bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The conditions of motivation of signs according to the semi-symbolic system
Authors: Migliore Tiziana
Published: August 2023

Une étude attentive des œuvres de Floch peut contribuer à préciser et à mettre à jour la question de la motivation des signes. C’est le but de notre article, de comprendre mieux le caractère fondé de la relation entre le signifiant et le signifié à travers la catégorie sémiotique que Floch a sondé, expliqué et appliqué à maintes reprises et dont il a été le promulgateur majeur : le semi-symbolique. Notre hypothèse est que les refléxions théoriques et les analyses empiriques flochiennes impliquent une conception épistemique de la pensée corrélative et contrastive. Le semi-symbolique dépasse l’occurrence du décodage et de l’encodage particuliers d’un texte donné pour s’élever au rang d’un modèle structurant de la logique du sensible, adroit à produire des effets de sens « vérité », à gérer le jeu de la vérité, entre la dimension de la manifestation (paraître/non-paraître) et celle de l’immanence (être/non-être). Après avoir relit et examiné quelques passages plus relevants de Floch à ce propos, on reviendra sur le semi-symbolique comme relation motivée et on démontrerà la fecondité de cet outil même face à des grandes banques de données.
Você é agrimensor ou sonâmbulo? Elaboração de uma tipologia comportamental dos passageiros do metrô
Authors: Floch Jean-Marie
Published: August 2023

Este artigo traz uma síntese dos resultados de uma pesquisa realizada por Jean-Marie Floch em finais da década de 1980, a partir de uma consultoria encomendada pela direção dos transportes em comum da região metropolitana de Paris (RATP), que desejava conhecer melhor os perfis de usuários da rede de metrô e trens de subúrbio, a fim de aprimorar sua oferta de serviços. Após uma extensa investigação sobre as múltiplas maneiras de se utilizar os transportes coletivos – pensando sempre no trajeto do viajante como um texto a ser analisado – Floch estabelece quatro grandes categorias interdefinidas de passageiros do metrô: agrimensores, profissionais, sonâmbulos e errantes, cada qual com suas modalidades de locomoção, seu grau de domínio dos espaços trilhados, sua maior ou menor sensibilidade ao entorno, sua percepção da presença e do comportamento dos demais passageiros e dos metroviários. O autor antecipa, neste trabalho, alguns dos pontos que os semioticistas viriam a desenvolver posteriormente, tais como a teorização semiótica das formas de vida ou a questão das práticas produtoras de sentido no seio da vida social.
Management of diabetes type 1 with hybrid closed-loop
Authors: Ćosić Dijana , Železnik Danica , Železnik Uroš
Published: August 2023

Introduction: Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM), in which the pancreas is no longer able to produce insulin to naturally control blood sugar, can be a major problem for the patient in terms of disease management. Closed-loop hybrid systems are designed to automate insulin delivery to improve T1DM outcomes and reduce the burden and distress for the user. The hybrid closed-loop makes an important contribution to reducing the difficulties of disease, also its control and management.Research goal: The goal is to examine how the closed hybrid loop system has contributed to the management of T1DM and improved the quality of life of patients.Participants and Methods: The survey was based on a non-experimental quantitative method with a questionnaire developed for the study. The surveys were distributed on Facebook in groups dedicated to patients with T1DM. The survey covered hybrid closed-loop users in Slovenia. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used for the statistical processing of the obtained data. IBM SPSS Statistics (version 20) was used.Results: The hybrid closed-loop system provides respondents with better management of T1DM and a better quality of life. 82.9% of respondents have fewer hypoglycaemic episodes than before using the hybrid system, 65.7% of respondents detect signs of hypoglycaemia earlier and fear of hypoglycaemia is reduced. 70.3% of respondents say they have less worries about diabetes.Conclusion: The study confirmed the prediction that respondents with T1DM are satisfied with the hybrid closed-loop system and notice fewer fluctuations in their blood sugar. The latest treatment method also helps to improve the quality of life. Because of its benefits, respondents recommend using a hybrid closed-loop system.
Primary Aldosteronism in Chronic Kidney Disease: Blood Pressure Control and Kidney and Cardiovascular Outcomes After Surgical Versus Medical Management
Authors: Cohen Debbie L. , Wachtel Heather , Vaidya Anand , Hundemer Gregory L. , Tezuka Yuta , Davio Angela , Turcu Adina F. , Cohen Jordana B.
Published: August 2023

Background:

Diagnosis and treatment of primary aldosteronism (PA) in chronic kidney disease (CKD) may be deferred due to limited evidence supporting safety and efficacy of treatment. Our goal was to assess clinical outcomes in patients with PA and CKD who received surgical or medical management.

Methods:

We conducted a multicenter, retrospective cohort study of patients with PA and CKD who underwent adrenal vein sampling from 2009-2019. We characterized clinical outcomes and evaluated differences by surgical versus medical management. Primary outcomes were systolic blood pressure and number of antihypertensive medications. Secondary outcomes were diastolic blood pressure, serum potassium, estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), and kidney and cardiovascular events. Analyses were adjusted for age, sex, race, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and eGFR.

Results:

Of 239 participants with PA and CKD, 158 (66%) underwent adrenalectomy, and 81 (34%) were treated medically. Mean age was 57±10 years, 67% were female, mean eGFR was 45±12 mL/min per 1.73 m
2
, and 49% were on potassium supplementation. At 5 years, mean blood pressure decreased from 149±22/85±14 to 131±28/78±16 mm Hg and mean number of antihypertensive medications decreased from 4.0±1.5 to 2.4±1.4. Adrenalectomy, compared to medical management, was associated with similar systolic blood pressure (−0.90 mm Hg [95% CI, −6.99 to 5.07]) but fewer medications (1.7 [95% CI, −2.24 to −1.10]), and no difference in potassium levels or kidney or cardiovascular outcomes.

Conclusions:

Patients with PA and CKD are likely to benefit from either surgical adrenalectomy or medical management. Detection and treatment of PA may help to reduce blood pressure and medication burden in patients with CKD.
Impact of Carotid Stent Design on Embolic Filter Debris Load During Carotid Artery Stenting
Authors: Squizzato Francesco , Piazza Michele , Forcella Edoardo , Colacchio Elda Chiara , Fedrigo Marny , Angelini Annalisa , Grego Franco , Antonello Michele
Published: August 2023

BACKGROUND:

The carotid stent design may influence the risk of embolization during carotid artery stenting. The aim of the study was to assess this risk by comparing the quantity of embolized material captured by filters during carotid artery stenting, using different stent designs.

METHODS:

We conducted a single-center retrospective study of patients undergoing carotid artery stenting for asymptomatic carotid stenosis >70% (2010–2022) in a tertiary academic hospital (Padua University Hospital, Italy). Carotid stents were classified according to their design as open-cell (OCS), closed-cell (CCS), or micromesh stents (MMS). A distal filter protection was used in all patients, and the amount of captured embolized particles was semiautomatically analyzed using a dedicated software (Image-Pro Plus, Media Cybernetics). Primary end point was embolic filter debris (EFD) load, defined as the ratio of the filter area covered by particulate material to the total filter area. Secondary end points were 30 days major stroke and death.

RESULTS:

Four-hundred-eighty-one carotid artery stentings were included; 171 (35%) using an OCS, 68 (14%) a CCS, and 242 (50%) a MMS. Thirty-days mortality was 0.2% (n=1) and major stroke rate was 0.2% (
P
=0.987). Filters of patients receiving MMS were more likely to be free from embolized material (OCS, 30%; CCS, 13%; MMS, 41%;
P
<0.001) and had a lower EFD load (OCS, 9.1±14.5%; CCS, 7.9±14.0%; MMS, 5.0±9.1%;
P
<0.001) compared with other stent designs. After stratification by plaque characteristics, MMS had a lower EFD load in cases of hypoechogenic plaque (OCS, 13.4±9.9%; CCS, 10.9±8.7%; MMS, 6.5±13.1%;
P
<0.001), plaque length>15 mm (OC, 10.2±15.3; CC, 8.6±12.4; MM, 8.2±13.6;
P
<0.001), and preoperative ipsilateral asymptomatic ischemic cerebral lesion (OCS, 12.9±16.8%; CCS, 8.7±19.5%; MMS, 5.4±9.7%;
P
<0.001). After multivariate linear regression, use of MMS was associated with lower EFD load (
P
=0.038).

CONCLUSIONS:

The use of MMS seems to be associated with a lower embolization rate and EFD load, especially in hypoechogenic and long plaques and in patients with a preoperative evidence of asymptomatic ischemic cerebral lesion.
“Book Zero” through the Years
Authors: Meletiadis Vasileios M.
Published: August 2023

This paper presents an analysis of the first two editions of Peter Carroll’s Liber Null (1978, 1981). Along with Ray Sherwin’s The Book of Results (1979, 1980, 1981), they shape the earliest corpus of chaos magic literature. Often overlooked due to their rarity and the availability of the mainstream 1987 edition of Liber Null, these two, the so-called white and red editions, offer a peak into the early years of the chaos magic current and the formation of Carroll’s ideas. The white edition in particular contains concepts and terminology that are either nonexistent or significantly altered in the later editions. The paper opens with a history of these texts, followed by some comments on their materiality. The main focus, however, is to closely analyse the 1978 edition and to consider the significance of textual variations in later editions.
Introduction
Authors: Adi Basem
Published: August 2023

This volume argues that relational realism can help us to make better educational policy that is more effective in practice. Basem Adi draws on critical realism to thoroughly re-examine fundamental assumptions about how government policymaking works, developing an ontological basis from which to examine existing government approaches and imagine an alternative approach based on a relational realist-informed critical pedagogy.
1. The Functionalist Symbolic Reference of UK Governance Models
Authors: Adi Basem
Published: August 2023

This volume argues that relational realism can help us to make better educational policy that is more effective in practice. Basem Adi draws on critical realism to thoroughly re-examine fundamental assumptions about how government policymaking works, developing an ontological basis from which to examine existing government approaches and imagine an alternative approach based on a relational realist-informed critical pedagogy.
7. A Summary of the Argument Presented
Authors: Adi Basem
Published: August 2023

This volume argues that relational realism can help us to make better educational policy that is more effective in practice. Basem Adi draws on critical realism to thoroughly re-examine fundamental assumptions about how government policymaking works, developing an ontological basis from which to examine existing government approaches and imagine an alternative approach based on a relational realist-informed critical pedagogy.
6. Intrinsic Motivation, Agency, and Self-Efficacy: Journeying
From “Quasi-University” Student to Steward of the ODE
Community
Authors: Xiao Junhong
Published: August 2023

This chapter portrays the author’s professional career as a researcher and gatekeeper of academic publications. It starts with a brief account of his very humble education background before going on to explain the motivation behind his lifelong interest in research and writing. It then describes how mentorship turned him into a full-fledged researcher as well as why and how he left his familiar fields of study in his prime and joined the open and distance education (ODE) research community as a green hand, eventually becoming an international gatekeeper after overcoming sustained adversities. The chapter interprets his success through the theoretical lens of intrinsic motivation, agency, and self-efficacy and concludes with tips for early-career researchers.
Insights into ENSO Diversity from an Intermediate Coupled Model. Part II: Role of Nonlinear Dynamics and Stochastic Forcing
Authors: Geng Licheng , Jin Fei-Fei
Published: August 2023

In this study, we investigate how a single leading linear El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO) mode, as studied in Part I, leads to the irregular coexistence of central Pacific (CP) and eastern Pacific (EP) ENSO, a phenomenon known as ENSO spatiotemporal diversity. This diversity is fundamentally generated by deterministic nonlinear pathways to chaos via the period-doubling route and, more prevailingly, the subharmonic resonance route with the presence of a seasonally varying basic state. When residing in the weakly nonlinear regime, the coupled system sustains a weak periodic oscillation with a mixed CP/EP pattern as captured by the linear ENSO mode. With a stronger nonlinearity effect, the ENSO behavior experiences a period-doubling bifurcation. The single ENSO orbit splits into coexisting CP-like and EP-like ENSO orbits. A sequence of period-doubling bifurcation results in an aperiodic oscillation featuring irregular CP and EP ENSO occurrences. The overlapping of subharmonic resonances between ENSO and the seasonal cycle allows this ENSO irregularity and diversity to be more readily excited. In the strongly nonlinear regime, the coupled system is dominated by regular EP ENSO. The deterministic ENSO spatiotemporal diversity is thus confined to a relatively narrow range corresponding to a moderately unstable ENSO mode. Stochastic forcing broadens this range and allows ENSO diversity to occur when the ENSO mode is weakly subcritical. A close relationship among a weakened mean zonal temperature gradient, stronger ENSO activity, and more (fewer) occurrences of EP (CP) ENSO is noted, indicating that ENSO–mean state interaction may yield ENSO regime modulations on the multidecadal time scale.
The Hinges of History: State-Making and Revolt in Early Modern France
Authors: Kiser Edgar , Linton April
Published: August 2023

The formation of early modem states—combining increases in taxation, warfare, and administrative centralization—was often violently opposed by subjects. A game theoretic model of strategic interactions between rulers and subjects is developed to more fully specify the relationship between state-making and revolt in France between 1515 and 1789. Quantitative analyses of revolts throughout France are combined with a brief case study of revolts in Guyenne (the most quarrelsome French province) to test propositions derived from the model. Offensive war (but not war in general) and administrative centralization increased the likelihood of revolt, while the presence of the Estates General (the national legislative assembly) decreased it. The effect of taxation on revolt depended on the historical context—high taxes and offensive wars tended to incite revolts prior to the Fronde (a cluster of revolts in 1648–1653), but had no effect afterwards. It is argued that the outcomes of significant revolts, like the Fronde, often serve as important turning points in the history of state-making. Potentially similar events in medieval England and early modern Spain are also discussed.
Democratization Boost or Bust? Electoral Turnout After Democratic Transitions
Authors: Olar Roman-Gabriel
Published: August 2023

How do democratization processes affect voter turnout in new democracies? Existing work points to an expected boost in electoral turnout after democratization as newly democratic citizens are euphoric to exert newly democratic freedoms or because they developed new political attitudes and behaviours by mobilizing for democracy. While intuitive and normatively appealing, these explanations have not been theoretically nor empirically scrutinized within the literature. This paper develops and tests novel theoretical expectations on the processes and legacies of democratization that impact voter turnout in new democracies. Using electoral turnout data from 1086 national elections between 1946 and 2015, and turnout survey data of over 1 million respondents between 1982 and 2015, we find that the boost in voter turnout (1) exists only for the first election after transition, (2) its effect depends on the life cycle during which individuals experienced the transition and (3) it is less dependent on transition type.
Multifunctional Smoke- and Gas-Suppressant Systems for Polyurethane Foams
Authors: Grayson S.J. , Hume J. , Smith D.A.
Published: August 2023

Although many different smoke suppressants and fire retardants for polyurethane foams have been reported, these often increase the evolution of toxic gas on burning. Even where this is not so, as in the case of ‘char-formers’, on which we have reported previously, no previous claim has been made for a system which successfully combines suppression of both smoke and toxic gas.

This paper shows that new, multifunctional additive systems comprising a char-forming smoke-and-toxic-gas (STG) suppressant together with a combustion-rate-reducing component and a char-stabilising component can lead to dramatic reductions in evolved toxic gases, particularly carbon monoxide, early in the burning process. As a result, substantial improvements in safety can result from the lengthening of escape times.
Development of clinical and magnetic resonance imaging-based radiomics nomograms for the differentiation of nodular fasciitis from soft tissue sarcoma
Authors: Wang Chunjie , Zhang Zhengyang , Dou Yanping , Liu Yajie , Chen Bo , Liu Qing , Wang Shaowu
Published: August 2023

Background

Accurate differentiation of nodular fasciitis (NF) from soft tissue sarcoma (STS) before surgery is essential for the subsequent diagnosis and treatment of patients.

Purpose

To develop and evaluate radiomics nomograms based on clinical factors and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for the preoperative differentiation of NF from STS.

Material and Methods

This retrospective study analyzed the MRI data of 27 patients with pathologically diagnosed NF and 58 patients with STS who were randomly divided into training (n = 62) and validation (n = 23) groups. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to identify the clinical factors and semantic features of MRI. Radiomics analysis was applied to fat-suppressed T1-weighted (T1W-FS) images, fat-suppressed T2-weighted (T2W-FS) images, and contrast-enhanced T1-weighted (CE-T1W) images. The radiomics nomograms incorporating the radiomics signatures, clinical factors, and semantic features of MRI were developed. ROC curves and AUCs were carried out to compare the performance of the clinical factors, radiomics signatures, and clinical radiomics nomograms.

Results

Tumor location, size, heterogeneous signal intensity on T2W-FS imaging, heterogeneous signal intensity on CE-T1W imaging, margin definitions on CE-T1W imaging, and septa were independent predictors for differentiating NF from STS ( P < 0.05). The performance of the radiomics signatures based on T2W-FS imaging (AUC = 0.961) and CE-T1W imaging (AUC = 0.938) was better than that based on T1W-FS imaging (AUC = 0.833). The radiomics nomograms had AUCs of 0.949, which demonstrated good clinical utility and calibration.

Conclusion

The non-invasive clinical radiomics nomograms exhibited good performance in the differentiation of NF from STS, and they have clinical application in the preoperative diagnosis of diseases.
Analytical eclecticism for vigor and rigor?
Authors: Whiteside Heather
Published: August 2023

In this Exchanges piece, I comment on centripetal and centrifugal tendencies across social science disciplines with an eye to the possibilities and pitfalls of analytical eclecticism in bridging within-field impasse and generating cross-disciplinary dialogue germane to economic geography.
Politics of Deliberate Inaction: The disconnect between platform justifications and user imaginaries on content moderation in a ‘free speech’ online forum
Authors: Åkerlund Mathilda
Published: August 2023

This article analyses the ‘free speech’ online forum Flashback, which adheres to a strict non-interference policy when it comes to user-generated content, but beyond this also forbids users from deleting their own content or accounts. Through a qualitative content analysis, this article sought to understand the relationship between the platform and its users with respect to this unconventional approach to moderation and content removal. This article discusses both the position(s) taken by Flashback as it pertains to its policy of minimal moderation, and the expectations as expressed by users navigating Flashbacks rules and their practical implementations. The article shows a discrepancy between how Flashback (incoherently) justifies minimal moderation and how users had imagined the platform operating. The article also discusses how Flashback maintains these policies through its community’s active encouragement via supportive posting and silencing of non-conformers, and the consequences that Flashback’s inaction has in terms of residual hate.
Online memes on anti-American propaganda and the overlooked “silent majority” in support of authoritarian populism in Putin’s Russia
Authors: Kananovich Volha
Published: August 2023

Although memes are considered disruptive to elite control over political discourse, their viability for contestation in authoritarian settings remains uncertain. The present study addresses this question by analyzing Russian memes created to ridicule the Kremlin’s propaganda, which accuses the United States of undermining Russia domestically and internationally. These memes depict US presidents engaging in trivial acts of sabotage, from damaging worn-out roads to urinating in dilapidated buildings, thereby exposing the absurdity of Russia’s claims to superpower status. Importantly, the memes go beyond ridiculing the regime to vilify “ordinary Russians” as unsophisticated subscribers to the government’s narrative. The study shows that by focusing on the tug-of-war between the authorities and the protesting “vocal minority,” communication scholars may overlook a sizable “silent majority” that enables authoritarian consolidation. I argue that such outgroup memetic articulations, despite their limitations in mobilizing broader publics, offer valuable insights into authoritarian populism that surpass this empirically flawed binary logic.
Liberal Bias on Psychology: A Comment on Bartels (2023)
Authors: Ferguson Christopher J.
Published: August 2023

Several prior empirical studies have documented considerable mistakes, often ongoing, in how research is presented in introductory psychology textbooks. Extending upon these previous analyses, Bartels notes that introductory psychology textbooks also demonstrate a pronounced liberal/progressive bias. Given the pronounced ideological bias among both practitioners and researchers in the field, this should not be a surprise. In this comment, I extend Bartels’ observations by raising the issues with textbooks reflect widespread problems within our field. It is well past time that psychology takes a hard look at how to increase rigor and reduce political biases.
Macrophage heterogeneity in the single-cell era: facts and artifacts
Authors: Hume David A. , Millard Susan M. , Pettit Allison R.
Published: August 2023

In this spotlight, we review technical issues that compromise single-cell analysis of tissue macrophages, including limited and unrepresentative yields, fragmentation and generation of remnants, and activation during tissue disaggregation. These issues may lead to a misleading definition of subpopulations of macrophages and the expression of macrophage-specific transcripts by unrelated cells. Recognition of the technical limitations of single-cell approaches is required in order to map the full spectrum of tissue-resident macrophage heterogeneity and assess its biological significance.
Genome-wide transcription factor–binding maps reveal cell-specific changes in the regulatory architecture of human HSPCs
Authors: Subramanian Shruthi , Thoms Julie A. I. , Huang Yizhou , Cornejo-Páramo Paola , Koch Forrest C. , Jacquelin Sebastien , Shen Sylvie , Song Emma , Joshi Swapna , Brownlee Chris , Woll Petter S. , Chacon-Fajardo Diego , Beck Dominik , Curtis David J. , Yehson Kenneth , Antonenas Vicki , O'Brien Tracey , Trickett Annette , Powell Jason A. , Lewis Ian D. , Pitson Stuart M. , Gandhi Maher K. , Lane Steven W. , Vafaee Fatemeh , Wong Emily S. , Göttgens Berthold , Alinejad-Rokny Hamid , Wong Jason W. H. , Pimanda John E.
Published: August 2023

Hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPCs) rely on a complex interplay among transcription factors (TFs) to regulate differentiation into mature blood cells. A heptad of TFs (FLI1, ERG, GATA2, RUNX1, TAL1, LYL1, LMO2) bind regulatory elements in bulk CD34+ HSPCs. However, whether specific heptad-TF combinations have distinct roles in regulating hematopoietic differentiation remains unknown. We mapped genome-wide chromatin contacts (HiC, H3K27ac, HiChIP), chromatin modifications (H3K4me3, H3K27ac, H3K27me3) and 10 TF binding profiles (heptad, PU.1, CTCF, STAG2) in HSPC subsets (stem/multipotent progenitors plus common myeloid, granulocyte macrophage, and megakaryocyte erythrocyte progenitors) and found TF occupancy and enhancer-promoter interactions varied significantly across cell types and were associated with cell-type–specific gene expression. Distinct regulatory elements were enriched with specific heptad-TF combinations, including stem-cell–specific elements with ERG, and myeloid- and erythroid-specific elements with combinations of FLI1, RUNX1, GATA2, TAL1, LYL1, and LMO2. Furthermore, heptad-occupied regions in HSPCs were subsequently bound by lineage-defining TFs, including PU.1 and GATA1, suggesting that heptad factors may prime regulatory elements for use in mature cell types. We also found that enhancers with cell-type–specific heptad occupancy shared a common grammar with respect to TF binding motifs, suggesting that combinatorial binding of TF complexes was at least partially regulated by features encoded in DNA sequence motifs. Taken together, this study comprehensively characterizes the gene regulatory landscape in rare subpopulations of human HSPCs. The accompanying data sets should serve as a valuable resource for understanding adult hematopoiesis and a framework for analyzing aberrant regulatory networks in leukemic cells.
Lipids, lipid-modifying drug target genes and migraine: a Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Bi Yaodan , Zhu Yinchao , Tang Shuai , Huang Yuguang
Published: August 2023

Introduction

Migraine, a prevalent headache disorder with unclear mechanisms and limited treatments, may be influenced by dyslipidemia and genetic factors. Statins and emerging lipid-modifying agents show potential but lack evidence for migraine management. Mendelian Randomization analysis offers insights into causal relationships and therapeutic targets. This study aims to explore genetically predicted lipid traits, drug targets, and their association with migraine risk.

Method

We conducted Mendelian randomization (MR) analyses utilizing genetic variants associated with lipid traits and variants in genes encoding the protein targets of various classes of lipid-lowering drugs. The specific drug classes investigated included HMGCR, PCSK9, NPC1L1, ABCG5/ABCG8, LDLR, LPL, ANGPTL3, APOB, CETP, and APOC3. To determine the effects on migraine risk, we meta-analyzed MR estimates for regional variants using data from two large sample sets. The genetic variants were weighted based on their associations with specific lipid traits, such as low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), Apolipoprotein A1, and Apolipoprotein B. To obtain association weights, we utilized data from lipid genetics consortia. For lipid-modifying drug targets that exhibited suggestive significance, we further employed expression quantitative trait locus (eQTL) data. Additionally, we performed colocalization analysis to assess genetic confounding.

Result

The use of genetic proxies for HMGCR inhibition demonstrated a significant association with a decreased risk of migraine in the FinnGen dataset (OR = 0.64, 95% CI: 0.46–0.88,p = 0.0006) and a nearly significant association in the Choquet dataset (OR = 0.78, 95% CI: 0.60–1.01,p = 0.06). When pooling the estimates, the overall effect size showed a reduced risk of migraine (OR = 0.73, 95% CI: 0.60–0.89,p = 0.0016). Similarly, genetic mimicry of LPL enhancement was associated with a lower risk of migraine in the FinnGen dataset (OR = 0.82, 95% CI: 0.69–0.96,p = 0.01) and the Choquet dataset (OR = 0.91, 95% CI: 0.83–0.99,p = 0.03). Pooling the estimates showed a consistent effect size (OR = 0.89, 95% CI: 0.83–0.96,p = 0.002). Sensitivity analyses yielded no statistically significant evidence of bias arising from pleiotropy or genetic confounding.

Conclusion

In the study, it was observed that among the 10 lipid-lowering drug targets investigated, LPL and HMGCR showed significant associations with migraine risk. These findings indicate that LPL and HMGCR have the potential to serve as candidate drug targets for the treatment or prevention of migraines.
2023 BMC Ecology and Evolution image competition: the winning images
Authors: Harman Jennifer , Hipsley Christy A. , Jacobus Luke M. , Liberles David A. , Settele Josef , Traulsen Arne
Published: August 2023

In 2023, researchers from around the world entered the BMC Ecology and Evolution photography competition. As a result, we received a spectacular collection of photographs that capture the wonder of nature, those looking to understand it and glimpses into long lost worlds. This editorial celebrates the winning images selected by the Editor of BMC Ecology and Evolution and senior members of the journal’s editorial board.
Complete mitochondrial genome of Agrostis stolonifera: insights into structure, Codon usage, repeats, and RNA editing
Authors: Li Jiaxing , Chen Yinglong , Liu Yaling , Wang Chen , Li Ling , Chao Yuehui
Published: August 2023

Background

Plants possess mitochondrial genomes that are large and complex compared to animals. Despite their size, plant mitochondrial genomes do not contain significantly more genes than their animal counterparts. Studies into the sequence and structure of plant mitochondrial genomes heavily imply that the main mechanism driving replication of plant mtDNA, and offer valuable insights into plant evolution, energy production, and environmental adaptation.

Results

This study presents the first comprehensive analysis of Agrostis stolonifera’s mitochondrial genome, characterized by a branched structure comprising three contiguous chromosomes, totaling 560,800 bp with a GC content of 44.07%. Annotations reveal 33 unique protein-coding genes (PCGs), 19 tRNA genes, and 3 rRNA genes. The predominant codons for alanine and glutamine are GCU and CAA, respectively, while cysteine and phenylalanine exhibit weaker codon usage biases. The mitogenome contains 73, 34, and 23 simple sequence repeats (SSRs) on chromosomes 1, 2, and 3, respectively. Chromosome 1 exhibits the most frequent A-repeat monomeric SSR, whereas chromosome 2 displays the most common U-repeat monomeric SSR. DNA transformation analysis identifies 48 homologous fragments between the mitogenome and chloroplast genome, representing 3.41% of the mitogenome’s total length. The PREP suite detects 460 C-U RNA editing events across 33 mitochondrial PCGs, with the highest count in the ccmFn gene and the lowest in the rps7 gene. Phylogenetic analysis confirms A. stolonifera’s placement within the Pooideae subfamily, showing a close relationship to Lolium perenne, consistent with the APG IV classification system. Numerous homologous co-linear blocks are observed in A. stolonifera’s mitogenomes and those of related species, while certain regions lack homology.

Conclusions

The unique features and complexities of the A. stolonifera mitochondrial genome, along with its similarities and differences to related species, provide valuable insights into plant evolution, energy production, and environmental adaptation. The findings from this study significantly contribute to the growing body of knowledge on plant mitochondrial genomes and their role in plant biology.
Genetic-based dissection of resistance to bacterial leaf streak in rice by GWAS
Authors: Zhu Xiaoyang , Chen Lei , Zhang Zhanying , Li Jinjie , Zhang Hongliang , Li Zichao , Pan Yinghua , Wang Xueqiang
Published: August 2023

Background

Rice is the second-largest food crop in the world and vulnerable to bacterial leaf streak disease. A thorough comprehension of the genetic foundation of agronomic traits was essential for effective implementation of molecular marker-assisted selection.

Results

Our study aimed to evaluate the vulnerability of rice to bacterial leaf streak disease (BLS) induced by the gram-negative bacterium Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzicola (Xoc). In order to accomplish this, we first analyzed the population structure of 747 accessions and subsequently assessed their phenotypes 20 days after inoculation with a strain of Xoc, GX01. We conducted genome-wide association studies (GWAS) on a population of 747 rice accessions, consisting of both indica and japonica subpopulations, utilizing phenotypic data on resistance to bacterial leaf streak (RBLS) and sequence data. We identified a total of 20 QTLs associated with RBLS in our analysis. Through the integration of linkage mapping, sequence analysis, haplotype analysis, and transcriptome analysis, we were able to identify five potential candidate genes (OsRBLS1—OsRBLS5) that possess the potential to regulate RBLS in rice. In order to gain a more comprehensive understanding of the genetic mechanism behind resistance to bacterial leaf streak, we conducted tests on these genes in both the indica and japonica subpopulations, ultimately identifying superior haplotypes that suggest the potential utilization of these genes in breeding disease-resistant rice varieties.

Conclusions

The findings of our study broaden our comprehension of the genetic mechanisms underlying RBLS in rice and offer significant insights that can be applied towards genetic improvement and breeding of disease-resistant rice in rapidly evolving environmental conditions.
Artificial intelligence in estimating fractional flow reserve: a systematic literature review of techniques
Authors: Farhad Arefinia , Reza Rabiei , Azamossadat Hosseini , Ali Ghaemian , Arash Roshanpoor , Mehrad Aria , Zahra Khorrami
Published: August 2023

Background

Fractional Flow Reserve (FFR) is the gold standard for the functional evaluation of coronary arteries, which is effective in selecting patients for revascularization, avoiding unnecessary procedures, and reducing treatment costs. However, its use is limited due to invasiveness, high cost, and complexity. Therefore, the non-invasive estimation of FFR using artificial intelligence (AI) methods is crucial.

Objective

This study aimed to identify the AI techniques used for FFR estimation and to explore the features of the studies that applied AI techniques in FFR estimation.

Methods

The present systematic review was conducted by searching five databases, PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, IEEE, and Science Direct, based on the search strategy of each database.

Results

Five hundred seventy-three articles were extracted, and by applying the inclusion and exclusion criteria, twenty-five were finally selected for review. The findings revealed that AI methods, including Machine Learning (ML) and Deep Learning (DL), have been used to estimate the FFR.

Conclusion

This study shows that AI methods can be used non-invasively to estimate FFR, which can help physicians diagnose and treat coronary artery occlusion and provide significant clinical performance for patients.
Molecular surveillance of arboviruses in Nigeria
Authors: Shaibu Joseph Ojonugwa , Akinyemi Kabiru Olusegun , Uzor Oshilonyah Henry , Audu Rosemary Ajuma , Bola Oriowo Oyefolu Akeeb
Published: August 2023

Arboviral infections are fast becoming a global public health concern as a result of its high fatality rate and sporadic spread. From the outbreak of Zika virus in the Americas, the endemicity of Yellow fever in West Africa and South America, outbreaks of West Nile virus in South Africa to the year-round and national risk of Dengue fever in Mainland China and India. The war against emerging and re-emerging viral infection could probably lead to the next pandemic. To be above the pending possible arboviral pandemic, consistent surveillance of these pathogens is necessary in every society. This study was aimed at conducting a surveillance for Yellow fever virus, Zika virus, Chikungunya virus, Dengue virus and Rift Valley fever virus in four states in Nigeria using molecular techniques. A cross-sectional study involving 1600 blood samples collected from febrile patients in Lagos, Kwara, Ondo and Delta States between 2018 and 2021 was conducted using Real time polymerase chain reaction for detection of the pathogens. Extraction and purification of viral RNA were done using Qiagen Viral RNA Mini Kit. Samples were analyzed using One Step PrimeScript III RT-PCR mix (Takara Bio) alongside optimized primers and probes designed in-house. Positive samples were sequenced on MinION platform (Nanopore technologies). Bioinformatic and phylogenetic analysis were performed with DNASTAR Lasergene 17.3. All the RNA extracted from samples collected from the four states were negative for ZIKV RNA, RVFV RNA, CHIKV RNA and DENV RNA. However, twelve of the samples (2%) tested positive for YFV RNA. Three full genomes of sizes 10,751 bp, 10,500 bp and 10,715 bp were generated and deposited in GenBank with accession numbers: ON323052, ON323053 and ON323054 respectively. Phylogenetic analysis shows clustering within lineage 3 of West African genotype. This result shows an active spread of Yellow fever in Delta State, Nigeria. However, there is no emergence of a new genotype There is a need for an intense surveillance of Yellow fever virus in Nigeria to avert a major outbreak.
Anticipated benefits and challenges of implementing group care in Suriname’s maternity and child care sector: a contextual analysis
Authors: Martens Nele , Hindori-Mohangoo Ashna D. , Hindori Manodj P. , Damme Astrid Van , Beeckman Katrien , Reis Ria , Crone Mathilde R. , van der Kleij Rianne RMJJ
Published: August 2023

Background

Suriname is a uppermiddle-income country with a relatively high prevalence of preventable pregnancy complications. Access to and usage of high-quality maternity care services are lacking. The implementation of group care (GC) may yield maternal and child health improvements. However, before introducing a complex intervention it is pivotal to develop an understanding of the local context to inform the implementation process.

Methods

A context analysis was conducted to identify local needs toward maternity and postnatal care services, and to assess contextual factor relevant to implementability of GC. During a Rapid Qualitative Inquiry, 63 online and face-to-face semi-structured interviews were held with parents, community members, on-and off-site healthcare professionals, policy makers, and one focus group with parents was conducted. Audio recordings were transcribed in verbatim and analysed using thematic analysis and Framework Method. The Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research served as a base for the coding tree, which was complemented with inductively derived codes.

Results

Ten themes related to implementability, one theme related to sustainability, and seven themes related to reaching and participation of the target population in GC were identified. Factors related to health care professionals (e.g., workload, compatibility, ownership, role clarity), to GC, to recipients and to planning impact the implementability of GC, while sustainability is in particular hampered by sparse financial and human resources. Reach affects both implementability and sustainability. Yet, outer setting and attitudinal barriers of health professionals will likely affect reach.

Conclusions

Multi-layered contextual factors impact not only implementability and sustainability of GC, but also reach of parents. We advise future researchers and implementors of GC to investigate not only determinants for implementability and sustainability, but also those factors that may hamper, or facilitate up-take. Practical, attitudinal and cultural barriers to GC participation need to be examined. Themes identified in this study will inspire the development of adaptations and implementation strategies at a later stage.
Inhibiting PRMT5 induces DNA damage and increases anti-proliferative activity of Niraparib, a PARP inhibitor, in models of breast and ovarian cancer
Authors: O’Brien Shane , Butticello Michael , Thompson Christine , Wilson Boris , Wyce Anastasia , Mahajan Vivek , Kruger Ryan , Mohammad Helai , Fedoriw Andy
Published: August 2023

Background

Inhibitors of Poly (ADP-Ribose) Polymerases (PARP) provide clinical benefit to patients with breast and ovarian cancers, by compromising the DNA repair activity of cancer cells. Although these agents extend progression-free survival in many patients, responses can be short lived with many patients ultimately progressing. Identification of combination partners that increase dependence of cancer cells to the DNA repair activity of PARPs may represent a strategy to increase the utility of PARP inhibitors. Protein arginine methyltransferase 5 (PRMT5) regulates DNA damage response pathways through splicing and protein modification, and inhibitors of PRMT5 have recently entered clinical trials.

Methods

The effect of PRMT5 inhibition on the levels of DNA damage and repair markers including γH2AX, RAD51, and 53BP1 was determined using high content immunofluorescent imaging. The anti-proliferative activity of the combination of PRMT5 and PARP inhibitors was evaluated using in vitro models of breast and ovarian cancers using both cell lines and ex vivo patient derived xenografts. Finally, the combinations of PRMT5 and PARP inhibitors were evaluated in cell line xenograft models in vivo.

Results

Inhibition of PRMT5 by GSK3326595 led to increased levels of markers of DNA damage. The addition of GSK3326595 to the PARP inhibitor, niraparib, resulted in increased growth inhibition of breast and ovarian cancer cell lines and patient derived spheroids. In vivo, the combination improved the partial effects on tumor growth inhibition achieved by either single agent, producing complete tumor stasis and regression.

Conclusion

These data demonstrate that inhibition of PRMT5 induced signatures of DNA damage in models of breast and ovarian cancer. Furthermore, combination with the PARP inhibitor, Niraparib, resulted in increased anti-tumor activity in vitro and in vivo. Overall, these data suggest inhibition of PRMT5 as a mechanism to broaden and enhance the clinical application of PARP inhibitors.
Tumor microenvironment characterization in colorectal cancer to identify prognostic and immunotherapy genes signature
Authors: Guo Xian-wen , Lei Rong-e , Zhou Qing-nan , Zhang Guo , Hu Bang-li , Liang Yun-xiao
Published: August 2023

Background

The tumor microenvironment (TME) plays a crucial role in tumorigenesis, progression, and therapeutic response in many cancers. This study aimed to comprehensively investigate the role of TME in colorectal cancer (CRC) by generating a TMEscore based on gene expression.

Methods

The TME patterns of CRC datasets were investigated, and the TMEscores were calculated. An unsupervised clustering method was used to divide samples into clusters. The associations between TMEscores and clinical features, prognosis, immune score, gene mutations, and immune checkpoint inhibitors were analyzed. A TME signature was constructed using the TMEscore-related genes. The results were validated using external and clinical cohorts.

Results

The TME pattern landscape was for CRC was examined using 960 samples, and then the TMEscore pattern of CRC datasets was evaluated. Two TMEscore clusters were identified, and the high TMEscore cluster was associated with early-stage CRC and better prognosis in patients with CRC when compared with the low TMEscore clusters. The high TMEscore cluster indicated elevated tumor cell scores and tumor gene mutation burden, and decreased tumor purity, when compared with the low TMEscore cluster. Patients with high TMEscore were more likely to respond to immune checkpoint therapy than those with low TMEscore. A TME signature was constructed using the TMEscore-related genes superimposing the results of two machine learning methods (LASSO and XGBoost algorithms), and a TMEscore-related four-gene signature was established, which had a high predictive value for discriminating patients from different TMEscore clusters. The prognostic value of the TMEscore was validated in two independent cohorts, and the expression of TME signature genes was verified in four external cohorts and clinical samples.

Conclusion

Our study provides a comprehensive description of TME characteristics in CRC and demonstrates that the TMEscore is a reliable prognostic biomarker and predictive indicator for patients with CRC undergoing immunotherapy.