bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A comparison between CAD system and building information modelling (BIM)
Authors: Mamdouh M , Moursy O , Hassan AA , Gerges VF
Published: September 2024

Building Information Modeling (BIM) has gained widespread recognition as a collaboration process in the construction industry, leading to increased investment by construction companies across all construction stages. in recent years, engineers and project managers have encountered various challenges. These challenges include communication gaps among stakeholders and decision-makers, frequent design changes during implementation resulting in repetitive work, increased project costs, delays, and compromised project quality. This research proposes a methodology that compares BIM technology with traditional CAD methods by applying both systems to the same project. It aims to highlight the problems associated with the traditional system and demonstrate how BIM resolves them. Clash detection, for instance, addresses implementation issues and reduces the need for rework. Studies have shown that BIM significantly reduces errors and omissions in documents by up to 64%, repetitive work by up to 43%, project costs and project duration. Considering these advantages, it is highly recommended to incorporate Building Information Modeling (BIM) technology in all construction projects.
The Further Chameleon Groups of Richard Thompson and Graham Higman: Automorphisms via Dynamics for the Higman–Thompson Groups 𝐺_{𝑛,𝑟}
Authors: Bleak C. , Cameron P. , Maissel Y. , Navas A. , Olukoya F.
Published: September 2024

We describe, through the use of Rubin’s theorem, the automorphism groups of the Higman–Thompson groups

G

n
,
r

G_{n,r}

as groups of specific homeomorphisms of Cantor spaces

C

n
,
r

\mathfrak {C}_{n,r}

. This continues a thread of research begun by Brin, and extended later by Brin and Guzmán: to characterise the automorphism groups of the ‘Chameleon groups of Richard Thompson,’ as Brin referred to them in 1996. The work here completes the first stage of that twenty-year-old program, containing (amongst other things) a characterisation of the automorphism group of

V
V

, which was the “last chameleon.” The homeomorphisms which arise fit naturally into the framework of Grigorchuk, Nekrashevich, and Suschanskiĭ’s rational group of transducers: they are exactly those homeomorphisms which are induced by bi-synchronizing transducers, which we define in the paper. This result appears to offer insight into the nature of Brin and Guzmán’s exotic automorphisms, while also uncovering connections with the theory of reset words for automata (arising in the Road Colouring Problem) and with the theory of automorphism groups of the full shift.
Directed protein engineering identifies a human TIM-4 blocking antibody that enhances anti-tumor response to checkpoint inhibition in murine colon carcinoma
Authors: Frietze Karla K , Anumukonda Kamala , Padula Laura , Strbo Natasha , Goldstein Neil
Published: September 2024

Background

T-cell immunoglobulin and mucin domain containing molecule-4 (TIM-4) is a scavenger receptor best known for its role in recognizing dying cells. TIM-4 orchestrates phagocytosis allowing for cellular clearance of apoptotic cells, termed efferocytosis. It was previously shown that TIM-4 directly interacts with AMPKα1, activating the autophagy pathway, leading to degradation of ingested tumors, and effectively reducing antigen presentation.

Methods

This study sought to identify a novel human TIM-4 antibody that can prevent phagocytosis of tumor cells thereby allowing for more antigen presentation resulting in anti-tumor immunological response. Using phage display panning directed against human TIM-4, we engineered a novel human TIM-4 antibody (SKWX301). Combination of in vitro phagocytosis assays and cell viability assays were used to test functionality of SKWX301. To examine the effect of SKWX301 in mouse models, we employed a syngeneic mouse model. CT26 cells were subcutaneously injected into BALB/c mice and tumor growth and mouse survival were analyzed.

Results

SKWX301 can prevent human macrophage phagocytosis of cancer cells in vitro. Combination of low dose SKWX301 and anti-PD1 antibody significantly inhibited tumor growth and increased overall survival in mice. This demonstrates that SKWX301 is effective in both human in vitro models and mouse in vivo models.

Conclusion

Our study has demonstrated a rapid antibody discovery approach and identified a novel human TIM-4 antibody that can serve as a therapeutic for antitumor immunity to improve cancer therapy.
Culture and other direct detection methods to diagnose human granulocytic anaplasmosis
Authors: Aguero-Rosenfeld Maria E , Zentmaier Lois , Liveris Dionysios , Visintainer Paul , Schwartz Ira , Dumler J Stephen , Wormser Gary P
Published: September 2024

Objectives

We sought to assess the performance of 3 laboratory tests on blood specimens for direct detection of Anaplasma phagocytophilum, the cause of human granulocytic anaplasmosis (HGA), in patients tested at a single medical institution in New York State.

Methods

Direct tests included microscopic blood smear examination for intragranulocytic inclusions, polymerase chain reaction (PCR), and culture using the HL-60 cell line. The HGA cases testing positive by only 1 direct test were not included, unless HGA was confirmed by acute or convalescent serology using an indirect immunofluorescent assay.

Results

From 1997 to 2009, 71 patients with HGA were diagnosed by at least 1 of the 3 direct test methods. For the subgroup of 55 patients who were tested using all 3 methods, culture was positive for 90.9% (50/55) vs 81.8% (45/55) for PCR vs 63.6% (35/55) for blood smear (P =.002). Most cultures (79.3%) were detected as positive within 1 week of incubation.

Conclusions

Although using culture to detect A phagocytophilum is likely not amenable for implementation in most hospital laboratories, in our experience, culture had the highest yield among the direct tests evaluated.
Early overyielding in a mixed deciduous forest is driven by both above- and below-ground species-specific acclimatization
Authors: Werner Ramona , Gasser Lisa T , Steinparzer Matthias , Mayer Mathias , Ahmed Iftekhar U , Sandén Hans , Godbold Douglas L , Rewald Boris
Published: September 2024

Background and Aims

Mixed forest plantations are increasingly recognized for their role in mitigating the impacts of climate change and enhancing ecosystem resilience. Yet, there remains a significant gap in understanding the early-stage dynamics of species trait diversity and interspecies interactions, particularly in pure deciduous mixtures. This study aims to explore the timing and mechanisms by which trait diversity of deciduous species and competitive interactions influence yield, carbon allocation and space occupation in mixed forests, both above and below ground.

Methods

A forest inventory was conducted in planted monocultures, two-species and four-species mixtures of European Acer, Tilia, Carpinus and Quercus, representing a spectrum from acquisitive to conservative tree species. Effects of competition were assessed with linear mixed-effects models at the level of biomass and space acquisition, including leaf, canopy, stem and fine root traits.

Key Results

Early above-ground growth effects were observed 6 years post-planting, with significant biomass accumulation after 8 years, strongly influenced by species composition. Mixtures, especially with acquisitive species, exhibited above-ground overyielding, 1.5–1.9 times higher than monocultures. Fine roots showed substantial overyielding in high-diversity stands. Biomass allocation was species specific and varied markedly by tree size and the level of diversity and between acquisitive Acer and the more conservative species. No root segregation was found.

Conclusions

Our findings underscore the crucial role of species trait diversity in enhancing productivity in mixed deciduous forest plantations. Allometric changes highlight the need to differentiate between (active) acclimatizations and (passive) tree size-related changes, but illustrate major consequences of competitive interactions for the functional relationship between leaves, stem and roots. This study points towards the significant contributions of both above- and below-ground components to overall productivity of planted mixed-species forests.
Optimization and application of digital droplet PCR for the detection of SARS-CoV-2 in saliva specimen using commercially available kit
Authors: Kaisar Maria M M , Kristin Helen , Wijaya Fajar A , Rachel Clarissa , Anggraini Felicia , Ali Soegianto
Published: September 2024

The coronavirus disease-19 pandemic has resulted in a significant global health crisis, causing hundreds of millions of cases and millions of deaths. Despite being declared endemic, SARS-CoV-2 infection continues to pose a significant risk, particularly for immunocompromised individuals, highlighting the need for a more sensitive and specific detection. Reverse transcription digital droplet polymerase chain reaction (RT-ddPCR) possesses a sensitive and absolute quantification compared to the gold standard. This study is the first to optimize RT-ddPCR for detecting SARS-CoV-2 in saliva specimens using a commercially available RT-qPCR kit. Optimization involved the assessment of the RT-ddPCR reaction mixture, annealing temperature adjustments, and validation using 40 stored saliva specimens. RT-qPCR was used as a reference method in this study. Compatibility assessment revealed that ddPCR Supermix for Probes (no dUTP) was preferable with an optimal annealing temperature of 57.6°C. Although a 25% higher primer/probe concentration provides a higher amplitude in droplet separation of positive control, the number of copy numbers decreased. An inverse correlation between Ct value and copy number concentration was displayed, presenting that the lower the Ct value, the higher the concentration, for the N and E genes with r2 values of 0.98 and 0.85, respectively. However, ORF1ab was poorly correlated (r2 of 0.34). The sensitivity of targeted and E genes was 100% and 93.3%, respectively; as for the specificity, the percentage ranged from 80.8% to 91.3%. This study implicates the applicability of a modified method in the ddPCR platform for similar types of pathogens using saliva specimens.
Imaging of thoracic tuberculosis: pulmonary and extrapulmonary
Authors: Pattamapaspong Nuttaya , Kanthawang Thanat , Peh Wilfred C G , Hammami Nadia , Bouaziz Mouna Chelli , Ladeb Mohamed Fethi
Published: September 2024

Tuberculosis (TB) remains the leading cause of death from a single infectious agent globally, despite being a potentially curable disease. This disease typically affects the lungs but may involve many extrapulmonary sites, especially in patients with risk factors such as HIV infection. The clinical features of extrapulmonary TB may mimic many different disease entities, particularly at less common thoracic sites such as the heart, chest wall, and breast. Imaging has an important role in the early diagnosis of TB, helping to detect disease, guide appropriate laboratory investigation, demonstrate complications, and monitor disease progress and response to treatment. Imaging supports the clinical objective of achieving effective treatment outcome and complication prevention. This review aims to highlight the imaging spectrum of TB affecting both pulmonary and extrapulmonary sites in the thorax. We also briefly provide key background information about TB, such as epidemiology, pathogenesis, and diagnosis.
Hypoxia-responsive zinc finger E-box-binding homeobox 2 (ZEB2) regulates a network of calcium-handling genes in the injured heart
Authors: Gladka Monika M , Kohela Arwa , de Leeuw Anne E , Molenaar Bas , Versteeg Danielle , Kooijman Lieneke , van Geldorp Mariska , van Ham Willem B , Caliandro Rocco , Haigh Jody J , van Veen Toon A B , van Rooij Eva
Published: September 2024

Aims

Intracellular calcium (Ca2+) overload is known to play a critical role in the development of cardiac dysfunction. Despite the remarkable improvement in managing the progression of heart disease, developing effective therapies for heart failure (HF) remains a challenge. A better understanding of molecular mechanisms that maintain proper Ca2+ levels and contractility in the injured heart could be of therapeutic value.

Methods and results

Here, we report that transcription factor zinc finger E-box-binding homeobox 2 (ZEB2) is induced by hypoxia-inducible factor 1-alpha (HIF1α) in hypoxic cardiomyocytes and regulates a network of genes involved in Ca2+ handling and contractility during ischaemic heart disease. Gain- and loss-of-function studies in genetic mouse models revealed that ZEB2 expression in cardiomyocytes is necessary and sufficient to protect the heart against ischaemia-induced diastolic dysfunction and structural remodelling. Moreover, RNA sequencing of ZEB2-overexpressing (Zeb2 cTg) hearts post-injury implicated ZEB2 in regulating numerous Ca2+-handling and contractility-related genes. Mechanistically, ZEB2 overexpression increased the phosphorylation of phospholamban at both serine-16 and threonine-17, implying enhanced activity of sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca2+-ATPase (SERCA2a), thereby augmenting SR Ca2+ uptake and contractility. Furthermore, we observed a decrease in the activity of Ca2+-dependent calcineurin/NFAT signalling in Zeb2 cTg hearts, which is the main driver of pathological cardiac remodelling. On a post-transcriptional level, we showed that ZEB2 expression can be regulated by the cardiomyocyte-specific microRNA-208a (miR-208a). Blocking the function of miR-208a with anti-miR-208a increased ZEB2 expression in the heart and effectively protected from the development of pathological cardiac hypertrophy.

Conclusion

Together, we present ZEB2 as a central regulator of contractility and Ca2+-handling components in the mammalian heart. Further mechanistic understanding of the role of ZEB2 in regulating Ca2+ homeostasis in cardiomyocytes is an essential step towards the development of improved therapies for HF.
Investigation of hybrid Freeman maple resistance to Chrysobothris flatheaded borers (Coleoptera: Buprestidae)
Authors: Gautam Asmita , Oliver Jason B , Perkovich Cindy , Addesso Karla M
Published: September 2024

Red maples (Acer rubrum L.; Sapindales: Sapindaceae) are common shade trees well known for their stunning autumn foliage and fast growth. They are a popular choice for landscapes, parks, and public places across the United States. Flatheaded borer species in the genus Chrysobothris (Coleoptera: Buprestidae) are some of the most damaging insects in red maple production, with attacks being most common on stressed and newly transplanted trees. In nurseries, red maples routinely experience flatheaded borer attacks, while the Freeman maple hybrid ‘Autumn Blaze’ has been reported as potentially resistant to flatheaded borers. In this study, traits of three borer susceptible red maple cultivars (‘Brandywine’, ‘Sun Valley’, and ‘October Glory’) were compared against a potentially resistant Freeman maple hybrid cultivar for baseline differences as well as differences under the stress of a foliar herbicide application Scythe (pelargonic acid 57%). Morphological, physiological, and biochemical traits of the red maple cultivars were evaluated and contrasted with the hybrid to identify traits related with borer resistance. Under normal conditions, the hybrid maple exhibited faster growth, greater concentrations of sulfur, and lower concentrations of zinc and flavonoids in leaf tissues compared to red maples. The herbicide stress treatment resulted in greater nitrogen and sulfur concentrations in hybrid foliage, but less chlorophyll, flavonoid, and zinc concentrations compared to the red maple cultivars. Field trials validated borer preference for red maples over the hybrid. Traits associated with the hybrid warrant additional study if an understanding of the causal relationship with borer resistance is to be achieved.
Correlation Between Subgenome-biased DNA Loss and DNA Transposon Activation Following Hybridization in the Allotetraploid Xenopus Frogs
Authors: Suda Kosuke , Suzuki Takahiro , Hayashi Shun , Okuyama Honoka , Tsukamoto Daisuke , Matsuo Takuya , Tamura Kei , Ito Michihiko
Published: September 2024

In certain tetraploid species resulting from interspecific hybridization, one parent's subgenome is known to selectively undergo DNA loss. The molecular mechanisms behind this remain unclear. In our study, we compared the genomes of a standard diploid species with two allotetraploid species from the Xenopus genus, both possessing L (longer) and S (shorter) homoeologous subgenomes. We observed substantial gene losses and intergenic DNA deletions in both the S and L subgenomes of the tetraploid species. Gene losses were around 1,000 to 3,000 for L and 4,000 to 6,000 for S, with especially prominent losses in the S subgenome. Many of these losses likely occurred shortly after interspecific hybridization in both L/S subgenomes. We also deduced frequent large inversions in the S subgenome. Upon reassessing transposon dynamics using updated genome databases, we reaffirmed heightened DNA transposon activity during the hybridization, as previously reported. We next investigated whether S subgenome-biased DNA loss could be correlated with the activation of DNA transposons following hybridization. Notably, distinct patterns were observed in the dynamics of DNA transposons between the L and S subgenomes. Several DNA transposon subfamilies correlated positively with DNA deletions in the S subgenome and negatively in the L subgenome. Based on these results, we propose a model that, upon and after hybridization between two related diploid Xenopus species, the mixture of their genomes resulted in the derepression of DNA transposons, especially in the S subgenome, leading to selective DNA loss in the S subgenome.
Pandemic preparedness of Egyptian community pharmacists and potential facilitators to the successful implementation of a community pharmacy coronavirus disease 2019 referral service: a cross-sectional survey
Authors: Bahlol Mohamed , Aliekperova Nataliia , Elkhatib Walid F , Dewey Rebecca Susan
Published: September 2024

Background

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic resulted in an increased need for essential community services including new roles for pharmacists. Globally, community pharmacists are a highly accessible point of contact for referral.

Objective

To assess the preparedness of and facilitators to community pharmacists referring patients with suspected COVID-19 symptoms for testing.

Methods

A cross-sectional survey was administered using a structured questionnaire to 1023 pharmacists (one respondent in each pharmacy) in Egypt between 17 and 30 May 2020.

Results

Pharmacists who had received pandemic referral training were significantly more familiar with the referral system in comparison to those who had not (n = 180; 17.6% vs. n = 841; 82.4%, P = .014). Case referral was significantly associated with the referrer (n = 161, 15.8%), demographics of region (P = .001), graduation year (P = .035), and gender (P = .015). The vast majority of respondents identified facilitators to referring, namely university-level teaching (n = 984, 96.7%), continuing professional development (n = 958, 94.3%), smartphone app (n = 809, 80.5%) or telephone hotline (n = 933, 91.5%), IT access (n = 861, 84.7%), and managing patients’ attitudes through the media in terms of the importance of declaring symptoms to (n = 998, 97.7%) and cooperating with (n = 977, 96.2%) referrers.

Conclusions

Pharmacists’ lack of preparedness to engage with the referral process and related roles contributing to tracking the national COVID-19 infection rate could be mitigated by the provision of facilitators suggested by respondents. These included improved cooperation from local healthcare authorities, educational interventions, technological solutions, and the use of the media. Demographics associated with pharmacists’ attitudes to referral, and hence the reliability and validity of the national infection rate, demand further investigation.
Recounting the untold stories of breast cancer patient experiences: lessons learned from a patient–public involvement and engagement storytelling event
Authors: Cunningham Margaret R , Rattray Nicholas J W , McFadden Yvonne , Berardi Domenica , Daramy Karim , Kelly Patricia E , Galbraith Allison , Lochiel Isobel , Mills Lorraine , Scott Yvonne , Chalmers Susan , Lannigan Alison , Rattray Zahra
Published: September 2024

Objectives

Breast cancer remains a prevalent disease in women worldwide. Though advancements in breast cancer care have improved patient survival, a breast cancer diagnosis, and subsequent interventions have a lasting impact on patients’ lived experiences during the pandemic.

Methods

We present the collaborative learning process from this patient engagement workshop series as a community-academic partnership. Narrative medicine tools were used to recount patients’ lived experiences following diagnosis, where both patients and researchers shared their cancer research activities in each workshop, and the role of the multidisciplinary healthcare team was discussed.

Key findings

We used an iterative approach to cohort building, narrative development, and the use of multiple media formats to capture stories. Over 20 patients with breast cancer shared their stories for the first time since their diagnosis with a wider audience. Here, we present the learning process and considerations from this event.

Conclusions

Understanding patients’ lived experiences can support researchers and healthcare professionals in developing an empathetic approach to shared healthcare decision making. Moreover, understanding the lived experiences of patients is critical to addressing disparities in healthcare.
NDM-5-producing Klebsiella pneumoniae ST258 in a university hospital in Argentina
Authors: Alvarez Carla , Nastro Marcela , Goyheneche Beatriz , Potente Nicolás , Ledesma Martin , Vay Carlos , Naas Thierry , Foccoli Mónica , de Gregorio Stella , Famiglietti Angela , Dabos Laura , Rodriguez Carlos Hernán
Published: September 2024

Background

A drastic increase in carbapenem resistance among Klebsiella pneumoniae isolates occurred during the period 2019–22. Three epidemiological changes could be evidenced: (i) NDM became the predominant carbapenemase; (ii) NDM-5 replaced NDM-1; and (iii) the emergence of NDM-producing K. pneumoniae ST258 (NDM-KpST258).

Materials and methods

Carbapenem-resistant K. pneumoniae isolates from patients on the ICU of a university hospital of Buenos Aires were studied during the period 2019–22. Identification was performed by MS and susceptibility by the Phoenix system (broth microdilution for colistin). Carbapenemase production was detected phenotypically. Molecular studies included PCR with specific primers and WGS (in some isolates).

Results

NDM-producing K. pneumoniae was statistically associated with the use of ceftazidime/avibactam between 2019 and April 2021, whereas in the period from May 2021 to December 2022, it seemed to be related to the presence of NDM-5-KpST258. A gradual increase in the number of urease-negative NDM-Kp-ST258 during 2019–22 was observed. The plasmid origin of NDM-5 was supported by its presence on the IncFII incompatibility group plasmid.

Conclusions

Our study describes the first outbreak of NDM5-KpST258 at an ICU in Argentina, remarkably associated with considerable changes in the carbapenemase epidemiology. The intrinsic characteristics of ST258 may contribute to increased spread of NDM in hospital settings, resembling KPC-2 dissemination.
Comparison of a Fully Automated Platform and an Established ELISA for the Quantification of Neurofilament Light Chain in Patients With Cognitive Decline
Authors: Agnello Luisa , Gambino Caterina Maria , Del Ben Fabio , Ciaccio Anna Maria , Scazzone Concetta , Lo Sasso Bruna , Ciaccio Marcello
Published: September 2024

Background

Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) is the most-used method for neurofilament light chain (NfL) quantification in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). Recently, fully automated immunoassays for NfL measurement in CSF and blood have allowed high reproducibility among laboratories, making NfLs suitable for routine use in clinical practice. In this study, we compared the Uman Diagnostics NF-light ELISA with the fully automated platform Lumipulse.

Methods

We enrolled 60 patients with cognitive decline, including Alzheimer disease (AD). CSF NfL levels were measured by a NF-light ELISA kit (UmanDiagnostics), and chemiluminescent enzyme immunoassay (CLEIA) on the Lumipulse G1200 platform (Fujirebio Diagnostics). Serum NfLs levels were measured by CLEIA on the Lumipulse G1200.

Results

We found a significant, very strong correlation [Spearman rho = 0.94 (0.90–0.96)] between CLEIA and ELISA in CSF, and a significant moderate correlation between CSF and serum with both analytical methods [CLEIA vs serum CLEIA 0.41 (0.16–0.61); ELISA vs serum CLEIA 0.40 (0.15–0.60)]. It is worth noting that CSF CLEIA measurements were approximately 136.12 times higher than the serum measurements.

Conclusions

Our findings show a robust correlation between ELISA Uman Diagnostic and the standardized Lumipulse G1200 platform for CSF NfL measurements.
Evaluation of precision feeding standardized ileal digestible lysine and other amino acids to determine and meet the lactating sow’s requirement estimates
Authors: Spinler Mikayla S , Woodworth Jason C , Tokach Mike D , Goodband Robert D , DeRouchey Joel M , Frobose Hyatt L , Uitermarkt Amanda , Gebhardt Jordan T
Published: September 2024

Two experiments evaluated the effects of precision feeding standardized ileal digestible (SID) Lys during lactation. Sows were blocked by parity and allotted to treatment on day 2 of lactation. In both experiments, sow body weight (BW), backfat (BF), loin depth (LD), and estimated N excretion were evaluated as well as litter growth performance. In experiment 1, 95 sows and litters were used. Three dietary treatments were provided using 2 diets: a low (0.25% SID Lys) and high Lys diet (1.10% SID Lys). Treatments included a control diet (1.10% SID Lys) fed throughout lactation, and NRC or INRA treatment curves for Lys intake. Sows fed NRC or INRA treatment curves received blends of low and high Lys diets using a computerized lactation feeder (Gestal Quattro Opti Feeder, Jyga Technologies, St-Lambert-de-Lauzon, Quebec, CA) to target a specific Lys intake each day of lactation based on NRC and INRA models for parity and litter size. In experiment 2, 56 sows and litters were used with 3 treatments, a control diet (1.10% SID Lys fed throughout lactation) and either a static or dynamic blend curve. For both curve treatments, low (0.40% SID Lys) and high Lys (1.10% SID Lys) diets were blended to reach target Lys intake. The difference between the static and dynamic curves was that the dynamic curves were adjusted based on actual Lys intake and static curves were not. Lysine intake curves were based on NRC model estimates, but targets were increased by 20% to target average Lys intake of 60 g/d across parities based on results of experiment 1. In both experiments, no differences (P > 0.05) in sow average daily feed intake or sow BW, BF, or LD change were observed. Sows fed the control diets had greater Lys intake (grams per day; P < 0.05) compared to sows fed either of the blended treatment curves. In experiment 1, pigs from sows fed the control diet had greater (P < 0.05) BW at weaning and preweaning average daily gain (ADG) compared to sows fed the INRA treatment curve, with pigs from sows fed the NRC treatment curve intermediate. However, in experiment 2, no differences (P > 0.05) were observed in pig weight at weaning or ADG. In both experiments, sows fed the blended treatment curves had lower (P < 0.05) calculated N excretion. In summary, for a litter size of 13.5 weaned pigs, 60 g/d of SID Lys is sufficient to maximize litter weight gain and can be achieved through blending low and high Lys diets. Precision feeding reduced N excretion compared to feeding a single diet throughout lactation.
A method for velocity modeling in a volcanic rock zone that integrates the amplitude envelope attribute and grid tomography: application to data from the North Jiangsu Basin
Authors: Wu Jizhong , Han Subo , Shi Ying , Wang Kexin , Yang Chenyu , Yang Qianqian
Published: September 2024

The complexity of volcanic rocks presents challenges in seismic data quality and fine characterization of structural morphology, making velocity modeling difficult. In this study, we propose a velocity modeling method for volcanic rock areas that combines the use of amplitude envelope attribute and grid tomography inversion. By exploiting the strong reflection characteristics of volcanic rocks, the amplitude envelope attribute is employed to identify volcanic rock structures, eliminating the need for labor-intensive manual interpretation. The grid tomography inversion technique is then used to derive background velocity fields for all strata. These are further refined by incorporating the residual velocity fields of volcanic rocks through fusion and superposition. This integrated approach significantly improves the efficiency and accuracy of velocity modeling in complex volcanic rock areas, overcoming the limitations associated with conventional volcanic rock structural models and resulting in more accurate velocity inversion. The effectiveness and feasibility of the proposed method for velocity modeling in volcanic rock zone are demonstrated through the application of seismic data from an oilfield in eastern China. The results highlight the method's strong industrial application value.
Full waveform inversion with smoothing of dilated convolutions
Authors: Chen Suyang
Published: September 2024

Full waveform inversion (FWI) is a method for building subsurface models with high resolution by optimizing a data-fitting problem. However, it is still a challenge to apply the FWI method to complicated subsurface models, because FWI is a highly ill-fitting inversion problem. When the simulated data differ from the observed data by more than half a cycle, FWI tends to suffer from the cycle-skipping problems and get trapped in a local minimum. To help the inversion to converge to the accurate subsurface model, we typically build a reasonable initial model or use low-frequency data to start our inversion. Here, we developed a novel technique called smoothing of dilated convolutions inversion (SDCI) to generate low-frequency components from seismic data to recover low-wavenumber components of the subsurface. In the theory part, we first present the objective function of the SDCI method and then derive the gradient of the objective function relative to the velocity using the adjoint-state approach. We then apply the method to a set of simulated data from the Marmousi model. The SDCI method can reasonably estimate the subsurface model even if the simulated seismic record does not contain information below 5 Hz. The numerical examples prove the effectiveness and feasibility of the proposed method. From the SDCI results, the FWI method recovers the velocity with higher accuracy and resolution.
Development and age estimation of the intrapuparial period of Phormia regina (Diptera: Calliphoridae) for postmortem interval estimation
Authors: Zhang Ruonan , Wang Yinghui , Chen Na , Li Liangliang , Guo Yi , Hu Gengwang , Gao Yundi , Shao Shipeng , Gu Zhiya , Wang Jiangfeng , Wang Yu
Published: September 2024

Phormia regina (Meigen, 1826; Diptera: Calliphoridae) is a Holarctic species that rapidly colonizes carcasses and has been used as an indicator for determining the minimum postmortem interval. However, studies using morphological methods to estimate the intrapuparial age of P. regina are lacking. In this study, morphological changes within the puparium were observed under a stereomicroscope at 7 constant temperatures ranging from 16 °C to 34 °C. The intrapuparial period was categorized into 12 substages. Morphological indicators, including compound eyes, mouthparts, antennae, thorax, legs, wings, and abdomen, were recorded in detail. The observed morphological changes were divided into 6–10 substages, and the duration of each substage was also recorded in detail. The results of this study provide primary data for using the intrapuparial morphology of P. regina when pupae are collected at a crime scene and estimating the minimum postmortem interval.
Contemporary prognostic signatures and refined risk stratification of gliomas: An analysis of 4400 tumors
Authors: Ghosh Hia S , Patel Ruchit V , Woodward Eleanor , Greenwald Noah F , Bhave Varun M , Maury Eduardo A , Cello Gregory , Hoffman Samantha E , Li Yvonne , Gupta Hersh , Youssef Gilbert , Spurr Liam F , Vogelzang Jayne , Touat Mehdi , Dubois Frank , Cherniack Andrew D , Guo Xiaopeng , Tavakol Sherwin , Cioffi Gino , Lindeman Neal I , Ligon Azra H , Chiocca E Antonio , Reardon David A , Wen Patrick Y , Meredith David M , Santagata Sandro , Barnholtz-Sloan Jill S , Ligon Keith L , Beroukhim Rameen , Bi Wenya Linda
Published: September 2024

Background

With the significant shift in the classification, risk stratification, and standards of care for gliomas, we sought to understand how the overall survival of patients with these tumors is impacted by molecular features, clinical metrics, and treatment received.

Methods

We assembled a cohort of patients with histopathologically diagnosed glioma from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA), Project Genomics Evidence Neoplasia Information Exchange, and Dana-Farber Cancer Institute/Brigham and Women’s Hospital. This incorporated retrospective clinical, histological, and molecular data alongside a prospective assessment of patient survival.

Results

Of 4400 gliomas were identified: 2195 glioblastomas, 1198 IDH1/2-mutant astrocytomas, 531 oligodendrogliomas, 271 other IDH1/2-wild-type gliomas, and 205 pediatric-type glioma. Molecular classification updated 27.2% of gliomas from their original histopathologic diagnosis. Examining the distribution of molecular alterations across glioma subtypes revealed mutually exclusive alterations within tumorigenic pathways. Non-TCGA patients had significantly improved overall survival compared to TCGA patients, with 26.7%, 55.6%, and 127.8% longer survival for glioblastoma, IDH1/2-mutant astrocytoma, and oligodendroglioma, respectively (all P < .01). Several prognostic features were characterized, including NF1 alteration and 21q loss in glioblastoma, and EGFR amplification and 22q loss in IDH1/2-mutant astrocytoma. Leveraging the size of this cohort, nomograms were generated to assess the probability of overall survival based on patient age, the molecular features of a tumor, and the treatment received.

Conclusions

By applying modern molecular criteria, we characterize the genomic diversity across glioma subtypes, identify clinically applicable prognostic features, and provide a contemporary update on patient survival to serve as a reference for ongoing investigations.
Scalable InGaN nanowire µ-LEDs: paving the way for next-generation display technology
Authors: Veeramuthu Vignesh , Kim Sung-Un , Lee Sang-Wook , Navamathavan R , Chandran Bagavath , Um Dae-Young , Oh Jeong-Kyun , Lee Min-Seok , Kim Yong-Ho , Lee Cheul-Ro , Ra Yong-Ho
Published: September 2024

Ever-increasing demand for efficient optoelectronic devices with a small-footprinted on-chip light emitting diode has driven their expansion in self-emissive displays, from micro-electronic displays to large video walls. InGaN nanowires, with features like high electron mobility, tunable emission wavelengths, durability under high current densities, compact size, self-emission, long lifespan, low-power consumption, fast response, and impressive brightness, are emerging as the choice of micro-light emitting diodes (µLEDs). However, challenges persist in achieving high crystal quality and lattice-matching heterostructures due to composition tuning and bandgap issues on substrates with differing crystal structures and high lattice mismatches. Consequently, research is increasingly focused on scalable InGaN nanowire µLEDs representing a transformative advancement in display technology, particularly for next-generation applications such as virtual/augmented reality and high-speed optical interconnects. This study presents recent progress and critical challenges in the development of InGaN nanowire µLEDs, highlighting their performance and potential as the next-generation displays in consumer electronics.
The Effectiveness of Nonsurgical Interventions for Weight Loss Maintenance in Adults: An Updated, GRADE-Assessed Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Clinical Trials
Authors: Ghoreishy Seyed Mojtaba , Noormohammadi Morvarid , Zeraattalab-Motlagh Sheida , Shoaibinobarian Nargeskhatoon , Hasan Rashedi Minoo , Movahed Samira , Hemmati Amirhossein , Nazarian Amirhossein , Fernandez Maria Luz , Shidfar Farzad
Published: September 2024

Context

Today, there are many discussions about the best way to maintain weight and prevent weight regain after a period of weight loss.

Objectives

The aim of this study was to summarize, based on data from randomized clinical trials (RCTs), the impact of nonsurgical interventions for adults’ weight loss maintenance.

Data Sources

The Medline (PubMed), Scopus, and Web of Science databases were reviewed during June 2023.

Data Extraction

Meta-analyses assessing the impacts of nonsurgical interventions for weight loss maintenance were conducted. Effect sizes of nutritional interventions were recalculated by applying a random-effects model. The Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation framework was implemented to determine evidence certainty.

Results

Meta-analysis of data from a total of 56 RCTs (n = 13 270 participants) represented a significant weight reduction after behavior and lifestyle interventions (mean difference [MD], –0.64 kg [95% CI, –1.18 to –0.09]; I2 = 89.5%; P < .001 for heterogeneity). Pharmacological interventions had also a significant effect on weight change during the weight maintenance phase (MD, –2.57 kg [95% CI, –3.12 to –2.02]; I2 = 91.6%; P < .001 for heterogeneity). The weight loss reduction from pharmacological interventions was greater with sibutramine (MD, –2.57; 95% CI: –3.12 to –2.02). Additionally, diet intervention and dietary and physical activity strategies were associated with a negligible trending decrease in weigh regain (respectively: MD, –0.91 kg [95% CI, –2.18 to 0.36], I2 = 55.7%, P = .016 for heterogeneity; and MD, –0.3 kg [95% CI, –4.13 to 3.52], I2 =  94.1%, P < .001).

Conclusion

The findings of this review indicate there is a favorable impact of behavior-based interventions and antiobesity medications on weight maintenance.

Systematic Review Registration

PROSPERO registration no CRD42023468056.
Jewish Networks Between The Persian Gulf and Palestine, 1820–1914
Authors: Kvindesland Eirik
Published: September 2024

Thousands of Jews moved from Qajar Iran and Ottoman Iraq to the Persian Gulf ports during the long nineteenth century. Attracted by colonial trade and British patronage, they formed communities on the Gulf littorals and expanded their social and economic networks across the sea. At the same time, modern transportation connected the Indian Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea, enabling collective long-distance migration. This allowed Gulf Jews to imagine Jerusalem as a worldly and reachable city, making it home to a budding Persian Jewish community from the 1880s. This article traces these migrations between 1820 and 1914 through a reading of the Hebrew travelogues of migrating Persian rabbis alongside imperial records written by British, Ottoman and Qajar officials. By moving through four different cities, Shiraz and Bushehr in Iran, Bahrain off the Gulf’s Arab shore, and Jerusalem in Ottoman Palestine, it shows how Jews settled the Gulf coasts while incorporating Jerusalem into an oceanic Jewish network. Visualized in this way, the migration of Gulf Jews contributes to redefining Middle Eastern Jewish geographies while establishing a dialogue between Jewish history and transregional histories of the Persian Gulf.
The effects of instrumental deadtime on NICER timing products
Authors: Webbe Robbie , Young A J
Published: September 2024

The X-ray timing instrument as part of the neutron star interior composition explorer has the potential to examine the time-domain properties of compact objects in regimes not explored by previous timing instruments, due to its combination of high effective area and timing resolution. We consider the effects of instrumental deadtime at a range of effective countrates in a series of observations of the X-ray binary GX 339-4 to determine what effect deadtime has on photometric and Fourier frequency-domain products. We find that there are no significant inconsistencies across the functional detectors in the instrument, and that in the regimes where instrumental deadtime is a limiting factor on observations that previous approaches to dealing with deadtime, as applied to RXTE and other detectors, are still appropriate, and that performing deadtime corrections to light curves before creating Fourier products are not necessary at the count rates considered in our analysis.
Mycophenolate mofetil directly modulates myeloid viability and pro-fibrotic activation of human macrophages
Authors: Morris Emily A , Parvizi Rezvan , Orzechowski Nicole M , Whitfield Michael L , Pioli Patricia A
Published: September 2024

Objectives

Mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) is an immunosuppressant used to treat rheumatological diseases, including systemic sclerosis (SSc). While MMF is an established inhibitor of lymphocyte proliferation, recent evidence suggests MMF also mediates effects on other cell types. The goal of this study was to determine the effect of MMF on monocytes and macrophages, which have been implicated in SSc pathogenesis.

Methods

Human monocyte–derived macrophages were cultured with the active MMF metabolite, mycophenolic acid (MPA), and assessed for changes in viability and immuno-phenotype. Guanosine supplementation studies were performed to determine whether MPA-mediated effects were dependent on de novo purine synthesis. The ability of MPA-treated macrophages to induce fibroblast activation was evaluated, and dermal myeloid expression signatures were analysed in MMF-treated SSc patients.

Results

MPA reduced viability and induced apoptosis in monocytes and macrophages at doses (average IC50 = 1.15 µg/ml) within the target serum concentration of MMF-treated SSc patients (1–3 µg/ml). These effects were reversed by guanosine supplementation. Low-dose MPA (0.5 µg/ml) attenuated IL-4 or SSc plasma-mediated macrophage activation, and inhibited the ability of SSc plasma-activated macrophages to induce SSc fibroblast activation. Gene expression studies demonstrated significant reductions in dermal myeloid signatures in MMF-responsive SSc patients.

Conclusion

For the first time, we have demonstrated that MMF inhibits the viability and pro-fibrotic activation of human monocytes and macrophages, which is dependent on de novo purine synthesis. Coupled with myeloid gene expression attenuation following MMF treatment in patients, these results suggest that the fibrotic inhibition observed with MMF may be attributable, at least in part, to direct effects on myeloid cells.
An approach to assess real workload of medical linear accelerators in Sri Lanka
Authors: Ramanathan Vijitha , Jayaweera Dunusinghe Karunasagara Mudiyanselage Upeksha Laksarani , Athukorala Athukoralalage Dilki Ayodya Dharani , Anas Noorul Jinnah Zeron , Aravinthan Kanthasamy , Ramalingam Appudurai
Published: September 2024

Due to the introduction of new radiotherapy treatment techniques and the increased number of cancer patients, there is a higher possibility of redundant workload on radiotherapy machines. Therefore, this study aims to assess the workload in three linear accelerator units. An 8-week survey was conducted in the selected three units, during which all treatment parameters were accumulated. The highest number of treatment sessions per week and highest weekly workload of dose at the isocenter were reported as 465 ± 24 and 1295 ± 93 Gy, respectively in the Varian unit at Apeksha Hospital. The cardinal angle was identified as the 00–300 range in all selected units. The modulation factors for the intensity modulated radiotherapy techniques showed significant variations among the three units. The estimated real weekly workload is quite high compared to previous studies. This study recommends conducting at least a one-year survey, considering all parameters, to obtain more reliable results.
Why do partners often prefer the same political parties? Evidence from couples in Germany
Authors: Hudde Ansgar , Grunow Daniela
Published: September 2024

Research has demonstrated that couples have similar partisan preferences, a finding associated with political polarization. However, it remains debated to what extent different mechanisms contribute to this homogamy. Analyzing dyadic panel data from the German Socio-Economic Panel 1984–2020, we distinguish analytically between (1) direct political matching (i.e., partner selection on matching party preferences); (2) indirect political matching (i.e., social structural homogamy with political homogamy as a by-product); and (3) couples’ political alignment over time, to explain party preference similarity. First, we study matching among recently formed couples using an innovative method that compares real-world couples with three types of counterfactuals: couples that are matched (1) randomly, (2) by multidimensional social structural characteristics, and (3) by maximizing similarity in party preference. Second, we study couples’ political alignment over the course of relationships, tracking real-world couples over time and controlling for macro-level changes in the party-political landscape. Results indicate substantial political homogamy among recently formed couples, which is best explained by political matching (i.e., direct selection based on partisan preferences). Effects of social structural homogamy appear weak in comparison and rather stable across cohorts. Couples further align in their partisan preferences over time, but this effect is countered by an increasing heterogeneity of the German political landscape.
Revisions, new taxa, and venation transformations of the sawfly family Blasticotomidae sensu lato (Hymenoptera: Tenthredinoidea) highlight the evolution of the basal Hymenoptera
Authors: Sun Chenhui , Rasnitsyn Alexandr P , Wedmann Sonja , Zhuang Jialiang , Shih Chungkun , Ren Dong , Gao Taiping
Published: September 2024

Wing venation pattern is particularly important in the taxonomy and classification of insects, especially for fossil material. There are recognized transformation series that apparently often represent a mainstream in the evolutionary trend of the wing venation of Hymenoptera. One notable instance is the gradual reduction of the subcosta veins from multiple branches to their total absence. Herein, we place four new genera and six new species in the family Blasticotomidae (=Xyelotomidae) of Hymenoptera. They are Xyelocerus abruptus sp. nov., Liberitoma tenella gen et sp. nov., Liberitoma compta sp. nov., Liberitoma incompleta sp. nov., Aduantoma insolita gen. et sp. nov., and Apertoma gen. nov. from the Middle Jurassic of China, and Enspeletoma oligocaenica gen. et sp. nov. from the Upper Oligocene of Germany. The newly discovered species of Liberitoma from China possessed a supernumerary hind branch of vein Sc in its forewing, which has apparently never been recorded before in other hymenopterans, and the unique venation pattern of Aduantoma suggests the possibility of two additional steps of vein Sc transformation before its complete loss. Based on the new findings, Blasticotomidae are proposed to be divided into four subfamilies: Blasticotominae Thomson 1871, Dahurotominae subfam. nov., Pseudoxyelocerinae subfam. nov., and Undatominae subfam. nov.