe and smooth obstacle avoidance trajectories, and there is a significant reduction in time consumption compared to traditional NLP algorithms. The control strategy can accurately track the planned trajectories, with lateral error controlled within plus or minus 0.1 m, heading error controlled within plus or minus 0.15 rad, speed tracking error controlled within plus or minus 0.15 m/s, and vehicle yaw angle error controlled within plus or minus 0.04 rad; the hardware-in-loop test results indicate that the controller can achieve real-time and accurate trajectory tracking.
Ankle Muscle Strength and Gait Function After Dorsal Closing Wedge Calcaneal Osteotomy for Haglund Exostosis–Related Heel Pain
Authors: Friesenbichler Bernd , Rutishauser Thomas , Rippstein Pascal , List Renate , Monn Samara , Mainzer Jens , Maffiuletti Nicola A.
Published: April 2024

Background:

Haglund exostosis–related heel pain may be surgically treated with dorsal closing wedge calcaneal osteotomy (DCWCO). Recent reports on this technique show good clinical and self-reported outcomes. However, uncertainty about functional consequences related to ankle muscle strength and gait function due to a shortened Achilles tendon lever arm exists.

Methods:

Fifteen patients (15 feet) with Haglund exostosis–related heel pain were surgically treated with DCWCO and evaluated before and 1 year after surgery. Isometric plantar flexion and dorsiflexion strength was quantified for both the involved and the uninvolved limb. Gait analysis was performed at a self-selected walking speed using a 3D motion capture system including force plates. Self-reported outcomes (Foot Function Index and Global Treatment Outcome) were also assessed.

Results:

Before surgery, as well as after surgery, plantar flexion strength of the involved limb was significantly lower compared to the uninvolved limb while dorsiflexion strength did not differ between limbs at both time points. Step length and time, ankle flexion angles, power generation, and propulsive impulses during gait did not differ between limbs both before and after surgery. Propulsive impulse and step length of the involved limb increased from pre- to postsurgery with an effect size of 1.04 and 0.48, respectively, revealing a general improvement in gait dynamics. Total Foot Function Index improved by 48% after surgery, and 80% of patients rated their surgery as “helped” or “helped a lot” (Global Treatment Outcome).

Conclusion:

In this relatively small cohort, we found that patients treated for Haglund exostosis–related heel pain with DCWCO surgery had minor interlimb differences in gait kinematics and kinetics and generally improved gait dynamics and self-reported function at 1-year follow-up.

Level of Evidence:

Level II, observational prospective cohort study.
The Project Management Office’s Active Participation in a Digital Transformation: A Trajectory Full of Twists and Turns
Authors: Simard Magali , Aubry Monique
Published: April 2024

Profound changes caused by digital transformation are reshaping organizations in many sectors. This article presents a longitudinal exploratory case study of a project management office (PMO) in the banking sector, which participated in its organization’s digital transformation. The focus is on the evolution of the PMO’s participation during the transformation process. This study provides a rich understanding of the evolving tensions and challenges faced by PMOs and their connection as boundary spanners and contributors to the ongoing transformation from a multilevel process perspective.
Common occurrence of hotspots of single strand DNA breaks at transcriptional start sites
Authors: Cao Huifen , Zhang Yufei , Song Tianrong , Xia Lu , Cai Ye , Kapranov Philipp
Published: April 2024

Background

We recently developed two high-resolution methods for genome-wide mapping of two prominent types of DNA damage, single-strand DNA breaks (SSBs) and abasic (AP) sites and found highly complex and non-random patterns of these lesions in mammalian genomes. One salient feature of SSB and AP sites was the existence of single-nucleotide hotspots for both lesions.

Results

In this work, we show that SSB hotspots are enriched in the immediate vicinity of transcriptional start sites (TSSs) in multiple normal mammalian tissues, however the magnitude of enrichment varies significantly with tissue type and appears to be limited to a subset of genes. SSB hotspots around TSSs are enriched on the template strand and associate with higher expression of the corresponding genes. Interestingly, SSB hotspots appear to be at least in part generated by the base-excision repair (BER) pathway from the AP sites.

Conclusions

Our results highlight complex relationship between DNA damage and regulation of gene expression and suggest an exciting possibility that SSBs at TSSs might function as sensors of DNA damage to activate genes important for DNA damage response.