bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Data from Membrane-bound Heat Shock Protein mHsp70 Is Required for Migration and Invasion of Brain Tumors
Authors: Shevtsov Maxim , Bobkov Danila , Yudintceva Natalia , Likhomanova Ruslana , Kim Alexander , Fedorov Evegeniy , Fedorov Viacheslav , Mikhailova Natalia , Oganesyan Elena , Shabelnikov Sergey , Rozanov Oleg , Garaev Timur , Aksenov Nikolay , Shatrova Alla , Ten Artem , Nechaeva Anastasiya , Goncharova Daria , Ziganshin Rustam , Lukacheva Anastasiya , Sitovskaya Daria , Ulitin Alexey , Pitkin Emil , Samochernykh Konstantin , Shlyakhto Evgeny , Combs Stephanie E.
Published: August 2024

Abstract
Molecular chaperones, especially 70 kDa heat shock protein, in addition to their intracellular localization in cancer cells, can be exposed on the surface of the plasma membrane. We report that the membrane-associated chaperone mHsp70 of malignant brain tumors is required for high migratory and invasive activity of cancer cells. Live-cell inverted confocal microscopy of tumor samples from adult (n = 23) and pediatric (n = 9) neurooncologic patients showed pronounced protein expression on the membrane, especially in the perifocal zone. Mass spectrometry analysis of lipid rafts isolated from tumor cells confirmed the presence of the protein in the chaperone cluster (including representatives of other families, such as Hsp70, Hsc70, Hsp105, and Hsp90), which in turn, during interactome analysis, was associated with proteins involved in cell migration (e.g., Rac1, RhoC, and myosin-9). The use of small-molecule inhibitors of HSP70 (PES and JG98) led to a substantial decrease in the invasive potential of cells isolated from a tumor sample of patients, which indicates the role of the chaperone in invasion. Moreover, the use of HSP70 inhibitors in animal models of orthotopic brain tumors significantly delayed tumor progression, which was accompanied by an increase in overall survival. Data demonstrate that chaperone inhibitors, particularly JG98, disrupt the function of mHsp70, thereby providing an opportunity to better understand the diverse functions of this protein and offer aid in the development of novel cancer therapies.
Significance:
Membrane-bound mHsp70 is required for brain tumor cell migration and invasion and therefore could be employed as a target for anticancer therapies.
Tools to Assess Neurocognitive Development: Reciprocal Insights from Theory and Neuroscience
Authors: Arsalidou Marie
Published: August 2024

Neurocognitive assessments are fundamental for modeling human development. The proposition of this article is that insights from both theory and neuroscience can mutually advance each other, and both can serve as reciprocal tools for constructing improved assessments. Children begin with an abundance of neurons at birth and evolve into sophisticated problem solvers. Grounded in historical perspectives shaped by classic figures such as Ramon y Cajal, Binet, and Piaget, this article delves into the developmental theory of constructive operators. It integrates ideas from psychological theory and neuroscience findings. Four guiding principles emerge that can help steer the course of developmental cognitive neuroscience (i.e., age groupings, child-friendly and culture-appropriate assessments, and meta-subjective task analysis). These principles underscore the benefits of employing theoretically based measures that highlight cognitive potential in complement to learning outcomes and have applications both behaviorally and in neuroimaging. This strategic approach holds considerable promise for driving progress in science, education, clinical practice, and policymaking.
Sisaipho Revisited: Inverse Ophiasis or More than That?
Authors: Katoulis Alexandros , Pappa Georgia , Markou Effie , Kanelleas Antonios , Bozi Evangelia , Sgouros Dimitrios , Rigopoulos Dimitris , Rudnicka Lidia
Published: August 2024

Introduction: Alopecia areata exhibits diverse clinical forms, encompassing the less common variant, sisaipho. Clinical observations suggest its unique ability to emulate both male and female pattern hair loss, implying a potential androgenic influence akin to androgenetic alopecia. Case Presentations: Herein, we present 3 cases of alopecia areata in adults exhibiting a male or female pattern distribution or accentuation. Conclusion: To improve diagnosis and differential diagnosis of alopecia, the term “alopecia areata in a male or female pattern distribution” may be introduced as a new clinical subtype of alopecia areata. This new subtype could also integrate sisaipho. By introducing this refined terminology, we seek to improve our comprehension of the condition, enabling more precise diagnoses and tailored treatment approaches.
How to Prevent Local Recurrence of Sacral Chordoma Treated with Carbon-Ion Radiotherapy: An Analysis of the Risk Factors of Local Failure and an Adequate Disease Margin
Authors: Yanagawa Takashi , Okamoto Masahiko , Ohno Tatsuya , Chikuda Hirotaka
Published: August 2024

Introduction: Recent reports have described the usefulness of carbon ion radiotherapy (CIRT) for inoperable sacral chordomas. However, its long-term local control rate needs to be improved. The present study identified the risk factors that affect the local relapse of sacral chordomas and the appropriate margins from the tumors. Methods: Forty-nine patients with sacral chordoma treated with CIRT between 2011 and 2022 were retrospectively analyzed. Factors predicting the risk of local recurrence were evaluated, including age, sex, tumor size, muscle invaded with tumor, and surgery before CIRT. To determine the appropriate margin, the distance between the clinical target volume (CTV) and the out-field recurrent lesions was analyzed. Results: The patients included 37 males and 12 females with a mean age of 67.1 years. A multivariate analysis showed that a tumor size >8 cm and invasion into the gluteus maximus muscle were significant risk factors with hazard ratios of 5.56 and 15.20 (p = 0.02 and 0.01), respectively. Out-field recurrence occurred in 13 cases, with 6, 3, and 4 relapses occurring in the muscle, bone, and both, respectively. The tumor occurred within 20 mm from the CTV in 60% of relapses in the muscles. Conclusion: The current study presented novel findings on CIRT for sacral chordomas, although there were several limitations, such as a short follow-up period to investigate slow-growth tumors and a small number of tumor specimens owing to inoperative cases. A tumor size >8 cm and invasion into the gluteus maximus muscle were shown to be risk factors for recurrence in the treatment of sacral chordoma with CIRT. Our findings further suggest that an additional 2-cm margin from the CTV in the muscle fiber direction is recommended during CIRT.
Clinical features and treatment outcomes in patients in their twenties with ischemic moyamoya disease
Authors: Ono Yutaro , Akamatsu Yosuke , Araya Shizuka , Yamazaki Ryouga , Fujiwara Shunrou , Chida Kohei , Kobayashi Masakazu , Koji Takahiro , Terasaki Kazunori , Ogasawara Kuniaki
Published: August 2024

Introduction: Revascularization surgery is recommended for all pediatric patients with moyamoya disease (MMD) with ischemic symptoms because the brains of such patients are still developing. By contrast, no clear guidelines for selective revascularization surgery in adult patients (30 years or more) with ischemic presentation have been established. Regarding the age of initial onset of ischemic MMD, patients in their 20s are at the bottom of the distribution and this age group may share features with both adult and pediatric patients. The present prospective study aimed to clarify the clinical features and treatment outcomes of patients in their 20s (younger patients) with ischemic MMD compared with patients aged 30–60 years (older patients). Methods: While patients with misery perfusion in the symptomatic cerebral hemisphere on 15O-positron emission tomography underwent combined surgery including direct and indirect revascularizations in the first study period and indirect revascularization alone in the second study period, patients without misery perfusion in that hemisphere received pharmacotherapy alone through the two study periods. Cerebral angiography via arterial catheterization and neuropsychological testing were performed before and after surgery. Results: During 12 years, 12 younger patients were included and comprised 6% of all adult patients (194 patients). The incidence of misery perfusion in the affected hemisphere was significantly higher in younger (12/12 [100%]) than in older patients (57/182 [31%]) (p < 0.0001). No difference in the incidence of cerebral hyperperfusion syndrome and postoperatively declined cognition was seen between younger (2/5 [40%] and 2/5 [40%], respectively) and older (11/36 [31%] and 15/36 [42%], respectively) cerebral hemispheres undergoing combined revascularization surgery. No difference in the incidence of postoperatively formed collateral flows feeding more than one-third of the middle cerebral artery cortical territory on angiograms and postoperatively improved cognition was seen between younger (9/10 [90%] and 6/10 [60%], respectively) and older (18/22 [83%] and 14/22 [64%], respectively) cerebral hemispheres undergoing indirect revascularization surgery alone. Conclusion: Patients in their 20s with ischemic MMD always exhibit misery perfusion in the affected hemisphere, unlike older patients, and sometimes develop cerebral hyperperfusion syndrome after combined revascularization surgery, leading to cognitive decline, similar to older patients. Moreover, indirect revascularization surgery alone forms sufficient collateral circulation and restores cognitive function in patients in their 20s, similar to older patients.
The Overexpressed MicroRNAs miRs-182, 155, 493, 454, and U6 snRNA and Underexpressed let-7c, miR-328, and miR-451a as Potential Biomarkers in Invasive Breast Cancer and Their Clinicopathological Significance
Authors: Záveský Luděk , Jandáková Eva , Weinberger Vit , Minář Luboš , Kohoutová Milada , Tefr Faridová Adela , Slanař Ondřej
Published: August 2024

Introduction: Breast cancer comprises the leading cause of cancer-related death in women. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have emerged as important factors with concern to carcinogenesis and have potential for use as biomarkers. Methods: This study provides a comprehensive evaluation of the microRNA expression in invasive breast carcinoma of no special type tissues compared with benign tissues via large-scale screening and the candidate-specific validation of 15 miRNAs and U6 snRNA applying qPCR and the examination of clinicopathological data. Results: Of the six downregulated miRNAs, let-7c was identified as the most promising miRNA biomarker and its lower expression was linked with Ki-67 positivity, luminal B versus luminal A samples, multifocality, lymph node metastasis, and inferior PFS. Of the 9 upregulated sncRNAs, the data on U6 snRNA, miR-493 and miR-454 highlighted their potential oncogenic functions. An elevated U6 snRNA expression was associated with the tumor grade, Ki-67 positivity, luminal B versus A samples, lymph node metastasis, and worsened PFS (and OS) outcomes. An elevated miR-454 expression was detected in higher grades, Ki-67 positive and luminal B versus A samples. Higher miR-493 levels were noted for the tumor stage (and grade) and worse patient outcomes (PFS, OS). The data also suggested that miR-451a and miR-328 may have tumor suppressor roles, and miR-182 and miR-200c pro-oncogenic functions, while the remaining sncRNAs did not evince any significant associations. Conclusion: We showed particular microRNAs and U6 snRNA as differentially expressed between tumors and benign tissues and associated with clinicopathological parameters, thus potentially corresponding with important roles in breast carcinogenesis. Their importance should be further investigated and evaluated in follow-up studies to reveal their potential in clinical practice.
Downregulation of Rad51 Expression and Activity Potentiates the Cytotoxic Effect of Osimertinib in Human Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Cells
Authors: Ko Jen-Chung , Chen Jyh-Cheng , Huang Ching-Hsiu , Chen Pei-Jung , Chang Qiao-Zhen , Mu Bo-Cheng , Chen Jun-Jie , Tai Tzu-Yuan , Suzuki Kasumi , Wang Yi-Xuan , Lin Yun-Wei
Published: August 2024

Introduction: Osimertinib (AZD9291) is a third-generation epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) tyrosine kinase inhibitor that has shown significant clinical benefits in patients with EGFR-sensitizing mutations or the EGFR T790M mutation. The homologous recombination (HR) pathway is crucial for repairing DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs). Rad51 plays a central role in HR, facilitating the search for homology and promoting DNA strand exchange between homologous DNA molecules. Rad51 is overexpressed in numerous types of cancer cells. B02, a specific small molecule inhibitor of Rad51, inhibits the DNA strand exchange activity of Rad51. Previous studies have indicated that B02 disrupted Rad51 foci formation in response to DNA damage and inhibited DSBs repair in human cells and sensitized them to chemotherapeutic drugs in vitro and in vivo. However, the potential therapeutic effects of combining osimertinib with a Rad51 inhibitor are not well understood. The aim of this study was to elucidate whether the downregulation of Rad51 expression and activity can enhance the osimertinib-induced cytotoxicity in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cells. Methods: We used the MTS, trypan blue dye exclusion and colony-formation ability assay to determine whether osimertinib alone or in combination with B02 had cytotoxic effects on NSCLC cell lines. Real-time polymerase chain reaction was conducted to measure the amounts of Rad51 mRNA. The protein levels of phosphorylated AKT and Rad51 were determined by Western blot analysis. Results: We found that osimertinib reduced Rad51 expression by inactivating AKT activity. Rad51 knockdown using small interfering RNA or AKT inactivation through the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase inhibitor LY294002 or si-AKT RNA transfection enhanced the cytotoxic and growth inhibitory effects of osimertinib. In contrast, AKT-CA (a constitutively active form of AKT) vector-enforced expression could mitigate the cytotoxic and cell growth inhibitory effects of osimertinib. Furthermore, B02 significantly enhanced the cytotoxic and cell growth inhibitory effects of osimertinib in NSCLC cells. Compared to parental cells, the activation of AKT and Rad51 expression in osimertinib-resistant cells could not be significantly inhibited by osimertinib treatment. Moreover, the increased expression of Rad51 is associated with the resistance mechanism in osimertinib-resistant H1975 and A549 cells. Conclusion: Collectively, the downregulation of Rad51 expression and activity enhances the cytotoxic effect of osimertinib in human NSCLC cells.
Comece no zero e termine no dez: Dez instruções para desenvolvimento de projetos de extensão baseado em experiência prática
Authors:   Universidade de São Paulo. Faculdade de Zootecnia e Engenharia de Alimentos, Rocha Delaine Goulart da , Pavão Carolina Fernanda ,   Companhia Muller de Bebidas
Published: August 2024

A obra apresenta dez instruções para o desenvolvimento de projetos de extensão baseado em uma experiência prática. Os primeiros capítulos versam sobre uma estruturação da ideia e os elementos que compõem. A apresentação de gerenciamento do tempo, custos e riscos para a melhor saúde do projeto. A parte final engloba controle e avaliação. A proposta é apresentar ao leitor a organização para execução de projetos e estimular o desenvolvimento de projetos.
A polêmica sobre a avaliação da educação básica no Brasil: uma análise polifônica
Authors:   Universidade de São Paulo. Faculdade de Educação, Ribeiro Renato Melo
Published: August 2024

A investigação que originou esta publicação se inscreve no campo científico da avaliação educacional e, mais especificamente, nos estudos interdisciplinares que gravitam a modalidade externa e em larga escala de avaliação. O debate público sobre avaliação da educação básica envolve diferentes esferas de discussão, entre as quais têm proeminência: a esfera acadêmica, que envolve os experts da avaliação e os pesquisadores das universidades (nível mais abstrato e teórico); a esfera política, que envolve os atores políticos, de dentro e de fora do Estado (nível mais programático e estratégico); a esfera jornalística, que envolve as instituições midiáticas (nível de mediação entre as esferas); a esfera escolar, que envolve gestores e profissionais da educação (nível mais pragmático da discussão – das urgências e incertezas do cotidiano educacional). Esta obra concentra-se na sistematização e interpretação das tensões ideológico-discursivas da arena pública que discute a avaliação da escola básica no Brasil, com foco no exame da controvérsia na esfera científico-educacional.
Introduction
Authors: Bolfarine Mariana , Izarra Laura P. Z.
Published: August 2024

Introduction to the ABEI Journal 26.1.
“There was no God for her or the other poor people”: hunger in Liam O’Flaherty and Graciliano Ramos
Authors: Batista Camila Franco
Published: August 2024

This paper aims to perform a comparative study of the representation of hunger in Liam O’Flaherty’s Famine (1937) and Graciliano Ramos’s Vidas Secas (1938). The first novel, published in Ireland, takes place during the Great Irish Famine (1845-1852), in which about one million people died. The second novel, published in Brazil, is set in an undetermined Brazilian region where drought induces hunger and rural exodus. The works, although published in different countries, present similarities and differences in the representation of hunger, especially the period of publication, the narrators’ position, and the abjection of the hungry body (Kristeva, 1982). While Vidas Secas adopts an objective narrative, highlighting the protagonists’ lack of communication and rusticity, Famine takes an engaged perspective, holding governmental and religious entities responsible for the tragedy. Both works underscore the vulnerability of the poor in the face of repressive forces from dominant classes, emphasizing resistance as the only weapon of the underprivileged. Beyond physical hunger, the novels emphasize the need for political, social, and cultural nourishment for the disadvantaged, illustrating that oppression not only results in material deprivations but also in a social exclusion that silences and disempowers the less fortunate.
Séan O’Casey: A Minor Literature? Plough and the Stars’ Pub Scene through Deleuze and Guattari's Perspective
Authors: Queiroz Marina Naves S. M.
Published: August 2024

Esse trabalho busca discutir a cena do pub da peça Plough and the Stars de Séan O’Casey tendo a  perspectiva de Deleuze e Guattari acerca das literaturas ditas menores como ponto de partida. Considerando o contexto colonial e revoltoso em que foi escrita, não poderíamos analisar e compreender a ambientação que foi a Revolta da Páscoa e os seus efeitos nas personagens, bem como a maneira como estas operam no cenário do pub, sem ter em mente as três características da literatura menor: a desterritorialização da linguagem, a conexão do individual com o político e o caráter coletivo do enunciado. Entendendo essas marcas e como elas estão intimamente presentes na obra dramatúrgica, mais especificamente na cena escolhida para o estudo, é possível inferir se elas atuam de maneira essencial ou não na construção de sentido no trabalho literário de O’Casey. Por fim, passando por esses três pontos, pode-se falar sobre a possibilidade do pub irlandês ser como um novo território para os desterritorializados  — de maneira distorcida, mas democrática, sendo um espaço onde as personas da peça, pessoas do dia a dia, podem discutir ideias e participar da sociedade.
Abstract 1470: A Circadian Periodicity in the Time of Onset of ST-segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction Disappears in Obese Subjects
Authors: Sakamoto Tomohiro , Takahashi Naoko , Fukunaga Takashi , Oe Yoko , Miyamoto Shinzo , Tayama Shinji , Nakao Koichi , Ogawa Hisao
Published: August 2024

Background

It is well known that the time of onset of ST-elevation myocardial infarction has a pronounced circadian periodicity, with peak incidence of events between 6AM and noon. The circadian rhythm of blood pressure, heart rate, vascular tonus, and prothrombotic factors could generate the peak incidence. Plasma type-1 plasminogen activator inhibitor (PAI-1) activity also has the diurnal variation and is thought to generate the prothrombotic circadian rhythm. Adipose tissue is one of the main sources of circulating PAI-1. Therefore, we hypothesized that obese subjects had more distinct periodicity than those of non-obesity do in the time of STEMI onset.

Methods and Results

We reviewed data from 2,644 acute myocardial infarction patients who admitted to our institute from January 1998 to April 2009. Of those, 1,962 cases showed ST elevation in their ECG on admission. After exclusion of the cases with ambiguous onset time and missing demographic data, 1,719 patients (female 28%, mean age 68.2y) were analyzed. Mean body mass index (BMI) was 23.7 kg/m
2
and obesity (BMI≥25) accounted for 23.0% of the total cases. There were strong circadian periodicity, with peak incidence of STEMI onset between 6AM and noon in all (chi-square 49.887, p<0.0001; 19.1% in midnight-6AM, 30.7% in 6AM-noon, 26.8% in noon-6PM, 23.4% in 6PM-midnight) and non-obese (chi-square 59.201, p<0.0001; 17.2% in midnight-6AM, 32.4% in 6AM-noon, 27.4% in noon-6PM, 23.0% in 6PM-midnight) cases. On the other hand, in obese cases, circadian rhythm in the time of onset of STEMI disappeared totally (chi-square 1.592, p<0.6613; 23.2% in midnight-6AM, 26.9% in 6AM-noon, 25.6% in noon-6PM, 24.3% in 6PM-midnight).

Conclusions and Discussion

Contrary to our hypothesis, in obese cases, the onset time of STEMI dispersed evenly in a day. One possible explanation of this unexpected finding is that obesity is not a cause of loss of a circadian variation but could be one of results induced by preexistent circadian dysfunction, which affects diurnal rhythm of physiological and pathological conditions including STEMI onset time. Results from a recent molecular study, circadian
Clock
mutant mice are hyperphagic and obese, and develop a metabolic syndrome (

Science

2005
;
308
:
1043

), may support this speculation.
High-Throughput Deep Learning Detection of Mitral Regurgitation
Authors: Vrudhula Amey , Duffy Grant , Vukadinovic Milos , Liang David , Cheng Susan , Ouyang David
Published: August 2024

BACKGROUND:

Diagnosis of mitral regurgitation (MR) requires careful evaluation by echocardiography with Doppler imaging. This study presents the development and validation of a fully automated deep learning pipeline for identifying apical 4-chamber view videos with color Doppler echocardiography and detecting clinically significant (moderate or severe) MR from transthoracic echocardiograms.

METHODS:

A total of 58 614 transthoracic echocardiograms (2 587 538 videos) from Cedars-Sinai Medical Center were used to develop and test an automated pipeline to identify apical 4-chamber view videos with color Doppler across the mitral valve and then assess MR severity. The model was tested internally on a test set of 1800 studies (80 833 videos) from Cedars-Sinai Medical Center and externally evaluated in a geographically distinct cohort of 915 studies (46 890 videos) from Stanford Healthcare.

RESULTS:

In the held-out Cedars-Sinai Medical Center test set, the view classifier demonstrated an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.998 (0.998–0.999) and correctly identified 3452 of 3539 echocardiography videos as having color Doppler information across the mitral valve (sensitivity of 0.975 [0.968–0.982] and specificity of 0.999 [0.999–0.999] compared with manually curated videos). In the external test cohort from Stanford Healthcare, the view classifier correctly identified 1051 of 1055 manually curated videos with color Doppler information across the mitral valve (sensitivity of 0.996 [0.990–1.000] and specificity of 0.999 [0.999–0.999]). In the Cedars-Sinai Medical Center test cohort, MR moderate or greater in severity was detected with an AUC of 0.916 (0.899–0.932) and severe MR was detected with an AUC of 0.934 (0.913–0.953). In the Stanford Healthcare test cohort, the model detected MR moderate or greater in severity with an AUC of 0.951 (0.924–0.973) and severe MR with an AUC of 0.969 (0.946–0.987).

CONCLUSIONS:

In this study, a novel automated pipeline for identifying clinically significant MR from full transthoracic echocardiography studies demonstrated excellent performance across large numbers of studies and across multiple institutions. Such an approach has the potential for automated screening and surveillance of MR.
A diffusion tensor imaging white matter atlas of the domestic canine brain
Authors: Inglis Fiona M. , Taylor Paul A. , Andrews Erica F. , Pascalau Raluca , Voss Henning U. , Glen Daniel R. , Johnson Philippa J.
Published: August 2024

There is increasing reliance on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) techniques in both research and clinical settings. However, few standardized methods exist to permit comparative studies of brain pathology and function. To help facilitate these studies, we have created a detailed, MRI-based white matter atlas of the canine brain using diffusion tensor imaging. This technique, which relies on the movement properties of water, permits the creation of a three-dimensional diffusivity map of white matter brain regions that can be used to predict major axonal tracts. To generate an atlas of white matter tracts, thirty neurologically and clinically normal dogs underwent MRI imaging under anesthesia. High-resolution, three-dimensional T1-weighted sequences were collected and averaged to create a population average template. Diffusion-weighted imaging sequences were collected and used to generate diffusivity maps, which were then registered to the T1-weighted template. Using these diffusivity maps, individual white matter tracts—including association, projection, commissural, brainstem, olfactory, and cerebellar tracts—were identified with reference to previous canine brain atlas sources. To enable the use of this atlas, we created downloadable overlay files for each white matter tract identified using manual segmentation software. In addition, using diffusion tensor imaging tractography, we created tract files to delineate major projection pathways. This comprehensive white matter atlas serves as a standard reference to aid in the interpretation of quantitative changes in brain structure and function in clinical and research settings.
Incidental learning of predictive temporal context within cortical representations of visual shape
Authors: Kakaei Ehsan , Braun Jochen
Published: August 2024

Objective: Incidental learning of spatiotemporal regularities and consistencies—also termed ‘statistical learning’—may be important for discovering the causal principles governing the world. We studied statistical learning of temporal structure simultaneously at two time-scales: the presentation of synthetic visual objects (3 s) and predictive temporal context (30 s) in the order of appearance of such objects.

Methods: Visual objects were complex and rotated in three dimensions about varying axes. Observers viewed fifteen (15) objects recurring many times each, intermixed with other objects that appeared only once, while whole-brain BOLD activity was recorded. Over three successive days, observers grew familiar with the recurring objects and reliably distinguished them from others. As reported elsewhere (Kakaei & Braun, 2024), representational similarity analysis (RSA) of multivariate BOLD activity revealed 124 ‘object-selective’ brain parcels with selectivity for recurring objects, located mostly in the ventral occipitotemporal cortex and the parietal cortex.

Main results: Here, we extend RSA to the representation of predictive temporal context, specifically “temporal communities” formed by objects that tended to follow each other. After controlling for temporal proximity, we observed 27 ‘community-sensitive’ brain parcels, in which pairwise distances between multivariate responses reflected community structure, either positively (smaller distances within than between communities) or negatively (larger distances within). Among object-selective parcels, 11 parcels were positively community-sensitive in the primary visual cortex (2 parcels), the ventral occipital, lingual, or fusiform cortex (8 parcels), and the inferior temporal cortex (1 parcel). Among non-object-selective parcels, 12 parcels were negatively community-sensitive in the superior, middle, and medial frontal cortex (6 parcels), the insula (2 parcels), the putamen (1 parcel), and in the superior temporal or parietal cortex (3 parcels).

Conclusion: We conclude that cortical representations of object shape and of predictive temporal context are largely coextensive along the ventral occipitotemporal cortex.
Lettrism as Implicit Philosophy in 10th-century Jewish and Muslim Creation Theories
Authors: Sartell Elizabeth
Published: August 2024

This article presents a comparative reading of two 10th-century Islamicate lettrist works: Kitāb Khawāṣṣ al-ḥurūf by Ibn Masarra and a commentary on the Sefer Yetsirah by Saʿadia Gaon. Close analysis of both treatises emphasizes that philosophy coexists with other ways of knowing in lettrist theories. While some lettrist authors overtly employ a philosophical structure, this paper argues that others reference and re-interpret philosophical concepts (such as primordial elements and prime matter) implicitly within their work. Through reading these texts in conversation, I suggest that a framework of “implicit philosophy” creates space for lettrism within the domain of philosophy and science, while also acknowledging the intertwining aspects of mysticism, esoterism, and occultism that weave both within and beyond the realm of philosophy. Thinking in terms of implicit philosophy opens up new ways of understanding and contextualizing lettrist works, both as individual texts and as constituents of a broader Islamicate lettrist milieu.
Seasonal Forecast of Two-Meter Temperature and Precipitation in Tanzania: A Hybrid Cluster and Point-by-Point Machine Learning Approach
Authors: Sansonnet Camille , Schaeffer Michiel , Baarsch Florent
Published: August 2024

In seasonal weather forecasting, the exact location within a study area determines the relationship between local predicted variables and global predictors. Both dynamic models and machine learning approaches that define models for single grid points can determine these relationships with high spatial granularity, but at high computational cost. To avoid the latter, clustering of predicted variables is often used in machine learning approaches, which however sacrifices geographical resolution. In this paper, we present a machine learning approach that is a hybrid between gridpoint and cluster-based approaches (finres_S2S). This approach preserves geographical resolution, but at low computational cost, and is tested for monthly 2-m temperature (2T) and precipitation (TP) in Tanzania and for a lead time of up to 6 months. The finres_S2S approach has a number of advantages over both the cluster and point approaches, including that of obtaining good results compared to a dynamic model. We find that the dominant predictors for the application area are associated with El Niño–Southern Oscillation, the Madden–Julian oscillation, and the Indian Ocean dipole.

Significance Statement

Seasonal forecasting of atmospheric parameters is important in various fields including agriculture. Machine learning makes it possible to forecast at lower computational costs than dynamic models. This advantage is even more important in certain regions of the world. The hybrid model developed here (finres_S2S) allows seasonal forecasting with a spatial resolution equal to that of ERA5 data and a low cost in calculation time. The model is tested over Tanzania, and the seasonal forecast scores outperform those of ECMWF. The development of the use of machine learning in seasonal forecasting seems to provide a complementary response to dynamic models, and research efforts in this direction should be pursued.
Foreign Aid and Socioeconomic Development: The Perceptions of Aid in Nigeria
Authors: Aja-Eke Doris
Published: August 2024

Arguments on aid effectiveness, which are predominately cross-country analyses, remain contestable, with little attention paid to the end-users of aid. Hence, this paper makes use of survey responses from four States in Nigeria to examine the ‘perceived’ impacts of foreign aid on socioeconomic development. The findings show that arguments on aid effectiveness will remain contestable. This is evident even among end-users of aid. While people with lower socioeconomic status are more optimistic about the impacts of aid, this is not applicable across all States. Therefore, aid allocation should not be ‘a one-size-fits-all approach’. Hybrid systems that involve end-users are imperative.
Anti-SARS-CoV-2 mRNA vaccination among patients living with SLE in Sweden: Coverage and clinical effectiveness
Authors: Mageau Arthur , Simard Julia F , Svenungsson Elisabet , Arkema Elizabeth V
Published: August 2024

Objectives

To describe the uptake of anti-SARS-CoV2 vaccination in 2021 and investigate vaccine effectiveness in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients in Sweden.

Methods

The cumulative incidence of first anti-SARS-CoV2 vaccination was estimated among SLE patients from the Swedish National Patient Register and matched comparators living in Sweden on January 1, 2021. To assess vaccine effectiveness, we included the individuals who received two doses of anti-SARS-CoV2 mRNA vaccines before year 2022, with no COVID-19 diagnosis code before the 2nd vaccine dose. Hospitalization rates with COVID-19 as main diagnosis during the year after second dose were compared between SLE patients and comparators in multivariable-adjusted marginal Cox models, overall and stratified by immunosuppressive treatment received during the year before second vaccine dose.

Results

Vaccination uptake was similar between SLE patients and comparators. By December 2021, 9% of both SLE and comparators had not received any vaccine doses. Among 5585 SLE patients and 37,102 comparators, 11 COVID-19 hospitalizations in the SLE group and 20 in the comparators occurred. SLE was associated with a higher risk of COVID-19 hospitalization (HR = 3.47, 95%CI 1.63-7.39). The HR was higher for immunosuppressive-treated SLE (7.03 95%CI 3.00-16.46) than for immunosuppressive-untreated (1.50 95%CI 0.34-6.60). Vaccination of immunosuppressive-untreated SLE patients had similar effectiveness as comparators.

Conclusion

Anti-SARS-CoV2 vaccination coverage was similar between SLE patients and the general population in Sweden. Even though the incidence of post-vaccination COVID-19 hospitalization was very low, vaccine effectiveness was diminished in SLE patients compared to the general population and lowest in those treated with immunosuppressants.
Investigating the Impacts of Different Warning Modalities on Individual’s Risk Perception and Response Behaviors Through a Virtual Reality Experiment
Authors: Sanni Tolu , Liu Ziming , Lee Jiyoung , Song Wei , Liu Jun , Shi Yangming
Published: August 2024

With the impacts of global climate change, natural hazards are growing in, number and intensity, affecting American communities. Effective risk, communications have been identified as one of the best ways to prepare, for and mitigate natural hazards. Current natural hazard warning systems, remain inadequate since they are generalized and abstract. To address, this issue, this study explores how different modalities—specifically, haptics, audio, and text affect individuals’ risk perceptions and their, subsequent protective behaviors. This study developed a virtual reality, system and conducted a human-subject experiment with 24 participants, related to tornado risk communication. Task performance was measured, based on the time in the shelter, level of trust, expectations, and, intention to shelter. Risk perception and cognitive load data were, collected using well-established questionnaires. The research results, found that haptic-enhanced warnings were more effective in prompting, risk perceptions and protective actions compared to audio and static text, messages.
Developing a Team Classification Scheme for Human-Agent Teaming
Authors: Chung Hyesun , Holder Timothy , Shah Julie , Yang X. Jessie
Published: August 2024

This study develops a team classification scheme for human-agent teaming (HAT) and, based on this, analyzes 25 testbeds utilized in 68 empirical studies on HAT. The team classification scheme, adapting an existing scheme used for human-human teams, consists of nine dimensions, including team composition, task interdependence, role structure, leadership structure, authority differentiation, communication structure, communication direction, communication medium, and team life span. This scheme was then applied to analyze 25 testbeds utilized in 68 empirical studies. We found that a significant portion of existing literature on HAT focused on teams consisting of one human and one agent, with humans typically assuming leadership roles. Moreover, the dynamics within these teams tended to remain static over time. Our findings highlight the importance of further research into diverse team attributes, such as team composition, leadership structure, and communication structure. Such efforts would facilitate a deeper understanding of complex team dynamics in human-agent teaming.
Aging in a Smart Home? The Oldest Olds’ Attitudes Toward Technology for Aging-in-Place
Authors: Patskanick Taylor , Cerino Lauren , Ashebir Sophia , FakhrHosseini Shabnam , D’Ambrosio Lisa , Coughlin Joseph F.
Published: August 2024

Recent studies have explored the complexity of technology adoption among older adults, particularly for aging in place with smart home technologies. However, less is known about those aged 85 and older, a rapidly growing demographic in the U.S. This study investigates smart home technology adoption and attitudes within this group using a survey and focus groups, focusing on the perceived benefits and drawbacks of specific devices. Results suggest the primary advantages of this technology for this population, include enhanced safety, personal curiosity satisfaction, and eco-friendliness. Conversely, the main disadvantages were maintenance costs, initial purchase expenses, and the learning curve associated with new systems. Findings emphasize the over-85 demographic are highly interested in technologies that help maintain their sense of control and autonomy over their environment.
From fringe to front? Assessing the voting influence of the radical right in the European Parliament
Authors: Brack Nathalie , Marié Awenig
Published: August 2024

Scholars have long believed that the influence of radical right parties in the European Parliament was indirect due to their internal heterogeneity, limited involvement in parliamentary activities, and the existence of a cordon sanitaire. However, the consolidation of these parties, marked by the Identity and Democracy group becoming the fourth largest group in 2019, raises concerns about their impact on European Union decision-making. This article seeks to understand the extent and conditions under which the radical right group in the European Parliament can influence policymaking. By analysing roll-call votes from the 9th term (2019 to 2024), we introduce a measure of voting influence, operationalised as the ability of a party group to sway the outcome of a vote in plenary. Our analysis reveals that while the radical right group frequently joins winning majorities in the European Parliament, its voting influence remains limited because of the low levels of conflict in plenary.
Nighttime measurement errors in the runway visual range and optimization of runway lighting systems
Authors: Tai H-D , Wang Y , Chan P-W , Zhuang Z-B , Wang W-H , Liu H-W
Published: August 2024

Considering that existing theories consider runway lights as markers, neglecting their roles as lighting devices that increase sky background luminance and thus affect runway visual range (RVR) measurements, the actual values of sky background luminance observed by pilots during take-off are calculated and compared with the instrumental RVR measurements in this paper. The RVR measurement errors due to the installation positions of these devices are subsequently analysed. Furthermore, the impacts of different runway light types and positions on sky background luminance are explored, leading to the proposal of an optimized runway lighting scheme. The results show that the representation of sky background luminance sensor data in RVR measurement systems for nighttime airport runways is limited. A deviation of over 90% exists between the sky background luminance of the runway entrance and the RVR measurement equipment location, resulting in a relative error in RVR measurements of over 18%. The centreline and entrance lights contribute significantly to the total sky background luminance. Lights closer to the observer contribute more luminance. In the second proposed scheme, modifying the lighting range to 600 m yields the highest RVR improvement, with an optimization magnitude of over 5% across all visibility ranges.
Patency rates following treatment with the WRAPSODY™ Cell-Impermeable Endoprosthesis for recalcitrant renal access circuit dysfunction: Results from a tertiary Australian centre
Authors: Bond Richard G , Arasu Rohan , Jantzen Troy M , Alley Richard P
Published: August 2024

Objective

To describe clinical outcomes associated with the use of the WRAPSODY Cell-Impermeable Endoprosthesis at a tertiary center in Western Australia.

Methods

Patients with recalcitrant occlusive disease in the venous outflow of their arteriovenous access circuits were treated with WRAPSODY. Patients were prospectively followed up to 12-month post-procedure. Study measures included 30-day adverse events, technical success, target lesion primary patency, access circuit primary patency, and assisted access circuit primary patency.

Results

Twenty-seven WRAPSODY devices were used to treat 15 consecutive patients. The technical success rate was 100%. No device-related adverse events were observed during the follow-up period. Two patients did not complete the full follow up. Patency rates at 3-, 6-, and 12 months for target lesion primary patency were 100% (15/15), 100% (15/15), and 100% (13/13), respectively. Rates for access circuit primary patency at 3-, 6-, and 12 months were 73.3% (11/15), 46.7 % (7/15), and 46.2% (6/13), respectively. Edge stenosis was observed in 33.3% (5/15) of cases and accounted for 5 of the 8 patients who experienced failed access circuit primary patency on angiogram. Primary assisted functional patency was 100% at 12 months.

Conclusion

WRAPSODY can be utilized safely and has durable patency in real-world patients with complex anatomical renal access stenotic lesions. The therapeutic benefits associated with the device may encourage broader use in clinical practice.
Author, Artist, Actress: China's New Women Cultural Entrepreneurs
Authors: Berg Daria , Strafella Giorgio
Published: August 2024

Cutting across the boundaries of media, literature, visual arts, and cultural studies, this study examines the resurgence of cultural entrepreneurship in post-Mao China, focusing on how the new media have contributed to the rise of women cultural entrepreneurs as a new social phenomenon. It investigates the rise of China's women “cultural entrepreneurs” and their roles as tastemakers and cultural trendsetters, using three case studies from China's creative industries: author Anni Baobei, artist Cao Fei, and actress Xu Jinglei. The Chinese women cultural entrepreneurs are examined against the backdrop of the Reform-era history and growing importance of China's creative industries. Analysis explores how these entrepreneurs use the new media for content dissemination while spinning transmedia narratives about themselves. By examining female self-fashioning and the creation of the cultural entrepreneur as a new type of celebrity in China, the article aims to shed new light on the cultural and social negotiations in China's mediasphere.
Socio-economic Impact of Reducing Water Availability of Springs in Kandi Village, Devprayag, Uttarakhand: A People Perception Approach
Authors: Chaudhary Sambhawna , Pandey B.W. , Chandna Vaneeta
Published: August 2024

Water is necessary for sustainable development, which includes safeguarding the environment and the reduction in hunger and poverty. Demand is rising quickly, which is posing issues for many countries due to population growth and economic expansion. The goal of the current study is to examine the state of spring and water resources in Kandi Village, Devprayag, Uttarakhand, India, and how they affect farmers’ agricultural productivity from a socioeconomic standpoint. The key data used in the study were gathered from farmers using questionnaires. Using a stratified random sampling technique, a sample of 100 farmers was chosen for the data collection. The conclusion of the study is that there is currently very little spring, and ground water available. It has been discovered that spring is sparse to fulfil the need of annual irrigation requirements for economic purposes like farming. Lack of springs resulted in a reduction in the amount of land used for farming, a decrease in farmer revenue, livestock losses, etc. According to the findings, some ways to lessen the strain on the water resources available to farmers include building new dams, rejuvenating springs, teaching them how to use highly efficient irrigation systems, and educating them about modern production techniques.
Index Case HIV Testing Uptake and its Associated Factors at Oromia, Ethiopia
Authors: Hussen Mustefa Adem , Kadire Dawud , Kefeni Bilisumamulifna Tefera , Abdu Zakir , Chilo Eshetu
Published: August 2024

Background

Lack of index case testing increased the risk of contracting HIV among the families of index clients, partners, and biological children. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of index case HIV testing uptake and its associated factors at Oromia, Ethiopia.

Methods

An institutional-based cross-sectional study was conducted. A face-to-face interviewer administered structured questionnaire and chart review checklist were used to collect data. The data were analyzed using SPSS version 25. Logistic regressions were executed and statistical significance was declared at P < .05.

Results

The prevalence of index case testing was 80.2%. Factors associated with index case HIV testing uptake included HIV status disclosure (AOR = 5.4, 95% CI: 2.1, 14.0), discussed about HIV with family (AOR = 3.1, 95% CI: 1.2, 7.5), counseling of the index case (AOR = 3.3, 95% CI: 1.7, 10.6), perceived benefit of the index case tested (AOR = 3.2, 95% CI: 1.5, 8.7), being on ART 12 months or more (AOR = 2.6, 95% CI: 1.1, 6.1), and maintained privacy (AOR = 3.1, 95% CI: 1.3, 7.1).

Conclusions

The uptake of index case HIV testing was moderately high. Additionally, factors such as HIV status disclosure, discussion of HIV with family, counseling of the index case, perception of the benefits of HIV testing for the index case, duration of clients on ART, and privacy maintenance during service delivery were significantly associated with index case HIV testing. To enhance index case testing, it is crucial to raise awareness and ensure client privacy during the initial HTC visit. Encouraging HIV status disclosure through discussion and promoting adherence to HIV medication is also recommended.