bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Changes in female football players’ in-season training load, intensity and physical performance: training progression matters more than accumulated load
Authors: Savolainen Eero H. J. , Ihalainen Johanna K. , Vänttinen Tomi , Walker Simon
Published: October 2024

Introduction

This observational study investigated: (1) potential changes in female football players’ in-season training load, intensity and physical performance, and (2) if in-season accumulated training load, intensity, or their progression are associated to changes in physical performance.

Methods

Thirty-five national level female players (∼21 years, n = 35) from three top-teams of the Finnish national league participated. Players performed tests at the beginning and at the end of the 27-week in-season. Tests were: 30-m sprint, countermovement jump (CMJ) and 1,200-m shuttle run, used to calculate maximal aerobic speed (MAS). Players’ external and internal training load and intensity were monitored in all on-field training sessions and official matches (3,941 data samples) using Polar Team Pro system.

Results

Training load decreased towards the end of the in-season (p < 0.05), but intensity remained stable. No changes in physical performance test results occurred from before to after in-season tests at a group level. Change of CMJ correlated negatively with accumulated training load, intensity and progression of total distance (TD) and low-intensity running distance (LIRD) (r = −0.398 to −0.599, p < 0.05). Instead, development of MAS correlated positively with progression of TD and LIRD intensities (r = 0.594 and 0.503, p < 0.05). Development of both CMJ and MAS correlated positively with intensity progression of very-high-intensity running distance (VHIRD) and number of accelerations and decelerations (r = 0.454–0.588, p < 0.05).

Discussion

Reduced training load over the in-season is not detrimental for players’ physical performance when training intensity progressively increases. Intensity progression of VHIRD, moderate- and high-intensity accelerations and decelerations are indicators of both MAS and CMJ development, respectively.
Simultaneous detection and differentiation of classical Muscovy duck reovirus and goose-origin Muscovy duck reovirus by RT-qPCR assay with high-resolution melting analysis
Authors: Xu Zhuoran , Liu Hongwei , Zheng Xin , Cheng Xiaoxia , Wang Shao , You Guangju , Zhu Xiaoli , Zheng Min , Dong Hui , Xiao Shifeng , Zeng Li , Zeng Xiancheng , Chen Shaoying , Chen Shilong
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Classical Muscovy duck reovirus (C-MDRV) and goose-origin Muscovy duck reovirus (Go-MDRV) infections cause “Liver white-spots disease” in Muscovy duckling and gosling. It is difficult to differentiate the infections caused by C-MDRV and Go-MDRV using conventional serological methods.

Methods

Specific primers were designed and synthesized according to σNS and λA nucleotide sequences of C-MDRV and Go-MDRV, respectively. The PCR amplified products were cloned into the pMD-18-T vector. The recombinant plasmid DNA was used to establish an SYBR Green І based duplex real-time PCR assay for the simultaneous detection and differentiation of C-MDRV and Go-MDRV using high-resolution melting (HRM) analysis. The specificity, sensitivity, and repeatability of the methodology were examined based on the optimization of the reaction system and amplification conditions.

Results

C-MDRV and Go-MDRV were identified by their distinctive melting temperatures with 84.50 ± 0.25°C for C-MDRV and 87.50 ± 0.20°C for Go-MDRV, respectively. The amplifications were specific, and other non-targeted waterfowl viruses employed in this study did not show normalized melting peaks. The intra- and inter-assay coefficients of variations were between 0.05 and 1.83%, demonstrating good repeatability. The detection limits of this assay were 51.4 copies·μl−1 for C-MDRV and 61.8 copies·μl−1 for Go-MDRV, respectively. A total of 45 clinical samples were tested by RT-qPCR, with positive rates of 15.56% for C-MDRV and 22.22% for Go-MDRV, without co-infections.

Discussion

These results suggest that this duplex RT-qPCR method is highly sensitive, specific, and reproducible. The HRM assay established in this study provides a powerful tool for the differential detection and epidemiological investigation of C-MDRV and Go-MDRV.
Effects of Enhanced Phytoremediation Techniques on Soil Aggregate Structure
Authors: Yang Qiao , Yu Hao , Zhao Zhongqiu , Ju Zhengshan
Published: October 2024

In response to the current serious problem of soil cadmium (Cd) contamination in agricultural land, phytoremediation technology is a green and environmentally friendly application prospect; however, its remediation efficiency is currently limited. An enhanced phytoremediation technique was constructed using the biodegradable chelator aspartate diethoxysuccinic acid (AES) combined with the plant growth regulator gibberellic acid (GA3) to enhance the formation of maize. This technique has been proven to have a superior remediation effect. However, the safety of the restoration technique is of particular importance. The remediation process not only removes the contaminants, but also ensures that the original structure and stability of the soil is not damaged. In this regard, the constructed enhanced phytoremediation technique was further investigated in this study using soil columns. In combination with microscopic tests, such as X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy, this study investigated the effects of the remediation process on the distribution characteristics of Cd in soil aggregates, and the structure and stability of soil aggregates. This was conducted by analyzing, as follows: plant growth conditions; the morphology, structure and mineral composition of soil aggregates in different soil layers; and the changes in these characteristics. The results demonstrated that the enhanced phytoremediation technique constructed in this study has a negligible impact on the morphology and mineral composition of soil aggregates, while exerting a limited influence on soil structure stability. This indicates that the technique can facilitate the safe utilization of remediated contaminated soil.
Monitoring and Interpretation of Process Variability Generated from the Integration of the Multivariate Cumulative Sum Control Chart and Artificial Intelligence
Authors: Ruelas-Santoyo Edgar Augusto , Figueroa-Fernández Vicente , Tapia-Esquivias Moisés , Pantoja-Pacheco Yaquelin Verenice , Bravo-Santibáñez Edgar , Cruz-Salgado Javier
Published: October 2024

Variability in manufacturing processes must be properly monitored and controlled to avoid incurring quality problems; otherwise, the probability of manufacturing defective products increases, and, consequently, production costs rise. This paper presents the development of a methodology to locate the source(s) of variation in the manufacturing process in case of a statistical deviation so that the user can quickly take corrective actions to eliminate the source of variation, thus avoiding the manufacture of out-of-specification products. The methodology integrates the multivariate cumulative sum control chart and the multilayer perceptron artificial neural network for the detection and interpretation of the source(s) of variation generated in the manufacturing processes. A case study was carried out with a printed circuit board manufacturing process, and it was possible to classify the origin of the variation with a sensitivity of 92.41% and specificity of 91.16%. The results demonstrate the viability of the proposed methodology to monitor and interpret the source of statistical variation present in production systems.
Research on Attack Detection for Traffic Signal Systems Based on Game Theory and Generative Adversarial Networks
Authors: Li Kailong , Pan Ke , Xiu Weijie , Li Min , He Zhonghe , Wang Li
Published: October 2024

With the rapid development of intelligent transportation systems and information technology, the security of road traffic signal systems has increasingly attracted the attention of managers and researchers. This paper proposes a new method for detecting attacks on traffic signal systems based on game theory and Generative Adversarial Networks (GAN). First, a game theory model was used to analyze the strategic game between the attacker and the defender, revealing the diversity and complexity of potential attacks. A Bayesian game model was employed to calculate and analyze the attacker’s choice of position. Then, leveraging the advantages of GAN, an adversarial training framework was designed. This framework can effectively generate attack samples and enhance the robustness of the detection model. Using empirical research, we simulated the mapping of real traffic data, road network data, and network attack data into a simulation environment to validate the effectiveness of this method. In a comparative experiment, we contrasted the method proposed in this paper with the traditional Support Vector Machine (SVM) algorithm, demonstrating that the model presented here can achieve efficient detection and recognition across various attack scenarios, with significantly better recall and F1 scores compared to traditional methods. Finally, this paper also discusses the application prospects of this method and its potential value in future intelligent transportation systems.
A CFD Study of the Hydrodynamic Characteristics of an Autonomous Underwater Helicopter
Authors: Vu Hoang-Phuong , Le Thanh-Long , Phung Tran-Hanh , Nguyen Thanh-Truong , Vuong Thi-Hong-Nhi , Nguyen Tran-Phu
Published: October 2024

A new autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV) has high maneuverability near the bottom and a direction turnaround ability, called the autonomous underwater helicopter (AUH). This paper numerically investigates the hydrodynamic performance of the AUH. A Reynolds-Averaged Navier–Stokes (RANS) equation, a computational fluid dynamics (CFD) technique, is applied to analyze the AUH’s behavior. Investigations of the AUH’s hydrodynamic characteristics become more obvious with a service speed in the range of 0.4–1.2 m/s. For the same velocity condition, the resistance of the AUH increases, and the irregular eddy at the rear of the AUH expands with changes in the angles of attack and the length/height ratio. Essential design characteristics including pressure, velocity distribution, and velocity streamlines are shown and analyzed. These insights can be used as a guideline to reduce drag force and optimize the AUH profile for future designs. It has great potential for improving the AUH’s control algorithms.
A Study on the Remaining Reserves of the Weiyuan Shale Gas Block in Three-Dimensional Development
Authors: Lin Yaoqiang , He Sijie , Wang Nan , Zhu Jichang , Ning Weifeng , Wan Yujin , Zhou Mengfei
Published: October 2024

After 5 different plans of development, the Weiyuan block is struggling to maintain stable production and urgently needs a new method to improve the recovery rate. Practice at home and abroad shows that three-dimensional development can effectively improve the degree of vertical shale gas utilization. Therefore, this paper first analyzes the distribution of reservoirs in the Weiyuan block and calculates the distribution of remaining reserves through the methods of fine description of gas reservoirs and establishment of a three-dimensional geological model. The results show that the recovery degree of the platform in the main production area of Weiyuan is 35~60%, and the average remaining reserves of the wells are (1.2~3) × 108 m3, and there is three-dimensional development potential in the local area. Secondly, through the establishment of a fracture and rock mechanics model, the target layer system for three-dimensional development of the Weiyuan block is preliminary selected from five aspects, namely, remaining reserves, reservoir characteristics, fracture density, mechanical characteristics, and the comparison of the height of the fracture network. Finally, in order to check the correctness of the target layer for three-dimensional development and evaluate the effect of the three-dimensional development, four scenarios for the lower branch of the H8 platform are designed and numerically simulated using Petrel RE software. The results of the numerical simulation show that Option 2 is the most effective, which can increase the production of the platform by 1.76 × 108 m3, and the recovery rate grows from 16.4% to 31.0%, with an overall increase of 14.6%. The relevant understanding can provide a reference for the three-dimensional development strategy of the Weiyuan shale gas block.
Combining the Eddy Covariance Method and Dry Matter Intake Measurements for Enteric Methane Emission Estimation from Grazing Dairy Cows
Authors: Eismann Marie-Sophie R. , Smit Hendrik P. J. , Poyda Arne , Loges Ralf , Kluß Christof , Taube Friedhelm
Published: October 2024

Effective greenhouse gas mitigation strategies in the agricultural sector are crucial for reducing emissions. Methane (CH4) emissions associated with agriculture are predominantly the result of enteric fermentation from ruminant production systems. Accurate measurement of these emissions is essential for assessing environmental impacts and developing effective mitigation strategies. The eddy covariance (EC) method is widely used to measure trace gas and energy fluxes and has since also been adapted to measure enteric CH4 emissions from grazing ruminants effectively. This study combined EC measurements of CH4 emissions from pasture-based Jersey cows with milk production, feed intake data and CH4 prediction equations during four measurement campaigns between September and November 2022 in northern Germany. Cows’ distance relative to the EC station was controlled by a specialized fencing system and its effect on the measured CH4 fluxes was adjusted by means of footprint (FP) flux allocation based on a two-dimensional FP model. The EC method presented very low daily emissions of 205 g CH4 cow−1 day−1, below the estimations based on the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) Tier 2 default values and other equations based on feed intake and feed quality parameters. The results of this study indicated that the EC method, in combination with a specialized fencing design, is an appropriate method to measure enteric CH4 emissions of dairy cows in pasture-based systems. Moreover, this study showed that a comprehensive dataset of animal-related data is a practical tool to contextualize the results.
Forecasting Air Pollution Contingencies Using Predictive Analytic Techniques
Authors: Ramirez-Velarde Raul , Esquivel-Flores Oscar , Mejía-Velázquez Gerardo
Published: October 2024

The proliferation of pollutants affects the world’s population, mainly those who live in large cities. Neurological and cardiovascular dysfunctions have a correlation with air particulate matter concentration, among other chronic diseases. Therefore, it is important to utilize different methods of analysis to build predictive models that can identify possible concentrations of contaminants in metropolitan areas. This work presents a methodology that will enable the forecasting of severe pollution contingencies using weather measurements as input variables. This predictive analytical technique combines several mathematical and statistical tools, which we refer to as predictive factor association (PFA). We perform principal component analysis on the samples to determine possible causal relationships and reduce dimensionality, resulting in orthogonal linear combinations of the variables called sample scores. For categorical variables, each linear combination probability is estimated using a window-based estimation technique or a machine learning algorithm to determine the class of a particular sample. For continuous variables, regression over the scores is carried out. The technique is used to predict environmental contingencies in Monterrey’s metropolitan area based on meteorological data with R2 between 0.7 and 0.8 and classification accuracies between 0.74 and 0.98.
Responses of Soil Respiration and Ecological Environmental Factors to Warming and Thermokarst in River Source Wetlands of the Qinghai Lake Basin
Authors: Yang Yanli , Zhang Ni , Zhou Zhiyun , Li Lin , Chen Kelong , Ji Wei , Zhao Xia
Published: October 2024

Global climate warming has led to the deepening of the active layer of permafrost on the Tibetan Plateau, further triggering thermal subsidence phenomena, which have profound effects on the carbon cycle of regional ecosystems. This study conducted warming (W) and thermal subsidence (RR) control experiments using an Open-Top Chamber (OTC) device in the river source wetlands of the Qinghai Lake basin. The aim was to assess the impacts of warming and thermal subsidence on soil temperature, volumetric water content, biomass, microbial diversity, and soil respiration (both autotrophic and heterotrophic respiration). The results indicate that warming significantly increased soil temperature, especially during the colder seasons, and thermal subsidence treatment further exacerbated this effect. Soil volumetric water content significantly decreased under thermal subsidence, with the RRW treatment having the most pronounced impact on moisture. Additionally, a microbial diversity analysis revealed that warming promoted bacterial richness in the surface soil, while thermal subsidence suppressed fungal community diversity. Soil respiration rates exhibited a unimodal curve during the growing season. Warming treatment significantly reduced autotrophic respiration rates, while thermal subsidence inhibited heterotrophic respiration. Further analysis indicated that under thermal subsidence treatment, soil respiration was most sensitive to temperature changes, with a Q10 value reaching 7.39, reflecting a strong response to climate warming. In summary, this study provides new scientific evidence for understanding the response mechanisms of soil carbon cycling in Tibetan Plateau wetlands to climate warming.
Assessing the Effect of Riluzole on Motor Unit Discharge Properties
Authors: Shandiz Ehsan , Fernandes Gabriel Lima , Henkin Joao Saldanha , McCombe Pamela Ann , Trajano Gabriel Siqueira , Henderson Robert David
Published: October 2024

Background. This study aims to determine if Riluzole usage can change the function and excitability of motor neurons. Methods. The clinical data and indices of motor neuron excitability were assessed using high-density surface EMG parameters from 80 ALS participants. The persistent inward current was assessed using the discharge rate from paired motor units obtained from the tibialis anterior muscle. This enabled the discharge rate at recruitment, peak discharge rates and the hysteresis of the recruitment–derecruitment frequencies (also known as delta F) to be calculated. Limbs were classified according to their strength. Results. No differences in these motor neuron discharge properties were found according to whether Riluzole was used. Conclusions. The possible interpretations of this finding are discussed.
Recent Advances in Prevention and Recovery in People with Schizophrenia and Related Disorders
Authors: Schnakenberg Martin Ashley M. , Bonfils Kelsey A.
Published: October 2024

People with schizophrenia-spectrum disorders often experience a combination of psychological symptoms and functional impacts, such as difficulty in social relationships, finding or maintaining employment, and attending school [...]
School Social Workers’ Reports of Differences in Policies and Practices in Trauma-Informed and Non-Trauma-Informed Schools
Authors: Watson Kate R. , Astor Ron Avi , Capp Gordon P. , Benbenishty Rami
Published: October 2024

This study explored trauma-informed schools from the perspective of social workers, documenting the reported practices and policies associated with trauma-informed approaches in U.S. schools. Survey data from 538 school social workers were analyzed to investigate the differences in policies and practices between schools identified as trauma informed and not. Logistic regression analyses examined whether the presence of specific school practices and policies was associated with the identification of a school as trauma informed. Of a wide array of programs and policies that may be present in trauma-informed schools, only the presence of trauma training and resources for secondary traumatic stress were key predictors of social workers’ identification of a school as trauma informed. The implementation of trauma training has long been the primary focus of trauma-informed approaches in schools. Should commitment to trauma-informed approaches endure, we recommend moving beyond training and secondary traumatic stress resources to deepen the field’s focus on implementing trauma-informed practices and policies at all organizational levels. We also recommend that future research looks carefully at how some school safety and trauma-informed approaches may be incompatible and the extent to which trauma-informed approaches improve or detract from children’s educational experiences and outcomes.
Theoretical and Experimental Study on the Stress State of Joints in Two-Way Composite Slabs
Authors: Wang Guosheng , Liu Jianhua , Zhang Yubo , Zhang Ziyi , Tao Junwei , Wu Deyi
Published: October 2024

To investigate the stress state at the joints of two-way reinforced concrete composite slabs, this study conducted static load tests on four two-way concrete composite slabs. The primary focus was on analyzing the effects of lap reinforcement length and cross-sectional height at the joints on the load-bearing capacity, deformation behavior, and crack development of the slabs. The experimental results revealed that increasing the lap reinforcement length and cross-sectional height at the joints significantly enhanced the overall integrity and flexural capacity of the composite slabs, with load-bearing capacity increasing by up to 92.3% and deflection decreasing by as much as 40.2%. Additionally, a finite element model was used to simulate the mechanical behavior of the composite slabs, and the results were compared with experimental data, showing an error margin of within 10%. Based on the validated finite element model, the study further explored key factors influencing the stress performance at the joints of two-way concrete composite slabs and their impact patterns. Finally, the paper proposes a simplified formula for calculating the load-bearing capacity of composite slabs, which enables rapid estimation of slab performance, providing theoretical support and practical guidance for structural engineering and construction practices.
Distinct Immunophenotypes in the DNA Index-Based Stratification of Pediatric B-Cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia
Authors: Campos-Aguilar Myriam , Tapia-Sánchez Wilfrido David , Saucedo-Campos Alberto Daniel , Duarte-Martínez Carlos Leonardo , Olivas-Quintero Sandra , Ruiz-Ochoa Almarosa , Méndez-Cruz Adolfo Rene , Reyes-Reali Julia , Mendoza-Ramos María Isabel , Jimenez-Flores Rafael , Pozo-Molina Glustein , Piedra-Ibarra Elias , Vega Hernandez Maria Eugenia , Santos-Argumedo Leopoldo , Rosales-García Victor Hugo , Ponciano-Gómez Alberto
Published: October 2024

Background/Objectives: B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (B-ALL) presents a challenge in hematological malignancies due to its heterogeneity, which impacts treatment outcomes. Stratification based on the DNA index (DNAi) categorizes patients into favorable prognosis (hyperploid), standard prognosis (normoploid), and uncertain or poor prognosis (hypoploid) groups. In this study, we explored whether specific immunophenotypic markers are associated with each DNAi-based group and their potential connection to prognostic categories, aiming to provide new insights that may contribute to a better understanding of prognosis in B-ALL. Methods: In this study, we utilized flow cytometry to analyze immunophenotypic markers and combined this with DNA index (DNAi) measurements to stratify pediatric B-ALL patients into distinct risk categories. Our methodology focused on accurately classifying patients into hyperploid, normoploid, and hypoploid groups based on their DNA content, facilitating a comparative analysis of immunophenotypic characteristics across these groups. Results: Our analysis revealed that hypoploid B-ALL patients displayed a significantly lower percentage of cells in the S phase of the cell cycle compared to normoploid and hyperploid groups. Additionally, distinct immunophenotypic profiles were observed in hypoploid patients, characterized by higher expression levels of HLA-DR and a notable co-expression of CD34 and CD22. Conclusions: This study found that hypoploid B-ALL patients have distinct characteristics, such as lower S-phase cell percentages and specific immunophenotypic profiles, including higher HLA-DR expression and CD34/CD22 co-expression. These differences across DNA index-based prognostic categories warrant further research to explore their potential prognostic significance.
Balancing Privacy and Performance: A Differential Privacy Approach in Federated Learning
Authors: Tayyeh Huda Kadhim , AL-Jumaili Ahmed Sabah Ahmed
Published: October 2024

Federated learning (FL), a decentralized approach to machine learning, facilitates model training across multiple devices, ensuring data privacy. However, achieving a delicate privacy preservation–model convergence balance remains a major problem. Understanding how different hyperparameters affect this balance is crucial for optimizing FL systems. This article examines the impact of various hyperparameters, like the privacy budget (ϵ), clipping norm (C), and the number of randomly chosen clients (K) per communication round. Through a comprehensive set of experiments, we compare training scenarios under both independent and identically distributed (IID) and non-independent and identically distributed (Non-IID) data settings. Our findings reveal that the combination of ϵ and C significantly influences the global noise variance, affecting the model’s performance in both IID and Non-IID scenarios. Stricter privacy conditions lead to fluctuating non-converging loss behavior, particularly in Non-IID settings. We consider the number of clients (K) and its impact on the loss fluctuations and the convergence improvement, particularly under strict privacy measures. Thus, Non-IID settings are more responsive to stricter privacy regulations; yet, with a higher client interaction volume, they also can offer better convergence. Collectively, knowledge of the privacy-preserving approach in FL has been extended and useful suggestions towards an ideal privacy–convergence balance were achieved.
Guidance for Canadian Breast Cancer Practice: National Consensus Recommendations for the Systemic Treatment of Patients with HER2+ Breast Cancer in Both the Early and Metastatic Setting
Authors: Manna Mita , Gelmon Karen A. , Boileau Jean-François , Brezden-Masley Christine , Cao Jeffrey Q. , Jerzak Katarzyna J. , Prakash Ipshita , Sehdev Sandeep , Simmons Christine , Bouganim Nathaniel , Brackstone Muriel , Cescon David W. , Chia Stephen , Dayes Ian S. , Edwards Scott , Hilton John , Joy Anil Abraham , Laing Kara , Webster Marc , Henning Jan-Willem
Published: October 2024

Human epidermal growth factor receptor 2-positive (HER2+) breast cancer is an aggressive subtype of breast cancer associated with a poor prognosis when sub-optimally treated. Recent advances include new and effective targeted therapies that have significantly improved outcomes for patients. Despite these advances, there are significant gaps across Canada, underscoring the need for evidence-based consensus guidance to inform treatment decisions. Addressing these gaps is crucial to ensuring that effective therapies are integrated into clinical practice, so as to improve the lives of patients affected by this aggressive form of breast cancer. The Research Excellence, Active Leadership (REAL) Canadian Breast Cancer Alliance is a standing nucleus committee of clinical-academic oncologists across Canada and Breast Cancer Canada, a patient organization. The mandate of this group is to provide evidence-based guidance on best practices in the management of patients with breast cancer. These consensus recommendations were developed using a modified Delphi process with up to three rounds of anonymous voting. Consensus was defined a priori as ≥75% of voters agreeing with the recommendation as written. There are 9 recommendations in the early setting; 7 recommendations in the metastatic setting; and 10 recommendations for patients with brain metastases.
A Novel Oncogenic and Drug-Sensitive KIF5B-NTRK1 Fusion in Lung Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Li Hui , Liu Huicong , Xiao Lisha , Gao Huabin , Wei Huiting , Han Anjia , Lin Gengpeng
Published: October 2024

We present a case of a lung adenocarcinoma patient harboring a novel kinesin family member 5B (KIF5B)-NTRK1 gene fusion that responds well to entrectinib. Moreover, KIF5B-NTRK1 gene chimera has been shown to be an oncogene, activating both the MAPK and PI3K/AKT signaling pathways. The biopsy sample was analyzed using various methods such as hematoxylin–eosin staining (HE), immunohistochemistry (IHC), fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH), and next-generation sequencing (NGS) based on a 1267-gene panel. Additionally, human lung adenocarcinoma cell lines A549 and H1755 were used to obtain a stable expression of chimera gene products. The cell proliferation was confirmed using CCK8 and adhesion-dependent colony formation assay. Cell invasion was confirmed using the transwell invasion assay. The protein levels of the MAPK and PI3K/AKT signaling pathways were assessed using Western blotting. The patient, a 66-year-old Chinese male, was diagnosed with adenocarcinoma (stage IVB) located in the upper lobe of the left lung. NGS analysis identified a novel KIF5B-NTRK1 fusion gene, which was further confirmed by FISH and IHC analyses. As a first-line therapy, entrectinib was administered to the patient at a dose of 600 mg once daily, resulting in a partial response. The patient’s progression-free survival (PFS) has now been more than 12 months, and no serious toxicities have been observed so far. Furthermore, stable KIF5B-NTRK1-expressing cells were generated and the experimental results demonstrate enhanced proliferation abilities, along with increased levels of proteins involved in the MAPK and PI3K/AKT signaling pathways. Our study reports a novel KIF5B-NTRK1 genetic rearrangement that supports favorable responses to entrectinib. Moreover, in vitro experiments showed that the fusion gene could exert oncogenic properties by activating the MAPK and PI3K/AKT signaling pathways. To summarize, our findings broaden the spectrum of NTRK gene fusions in the context of lung adenocarcinoma.
Epiphytic Lichens in Salt Flats as Biodiversity Refuges in Reserva Ecológica Arenillas
Authors: Benítez Ángel , Cruz Darío , López Fausto , Cumbicus Nixon , Naranjo Carlos , Riofrío María , Ochoa-Pérez Teddy , Vega Marlon
Published: October 2024

The mangrove biome is a highly productive system globally, with flora and fauna adapted to significant saline influence, where salt flats coexist alongside these systems, emerging over sands and muds with high salinity and sparse vegetation. The objective of this research is to describe, for the first time in Ecuador, the diversity of epiphytic lichens in salt flats in the southern region of Ecuador. Two salt flats were selected where Avicennia germinans and Laguncularia racemosa were the dominant trees with the shrub Batis maritima. A total of 30 species of epiphytic lichens were recorded, with the families Arthoniaceae, Graphidaceae, and Ramalinaceae having the highest number of species, and crustose lichens with photobiont type Trentepohlia showed high richness. The salt flats in the southern region of Ecuador have a high richness of epiphytic lichen species, and the species composition is similar to mangroves, highlighting the importance of their conservation as biodiversity refuges for lichens and consequently other flora and fauna groups. Therefore, epiphytic lichens in salt flats can be used as model organisms to assess their conservation in tropical areas.
Who Should Own the Residual Rights over Distributed Resources?
Authors: Amado Nilton Bispo , Pelegia Erick Del Bianco , Sauer Ildo Luís , Bassi Welson , Rico Julieta Andrea Puerto , González Carlos Germán Meza
Published: October 2024

Residual rights are the right to choose asset uses not specified in the contract. They are essential in situations of uncertainty. The current energy transition presents a greater variety of assets. Moreover, it is impossible to anticipate all relevant states that the assets and the environment can embody, making it impossible to optimize them contractually. Furthermore, there is consensus that the transition must occur quickly, which means high levels of investment in new specific assets. How should we distribute property rights to maximize social benefits in a context with specific and dispersed assets? Because of the complementarity between network and distributed resources, this article questions the premise that deverticalization is invariably beneficial to consumers and argues for the need to revise the concept of network and develop the regulatory implications of such a reconceptualization. We defend the need to evaluate alternative network concepts considering the technological repertoire available to operationalize them. When considering the technological repertoire available today, characterized by the competitiveness of information and communications technology (ICT) and distributed resources, we should recognize the inherently incomplete nature of the contracts signed between network operators and users.
A Novel Decentralized–Decoupled Fractional-Order Control Strategy for Complete Anesthesia–Hemodynamic Stabilization in Patients Undergoing Surgical Procedures
Authors: Hegedüs Erwin T. , Birs Isabela R. , Ionescu Clara M. , Muresan Cristina I.
Published: October 2024

Within biomedical engineering, there has been significant collaboration among clinicians, control engineers, and researchers to tailor treatments to individual patients. Anesthesia is integral to numerous medical procedures, necessitating precise management of hypnosis, analgesia, neuromuscular blockade, and hemodynamic variables. Recent attention has focused on computer-controlled anesthesia and hemodynamic stabilization. This research proposes the integration of a decentralized control strategy for the induction phase with a decoupled control approach for the maintenance phase, aimed at mitigating interactions within the multivariable human system. The proposed strategy is based on fractional-order controllers. The solution is validated using an open-source patient simulator featuring data from 24 virtual patients, demonstrating the efficiency of the proposed approach with respect to decentralized control.
Dynamics and Simulations of Impulsive Population Models Involving Integrated Mosquito Control Strategies and Fractional Derivatives for Dengue Control
Authors: Zhang Xianghong , He Hua , Wang Kaifa , Zhu Huaiping
Published: October 2024

Dengue fever, a mosquito-borne disease caused by the dengue virus, imposes a substantial disease burden on the world. Wolbachia not only manipulates the reproductive processes of mosquitoes through maternal inheritance and cytoplasmic incompatibility (CI) but also restrain the replication of dengue viruses within mosquitoes, becoming a novel approach for biologically combating dengue fever. A combined use of Wolbachia and insecticides may help to prevent pesky mosquito bites and dengue transmission. A model with impulsive spraying insecticide is introduced to examine the spread of Wolbachia in wild mosquitoes. We prove the stability and permanence results of periodic solutions in the system. Partial rank correlation coefficients (PRCCs) can determine the importance of the contribution of input parameters on the value of the outcome variable. PRCCs are used to analyze the influence of input parameters on the threshold condition of the population replacement strategy. We then explore the impacts of mosquito-killing rates and pulse periods on both population eradication and replacement strategies. To further investigate the effects of memory intensity on the two control strategies, we developed a Caputo fractional-order impulsive mosquito population model with integrated control measures. Simulation results show that for the low fecundity scenario of individuals, as memory intensity increases, the mosquito eradication strategy will occur at a slower speed, potentially even leading to the mosquito replacement strategy with low female numbers. For the high fecundity scenario of individuals, with increasing memory intensity, the mosquito replacement strategy will be achieved more quickly, with lower mosquito population amplitudes and overall numbers. It indicates that although memory factors are not conducive to implementing a mosquito eradication strategy, achieving the replacement strategy with a lower mosquito amount is helpful. This work will be advantageous for developing efficient integrated control strategies to curb dengue transmission.
Unraveling the Complexity of Chikungunya Virus Infection Immunological and Genetic Insights in Acute and Chronic Patients
Authors: Fritsch Hegger , Giovanetti Marta , Clemente Luan Gaspar , da Rocha Fernandes Gabriel , Fonseca Vagner , de Lima Maricelia Maia , Falcão Melissa , de Jesus Neuza , de Cerqueira Erenilde Marques , Venâncio da Cunha Rivaldo , de Oliveira Francisco Marcos Vinicius Lima , de Siqueira Isadora Cristina , de Oliveira Carla , Xavier Joilson , Ferreira Jorge Gomes Goulart , Queiroz Fábio Ribeiro , Smith Elise , Tisoncik-Go Jennifer , Van Voorhis Wesley C. , Rabinowitz Peter M. , Wasserheit Judith N. , Gale Michael , de Filippis Ana Maria Bispo , Alcantara Luiz Carlos Junior
Published: October 2024

Background: The chikungunya virus (CHIKV), transmitted by infected Aedes mosquitoes, has caused a significant number of infections worldwide. In Brazil, the emergence of the CHIKV-ECSA genotype in 2014 posed a major public health challenge due to its association with more severe symptoms. Objectives/Methods: This study aimed to shed new light on the host immune response by examining the whole-blood transcriptomic profile of both CHIKV-acute and chronically infected individuals from Feira de Santana, Bahia, Brazil, a region heavily affected by CHIKV, Dengue, and Zika virus epidemics. Results: Our data reveal complex symptomatology characterized by arthralgia and post-chikungunya neuropathy in individuals with chronic sequelae, particularly affecting women living in socially vulnerable situations. Analysis of gene modules suggests heightened metabolic processes, represented by an increase in NADH, COX5A, COA3, CYC1, and cap methylation in patients with acute disease. In contrast, individuals with chronic manifestations exhibit a distinct pattern of histone methylation, probably mediated by NCOA3 in the coactivation of different nuclear receptors, KMT2 genes, KDM3B and TET2, and with alterations in the immunological response, majorly led by IL-17RA, IL-6R, and STAT3 Th17 genes. Conclusion: Our results emphasize the complexity of CHIKV disease progression, demonstrating the heterogeneous gene expression and symptomatologic scenario across both acute and chronic phases. Moreover, the identification of specific gene modules associated with viral pathogenesis provides critical insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying these distinct clinical manifestations.
Raman Spectroscopic Algorithms for Assessing Virulence in Oral Candidiasis: The Fight-or-Flight Response
Authors: Pezzotti Giuseppe , Adachi Tetsuya , Imamura Hayata , Ikegami Saki , Kitahara Ryo , Yamamoto Toshiro , Kanamura Narisato , Zhu Wenliang , Ishibashi Ken-ichi , Okuma Kazu , Mazda Osam , Komori Aya , Komatsuzawa Hitoshi , Makimura Koichi
Published: October 2024

This study aimed to test the effectiveness of Raman spectroscopy in the characterization of the degrees of physiological stress and virulence in clinical swab samples collected from patients affected by oral candidiasis. Raman experiments were conducted on a series of eight isolates, both in an as-collected state and after biofilm purification followed by 3 days of culture. The outputs were matched to optical microscopy observations and the results of conventional chromogenic medium assays. A statistically significant series of ten Raman spectra were collected for each clinical sample, and their averages were examined and interpreted as multiomic snapshots for albicans and non-albicans species. Spectroscopic analyses based on selected Raman parameters previously developed for standard Candida samples revealed an extreme structural complexity for all of the clinical samples, which arose from the concurrent presence of a variety of biofilms and commensal bacteria in the samples, as well as a number of other biochemical circumstances affecting the cells in their physiological stress state. However, three Raman algorithms survived such complexity, which enabled insightful classifications of Candida cells from clinical samples, in terms of their physiological stress and morphogenic state, membrane permeability, and virulence. These three characteristics, in turn, converged into a seemingly “fight or flight” response of the Candida cells. Although yet preliminary, the present study points out criticalities and proposes solutions regarding the potential utility of Raman spectroscopy in fast bedside analyses of surveillance samples.
Insights into Acinetobacter baumannii AMA205’s Unprecedented Antibiotic Resistance
Authors: Traglia German Matias , Pasteran Fernando , Moheb Samyar , Akhtar Usman , Gonzalez Sebastian , Maldonado Carolina , Furtado Nicholas , Mohamed Ahmed , Escalante Jenny , Tuttobene Marisel R. , Quillen Araceli , Fontan Claudia , Albornoz Ezequiel , Corso Alejandra , Bonomo Robert A. , Rao Gauri G. , Tolmasky Marcelo E. , Ramirez Maria Soledad
Published: October 2024

The rise of antibiotic-resistant bacteria in clinical settings has become a significant global concern. Among these bacteria, Acinetobacter baumannii stands out due to its remarkable ability to acquire resistance genes and persist in hospital environments, leading to some of the most challenging infections. Horizontal gene transfer (HGT) plays a crucial role in the evolution of this pathogen. The A. baumannii AMA205 strain, belonging to sequence type ST79, was isolated from a COVID-19 patient in Argentina in 2021. This strain’s antimicrobial resistance profile is notable as it harbors multiple resistance genes, some of which had not been previously described in this species. The AmpC family β-lactamase blaCMY-6, commonly found in Enterobacterales, had never been detected in A. baumannii before. Furthermore, this is the first ST79 strain known to carry the carbapenemase blaNDM-1 gene. Other acquired resistance genes include the carbapenemase blaOXA-23, further complicating treatment. Susceptibility testing revealed high resistance to most antibiotic families, including cefiderocol, with significant contributions from blaCMY-6 and blaNDM-1 genes to the cephalosporin and carbapenem resistance profiles. The A. baumannii AMA205 genome also contains genetic traits coding for 111 potential virulence factors, such as the iron-uptake system and biofilm-associated proteins. This study underscores A. baumannii’s ability to acquire multiple resistance genes and highlights the need for alternative therapies and effective antimicrobial stewardship to control the spread of these highly resistant strains.
Immune Modulatory Profile of the Pateamines PatA and Des-Methyl Des-Amino PatA
Authors: Schiffmann Susanne , Henke Marina , Brünner Sophie , Bennett Alexandre , Yagubi Yassin , Magari Francesca , Parnham Michael J. , Grünweller Arnold
Published: October 2024

Pateamines act as inhibitors of the RNA helicase eIF4A and exhibit antiviral and anticancer properties. Recently, we observed that inhibition of eIF4A by rocaglates affects the immune response. To investigate whether the observed immunomodulatory effects are specific to rocaglates or the inhibition of eIF4A, a comprehensive study was conducted on the influence of pateamines that exhibit the same inhibitory mode of action as rocaglates on various immune cells. The effects of pateamine A (PatA) and des-methyl des-amino pateamine A (DMDA) on the expression of surface markers, release of cytokines, cell proliferation, inflammatory mediators and metabolic activity in primary human monocyte-derived macrophages (MdM), T cells and B cells were assessed. Additionally, safety and bioavailability profiles were determined. DMDA revealed almost no immunomodulatory effects within the tested concentration range of 0.5–5 nM. PatA reduced B cell activation, as shown by reduced immune globulin release and decreased chemokine release from macrophages, while T cell function remained unaffected. Both DMDA and PatA showed low permeability in Caco-2 and Calu-3 cell barrier assays and no mutagenic potential. However, 10 nM PatA exhibited genotoxic potential, as shown by the micronucleus assay. In conclusion, DMDA had a good safety profile but exhibited low permeability, whereas PatA had a poor safety profile and also low permeability. The observed immunomodulatory effects of elF4A inhibitors on B cells appear to be target-specific.
Mechanical Properties of Iron Powder-Reinforced Polyurea Elastomer
Authors: Feng Yiwen , Liu Yubo
Published: October 2024

This study investigated the enhancement of the mechanical and acoustic properties of polyurea (PU) composites by incorporating iron microparticles (Fe). The Fe/PU composites were prepared using a mixing process, where iron microparticles were evenly distributed within the polyurea matrix via mechanical stirring. The primary purpose of this study was to explore how varying volumes of iron microparticles influence the viscoelastic properties and acoustic performance of the composites, with a particular focus on applications in underwater acoustic stealth technology. Dynamic mechanical analysis was conducted to study the effect of the iron powder volume fraction on the mechanical properties of the composites, i.e., on the temperature-dependent storage moduli (E′), loss moduli (E″) and loss factor (tanδ). The intrinsic properties of the components and the nature of the interface between the phases determined the dynamic mechanical properties of the composite. It was found that the storage and loss moduli of the composite both increased as the iron volume fraction increased, which indicates that the incorporation of iron powder in a polyurea matrix appreciably induces reinforcing effects. Moreover, the tanδ curve of the Fe/PU composite generally had broader widths of the tanδ peak than those of pure polyurea, which showed better damping behavior. The height of the damping peaks depended on the iron powder content, and the glass transition temperature (measured as the temperature at the maximum value of the tanδ) shifted toward higher temperatures as the iron volume fraction increased. Also, the compression stress–strain curves of the composites obtained by a universal testing machine indicated that the addition of iron powder improved the compressive strength and the energy storage capacity of the composite. In addition, the acoustic absorption coefficient was found to increase with the addition of iron powder, and the increase in sample thickness was found to be the effective in improving low-frequency sound absorption.