bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Usefulness of multigene liquid biopsy of bile for identifying driver genes of biliary duct cancers
Authors: Ito Shin , Ando Mika , Aoki Shuichi , Soma Satoshi , Zhang Jie , Hirano Naohiro , Kashiwagi Ryosuke , Murakami Keigo , Yoshimachi Shingo , Sato Hideaki , Kusaka Akiko , Iseki Masahiro , Inoue Koetsu , Mizuma Masamichi , Kume Kiyoshi , Nakagawa Kei , Masamune Atsushi , Asano Naoki , Yasuda Jun , Unno Michiaki
Published: October 2024

Liquid biopsy (LB) is an essential tool for obtaining tumor‐derived materials with minimum invasion. Bile has been shown to contain much higher free nucleic acid levels than blood plasma and can be collected through endoscopic procedures. Therefore, bile possesses high potential as a source of tumor derived cell‐free DNA (cfDNA) for bile duct cancers. In this study, we show that a multigene panel for plasma LB can also be applied to bile cfDNA for comparing driver gene mutation detection in other sources (plasma and tumor tissues of the corresponding patients). We collected cfDNA samples from the bile of 24 biliary tract cancer cases. These included 17 cholangiocarcinomas, three ampullary carcinoma, two pancreatic cancers, one intraductal papillary mucinous carcinoma, and one insulinoma. Seventeen plasma samples were obtained from the corresponding patients before surgical resection and subjected to the LiquidPlex multigene panel LB system. We applied a machine learning approach to classify possible tumor‐derived variants among the prefiltered variant calls by a LiquidPlex analytical package with high fidelity. Among the 17 cholangiocarcinomas, we could detect cancer driver mutations in the bile of 10 cases using the LiquidPlex system. Of the biliary tract cancer cases examined with this method, 13 (54%) and 4 (17%) resulted in positive cancer driver mutation detection in the bile and plasma cfDNAs, respectively. These results suggest that bile is a more reliable source for LB than plasma for multigene panel analyses of biliary tract cancers.
Incorporating parrotfish bioerosion into the herbivory paradigm of coral reef resilience
Authors: Molina‐Hernández Ana , Álvarez‐Filip Lorenzo
Published: October 2024

Promoting resilience is highly relevant to preserving biodiversity and ecosystem functioning. For coral reefs, parrotfish protection emerged as a mainstream action for reversing the degradation experienced by these systems. The rationale is that restoring their populations will increase grazing activity and reinforce control of fast‐growing macroalgae, facilitating coral cover recovery. A lack of a link between parrotfish trends and macroalgae and coral cover trends at a large scale has, however, often been the case. Suggesting more complex underlying dynamics that should be reexamined. In this review, we discuss how lumping parrotfish species as if they were functionally redundant may obscure trends. And how a lack of appreciation of other functions around the parrotfish paradigm, specifically bioerosion, may have unforeseen and potentially adverse effects on degraded reefs. We show that bioerosion responded more directly and quickly to spatial and temporal changes in parrotfish assemblages than macroalgae consumption, arguably due to the varying vulnerability among Caribbean parrotfishes to fisheries and habitat loss. For highly degraded reefs, positive changes in parrotfish populations could hence compromise the remaining coral skeleton structures and the reef framework, further accentuating reef degradation, where increases in macroalgae consumption could not necessarily compensate for higher rates of bioerosion.
Upstream propagation of shocks in supply chains: Evidence from earthquakes
Authors: Qian Xianhang , Qiu Shanyun , Zhang Le
Published: October 2024

We investigate how natural disaster shocks to customers propagate upstream to suppliers’ investment. Using data from the major customers of Chinese listed firms and earthquake information during 2009–2019, we investigate the impact of customers’ earthquake exposure on corporate investment. We find that firms significantly reduce investment after their customers experience earthquakes, particularly for non‐state‐owned enterprises, firms with higher product uniqueness, firms in competitive industries, and firms in nondurable goods industries. Furthermore, our analysis highlights firms’ sales as one of the potential channels through which customers’ earthquake exposure influences firm investment. We also find that following an earthquake supplier firms reduce their transactions with the affected customers and develop alternative customers.
Cross‐sectional study of the optimal types of physical exercise for cognitive function in older Japanese adults
Authors: Nagata Koki , Shibuya Kyohei , Fujii Yuya , Seol Jaehoon , Jindo Takashi , Okura Tomohiro
Published: October 2024

Aim

This study aimed to determine whether practicing coordination exercises, compared with other physical exercise types, is associated with better cognitive function in older Japanese adults.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study used data from a health checkup project carried out from 2015 to 2019 among older adults living in Kasama City, Ibaraki Prefecture, Japan. Data from 569 participants (mean age 74.0 ± 5.4 years, 53.8% women) were analyzed. The types of physical exercise practiced within the seven preceding days were identified. The Five‐Cog test and Trail Making Test were used to evaluate general cognitive function and executive function, respectively. The cognitive functions of practitioners and non‐practitioners of each type of physical exercise – coordination, endurance, resistance, and stretching – were examined using an analysis of covariance.

Results

Although practitioners of any physical exercise did not have significantly better cognitive function than non‐practitioners, in an analysis stratified by exercise amount, those who practiced more coordination exercise had better general cognitive function than non‐practitioners (P = 0.046), in a fully adjusted model.

Conclusion

Those who practiced more coordination exercises had better general cognitive function. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2024; 24: 1173–1180.
GGR Handbook of Rock and Mineral Analysis Chapter 7 Quadrupole Inductively Coupled Plasma‐Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Linge Kathryn L.
Published: October 2024

This chapter (Quadrupole Inductively Coupled Plasma‐Mass Spectrometry) is a contribution to the Geostandards and Geoanalytical Research Handbook of Rock and Mineral Analysis – an online textbook that is a fully revised and updated edition of Handbook of the Silicate Rock Analysis (P. J. Potts, 1987, Blackie, Glasgow).

Chapter 7 (from Section 2 of the handbook dealing with techniques for the determination of major and trace elements) describes both the history of ICP‐MS, including development of the plasma sampling interface and the operation of modern ICP‐MS instrumentation. Given their central importance to ICP‐MS operation, ion extraction through the sampling interface, ion transmission, ion separation (with a particular focus on the quadrupole mass filter) and counting are given particular attention. Discussion of the analytical characteristics of ICP‐MS particularly focusses on spectroscopic interferences (and their mitigation). Finally, an overview of geochemical analysis by ICP‐MS considers drift correction, calibration strategies, and laser ablation microsampling.
GGR Handbook of Rock and Mineral Analysis Chapter 6 (Part 1) Principles and Practice of X‐Ray Fluorescence Spectrometry –1: Fundamentals of XRF and Matrix Corrections
Authors: Turner Kenneth E. , Webber Elizabeth
Published: October 2024

This chapter (Principles and Practice of X‐Ray Fluorescence Spectrometry – 1: Fundamentals of XRF and Matrix Corrections) is a contribution to the Geostandards and Geoanalytical Research Handbook of Rock and Mineral Analysis – an online textbook that is a fully revised and updated edition of the Handbook of Silicate Rock Analysis (P. J. Potts, 1987, Blackie, Glasgow).

Chapter 6, Part 1 (from Section 2 of the handbook dealing with techniques for the determination of major and trace elements) considers the fundamentals of XRF spectrometry and matrix corrections in detail. Part 2 deals with wavelength dispersive and energy dispersive instrumentation. Following an introduction dealing with the analytical characteristics of XRF spectrometry, Part 1 continues with a detailed consideration of the origin and excitation of X‐ray spectra. Sub‐chapters that tackle the interaction of X‐rays with matter and the matrix effect in geological materials follow this. Part 1 is concluded with a mathematical treatment of the correction of absorption‐enhancement effects.
GGR Handbook of Rock and Mineral Analysis Chapter 1 (Part 1) Geoanalytical Metrology
Authors: Linge Kathryn L. , Potts Philip J.
Published: October 2024

This chapter (Geoanalytical Metrology) is a contribution to the Geostandards and Geoanalytical Research Handbook of Rock and Mineral Analysis – an online textbook that is a fully revised and updated edition of Handbook of Silicate Rock Analysis, which was written by Philip J. Potts and published in 1987 by Blackie and Son (Glasgow). This second edition comprises chapters, written by prominent research scientists, designed to provide comprehensive overviews of the relevant techniques for the elemental characterisation of rocks and minerals. Chapters are designed to allow new practitioners to the field (including research students) to attain a comprehensive understanding of the theory, practice and capabilities of each technique, as well as being of benefit to established research geoanalysts. In addition to the content, chapter titles have been revised where appropriate to reflect progress in this field.

Chapter 1, Part 1 (from Section 1 of the handbook dealing with fundamentals of measurement and instrument design) first sets out the overarching conventions that operate in analytical chemistry, including a description of the international organisations and systems that regulate the standards governing the discipline. This is followed by coverage of the statistical basis on which geoanalytical data sets are treated, analysed and interpreted, which summarises most of the relevant tests and terminology employed in this field. The methods by which the calibration of measured signals from instrumental techniques is tackled, followed by method validation, which covers aspects including measurement uncertainty, bias, precision and trueness. Sections detailing metrological traceability and quality management conclude this chapter.
Predicting anthropogenic food supplementation from individual tracking data
Authors: Oppel Steffen , Heiniger Nathalie , Scherler Patrick , van Bergen Valentijn S. , Guélat Jérôme , Weibel Robert , Grüebler Martin U.
Published: October 2024

Many wildlife species consume food or refuse provided by humans. To understand the effect of anthropogenic food subsidies on wildlife populations, we first need to quantify where and when individuals can access such food sources. The Red Kite Milvus milvus is an opportunistic raptor species and uses both inadvertent and deliberate food subsidies provided by citizens. Here we present a new approach using global positioning system (GPS)‐tracking data to predict where anthropogenic food subsidies probably occur. We tracked 497 individuals with solar‐powered GPS transmitters over an average of 3.2 (range 1–9) breeding seasons in Switzerland, and combined these data with locations of 125 known feeding sites obtained through interviews. We used two sequential random forest models, at both individual movement and population levels, to predict where anthropogenic food subsidies were attended by Red Kites. The first model classified locations that were frequently and regularly revisited, and successfully predicted 85% of locations that were within 50 m of an externally validated feeding site. These predicted locations were aggregated in 500‐m grid cells to calculate the proportion of individuals and locations associated with predicted food subsidy. A second model related the presence of known food subsidies to the aggregated predictions. In our study area, 80% of known anthropogenic food provision locations could be correctly identified using Red Kite tracking data, but data sparsity beyond the core range of tracked individuals limits predictions of anthropogenic food subsidies at larger geographical scales. Nonetheless, biologging data can identify ephemeral food sources, and facilitate an assessment of the importance of anthropogenic food subsidies for the fitness of individuals in tracked populations.
Enhancing Omicron Sublineage Neutralization: Insights From Bivalent and Monovalent COVID‐19 Booster Vaccines and Recent SARS‐CoV‐2 Omicron Variant Infections
Authors: Jeong Hye Won , Rollon Rare , Kim Se‐Mi , Gil Juryeon , Casel Mark Anthony , Jang Hyunwoo , Choi Jeong Ho , Jang Seung‐Gyu , Lazarte Josea Carmel , Kim Hee‐Sung , Kim Jun Hyoung , Choi Young Ki
Published: October 2024

Background

Omicron variants have rapidly diversified into sublineages with mutations that enhance immune evasion, posing challenges for vaccination and antibody responses. This study aimed to compare serum cross‐neutralizing antibody responses against various SARS‐CoV‐2 Omicron sublineages (BA.1, BA.5, XBB.1.17.1, FK.1.1, and JN.1) in recipients of monovalent COVID‐19 boosters, bivalent booster recipients, and individuals who had recovered from Omicron BA.5 infections.

Methods

We conducted a micro‐neutralization assay on serum samples from monovalent BNT162b2 booster recipients (N = 54), bivalent BNT162b2 booster recipients (N = 24), and SARS‐CoV‐2 Omicron BA.5‐recovered individuals (N = 13). The history of SARS‐CoV‐2 Omicron infection was assessed using ELISA against the SARS‐CoV‐2 NP protein.

Results

Bivalent booster recipients exhibited significantly enhanced neutralization efficacy against Omicron sublineages compared to those who had received monovalent booster vaccinations. Omicron BA.5‐recovered individuals displayed similar neutralizing antibodies (NAbs) to the bivalent booster recipients. Despite the improved neutralization in bivalent recipients and BA.5‐recovered individuals, there were limitations in neutralization against the recently emerged Omicron subvariants: XBB.1.17.1 FK.1.1, and JN.1. In both monovalent and bivalent booster recipients, a history of Omicron breakthrough infection was associated with relatively higher geometric mean titers of NAbs against Omicron BA.1, BA.5, and XBB.1.17.1 variants.

Conclusion

This study underscores the intricate interplay between vaccination strategies, immune imprinting, and the dynamic landscape of SARS‐CoV‐2 variants. Although bivalent boosters enhance neutralization, addressing the challenge of emerging sublineages like XBB.1.17.1, FK.1.1, and JN.1 may necessitate the development of tailored vaccines, underscoring the need for ongoing adaptation to effectively combat this highly mutable virus.
An Item Response Tree Model for Items with Multiple‐Choice and Constructed‐Response Parts
Authors: Wei Junhuan , Wang Qin , Dai Buyun , Cai Yan , Tu Dongbo
Published: October 2024

Traditional IRT and IRTree models are not appropriate for analyzing the item that simultaneously consists of multiple‐choice (MC) task and constructed‐response (CR) task in one item. To address this issue, this study proposed an item response tree model (called as IRTree‐MR) to accommodate items that contain different response types at different steps and multiple different cognitive processes behind each score to effectively investigate the cognitive process and achieve a more accurate evaluation of examinees. The proposed model employs appropriate processing function for each task and allows multiple paths to an observed outcome. The simulation studies were conducted to evaluate the performance of the proposed IRTree‐MR, and results show the proposed model outperforms the traditional IRT model in terms of parameters recovery and model‐fit. Moreover, an empirical study was carried out to verify the advantages of the proposed model.
Thermodynamic performance of hot air drying system: Energy and exergy analysis for wet glass containers in honey processing plant
Authors: Piri Ahmad , Hazervazifeh Amin
Published: October 2024

Considering environmental challenges and the diminishing share of energy expenses in the final product cost, evaluating energy‐intensive systems is crucial. This study examines the drying process of wet glass containers in a honey processing plant using a continuous convection dryer through energy and exergy analyses. Mass, energy, and exergy balances were performed using EES software. The energetic performance indicators revealed a heat loss rate of 3.33 kW, energy efficiency of 20.45%, and specific energy consumption of 11711.25 kJ kg‐1H₂O. Exergetic performance indicators included an exergy destruction rate of 24.05 kW, improvement potential rate of 20.79 kW, total exergy efficiency of 14.14%, exergy efficiency of 11.14%, specific exergy consumption of 2763.92 kJ kg‐1H₂O, and a sustainability index of 1.16. Results indicated that 60.12% of exergy destruction is related to air heating, with exhaust air losing 200.54 kW, equivalent to 89.84% of total input energy, suggesting exhaust air recirculation to reduce losses.

Practical applications

The wet container dryer in a honey processing plant, as the most energy‐intensive component, was chosen for thermodynamic analysis. Mass, energy, and exergy balances were conducted to evaluate the system's thermodynamic performance. The exhaust air dryer lost 200.54 kW, equivalent to 89.84% of the total input energy, without utilization. Additionally, the results showed that 60.12% of the total exergy destruction in the convective drying process was related to air heating. Therefore, recirculating the exhaust air from the dryer moves the system toward an ideal thermodynamic state.
Assessment and Validation of Predictive Growth Models for Locally Isolated Salmonella enterica and Listeria monocytogenes in Alfalfa Sprouts at Various Temperatures
Authors: Ndraha Nodali , Lin Chia Hsuan , Ping Goh Ai , Tran Gia Dieu , Su Li‐Ming , Huang Chien Li , Chen Cheng‐Quan , Tsai Shwu‐Jene , Hsiao Hsin‐I
Published: October 2024

Sprouts are popular due to their high nutritional content, including vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and enzymes. However, the conditions favorable for sprouting, such as warm and humid environments, are also ideal for the growth of bacteria, including food‐borne pathogens. Here, we analyzed the growth and developed predictive models of locally isolated and commercial strains of Salmonella enterica and Listeria monocytogenes in alfalfa sprouts under various constant temperatures, ranging from 5°C to 25°C. Our findings indicated that these pathogens could grow at 5°C in sprouts, albeit with a low growth rate. A rapid increase in concentration occurred at temperatures of 10°C and above. The fitted models demonstrated high performance, with R2 values ranging from 0.964 to 0.997 and RMSE values ranging from 0.15 to 0.51, respectively. Based on the fitted values, bias factor (Af) values varied between 1.01 and 1.06, with all accuracy factor (Bf) values at 1.00. Acceptable prediction zone (APZ) values ranged from 81.8% to 100%. Validation of the models under dynamic temperature conditions for specific strains showed acceptable performance. This study enhances our understanding of S. enterica and L. monocytogenes growth in alfalfa sprouts. The findings of this study could be used to improve the risk assessment of these pathogens in alfalfa sprouts.
The incidence of nonampullary duodenal cancer in Japan 2016–2020: analysis of a national cancer registry
Authors: Kakushima Naomi , Ohki Daisuke , Miura Yuko , Fujishiro Mitsuhiro , Sho Masayuki ,   The Japan Duodenal Cancer Guideline Committee
Published: October 2024

Background and Aim

Epidemiological research is scarce in Asian countries including Japan. We aimed to clarify the epidemiological trend of nonampullary duodenal cancer (NADC) in Japan using a national database.

Methods

All patients with NADC diagnosed between 2016 and 2020 were identified from the Japanese national cancer registry. The crude and age‐adjusted incidences were determined and temporal trends including diagnostic mode, tumor stage, and treatments were analyzed.

Results

A total of 14 484 patients were included. The crude and age‐adjusted incidences were 21.8–23.5 and 10.7–12.1 per 1 000 000 person‐years. Male‐to‐female ratio was 1.7:1, and the incidence increased with age. The number of patients was highest among 70–79 year age group in both sexes. In total, 55% of patients were diagnosed during screening or surveillance for other diseases. In 54% of patients, the tumor stage was localized. The major treatment was surgery (32%), followed by endoscopic resection (27%). The trends for detection mode, tumor stage, and treatment were consistent during 2016–2020.

Conclusions

This study clarified and confirmed the high incidence of duodenal cancer in Japan. Characteristically, many NADC cases are diagnosed asymptomatically and treated by endoscopic or surgical treatment.
Electron microscopy of seismic waves
Authors: Chen Shaoqing , Wang Mengyao , He Dong Sheng
Published: October 2024

Changes in the surrounding environment, if transmitted to the electron microscope, are frequently perceived as noise that diminishes the quality of the images. However, in fact, ‘noises’ contain rich information about the environment. This work reports a very rare event where aberration‐corrected HAADF‐STEM images were acquired during the impact of seismic waves, resulted from a mild earthquake. By analysing these images, we found that the drift and vibration of the sample are detectable and quantifiable. Despite many potential challenges, this work demonstrates the utilisation of electron microscopes in detecting and monitoring seismic waves with high spatial resolution, which may lead to unique applications in the low‐frequency regime.
Structural and physiological implications of witches' broom infection in Xylopia aromatica (Annonaceae) trees
Authors: Guedes Lubia M. , de Oliveira Denis Coelho , de Lima Jéssica Ferreira , Aguilera Narciso , Moreira Ana Silvia F. P.
Published: October 2024

Witches' brooms are abnormal branches that can affect various tree species in the Brazilian savanna, such as Xylopia aromatica. This disease leads to biomass loss and alters growth patterns. This study investigated the anatomical and physiological impacts of witches' broom on X. aromatica, hypothesizing that the disease induces changes in both infected and noninfected branches of the same tree. Measurements included leaf area, chlorophyll content and photosystem II (PSII) functionality in control and infected plants, as well as branch types (control, uninfected and infected branches for infected plants). Water potential was assessed at predawn and midday, and stem samples were analysed for anatomical and vessel element analysis. Witches' broom disease manifests as short brown stems and small yellowish‐green leaves. While infected and uninfected plants showed no significant differences in leaf area and leaf dry biomass, infected branches had reduced leaf number, area and weight. Chlorophyll content and PSII efficiency were significantly reduced in infected branches, indicating photosynthetic disruption. Water potential was lower at predawn in infected plants but normalized by midday, suggesting an adaptive response. Anatomical changes in infected branches included alterations in vessel elements and parenchymatic rays. Overall, X. aromatica displays localized changes due to witches' broom, which aids in water stress adaptation. Despite these findings, long‐term studies are needed to evaluate the impacts on biomass reduction and reproductive investment in Brazilian savanna areas, crucial for understanding the ecological impact and developing survival strategies for affected plants.
Carnival, charisma, and kayfabe: The delegation of intellectual labor through ludic layering in Donald Trump's rhetorical style
Authors: Hofstra Jorie
Published: October 2024

The many aberrations of Donald Trump's political career are important to analyze not only with regard to the state of the union but also for how they challenge existing theories of rhetoric, power, and performance. Among the studies conducted during and after Trump's presidential term to explain his persistent appeal to millions of Americans, scholars have constructively focused on his particular style of authoritarian populism, his revival of a premodern form of charisma, and his entanglements with professional wrestling. Taken together, these theoretical foci inform my approach to an underexamined subset of Trumpian utterances: those that simultaneously evoke entirely incompatible meanings, from the frivolous to the aggressive. Examining a series of such perplexing verbal and visual rhetorical moments through the lenses of the carnivalesque, the berserk charismatic, and the fractal fictions of kayfabe, I develop a theory of the delegation of intellectual labor through ludic layering that accounts for some of the power of Trump's rhetorical performances and is potentially applicable to understanding polyvocality in other populists' rhetoric. I further show how this concept suggests improvements on existing recommendations for listening to and reporting on an authoritarian figure like Trump.
Evolutionary comparison of lncRNAs in four cotton species and functional identification of LncR4682‐PAS2‐KCS19 module in fiber elongation
Authors: Nie Hushuai , Zhao Nan , Li Bin , Jiang Kaiyun , Li Huijing , Zhang Jingrou , Guo Anhui , Hua Jinping
Published: October 2024

Long non‐coding RNAs (lncRNAs) play an important role in various biological processes in plants. However, there have been few reports on the evolutionary signatures of lncRNAs in closely related cotton species. The lncRNA transcription patterns in two tetraploid cotton species and their putative diploid ancestors were compared in this paper. By performing deep RNA sequencing, we identified 280 429 lncRNAs from 21 tissues in four cotton species. lncRNA transcription evolves more rapidly than mRNAs, and exhibits more severe turnover phenomenon in diploid species compared to that in tetraploid species. Evolutionarily conserved lncRNAs exhibit higher expression levels, and lower tissue specificity compared with species‐specific lncRNAs. Remarkably, tissue expression of homologous lncRNAs in Gossypium hirsutum and G. barbadense exhibited similar patterns, suggesting that these lncRNAs may be functionally conserved and selectively maintained during domestication. An orthologous lncRNA, lncR4682, was identified and validated in fibers of G. hirsutum and G. barbadense with the highest conservatism and expression abundance. Through virus‐induced gene silencing in upland cotton, we found that lncR4682 and its target genes GHPAS2 and GHKCS19 positively regulated fiber elongation. In summary, the present study provides a systematic analysis of lncRNAs in four closely related cotton species, extending the understanding of transcriptional conservation of lncRNAs across cotton species. In addition, LncR4682‐PAS2‐KCS19 contributes to cotton fiber elongation by participating in the biosynthesis of very long‐chain fatty acids.
Comparative Transcriptomes of Canine and Human Prostate Cancers Identify Mediators of Castration Resistance
Authors: Angel Marcela Riveros , Séguin Bernard , Löhr Christiane V. , Beer Tomasz M. , Feliciano John , Ramsey Stephen A. , Thomas George V.
Published: October 2024

Prostate cancer continues to be one of the most lethal cancers in men. While androgen deprivation therapy is initially effective in treating prostate cancer, most cases of advanced prostate cancer eventually progress to castration‐resistant prostate cancer (CRPC), which is incurable. Similarly, the most aggressive form of prostatic carcinoma occurs in dogs that have been castrated. To identify molecular similarities between canine prostate cancer and human CRPC, we performed a comparative analysis of gene expression profiles. Through this transcriptomic analysis, we found that prostatic carcinoma in castrated dogs demonstrates an androgen‐indifferent phenotype, characterised by low‐androgen receptor and neuroendocrine‐associated genes. Notably, we identified two genes, ISG15 and AZGP1, that were consistently up‐ and down‐regulated, respectively, in both canine prostatic carcinoma and human CRPC. Additionally, we identified several other genes, including GPX3, S100P and IFITM1, that exhibited similar expression patterns in both species. Protein–protein interaction network analysis demonstrated that these five genes were part of a larger network of interferon‐induced genes, suggesting that they may act together in signalling pathways that are disrupted in prostate cancer. Accordingly, our findings suggest that the interferon pathway may play a role in the development and progression of CRPC in both dogs and humans and chart a new therapeutic approach.
Shopee Marketplace Promotion on TikTok: AIDA Model Study on the Impact of Purchasing Behavior of Young Women in Makassar City, Indonesia
Authors: Arianto Arianto
Published: October 2024

This study analyzes the impact of young women’s purchasing behavior on user activity driven by Shopee marketplace promotions on TikTok. This study adopts the Attention, Interest, Desire, and Action (AIDA) model to evaluate purchasing behavior. A quantitative, cross-sectional survey method was employed, involving 283 female adolescent respondents from Makassar City. This study utilizes the AIDA model to assess the independent variables, namely frequency, duration, and consistency, and their influence on the dependent variable, the purchasing behavior process. The findings reveal that purchasing behavior, as measured through the AIDA model, has a positive and significant effect on Shopee marketplace promotions on TikTok. The result of the hypothesis test confirms that Shopee marketplace promotions on TikTok social media influence the product purchasing behavior process. This study further explores various Shopee promotion strategies on TikTok, including discounts, flash sales, cashback offers, free shipping, and product codes. This study offers a new perspective on investigating popular e-commerce platforms in Southeast Asia, particularly among young digital-native consumers. The practical implications suggest that online marketplaces can utilize social media promotions to drive purchases through diverse and engaging promotional strategies.
Deep sediment heterogeneity inferred using very low-frequency features from merchant ships
Authors: Hopps-McDaniel Alexandra M. , Neilsen Tracianne B. , Knobles D. P. , Hodgkiss William S. , Wilson Preston S. , Sagers Jason D.
Published: October 2024

The very low-frequency noise from merchant ships provides a good broadband sound source to study the deep layers of the seabed. The nested striations that characterize ship time-frequency spectrograms contain unique acoustic features corresponding to where the waveguide invariant β becomes infinite. In this dataset, these features occur at frequencies between 20 and 80 Hz, where pairs of modal group velocities become equal. The goal of this study is to identify these β = ∞ frequencies in ship noise spectrograms and use them to perform statistical inference for the deep layer sound speeds and thicknesses in the New England Mudpatch for a larger number of ships and acoustic arrays over a larger geographical region than previously studied. Marginal probability distributions of the data indicate that using singular points for a feature-based inversion yields an estimate of the sound speed and a limiting value for the thickness of the first deep layer. Heterogeneity is examined by correlating spatial variability of the deep layer sound speeds with ship tracks.
Two-species model for nonlinear flow of wormlike micelle solutions. Part I: Model
Authors: Salipante Paul F. , Cromer Michael , Hudson Steven D.
Published: October 2024

We develop a rheological model to approximate the nonlinear rheology of wormlike micelles using two constitutive models to represent a structural transition at high shear rates. The model is intended to describe the behavior of semidilute wormlike micellar solutions over a wide range of shear rates whose parameters can be determined mainly from small-amplitude equilibrium measurements. Length evolution equations are incorporated into reactive Rolie-Poly entangled-polymer rheology and dilute reactive-rod rheology, with a kinetic exchange between the two models. Although the micelle length is remarkably reduced during flow, surprisingly, we propose that they are not shortened by stress-enhanced breakage, which remains thermally driven. Instead, we hypothesize that stretching energy introduces a linear potential that decreases the rate of recombination and reduces the mean micelle length. This stress-hindered recombination approach accurately describes transient stress-growth upon start-up shear flow, and it predicts a transition of shear viscosity and alignment response observed at high shear rates. The proposed mechanism applies only when self-recombination occurs frequently. The effect of varying the relative rate of self-recombination on the rheology of wormlike micelles at high shear rates is yet to be explored.
Two-species model for nonlinear flow of wormlike micelle solutions. Part II: Experiment
Authors: Salipante Paul F. , Cromer Michael , Hudson Steven D.
Published: October 2024

Applications often expose wormlike micelle solutions to a very wide range of shear and temperature conditions. The two-species model presented in Part I [Salipante et al., J. Rheol. 68 (2024)] describes the nonlinear rheology over a wide range of shear rates. Here, we compare the model predictions to measurements using a combination of microcapillary and rotational rheology to measure the viscosity of surfactant solutions across seven decades of shear rate and five decades of viscosity. The effect of temperature is studied between 20 and 60 °C for different surfactant concentrations. Model parameters are determined from both small-amplitude shear measurements and fitting to the nonlinear data. Under shear stress, the model predicts due to hindered combination kinetics that the average micelle length decreases from several micrometers to a few hundred nanometers. At sufficiently high stress, the micelle shear rheology exhibits a transition from entangled wormlike behavior to a dilute rod rheology in agreement with the model. Transient stress-growth measurements exhibit a large overshoot, which is rather well predicted by the model with hindered combination rate. Microcapillary flow birefringence also is adequately predicted by the model, confirming the accuracy of its predicted micelle lengths and exhibiting a marked change in stress-optic response at the transition between entangled polymers and dilute rods. The relaxation of retardance after flow cessation follows model predictions that include micelle-micelle interactions, which are sensitive to the rotational diffusivity and length. These methods can be applied broadly to explore relationships between composition and performance.
Tracing the Pioneers: Ballroom Dance Instructors and “Taxi-dance Girls” in Modern Chinese Leisure Sports
Authors: Duan Zeng Guang , He Ying , Qiu Jian Gang
Published: October 2024

This research examines the introduction and development of ballroom dancing in Modern China, focusing on the cultural clashes, professional evolution, and survival strategies of pioneers like instructors and “Taxi-dance Girls.” It shows ballroom dancing epitomized tensions between Chinese traditions and Western modernity. The transformations of dancing and its pioneers provided insights into China’s socioeconomic transition, urbanization, and modernization. The shift from foreign to Chinese instructors reflected tensions between westernization and localization, as well as China’s cultural awakening. Case studies on instructors enabled nuanced analysis. As commodified entertainers, “Taxi-dance Girls” gained economic sustainability and social mobility through talents and gender charm, though their glamorized images provoked debates on gender relations. By exploring multifaceted roles and experiences of pioneers, this research enriches understanding of entertainment consumption, urban middle-class lifestyles, and Eastern-Western cultural integration in Modern China. It provides new historical materials and perspectives, unveiling complex interplay between cultural globalization and localization.
Foxa deficiency restricts hepatitis B virus biosynthesis through epigenic silencing
Authors: Matrenec Rachel , Oropeza Claudia E. , Dekoven Eddie , Matrenec Carly , Maienschein-Cline Mark , Chau Cecilia S. , Green Stefan J. , Kaestner Klaus H. , McLachlan Alan
Published: October 2024

In the hepatis B virus (HBV) transgenic mouse model of chronic infection, the forkhead box protein A/hepatocyte nuclear factor 3 (Foxa/HNF3) family of pioneer transcription factors are required to support postnatal viral demethylation and subsequent HBV transcription and replication. Liver-specific Foxa-deficient mice with hepatic expression of only Foxa3 do not support HBV replication but display biliary epithelial hyperplasia with bridging fibrosis. However, liver-specific Foxa-deficient mice with hepatic expression of only Foxa1 or Foxa2 also successfully restrict viral transcription and replication but display only minimal alterations in liver physiology. These observations suggest that the level of Foxa activity, rather than the combination of specific Foxa genes, is a key determinant of HBV biosynthesis. Together, these findings suggest that targeting Foxa activity could lead to HBV DNA methylation and transcriptional inactivation, resulting in the resolution of chronic HBV infections that are responsible for approximately one million deaths annually worldwide.

IMPORTANCE

The current absence of curative therapies capable of resolving chronic hepatis B virus (HBV) infection is a major clinical problem associated with considerable morbidity and mortality. The small viral genome limits molecular targets for drug development, suggesting that the identification of cellular factors essential for HBV biosynthesis may represent alternative targets for therapeutic intervention. Genetic Foxa deficiency in the neonatal liver of HBV transgenic mice leads to the transcriptional silencing of viral DNA by CpG methylation without affecting viability or displaying an obvious phenotype. Therefore, limiting liver Foxa activity therapeutically may lead to the methylation of viral covalently closed circular DNA (cccDNA), resulting in its transcriptional silencing and ultimately the resolution of chronic HBV infection.
Supplemental Material: Orogen-scale inverted metamorphism during Cretaceous–Paleogene terminal suturing along the North America Cordillera, Alaska, USA
Authors: Regan Sean P. , al. et
Published: October 2024

 Methods, sample locations, and laser ablation split stream data.  
National recommendations for the management of children and young people with IgA vasculitis: a best available evidence, group agreement-based approach
Authors: Oni Louise , Platt Caroline , Marlais Matko , McCann Liza , Barakat Farah , Hesseling Markus , Cottis Hannah , Protheroe Sue , Haigh Gabrielle , Nott Kerstin , Marro Julien , King Elizabeth , Kelly Jane , Sussens Jill , Mulvaney Shirley , Whitby Thomas , Morgan Iona , Sharma Amita , Al-Jayyousi Reem , Cheung Chee Kay , Ng Christopher , Lander Anthony David , Simmons William , Melling Charlotte , Grandison Rebecca , Treitl Leanne , Salama Alan D , Dudley Jan
Published: October 2024

Objective

IgA vasculitis (IgAV) is the most frequently experienced subtype of vasculitis seen in children. Most children fully recover, however, complications including chronic kidney disease are recognised. The aim of this project was to use a best available evidence, group agreement, based approach to develop national recommendations for the initial management of IgAV and its associated complications.

Methods

A fully representative multiprofessional guideline development group (GDG), consisting of 28 members, was formed and met monthly. Graded recommendations were generated using nationally accredited methods, which included a predefined scope, open consultation, systematic literature review, evidence appraisal, review of national or international guidelines and a period of open consultation. Audit measures and research priorities were incorporated.

Results

The IgAV GDG met over a 14-month period. A total of 82 papers were relevant for evidence synthesis. For the initial management, four topic areas were identified with five key questions generating six graded recommendations related to classification, specialist referral and musculoskeletal involvement. For the associated complications, five topic areas with 12 key questions generated 15 graded recommendations covering nephritis, gastrointestinal and testicular involvement, atypical disease and follow-up. Open consultation feedback was incorporated. The guidelines were endorsed by the UK Kidney Association and Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health and are available online.

Conclusion

Despite IgAV being a rare disease with limited evidence, a national standardised approach to the clinical management for children and young people has been achieved. This should unite approaches to care and act as a foundation for improvement.
Rural-urban and regional variations in aspects of caregiving, support services and caregiver health in the USA: evidence from a national survey
Authors: Cohen Steven A , Ahmed Neelam H , Ellis Kerri A , Lindsey Hayley , Nash Caitlin C , Greaney Mary L
Published: October 2024

Objectives

Due to substantial regional variability in available caregiving services and supports, culture and health status among informal caregivers in the USA, the study objective was to explore how rural-urban differences in aspects of caregiving—caregiving intensity, distance to care recipient, caregiver burden, caregiver health and caregiving support—vary by US Census region (Northeast, South, Midwest and West) after accounting for other social determinants of health.

Design

This study was a secondary analysis of multiwave, cross-sectional study data.

Setting

The data were collected on a representative sample of informal, unpaid caregivers to older adults.

Participants

A sample of n=3551 informal caregivers from the National Study of Caregiving identified by older adult care recipients from waves 1 (2011) and 5 (2015) of the National Health and Aging Trends Study.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

Primary outcome measures were caregiving intensity (provided support for/with the number of activities of daily living (ADLs) and instrumental ADL (IADLs)) caregiver assisted with, hours of caregiving per month), caregiver burden (physical, emotional and financial), support services sought (types and total number), caregivers’ self-reported health and health status (individual comorbidities and a total number of comorbidities). Analyses were stratified by US Census region and rural-urban status, as defined by the US Census Bureau, of census tract of caregiver residence.

Results

Urban caregivers provided higher levels of ADL support in the Northeast (beta=0.19, 95% CI 0.03, 0.35) and West (beta=0.15, 95% CI 0.05,0.26) regions. Urban caregivers provided significantly higher levels of ADL support (p=0.020), IADL support (p=0.033) and total ADLs plus IADLs (p=0.013) than rural caregivers. Caregivers living in the South had higher amounts of monthly hours spent caregiving, ADL support, IADL support and combined ADLs plus IADLs and were more likely to have obesity, report poor or fair health, have heart conditions and experience emotional difficulty from caregiving (all p<0.001).

Conclusions

Study findings underscore caregiving’s multifaceted and complex nature and identify important urban-rural and regional differences in caregiving in the USA. Healthcare providers and healthcare organisations can have an important role in identifying and mitigating the negative impacts of caregiving on caregivers’ overall health. Interventions and support should be tailored to caregivers’ demographic backgrounds, addressing regional differences.
Evaluation of health recommender systems: a scoping review protocol
Authors: Ananthakrishnan Ananya , Milne-Ives Madison , Shankar Rohit , Meinert Edward
Published: October 2024

Background

People increasingly rely on online health information for their health-related decision-making. Given the overwhelming amount of information available, the risk of misinformation is high. Health recommender systems, which recommend personalised health-related information or interventions using intelligent algorithms, have the potential to address this issue. Many such systems have been developed and evaluated individually, but there is a need to synthesise the evaluation findings to identify gaps and ensure that future recommender systems are designed to have a positive impact on health or target behaviours.

Objective

The purpose of this review is to provide an overview of the state of the literature evaluating health recommender systems and highlight lessons learnt, methodological considerations and gaps in current research.

Methods and analysis

The review will follow the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews and the Population, Concept, and Context frameworks. Five databases (PubMED, ACM Digital Library Full-Text Collection, IEEE Xplore, Web of Science and ScienceDirect) will be searched for studies published in English that evaluate at least one health recommender system using search terms following the themes reflecting digital health, recommendation systems and evaluations of efficacy and impact. After using EndNote 21 for initial screening, two independent reviewers will screen the titles, abstracts and full texts of the references, and then extract data from included studies related to the recommender system characteristics, evaluation design and evaluation findings into a predetermined form. A descriptive analysis will be conducted to provide an overview of the literature; key themes and gaps in the literature will be discussed.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethical approval is not required as data will be obtained from already published sources. Findings from this study will be disseminated via publication in a peer-reviewed journal.