bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The short‐ and long‐term effects of congenital occlusion loss of the unilateral first permanent molar on the temporomandibular joint morphology and position: A retrospective study based on cone‐beam computed tomography
Authors: Li Ting , Peng Sisi , Zhao Yuhan , Zhou Jianping , Dai Hongwei , Wu Yan
Published: March 2024

Objective

To investigate the effects of congenital unilateral first permanent molar occlusal loss (CUMOL) on the morphology and position of temporomandibular joint (TMJ).

Materials and Methods

Cone‐beam computed tomography (CBCT) images of 37 patients with CUMOL (18 males and 19 females, mean age: 13.60 ± 4.38 years) were divided into two subgroups according to the status of second molar (G1: the second molar not erupted, n = 18, G2: second molar erupted, n = 19). The control group consisted of 33 normal occlusion patients (9 males and 24 females, mean age: 16.15 ± 5.44 years) and was divided into 2 subgroups accordingly (G3: the second molar had not erupted, n = 18, G4: the second molar had erupted and made contact with the opposing tooth, n = 15). Linear and angular measurements were used to determine the characteristics of TMJ.

Results

In G1, the condyle on the side of the CUMOL shifts posteriorly, with significant side differences observed in Anterior space (AS, P < .05) and Posterior space (PS, P < .05). However, with the eruption of the second permanent molars, in G2, the condyle on the CUMOL side moves posteriorly and inferiorly. This results in significant lateral differences in the AS (P < .05), PS (P < .05), and Superior space (SS, P < .05). Additionally, there is an increase in the thickness of the roof of the glenoid fossa (TRF) on the CUMOL side (P < .05), and a decrease in the inclination of the bilateral articular eminences (P < .05).

Conclusions

CUMOL can affect the position and the morphology of the condyle and was associated with the eruption of the second permanent molars. Before the eruption of the second permanent molars, CUMOL primarily affects the position of the condyle. After the emergence of the second permanent molars, CUMOL leads to changes in both the condyle's position and the morphology of the glenoid fossa.
Characterization of PRAME immunohistochemistry reveals lower expression in pediatric melanoma compared to adult melanoma
Authors: Forchhammer Stephan , Aebischer Valentin , Lenders Daniela , Seitz Christian M. , Schroeder Christopher , Liebmann Alexandra , Abele Michael , Wild Hannah , Bien Ewa , Krawczyk Malgorzata , Schneider Dominik T. , Brecht Ines B. , Flatz Lukas , Hahn Matthias
Published: March 2024

Pediatric melanomas are rare tumors that have clinical and histological differences from adult melanomas. In adult melanoma, the immunohistochemical marker PRAME is increasingly employed as a diagnostic adjunct. PRAME is also under investigation as a target structure for next‐generation immunotherapies including T‐cell engagers. Little is known about the characteristics of PRAME expression in pediatric melanoma. In this retrospective study, samples from 25 pediatric melanomas were compared with control groups of melanomas in young adults (18–30 years; n = 32), adult melanoma (>30 years, n = 30), and benign melanocytic nevi in children (0–18 years; n = 30) with regard to the immunohistochemical expression of PRAME (diffuse PRAME expression >75%/absolute expression). Pediatric melanomas show lower diffuse PRAME expression (4%) and lower absolute PRAME expression (25%) compared to young adult melanomas (15.6%/46.8%) and adult melanomas (50%/70%). A significant age‐dependent expression could be observed. An analysis of event‐free survival shows no prognostic role for PRAME in pediatric melanoma and young adult melanoma, but a significant association with diffuse PRAME expression in adulthood. The age dependency of PRAME expression poses a potential pitfall in the diagnostic application of melanocytic tumors in young patients and may limit therapeutic options within this age group. The immunohistochemical expression of the tumor‐associated antigen PRAME is an increasingly important diagnostic marker for melanocytic tumors and is gaining attention as a possible immunotherapeutic target in melanoma. As the available data primarily stem from adult melanoma, and given the clinical and histological distinctions in pediatric melanomas, our understanding of PRAME expression in this specific patient group remains limited. The age‐dependent low PRAME expression shown here constrains the use of this marker in pediatric melanoma and may also limit the use of immunotherapeutic strategies against PRAME in young patients.
Drought priming‐induced stress memory improves subsequent drought or heat tolerance via activation of γ‐aminobutyric acid‐regulated pathways in creeping bentgrass
Authors: Yuan Y. , Tan M. , Zhou M. , Hassan M. J. , Lin L. , Lin J. , Zhang Y. , Li Z.
Published: March 2024

Recurrent drought can induce stress memory in plants to induce tolerance to subsequent stress, such as high temperature or drought. Drought priming (DP) is an effective approach to improve tolerance to various stresses; however, the potential mechanism of DP‐induced stress memory has not been fully resoved.

We examined DP‐regulated subsequent drought tolerance or thermotolerance associated with changes in physiological responses, GABA and NO metabolism, heat shock factor (HSF) and dehydrin (DHN) pathways in perennial creeping bentgrass.

Plants can recover after two cycle of DP, and DP‐treated plants had significantly higher tolerance to subsequent drought or heat stress, with higher leaf RWC, Chl content, photochemical efficiency, and cell membrane stability. DP significantly alleviated oxidative damage through enhancing total antioxidant capacity in response to subsequent drought or heat stress. Endogenous GABA was significantly increased by DP through activating glutamic acid decarboxylase activity and inhibiting GABA transaminase activity. DP also enhanced accumulation of NO, depending on NOS activity, under subsequent drought or heat stress. Transcript levels of multiple transcription factors, heat shock proteins, and DHNs in the HSF and DHN pathways were up‐regulated by DP under drought or heat stress, but there were differences between DP‐regulated heat tolerance and drought tolerance in these pathways.

The findings indicate that under recurrent moderate drought, DP improves subsequent tolerance to drought or heat stress in relation to GABA‐regulated pathways, providing new insight into understanding of the role of stress memory in plant adaptation to complex environmental stresses.
The Glycine soja cytochrome P450 gene GsCYP82C4 confers alkaline tolerance by promoting reactive oxygen species scavenging
Authors: Wu Jinyu , Fang Yangyang , Xu Liankun , Jin Xiaoxia , Iqbal Anam , Nisa Zaib_un , Ali Naila , Chen Chao , Shah Anis Ali , Gatasheh Mansour K.
Published: March 2024

Recent studies have demonstrated the crucial role of Cytochrome P450 enzymes (CYPs) in the production of secondary metabolites, phytohormones and antioxidants in plants. However, their functional characterization specifically under alkaline stress remains elusive. CYP82C4 was the key gene screened from a family of wild soybean CYPs in our previous studies. The aim of this present study was to clone the Glycine soja GsCYP82C4 gene and characterize its functions in Arabidopsis and Glycine max. The results showed that the GsCYP82C4 gene displayed a high expression in different plant tissues at mature stages compared to young stages. Further, higher temporal expression of the GsCYP82C4 gene was noted at 6, 12 and 24 h time points after alkali treatment in leaves compared to roots. In addition, overexpression of GsCYP82C4 improved alkaline stress tolerance in Arabidopsis via increased root lengths and fresh biomass and strengthened the antioxidant defense system via a reduction in superoxide radicals in transgenic lines compared to wild type (WT) and atcyp82c4 mutants. Further, the expression levels of stress‐related marker genes were up‐regulated in GsCYP82C4 OX lines under alkali stress. The functional analysis of GsCYP82C4 overexpression in soybean displayed better hairy root growth, increased fresh weight, higher antioxidant enzyme activities and reduced lipid peroxidation rates in OX lines compared to the soybean WT (K599) line. In total, our study displayed positive roles of GsCYP82C4 overexpression in both Arabidopsis and Glycine max to alleviate alkaline stress via altering expression abundance of stress responsive genes, stronger roots, higher antioxidant enzyme activities as well as reduced rates of lipid peroxidation and superoxide radicals.
Coworking Spaces and Mid‐Sized Cities in Peripheral Contexts: Conceptualising Development Trajectories
Authors: Danko Lukáš , Bednář Pavel , Lux Gabor , Kalman Judit , Belvončíková Eva , Horeczki Réka , Bálint Dóra
Published: March 2024

Coworking spaces and the creative industries represent a rapidly growing but highly diverse shared economy sector. The paper outlines the types of incremental or radical forms of change developed that lead to industrial–institutional coevolution based on evidence from selected cities in Central and Eastern Europe. The results suggest that CS in peripheral areas are contributing primarily to the path upgrading through local embeddedness of stakeholders. These spaces contribute to refocusing local creative ecosystems by enhancing competitiveness of microclusters. Results suggest that CS in peripheral areas are contributing primarily to the path upgrading through local embeddedness of stakeholders through remote workers and digital nomads These cases underline replicative entrepreneurship, where local stakeholders gather momentum for a subsequent period characterised by new internal structures and services in the urban setting. Considering the form of change, our results emphasise the importance of reproductive agency based on diverse services to digital nomads and remote workers.
Near‐infrared imaging of phytochrome‐derived autofluorescence in plant nuclei
Authors: Yoshinari Akira , Isoda Reika , Yagi Noriyoshi , Sato Yoshikatsu , Lindeboom Jelmer J. , Ehrhardt David W. , Frommer Wolf B. , Nakamura Masayoshi
Published: March 2024

Capturing images of the nuclear dynamics within live cells is an essential technique for comprehending the intricate biological processes inherent to plant cell nuclei. While various methods exist for imaging nuclei, including combining fluorescent proteins and dyes with microscopy, there is a dearth of commercially available dyes for live‐cell imaging. In Arabidopsis thaliana, we discovered that nuclei emit autofluorescence in the near‐infrared (NIR) range of the spectrum and devised a non‐invasive technique for the visualization of live cell nuclei using this inherent NIR autofluorescence. Our studies demonstrated the capability of the NIR imaging technique to visualize the dynamic behavior of nuclei within primary roots, root hairs, and pollen tubes, which are tissues that harbor a limited number of other organelles displaying autofluorescence. We further demonstrated the applicability of NIR autofluorescence imaging in various other tissues by incorporating fluorescence lifetime imaging techniques. Nuclear autofluorescence was also detected across a wide range of plant species, enabling analyses without the need for transformation. The nuclear autofluorescence in the NIR wavelength range was not observed in animal or yeast cells. Genetic analysis revealed that this autofluorescence was caused by the phytochrome protein. Our studies demonstrated that nuclear autofluorescence imaging can be effectively employed not only in model plants but also for studying nuclei in non‐model plant species.
Mediación tecnológica en el duelo: un análisis de los griefbots desde la psicología cultural
Authors: Jiménez-Alonso Belén , Brescó de Luna Ignacio
Published: March 2024

Objetivo. Reflexionar sobre el papel mediador de las llamadas tanatecnologías en el duelo, desde la óptica de la psicología cultural. Concretamente, las nuevas tecnologías digitales y los griefbots o bots de duelo. Método. Entrevistas en profundidad a tres dolientes, a fin de analizar cómo imaginan el modo en el que los griefbots o deathbots podrían mediar su experiencia de duelo y el recuerdo de sus seres queridos fallecidos. Resultados. Las entrevistas arrojaron una actitud ambivalente hacia esta nueva tecnología. Por un lado, se mezcla el deseo de mantener los lazos afectivos con sus seres queridos, y por el otro, un cierto rechazo e inquietud ante la perspectiva de interactuar con un programa basado en la huella digital del fallecido. Conclusión. El estudio permitió determinar que hay que ser prudentes a la hora de valorar el efecto potencial de las nuevas tecnologías, al margen del contexto de uso de cada doliente.
Resource Letter DM1: Dark matter: An overview of theory and experiment
Authors: Battat James B. R.
Published: March 2024

Dark matter remains one of the most significant scientific mysteries of our time. This Resource Letter provides an overview of the astrophysical evidence for dark matter and describes the broad set of theoretical dark matter candidates that have been proposed. Results from dark matter searches are discussed, with a focus on direct detection experiments.
Evolution-guided engineering of
trans
-acyltransferase polyketide synthases
Authors: Mabesoone Mathijs F. J. , Leopold-Messer Stefan , Minas Hannah A. , Chepkirui Clara , Chawengrum Pornsuda , Reiter Silke , Meoded Roy A. , Wolf Sarah , Genz Ferdinand , Magnus Nancy , Piechulla Birgit , Walker Allison S. , Piel Jörn
Published: March 2024

Bacterial multimodular polyketide synthases (PKSs) are giant enzymes that generate a wide range of therapeutically important but synthetically challenging natural products. Diversification of polyketide structures can be achieved by engineering these enzymes. However, notwithstanding successes made with textbook
cis
-acyltransferase (
cis
-AT) PKSs, tailoring such large assembly lines remains challenging. Unlike textbook PKSs,
trans
-AT PKSs feature an extraordinary diversity of PKS modules and commonly evolve to form hybrid PKSs. In this study, we analyzed amino acid coevolution to identify a common module site that yields functional PKSs. We used this site to insert and delete diverse PKS parts and create 22 engineered
trans
-AT PKSs from various pathways and in two bacterial producers. The high success rates of our engineering approach highlight the broader applicability to generate complex designer polyketides.
Determination of single-molecule loading rate during mechanotransduction in cell adhesion
Authors: Jo Myung Hyun , Meneses Paul , Yang Olivia , Carcamo Claudia C. , Pangeni Sushil , Ha Taekjip
Published: March 2024

Cells connect with their environment through surface receptors and use physical tension in receptor–ligand bonds for various cellular processes. Single-molecule techniques have revealed bond strength by measuring “rupture force,” but it has long been recognized that rupture force is dependent on loading rate—how quickly force is ramped up. Thus, the physiological loading rate needs to be measured to reveal the mechanical strength of individual bonds in their functional context. We have developed an overstretching tension sensor (OTS) to allow more accurate force measurement in physiological conditions with single-molecule detection sensitivity even in mechanically active regions. We used serially connected OTSs to show that the integrin loading rate ranged from 0.5 to 4 piconewtons per second and was about three times higher in leukocytes than in epithelial cells.
Chiral ground states of ferroelectric liquid crystals
Authors: Kumari Priyanka , Basnet Bijaya , Lavrentovich Maxim O. , Lavrentovich Oleg D.
Published: March 2024

Ferroelectric nematic liquid crystals are formed by achiral molecules with large dipole moments. Their three-dimensional orientational order is described as unidirectionally polar. We demonstrate that the ground state of a flat slab of a ferroelectric nematic unconstrained by externally imposed alignment directions is chiral, with left- and right-handed twists of polarization. Although the helicoidal deformations and defect walls that separate domains of opposite handedness increase the elastic energy, the twists reduce the electrostatic energy and become weaker when the material is doped with ions. This work shows that the polar orientational order of molecules could trigger chirality in soft matter with no chemically induced chiral centers.
Microbiota of laboratory channel catfish skin mucosa and aquaria water exposed to chloramine-T trihydrate
Authors: Kittel Elliott , Crosby Tina , Kocurek Brandon , Ottesen Andrea , Gieseker Charles
Published: March 2024

Here, we describe the skin mucosa microbiome of channel catfish (
Ictalurus punctatus
) before and after exposure to chloramine-T trihydrate. We also describe the aquaria water microbiome after the post-treatment period. These data provide a unique baseline description of skin mucosa and aquaria water microbiome from catfish reared in research aquaria.
Blunted blades: new CRISPR-derived technologies to dissect microbial multi-drug resistance and biofilm formation
Authors: Gager Christopher , Flores-Mireles Ana L.
Published: March 2024

The spread of multi-drug-resistant (MDR) pathogens has rapidly outpaced the development of effective treatments. Diverse resistance mechanisms further limit the effectiveness of our best treatments, including multi-drug regimens and last line-of-defense antimicrobials. Biofilm formation is a powerful component of microbial pathogenesis, providing a scaffold for efficient colonization and shielding against anti-microbials, which further complicates drug resistance studies. Early genetic knockout tools didn’t allow the study of essential genes, but clustered regularly interspaced palindromic repeat inference (CRISPRi) technologies have overcome this challenge via genetic silencing. These tools rapidly evolved to meet new demands and exploit native CRISPR systems. Modern tools range from the creation of massive CRISPRi libraries to tunable modulation of gene expression with CRISPR activation (CRISPRa). This review discusses the rapid expansion of CRISPRi/a-based technologies, their use in investigating MDR and biofilm formation, and how this drives further development of a potent tool to comprehensively examine multi-drug resistance.
Skin-to-skin stabilisation and uninterrupted respiratory support for preterm infants after birth: feasibility of a new and simplified rPAP system
Authors: Baldursdottir Sonja , Gunnarsdottir Kolbrun , Donaldsson Snorri , Jonsson Baldvin , Drevhammar Thomas
Published: March 2024

Background

The rPAP respiratory support system, used for delivery room stabilisation with nasal prongs, has been shown to reduce the need for intubation in extremely preterm infants. A simplified version of the system has been developed. The purpose of this study was to determine the feasibility of providing uninterrupted respiratory support with the simplified rPAP from birth up to 4 hours of life and to assess ease of use for skin-to skin stabilisation.

Methods

This was a non-randomised feasibility study conducted at Karolinska University Hospital, Sweden. Respiratory support with continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) and positive pressure ventilation if needed was given with the simplified rPAP using heated humidified gases. Respiratory support was provided in the delivery room, during transportation and in the neonatal unit, for a maximum of 4 hours.

Results

32 preterm infants with a mean (SD) gestational age of 33.4 weeks (±1.2) were included. Of 17 infants born vaginally, 13 were stabilised skin-to-skin. The remaining infants were stabilised on a resuscitation table. All infants received CPAP and nine received positive pressure ventilation. 31 infants received continued support during transport and after arrival in the neonatal unit. Minor interruptions in CPAP support occurred in all infants. The study did not reveal problems with usability of the system.

Conclusion

It is feasible to stabilise preterm infants with the simplified respiratory support system both skin-to-skin and on a resuscitation table, and to provide continued respiratory support with the same system during transportation and in the neonatal unit.

Trial registration number

NCT04244890.
Chronic pelvic pain and dysmenorrhea disguising a rare submucosal leiomyoma of the urinary bladder
Authors: Smith Brody , Khanna Kashish , Pierce Daniel P , Patel Trushar
Published: March 2024

Representing 0.43% of all urinary bladder neoplasms, leiomyomas are rare mesenchymal tumours with a benign pathophysiology. There have only been approximately 250 cases published on this subject, necessitating further inquiry into this disease and effective management protocols. Treatment options may include a broad spectrum of surgical interventions, from minimally invasive resection to radical cystectomy, depending on the location, size and symptoms associated with the tumour. To date, few cases of leiomyoma have resulted in recurrence after removal, and zero have reported malignant transformation. Described here in detail is a woman in her early 40s who presented with a history of chronic pelvic pain and irregular vaginal bleeding. The urology team completed further evaluation after imaging discovered a concerning bladder lesion. Eventually, she underwent transurethral resection, with the subsequent pathology revealing a rare diagnosis of leiomyoma in the urinary bladder.
Immune checkpoint inhibitor-induced myopericarditis
Authors: Alrayyashi Mohamed , Uddin Mohammed , Bdiwi Mustafa , Afonso Luis
Published: March 2024

A woman in her 30s with a medical history of metastatic rectal adenocarcinoma, currently on pembrolizumab, which started a few weeks ago, was admitted for abdominal pain. During the hospital stay, she experienced sharp chest pain. Troponin was 1885 ng/mL which peaked at 7338 ng/mL. ECG was unremarkable. The echocardiogram showed an Ejection fraction (EF) of 55%–60% and basal-inferior wall hypokinesis. Left heart catheterisation showed no coronary abnormalities. Cardiac MRI showed a non-coronary area of focal T1 and T2 hyperintense signal and transmural delayed gadolinium enhancement in the mid-basal inferior/inferoseptal wall consistent with myocardial damage. Pericardium showed increased thickness and adhesions at the right ventricular outflow tract consistent with pericarditis. Steroid therapy was initiated, and a marked clinical response was achieved. Immune checkpoint inhibitor-induced myocarditis and pericarditis is a rare complication associated with a high mortality rate, if untreated. Diagnosis requires a multidisciplinary approach, and early detection is critical to preventing a fatal outcome.
Real-world application of a smartphone-based visual acuity test (WHOeyes) with automatic distance calibration
Authors: Wu Yi , Keel Stuart , Carneiro Vera Lúcia Alves , Zhang Shiran , Wang Wei , Liu Chi , Tang Xuanzhang , Han Xiaotong , He Mingguang
Published: March 2024

Background

To develop and assess the usability of a smartphone-based visual acuity (VA) test with an automatic distance calibration (ADC) function, the iOS version of WHOeyes.

Methods

The WHOeyes was an upgraded version with a distinct feature of ADC of an existing validated VA testing app called V@home. Three groups of Chinese participants with different ages (≤20, 20–40, >40 years) were recruited for distance and near VA testing using both an Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study (ETDRS) chart and the WHOeyes. The ADC function would determine the testing distance. Infrared rangefinder was used to determine the testing distance for the ETDRS, and actual testing distance for the WHOeyes. A questionnaire-based interview was administered to assess the satisfaction.

Results

The actual testing distance determined by the WHOeyes ADC showed an overall good agreement with the desired testing distance in all three age groups (p>0.50). Regarding the distance and near VA testing, the accuracy of WHOeyes was equivalent to ETDRS. The mean difference between the WHOeyes and ETDRS ranged from −0.084 to 0.012 logMAR, and the quadratic weighted kappa (QWK) values were >0.75 across all groups. The test–retest reliability of WHOeyes was high for both near and distance VA, with a mean difference ranging from −0.040 to 0.004 logMAR and QWK all >0.85. The questionnaire revealed an excellent user experience and acceptance of WHOeyes.

Conclusions

WHOeyes could provide accurate measurement of the testing distance as well as the distance and near VA when compared to the gold standard ETDRS chart.
Relationships between sodium, fats and carbohydrates on blood pressure, cholesterol and HbA1c: an umbrella review of systematic reviews
Authors: Breeze Penny , Sworn Katie , McGrane Ellen , Abraham Sarah , Cantrell Anna
Published: March 2024

Background

The relationship between nutrition and health is complex and the evidence to describe it broad and diffuse. This review brings together evidence for the effect of nutrients on cardiometabolic risk factors.

Methods

An umbrella review identified systematic reviews of randomised controlled trials and meta-analyses estimating the effects of fats, carbohydrates and sodium on blood pressure, cholesterol and haemoglobin A1c (HbA1c). Medline, Embase, Cochrane Library and Science Citation Index were search through 26 May 2020, with supplementary searches of grey literature and websites. English language systematic reviews and meta-analyses were included that assessed the effect of sodium, carbohydrates or fat on blood pressure, cholesterol and HbA1c. Reviews were purposively selected using a sampling framework matrix. The quality of evidence was assessed with A MeaSurement Tool to Assess systematic Reviews 2 (AMSTAR2) checklist, evidence synthesised in a narrative review and causal pathways diagram.

Results

Forty-three systematic reviews were included. Blood pressure was significantly associated with sodium, fibre and fat. Sodium, fats and carbohydrates were significantly associated with cholesterol. Monounsaturated fat, fibre and sugars were associated with HbA1c.

Conclusion

Multiple relationships between nutrients and cardiometabolic risk factors were identified and summarised in an accessible way for public health researchers. The review identifies associations, inconsistencies and gaps in evidence linking nutrition to cardiometabolic health.
Comprehensive quality assessment for aphasia rehabilitation after stroke: protocol for a multicentre, mixed-methods study
Authors: Harvey Sam , Stone Marissa , Zingelman Sally , Copland David A , Kilkenny Monique F , Godecke Erin , Cadilhac Dominique A , Kim Joosup , Olaiya Muideen T , Rose Miranda L , Breitenstein Caterina , Shrubsole Kirstine , O’Halloran Robyn , Hill Annie J , Hersh Deborah , Mainstone Kathryn , Mainstone Penelope , Unsworth Carolyn A , Brogan Emily , Short Kylie J , Burns Clare L , Baker Caroline , Wallace Sarah J
Published: March 2024

Introduction

People with aphasia following stroke experience disproportionally poor outcomes, yet there is no comprehensive approach to measuring the quality of aphasia services. The Meaningful Evaluation of Aphasia SeRvicES (MEASuRES) minimum dataset was developed in partnership with people with lived experience of aphasia, clinicians and researchers to address this gap. It comprises sociodemographic characteristics, quality indicators, treatment descriptors and outcome measurement instruments. We present a protocol to pilot the MEASuRES minimum dataset in clinical practice, describe the factors that hinder or support implementation and determine meaningful thresholds of clinical change for core outcome measurement instruments.

Methods and analysis

This research aims to deliver a comprehensive quality assessment toolkit for poststroke aphasia services in four studies. A multicentre pilot study (study 1) will test the administration of the MEASuRES minimum dataset within five Australian health services. An embedded mixed-methods process evaluation (study 2) will evaluate the performance of the minimum dataset and explore its clinical applicability. A consensus study (study 3) will establish consumer-informed thresholds of meaningful change on core aphasia outcome constructs, which will then be used to establish minimal important change values for corresponding core outcome measurement instruments (study 4).

Ethics and dissemination

Studies 1 and 2 have been registered with the Australian and New Zealand Clinical Trial Registry (ACTRN12623001313628). Ethics approval has been obtained from the Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital (HREC/2023/MNHB/95293) and The University of Queensland (2022/HE001946 and 2023/HE001175). Study findings will be disseminated through peer-reviewed publications, conference presentations and engagement with relevant stakeholders including healthcare providers, policy-makers, stroke and rehabilitation audit and clinical quality registry custodians, consumer support organisations, and individuals with aphasia and their families.
Influence of stress history on thermal conductivity of saturated fine-grained soils
Authors: Sivaprasad Arjun , Basu Prasenjit
Published: March 2024

This research investigated variations in thermal conductivity k for normally consolidated (NC) and overconsolidated (OC) saturated fine-grained soils at different levels of vertical effective stress. A series of undrained heating tests were performed using a specially designed consolidometer with central radial heating arrangement and temperature measurements within a soil specimen. For different soils investigated in this research, k correlated well with soil consolidation characteristics (compression index λ and swelling index κ) and vertical effective stress σvʹ at both NC and OC states. However, the rates of increment of steady- and transient-state values of k ( kst and ktr, respectively) with σv′ differed from one soil to another. For OC clays, both ktr and kst increased with preconsolidation stress σc′. A set of equations were proposed to estimate both kst and ktr for saturated fine-grained soils as functions of σv′, λ, κ, and stress history. At a particular value of σvʹ, the dependence of k on overconsolidation ratio (OCR) and σc′ marked the importance of considering stress history in the determination of k. The influence of soil mineral composition on k was also explored. Quantification of soil mineralogical composition and available data on mineral thermal conductivity enabled prediction of ktr with reasonable accuracy.
Alleviating both $$H_0$$ and $$\sigma _8$$ tensions in Tsallis cosmology
Authors: Basilakos Spyros , Lymperis Andreas , Petronikolou Maria , Saridakis Emmanuel N.
Published: March 2024

We present how Tsallis cosmology can alleviate both $$H_0$$

H
0

and $$\sigma _8$$

σ
8

tensions simultaneously. Such a modified cosmological scenario is obtained by the application of the gravity-thermodynamics conjecture, but using the non-additive Tsallis entropy, instead of the standard Bekenstein–Hawking one. Hence, one obtains modified Friedmann equations, with extra terms that depend on the new Tsallis exponent $$\delta $$
δ
that quantifies the departure from standard entropy. We show that for particular $$\delta $$
δ
choices we can obtain a phantom effective dark energy, which is known to be one of the sufficient mechanisms that can alleviate $$H_0$$

H
0

tension. Additionally, for the same parameter choice we obtain an increased friction term and an effective Newton’s constant smaller than the usual one, and thus the $$\sigma _8$$

σ
8

tension is also solved. These features act as a significant advantage of Tsallis modified cosmology.
Virtual segmentation of a small contact HPGe detector: inference of hit positions of single-site events via pulse shape analysis
Authors: Dai W. H. , Ma H. , Zeng Z. , Yang L. T. , Yue Q. , Cheng J. P.
Published: March 2024

Exploring hit positions of recorded events can help to understand and suppress backgrounds in rare event searches. We propose a pulse shape analysis method to discriminate single-site events (SSEs) in the inner and outer layer of a small contact P-type germanium detector (HPGe). SSEs in the inner and outer layer have different pulse shape features, of which the rise time of the $$(T_{Q})$$

(

T
Q

)

and current pulse $$(T_{I})$$

(

T
I

)

are selected for discrimination. A 500 Bq Thorium-228 (Th-228) source is used to determine the boundaries between the two layers. The double escape peak events from 2614.5 keV $$\gamma $$
γ
-ray are selected as typical SSEs, their numbers in the two layers are used to calculate the volumes and shapes of those layers. Considering the statistical and systematic uncertainties, the inner layer volume is evaluated to be 47.2% ± 0.26%(stat.) ± 0.18%(sys.) ± 0.22%(sys.) of the total sensitive volume. Selecting the inner layer as the analysis volume can reduce the external background in the signal region of Ge-76 neutrinoless double beta (0$$\nu \beta \beta )$$

ν
β
β
)

decay. We use the Th-228 data to validate the inner layer model and evaluate the background suppression power in the 0$$\nu \beta \beta $$

ν
β
β

signal region $$(Q_{\beta \beta }=2039$$

(

Q

β
β

=
2039

 keV). The virtual segmentation further reduces the background from the external Th-228 source by about 10%. The virtual segmentation could be used to efficiently suppress surface background like electrons from Ar-42 decay in 0$$\nu \beta \beta $$

ν
β
β

experiments using germanium detectors immersed in liquid argon.
Film lifting and drainage of third-grade fluid on a vertical belt with surface tension
Authors: Ashraf H. , Shah Nehad Ali , Shahzadi Misbah , Rehman Hamood Ur , Ali Amjad , Kumar M. Dinesh , Raju C. S. K. , Mennouni Abdelaziz , Muhammad Noor , Wakif Abderrahim , Walait A. , Ramesh Katta , Oreyeni T. , Prasannakumara B. C.
Published: March 2024

Understanding the film lifting and draining of fluid on a vertical belt with surface tension is crucial for improving predictive models in coating and lubrication processes. This paper presents a theoretical study on the film lifting and drainage of a third-grade fluid with surface tension. The driving mechanisms on a vertical belt are the belt’s upward movement, the gradient of surface tension, and gravity. The formulated nonlinear ordinary differential equation (ODE) is solved for a series-form solution using the Adomian decomposition method. Numerical computations are used to determine the stationary point placements and the thickness of the uniform film. The study elucidated that lift velocity shows a decreasing trend, while drainage velocity exhibits an increasing trend with increasing values of inverse capillary number C and Stokes number [Formula: see text]. The lift velocity shows an increase, whereas the drainage velocity demonstrates a decrease with an increase in the Deborah number De. With increasing values of [Formula: see text] and C, the stationary points shift away from the fluid–air interface, while an increase in De causes them to move towards the interface. Surface tension plays a role in supporting drainage and leads to a shift in the stationary points towards the belt. Newtonian and third-grade fluids are also compared in terms of velocity, stationary points, uniform film, and surface tension, providing insight into their behavior.
Parallel differential evolution paradigm for multilayer electromechanical device optimization
Authors: Zameer Aneela , Naz Sidra , Raja Muhammad Asif Zahoor
Published: March 2024

Design optimization of multilayer piezoelectric transducers is intended for efficient and practical usage of wideband transducers for fault diagnosis, biomedical, and underwater applications through adjusting layer thicknesses and volume fraction of piezoelectric material in each layer. In this context, we propose a parallel differential evolution (PDE) algorithm to mitigate the complexities of multivariate optimization as well as the computation time to achieve an optimized wideband transducer for the particular application. For lead magnesium niobate-lead titanate (PMN PT)- and PZT5h-based piezoelectric materials, the fitness function is formulated based on uniformity of mechanical pressure at the first three harmonics to achieve wide bandwidth in the required functional frequency range. It is carried out using a one-dimensional model (ODM), while input layer thicknesses and volume fractions of active material are evaluated using PDE. The simulation is performed on a parallel computing platform utilizing three different host machines to reduce computational time. Results of the proposed methodology for PDE are statistically represented in the form of minimum, maximum, mean, and standard deviation of fitness value, while graphically represented in terms of speedup and time. It can be observed that the execution time for parallel DE decreases with the increasing number of cores.
Exploring the Cross-Correlations between Tesla Stock Price, New Energy Vehicles and Oil Prices: A Multifractal and Causality Analysis
Authors: Gong Xingyue , Jia Guo-Zhu
Published: March 2024

The interaction between new energy vehicle (NEV) stock prices and the crude oil market is crucial for resource allocation and risk management. This study employs Multifractal detrended cross-correlation analysis (MF-DCCA) to investigate the multifractal characteristics of the cross-correlation between Tesla stock price (TSLA) and crude oil price (Brent), as well as between TSLA and other NEV stocks (excluding TSLA). The experimental results reveal long-term persistence and multiple fractal characteristics in the cross-correlations. Additionally, multifractal asymmetric detrended cross-correlation analysis (MF-ADCCA) demonstrates the asymmetry of the cross-correlation during upward or downward trends between TSLA and Brent, as well as between TSLA and other NEV stocks (excluding TSLA). Furthermore, utilizing the transfer entropy (TE) method, we assess the strength and direction of information flows between TSLA and Brent, and between TSLA and other NEV stocks (excluding TSLA). Interestingly, we observe bidirectional information transmission between TSLA and other NEV stocks, while only unidirectional information transmission from NIO to TSLA is evident. These findings provide valuable insights for resource allocation, supply chain management and sustainable development strategies for decision-makers in the NEV market.
Prevalence and Associated Risk Factors of Eimeria bovis and Eimeria zuernii in Kacha Bira District, Central Ethiopia
Authors: Mathewos Mesfin , Endale Habtamu
Published: March 2024

Background. Eimeriosis, which is caused by several Eimeria species, is a protozoan disease affecting the cattle worldwide. The current investigation was aimed at ascertaining the prevalence of bovine eimeriosis, evaluation of the involved risk variables, and identification of the several Eimeria species that were prevalent in the Kacha Bira district of central Ethiopia. Methods. A cross‐sectional coprological assessment of Bovine coccidiosis and its associated risk factors through a simple random sampling technique was conducted from January 2021 to December 2022. Results. The cumulative prevalence of coccidia was 17.83% (82/460) in the current investigation, with Eimeria bovis, Eimeria zuernii, and mixed infections having a respective prevalence of 7.83%, 3.25%, and 6.74%. From the anticipated risk factors, cattle age and months of the year have revealed a statistically significant (p < 0.05) association with the prevalence of eimeriosis in the cattle under investigation. However, there were no statistically significant (p > 0.05) relationships between the coccidia infection and the sex and breed of cattle and the season. Conclusion. During the study, a high prevalence rate of bovine eimeriosis was recorded. Thus, a further detailed study involving molecular techniques to identify prevailing Eimeria species is paramount to develop and put into effect evidence‐based control strategies to tackle the prevalence and subsequent effect of eimeriosis.
Prevalence and Progression of Gingivitis in Domestic Cats in Subtropical Mexico
Authors: Villegas-Ferré Ana G. , Martínez-Aguilar Víctor , Valencia-Arjona Samantha , Gutiérrez-Blanco Eduardo , Jiménez-Coello Matilde , Segura-Correa José C. , Ortega-Pacheco Antonio
Published: March 2024

With the objective to characterize the gingival index (GI) and its progression, 218 domestic cats in a subtropical region of Mexico were studied. All teeth of each cat were examined with a periodontal probe to determine the GI; in addition, the absence of teeth was recorded. Six months later, the teeth of the 38 cats were again examined to assess any progression of the GI and loss of teeth. From the 218 cats, 33.0% of them develop some degree of gingival inflammation; from those, 61.5% were classified as GI 1. Age, sex, and neutered status were associated with tooth affections. Missed teeth were observed in 35% of the cats, particularly for molars 109 and 209 in both sexes. After six months, the number of teeth with GI 1 decreased to 20%. The gingival problems in cats have not been well studied, particularly at the speed they progress and how this can affect the loss of teeth; under the conditions of this study, a high frequency of gingival inflammation even at early age was demonstrated, with a rapid tooth loss. Although young males were more prone to develop gingivitis, females tend to loss more teeth. Non‐neutered cats tended to develop more dental affections.
Assessment of Ameliorative Effect of Myrica esculenta in a DSS-Induced Murine Model against Ulcerative Colitis
Authors: Joshi Monika , Pandey Manju , Ved Akash
Published: March 2024

Background. Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a type of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) delineated by inflammation or ulcers in the colon that may cause diarrhea, abdominal pain, blood in the stool, tenesmus, etc. Objective. To determine therapeutic effectiveness and explore the mechanism of MeEt extract against DSS (3%)-induced UC in Swiss albino mice. Methods. Six mice were allocated into five groups at random: group1: vehicle control; group 2: DSS control; group 3: DSS+mesalazine (MSZ, 100 mg/kg BW); group 4: DSS+MeEt (200 mg/kg BW); and group 5: DSS+MeEt (400 mg/kg BW). Except for group 1, DSS (3%) in drinking water was given to all other groups to induce UC. %BW, average food intake, and mean stool consistency were determined for obtaining DAI scores. Mice were euthanized on the 8th day, and colonic tissues were taken to measure the colon length. Serum and tissue levels of the cytokines were also determined using ELISA kits, followed by histopathological analysis of colon tissue. In addition, hematological and serum biochemical parameters were also determined to assess the treatment effectiveness. Result. During the induction, DAI scores, colon length, and cytokines levels were significantly increased. MSZ at 100 mg/kg BW and MeEt at 400 mg/kg BW doses via oral route significantly reversed the DAI scores and colon length. Further, MeEt 400 also downregulated the expression of IL-6, IL-8, TNF-α, IFN-γ, and IL-1 and upregulated the production of IL-1β and IL-10. Also, improvements in hematological and serum biochemical parameters were reported. Histopathological analysis revealed a decrease in inflammation and damage to colon tissue with the administration of MeEt extract. Conclusion. MeEt at a 400 mg/kg BW dose may be used as an alternate treatment for the management of UC, which is comparable with that of MSZ.
Temporal and Spatial Evolution and Factors Influencing Tourist Resorts in China
Authors: Zhu Huying , Yan Xiang
Published: March 2024

Tourist resorts play a crucial role in providing people with diverse and high-quality leisure and vacation options. The development of tourist resorts is integral to the high-quality growth of the national tourism industry. This study utilizes a combination of the nearest neighbour index, kernel density analysis, and geographic concentration index to examine the spatial and temporal distribution of 758 national and provincial tourist resorts in China. The analysis reveals several key findings: (1) the years 1992 and 2015 were pivotal for the development of China’s tourist resorts, with significant government attention and steady growth in the number of national tourism resorts from 2015 to 2023. (2) The distribution of China’s tourist resorts shows an overall uneven distribution at a national level but a more balanced distribution locally. The southeast region exhibits a high and even distribution density, while the northwest region has a lower density and quantity of resorts. (3) Some specific areas have emerged such as the junction of Anhui, Hubei, and Jiangxi provinces as the first core gathering areas and the junction of Shanxi, Jiangsu, and Zhejiang provinces as the secondary core areas. These core areas have gradually weakened and spread to other regions, leading to changes in the distribution patterns of tourist resorts. (4) The distribution of China’s tourist resorts is influenced by various factors, including economic development, resource endowment, source market, and government support. Government support is a key factor in accelerating the development of tourism resorts. These findings shed light on the complex dynamics shaping the distribution of tourist resorts in China.
In Vitro Antischistosomal Activity of Bridelia ferruginea, Clausena anisata, Khaya senegalensis, and Vernonia amygdalina
Authors: Kuevi Deryl Nii Okantey , Keiser Jennifer , Häberli Cécile , Owusu-Senyah Abena Konadu , Ahiabu Mawutor Kwame
Published: March 2024

Background. Schistosomiasis is caused by parasitic flatworms and the disease is endemic to most countries in sub-Saharan Africa including Ghana. The current therapeutic agent for managing this disease solely relies on praziquantel. The continual dependence on this single available drug could lead to possible drug resistance. This study seeks to evaluate the antischistosomal activity of the following Ghanaian medicinal plants: Khaya senegalensis, Vernonia amygdalina, Clausena anisata, and Bridelia ferruginea. Methodology. Two concentrations (100 μg/mL and 50 μg/mL) of each extract were tested in a 96-well plate containing 30 newly transformed schistosomula (NTS). Moreover, six worms of both sexes of adult Schistosoma mansoni were exposed to the extracts diluted in the RPMI medium. The assay was performed in a 24-well plate. The parasitic worms were examined using an inverted optical microscope. Results. At 100 μg/mL and 50 μg/mL, all extracts performed better and showed strong activity (p<0.001) against NTS; thus, 98.08%, 100%, 80.77%, and 100% for Clausena, Vernonia, Bridelia, and Khaya, respectively, when compared to praziquantel. Strong activity was recorded when the extracts underwent testing against Schistosoma mansoni adults at 100 μg/mL; 96.35%, 100%, and 94.55% for Vernonia, Bridelia, and Khaya, respectively, except for Clausena which exhibited weak activity, i.e., 56.02%. There was no significant difference between Vernonia, Bridelia, and Khaya when compared to praziquantel. Conclusion. At 100 μg/mL, Khaya senegalensis, Vernonia amygdalina, and Bridelia ferruginea extracts demonstrated strong activity against both schistosomula and adult Schistosoma mansoni. These data can serve as baseline information in the quest to find alternative therapeutic agents to treat schistosomiasis.
Supplementary Data from Temozolomide Sensitizes ARID1A-Mutated Cancers to PARP Inhibitors
Authors: Yu Zheng-Cheng , Li Tianhe , Tully Ellen , Huang Peng , Chen Chih-Ning , Oberdoerffer Philipp , Gaillard Stephanie , Shih Ie-Ming , Wang Tian-Li
Published: March 2024

Supplementary Figures
TABLE 2 from Immune Profiling of Vulvar Squamous Cell Cancer Discovers a Macrophage-rich Subtype Associated with Poor Prognosis
Authors: Condic Mateja , Rohr Andrea , Riemann Soheila , Staerk Christian , Ayub Tiyasha H. , Doeser Anna , Zillinger Thomas , Merkelbach-Bruse Sabine , Buettner Reinhard , Barchet Winfried , Rudlowski Christian , Mustea Alexander , Kübler Kirsten
Published: March 2024

Stromal TAMs indicate aggressive tumor biology. Association between intratumoral and stromal immune cell counts and clinicopathologic parameters