bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Association Between MScanFit Motor Unit Number Estimation and Clinical Function and Response to Immunoglobulin Therapy in Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyneuropathy
Authors: Hansen Peter N. , Mohammed Abdullahi A. , Markvardsen Lars K. , Andersen Henning , Tankisi Hatice , Sindrup Søren H. , Krøigård Thomas
Published: January 2025

Background and Aims

Loss of motor units in chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy is difficult to assess by conventional nerve conduction due to collateral innervation. We aimed to assess the association between a motor unit number estimate (MUNE) derived from the compound muscle action potential (CMAP) scan using MScanFit and hand function and the clinical response to intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG).

Methods

Forty‐nine CIDP patients and 52 control subjects were included. CMAP scan recordings were obtained from the right abductor pollicis brevis muscle. The primary outcome was the correlation between MUNE and the duration of the nine‐hole‐peg test (9‐HPT) at baseline and the change in the duration of the 9‐HPT following treatment with IVIG. Secondary outcomes were grip strength, 10‐m‐walk test, six‐spot‐step test, medical research council sum score, inflammatory neuropathy cause and treatment sensory sum score, overall neuropathy limitations scale, and the Rasch‐built overall disability scale (R‐ODS).

Results

MScanFit analysis suggested both loss of motor units (reduced MUNE (p = 0.022) and N50 (p < 0.0001)) and collateral reinnervation (increased median amplitude (p < 0.0001) and size of the largest unit (p < 0.0001)) in CIDP patients compared to controls. In CIDP patients, there was a statistically significant correlation between MUNE and the duration of the 9‐HPT (Spearman's r = −0.342; p = 0.016). Further, patients with a low MUNE had the largest reduction in the duration of the 9‐HPT following IVIG treatment (r = −0.577; p = 0.043). MUNE also correlated significantly with R‐ODS (r = −0.722; p = 0.007).

Interpretation

MScanFit MUNE could be a useful method for assessing motor axonal loss in CIDP, which correlates with the clinical function and treatment response.
Hip Dysplasia in Charcot–Marie–Tooth Disease: Insights From a Large Cohort of Children and Adolescents
Authors: Tan Khian Aun , Ryan Monique M. , Kennedy Rachel A. , Carroll Kate , de Valle Katy , Kollias Carrie M. , Yiu Eppie M.
Published: January 2025

Background and Aims

Despite the known association of hip dysplasia and Charcot Marie Tooth disease (CMT), evidence is limited regarding its exact prevalence. Available studies pre‐date genetic confirmation of CMT subtypes and current hip reconstruction surgical options. This study examined the prevalence of hip dysplasia in CMT in a tertiary neuromuscular center.

Methods

This was a retrospective study of children with CMT who had at least one pelvic radiograph between 2000 and 2020. Reimer's migration percentage, acetabular index and lateral center edge angle were used to identify hip dysplasia.

Results

A total of 178 children were included with a median age of 6.4 (IQR 3.4–11.3) years at CMT diagnosis. First pelvic radiographs were performed at a median age of 8.0 (IQR 4.6–12.2) years and 64 (35.8%) had hip dysplasia, of which 20 normalized over time. Repeat radiographs were done in 96/178 children (53.9%), and six children with originally normal radiographs developed later radiographic hip dysplasia. At the time of last follow up, 50/178 children (28.1%) had hip dysplasia and 17/178 children (9.6%) required surgical intervention. The frequency of hip dysplasia in specific CMT subtypes was: 28/100 in CMT1A, 5/7 in Dejerine‐Sottas disease, 3/10 in CMT2A, and 4/4 in TRPV4‐related CMT.

Interpretation

The prevalence of hip dysplasia in children with CMT in this cohort was estimated to be between 9.6% and 28.1%. Serial imaging is important to monitor outcomes into adulthood. Specific CMT subtypes were more likely to be associated with hip dysplasia.
A fast start: Evidence of rapid growth in Trialestes romeri, an early Crocodylomorpha from the Upper Triassic continental beds of Argentina based on osteohistological analyses
Authors: Ponce Denis A. , Cerda Ignacio A. , Desojo Julia B.
Published: January 2025

The palaeobiology aspects of early Crocodylomorpha during their origin in the Triassic are poorly known, despite occupying an important palaeoecological role in continental environments. In this study, we report the microstructural features of appendicular bones of two specimens of Trialestes romeri, a non‐Crocodyliformes Crocodylomorpha from the Upper Triassic from the NW of Argentina. Our goals are to infer aspects of life history (i.e. age estimation and maturity events), inter‐elemental variation and the growth dynamics within a phylogenetic framework. The samples include the humerus and the ulna of the holotype (PVL 2561) and the humerus and the femur of a referred specimen (PVL 3889). All elements are mostly composed by the fibrolamellar complex with a variable distribution of parallel‐fibred bone in their cortex. Furthermore, they possess a uniform and homogeneous vascularisation, formed mainly by a laminar pattern. The humerus of the PVL 2561 records two lines of arrested growth (LAGs) and no cyclical growth marks were registered in the ulna. Meanwhile, the humerus and the femur of PVL 3889 exhibit a single LAG. Hence, a slight disparate inter‐elemental variation is reported in both individuals. The absence of an external fundamental system (EFS) and a homogenous distribution of the bone matrix and vascularisation suggest that both specimens did not attain sexual and somatic maturity. Overall, the histological features of T. romeri indicate a rapid growth rate just like other early crocodylomorphs (Terrestrisuchus, Saltoposuchus), whereas others possess a rather moderate (Crocodylomorpha indet. BP/1/8484 specimen) or slower (Hesperosuchus) growth rate. These findings reveal that rapid growth rates were widely present among early crocodylomorphs and their early occurrence in the evolutionary history of Crocodylomorpha might suggest that it is the plesiomorphic condition.
Interventions to reduce energy usage in an adult intensive care unit: A study protocol
Authors: Ireland Stephanie Louise , Tom Langford , Dean Shelley , Sean Gibson , Louise Clark , Chris Rivers
Published: January 2025

Background

Energy usage is one of the largest contributors to health care carbon emissions. By taking a strategic, targeted approach in one of the most energy‐intensive units of a hospital, the potential for energy savings is real and significant.

Aim

To develop a protocol for the implementation of interventions to reduce the environmental impact of carbon emissions generated by an adult intensive care unit (AICU) in a London‐based hospital setting.

Study Design

In this protocol, three interventions are under exploration relating to the lighting, temperature control and ventilation systems within the AICU. The Plan‐Do‐Study‐Act (PDSA) cycle will be used to assess the success of the implementation and make necessary refinements. This paper represents the ‘Plan’ stage of the PDSA cycle. After implementation, outcomes will be reviewed with the goal of scaling successful interventions within our NHS Trust and disseminating the findings to promote adoption within other Trusts.

Conclusions

The interventions under exploration in this ongoing study were selected as they can easily be implemented and scaled across ICUs nationally with potential environmental and cost‐saving benefits. There are many barriers that exist and will need to be addressed when implementing the protocol. Presenting a valuable and practical path to making our goal of net zero commitments achievable is necessary.

Relevance to Clinical Practice

The proposal outlines a nurse‐led project to reduce carbon emissions, serving as an example for implementing sustainable change within NHS practice, and contributing to the growing body of evidence supporting such initiatives.
How do people with a history of sexual abuse experience talking therapies for sexual trauma? A systematic review of qualitative findings
Authors: Dawood Runa , Vosper Jane , Gibson Stuart , Irons Chris
Published: January 2025

Objectives

This systematic review investigated the qualitative experiences of sexual abuse survivors in talking therapy treatments with respect to the helpful and hindering aspects of therapy.

Methods

Searches were conducted on five databases; PubMed, Web of Science, PyscInfo, PsycArticles and PsycExtra and through searching reference lists. Papers were included where they provided qualitative primary data of client experiences of therapy, did not involve specialist clinical populations and were written in English. Papers were included irrespective of whether study participants had experienced sexual abuse in childhood, adulthood or both. Studies were appraised using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme (CASP) qualitative checklist. Meta‐study was used to analyse the results.

Results

Four themes were generated: (1) helpful therapy relies on choice, autonomy, and the freedom to choose when to speak and what to speak on, (2) engagement relies on considerations of the complexity of recovery from sexual abuse, (3) feeling cared for and connected with the therapist is important and (4) a sensitive and thoughtful end of therapy can bring positive holistic emotional and lifestyle changes.

Conclusions

This study provides clinical insights into the helpful aspects of therapy, facilitating a safe therapeutic engagement, and managing an effective and sensitive transition into recovery. These themes are considered in relation to understanding supportive factors in therapy.
A spleen is required for antibody mediated immune enhancement but not for RBC clearance or antigen‐modulation in mice
Authors: Hay Ariel M. , Jash Arijita
Published: January 2025

Background

IgG against alloantigens on transfused RBC can lead to antibody‐mediated immune enhancement (AMIE). AMIE has properties not found in other forms of alloimmunization, including rapid clearance of RBCs, a requirement for Fc‐gamma receptors on dendritic cells, and no dependence on IFNAR. A spleen is required for alloimmunization to transfused RBCs under normal conditions but its role in AMIE has not been assessed.

Study Design and Methods

Mice with surgical splenectomy or sham surgery were infused with monoclonal IgG against model antigens (HOD or KEL) followed by a transfusion of respective transgenic RBCs. Antibody binding to transfused RBCs, antigen‐modulation, and RBC clearance were assessed by flow cytometry. IgM and IgG to the HOD and KEL alloantigens were quantified by flow cytometry‐based crossmatch.

Results

IgG to either HOD or KEL caused brisk clearance of RBCs with almost complete antigen modulation at 24 h and a strong enhancement of both IgM and IgG in sham‐operated animals. In splenectomized animals, AMIE was eliminated; antigen‐modulation occurred but with decreased kinetics and magnitude; and RBC clearance was the same as in sham animals.

Conclusions

The current study extends the role of spleen as a general requirement for all known pathways of RBC alloimmunization studied thus far. However, the dissociation of clearance and antigen‐modulation from AMIE shown in the current study raises the possibility that antigen‐modulation and AMIE are correlated due to a confounding common cause (i.e., IgG binding RBCs).
Heart‐derived factors and organ cross‐talk in settings of health and disease: new knowledge and clinical opportunities for multimorbidity
Authors: Sen Melodi G. , Chooi Roger , McMullen Julie R.
Published: January 2025

Cardiovascular disease affects millions of people worldwide and often presents with other conditions including metabolic, renal and neurological disorders. A variety of secreted factors from multiple organs/tissues (proteins, nucleic acids and lipids) have been implicated in facilitating organ cross‐talk that may contribute to the development of multimorbidity. Secreted proteins have received the most attention, with the greatest body of research related to factors released from adipose tissue (adipokines), followed by skeletal muscle (myokines). To date, there have been fewer studies on proteins released from the heart (cardiokines) implicated with organ cross‐talk. Early evidence for the secretion of cardiac‐specific factors facilitating organ cross‐talk came in the form of natriuretic peptides which are secreted via the classical endoplasmic reticulum–Golgi pathway. More recently, studies in cardiomyocyte‐specific genetic mouse models have revealed cardiac‐initiated organ cross‐talk. Cardiomyocyte‐specific modulation of microRNAs (miR‐208a and miR‐23‐27‐24 cluster) and proteins such as the mediator complex subunit 13 (MED13), G‐protein‐coupled receptor kinase 2 (GRK2), mutant α‐myosin heavy‐chain (αMHC), ubiquitin‐like modifier‐activating enzyme (ATG7), oestrogen receptor alpha (ERα) and fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21) have resulted in metabolic and renal phenotypes. These studies have implicated a variety of factors which can be secreted via the classical pathway or via non‐classical mechanisms including the release of extracellular vesicles. Cross‐talk between the heart and the brain has also been described (e.g. via miR‐1 and an emerging concept, interoception: detection of internal neural signals). Here we summarize these studies taking into consideration that factors may be secreted in both settings of health and in disease.

image
Comparison of the Filamentous Fungi Library v4.0 MALDI Biotyper Platform vs MSI-2 performance for identifying filamentous fungi from liquid cultures
Authors: Gonzalez-Lara María F. , Román-Montes Carla M. , Díaz-Lomelí Paulette , Hernández-Ceballos Winston , Morales-Camilo Lizeth , Cervantes-Sánchez Axel , Cordero-Rangel Andrea , Tejeda-Olán Jazmín , Bonifaz-Trujillo Alexandro , Ponce-de-León Alfredo , Martínez-Gamboa Areli
Published: January 2025

Correct, rapid, and reliable filamentous fungi identification is crucial for timely diagnosis and therapy. We compared the performance of the FFLv4.0 MALDI Biotyper and MSI-2 to identify filamentous fungi from clinical isolates. We analyzed 307 clinical isolates of
Aspergillus
spp.
, Fusarium
spp.
,
and
Mucorales
and compared them to sequencing as the reference standard. The overall identification rates to genus (
Mucorales
), section (
Aspergillus
), and species complex (
Fusarium
) level were 96% (296/307) for FFLv4.0 and 78.5% (241/307) for MSI-2. By each genus, correct species identification was achieved by FFLv4.0 and MSI-2 as follows: 72.4% (165/228) and 55.3% (126/228) for
Aspergillus
species, 17.6% (6/34) and 38.2% (13/34) for
Fusarium
species, and 88.9% (40/45) and 55.5% (25/45) for the
Mucorales
. The rates of non-identification by FFLv4.0 and MSI-2, respectively, were 4% (9/228) and 18% (41/228) for
Aspergillus
spp., 0% and 17.6% (6/34) for
Fusarium
spp. and 4.4% (2/45) and 42.2% (19/45%) for the
Mucorales
. Misidentification rates by FFLv4.0 and MSI-2, respectively, were 16.2% (37/228) and 6.1% (14/228) for
Aspergillus
species, 67.6% (23/34) and 14.7% (5/34) for
Fusarium
spp., and 0% and 2.2% (1/45) for the
Mucorales
. The FFLv4.0 MALDI Biotyper outperformed MSI-2 in identifying filamentous fungi from liquid culture spectra.
Simulating the response of a HPGe-based spectrometer for in situ, long-term operation near the seabed
Authors: Siltzovalis Georgios , Lagaki Varvara , Madesis Ioannis , Mertzimekis Theo J.
Published: January 2025

A novel underwater

$$\gamma$$

γ

-spectrometer, equipped with a HPGe crystal and utilizing electromechanical cooling, is introduced, and results from detailed Monte Carlo simulations are presented. The spectrometer, which is currently in the development phase, will enable in situ, long-term, high-resolution radioactivity measurements near the seabed for the first time. Valuable experimental data collected will be exploited for interdisciplinary purposes, including radiation monitoring and underwater geological phenomena delineation. Detailed Monte Carlo simulations were used to investigate the response of the spectrometer in the aquatic environment. More specifically, the detection efficiency, the range of spectroscopy and the sensitivity of the proposed method were investigated. Acquired results are expected to be highly influential on the management for the spectrometer’s power supply and field remoteness, parameters essential for the final objective of the overall study. Additionally, the optimization of the proposed setup, recognizing challenges and limitations in its deployment in the harsh marine environment, is a key towards the successful operation of the instrument for

$$\gamma$$

γ

-spectroscopy studies near the seabed.
Canonical Automata for Persistent Linearizability - A Corrigendum
Authors: Wehrheim Heike
Published: January 2025

Linearizability is the standard correctness condition for concurrent data structures. Linearizability is often shown via refinement, i.e., a data structure implementation is shown to refine a so-called
canonical
abstract automaton specifying the intented behaviour. For non-volatile memory (NVM) with novel consistency constraints, the notion of linearizability has been extended to provide persistence guarantees. The result are several notions of “persistent linearizability”. In this paper, we provide canonical automata for two such conditions: strict and durable linearizability, thereby providing abstract specifications for refinement proofs.
Dual-Domain Triple Contrast for Cross-Dataset Skeleton-based Action Recognition
Authors: Wang Kun , Cao Jiuxin , Ge Jiawei , Liu Chang , Liu Bo
Published: January 2025

Skeleton-based Action Recognition (SAR) is widely recognized for its robustness and efficiency in human action analysis, but its performance in cross-dataset tasks has been limited due to domain shifts between different datasets. To address this challenge, current methods typically approach cross-dataset SAR as an Unsupervised Domain Adaptation (UDA) task, which is tackled using domain adaptation or self-supervised learning strategies. In this paper, we propose a Dual-Domain Triple Contrast (D2TC) framework for cross-dataset SAR under the UDA setting. Unlike existing UDA methods that either focus on a single strategy or superficially combine strategies, our D2TC leverages contrastive learning to integrate both strategies into a unified framework. It performs three types of contrastive learning: Self-Supervised Contrastive Learning (SS-CL), Supervised Contrastive Learning (Sup-CL), and Unsupervised Domain Adaptation with Contrastive Learning (UDA-CL), across both source and target domains. The triple contrasts go beyond mere summation, effectively bridging the domain gap and enhancing the model’s representational capacity. Additionally, we introduce multi-modal ensemble contrast and extreme skeleton augmentation methods to further enhance the skeleton-based representation learning. Extensive experiments on six cross-dataset settings validate the superiority of our D2TC framework over state-of-the-art methods, demonstrating its effectiveness in reducing domain discrepancies and improving cross-dataset SAR performance. The codes are available on
https://github.com/KennCoder7/DualDomainTripleContrast
.
Catecholamine synthesis and secretion by adrenal chromaffin cells are reduced in deer mice native to high altitude
Authors: Pranckevicius Nicole A. , Scott Angela L. , Rourke Aedan J. , Saleem Ranim , Wearing Oliver H. , Scott Graham R.
Published: January 2025

Prolonged activation of the sympathoadrenal system can become maladaptive in chronic hypoxia, but few previous studies have examined adrenal function in high-altitude natives. Comparing high-altitude versus low-altitude populations of mice, we show that high-altitude mice synthesize and store fewer catecholamines in adrenal chromaffin cells and thus have lower secretion rates and circulating concentrations of catecholamines in hypoxia.
Collothalamic projections to the human amygdala: hemispheric asymmetry modulates trait anxiety
Authors: Rafal Robert D , Koller Kristin
Published: January 2025

In 19 people probabilistic DTI tractography was used to visualize the topographic relationships between three white matter components of a fascicle, the supraventricular temporal bundle, that traverses above the temporal horn of the lateral ventricle: collothalamic auditory and visual projections to the amygdala via the posterior thalamus, and the amygdalofugal stria terminalis. This bundle constitutes a subcortical, 'low road' pathway that transmits threat signals to the amygdala, and that projects signals that bias orienting toward visual threat to the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis. The course of the visual streamline passes below the brachium of the superior colliculus through the position two thalamic nuclei that have been shown to both receive afferents from the superficial layers of the superior colliculus and to also project to the amygdala: the suprageniculate nucleus and the inferior pulvinar. The visual streamline passes laterally dorsal to the auditory streamline and both collothalamic streamlines then traverse together above the temporal horn of the lateral ventricle, dorsal to the stria terminalis, with the auditory streamline dorsal to visual streamline, and entering the lateral amygdala dorsal and medial to it. Individual differences in the degree of hemispheric asymmetry of the fractional anisotropy of the visual streamline, but not the auditory streamline, predicted trait anxiety: weaker left hemisphere connectivity relative to those in the right hemisphere, was associated with higher trait anxiety. There was no correlation between individual differences in the microstructure of either the stria terminalis or the ventral amygdalofugal pathway and trait anxiety.
Clinical Characteristics, Risk Factors, and Outcomes of Patients With Myocardial Injury due to Klebsiella pneumoniae Bloodstream Infections
Authors: Chen Qingqing , Xu Panpan , Guan Zhihui , Song Feizhen , Luo Xinhua , Zhang Xijiang , Zhang Chuming , Lin Ronghai , Zheng Cheng
Published: January 2025

Background: Very few studies have characterized patients with myocardial injury due to Klebsiella pneumoniae bloodstream infections (KP‐BSI). Our study aimed to investigate the clinical characteristics, risk factors and outcomes of patients with myocardial injury due to KP‐BSI.

Methods: A double‐center retrospective cohort study of patients with KP‐BSI was conducted from January 1, 2013 to December 31, 2022. The clinical data was collected by reviewing electronic medical records. Classification of patients with KP‐BSI into myocardial injury and nonmyocardial injury groups based on the levels of high‐sensitivity cardiac troponin I (hs‐cTnI) after 48 h onset of KP‐BSI.

Results: Patients with myocardial injury due to KP‐BSI were generally younger than those without such injuries, with the former presenting a median age of 60 versus 67 in the latter (p < 0.001). Conditions like chronic cardiac insufficiency and chronic pulmonary disease were more prevalent in the myocardial injury cohort (10.0% and 7.1%, respectively) compared to those without myocardial injury (4.7% and 2.6%, respectively; p values 0.002 and 0.001). However, the nonmyocardial injury group had a higher incidence of solid tumors (15.3% vs. 10.4%, p = 0.038). Severity assessments like the acute physiology and chronic health evaluation (APACHE) II, the sequential organ failure assessment (SOFA), and the Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI) all registered higher for the myocardial injury group (all p < 0.001). Similarly, intensive care unit (ICU) admissions, use of mechanical ventilation, and central venous catheter (CVC) placement were notably more common in this group (all p < 0.001). Regarding infection sources, the myocardial injury group had a higher incidence of pneumonia as the cause for KP‐BSI (29.8% vs. 15.9%, p < 0.001), whereas liver and biliary tract infections were less frequent compared to their counterparts. Mortality rates at 7, 14, and 28 days, along with in‐hospital mortality, were significantly higher for those with myocardial injury (all p < 0.001). Multivariate analysis identified age > 67 [adjusted odds ratio (aOR), 2.32; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.59–3.38], SOFA score > 6 (aOR, 3.04; 95% CI, 2.10–4.39), mechanical ventilation (aOR, 1.67; 95% CI, 1.15–2.39), and CVC in place (aOR, 1.50; 95% CI, 0.96–2.02) as independent prognostic factors for myocardial injury in KP‐BSI.

Conclusions: Older age (> 67 years), higher SOFA score (> 6), mechanical ventilation, and CVC in place were found to be significantly associated with an increased risk of myocardial injury. Clinical physicians should be alert to the potential for myocardial injury in elderly critically ill patients, especially those who are on mechanical ventilation and have indwelling CVC, in the event of KP‐BSI.
Supplementary Table S3 from Targeting Pancreatic Cancer Cell Stemness by Blocking Fibronectin-Binding Integrins on Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts
Authors: Wu Chengsheng , Von Schalscha Tami , Sansanwal Diva , Qian Chen , Jiang Qinlin , Shepard Ryan M. , Wettersten Hiromi I. , McCormack Stephen J. , Weis Sara M. , Cheresh David A.
Published: January 2025

Custom primer sequences for qPCR
Supplementary Table S2 from Targeting Pancreatic Cancer Cell Stemness by Blocking Fibronectin-Binding Integrins on Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts
Authors: Wu Chengsheng , Von Schalscha Tami , Sansanwal Diva , Qian Chen , Jiang Qinlin , Shepard Ryan M. , Wettersten Hiromi I. , McCormack Stephen J. , Weis Sara M. , Cheresh David A.
Published: January 2025

Integrin antibodies used in this study
Supplementary Table S1 from Targeting Pancreatic Cancer Cell Stemness by Blocking Fibronectin-Binding Integrins on Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts
Authors: Wu Chengsheng , Von Schalscha Tami , Sansanwal Diva , Qian Chen , Jiang Qinlin , Shepard Ryan M. , Wettersten Hiromi I. , McCormack Stephen J. , Weis Sara M. , Cheresh David A.
Published: January 2025

siRNAs used in this study
Supplementary Figure S6 from Targeting Pancreatic Cancer Cell Stemness by Blocking Fibronectin-Binding Integrins on Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts
Authors: Wu Chengsheng , Von Schalscha Tami , Sansanwal Diva , Qian Chen , Jiang Qinlin , Shepard Ryan M. , Wettersten Hiromi I. , McCormack Stephen J. , Weis Sara M. , Cheresh David A.
Published: January 2025

Comparison of bispecific antibody vs. combination of monoclonal antibodies
Figure 1 from Targeting Pancreatic Cancer Cell Stemness by Blocking Fibronectin-Binding Integrins on Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts
Authors: Wu Chengsheng , Von Schalscha Tami , Sansanwal Diva , Qian Chen , Jiang Qinlin , Shepard Ryan M. , Wettersten Hiromi I. , McCormack Stephen J. , Weis Sara M. , Cheresh David A.
Published: January 2025

Tumor cells utilize CAF-produced FN to overcome isolation stress. A, CAFs enhance tumor initiation via FN (orthotopic pancreas cancer model). Luciferase-expressing KP4 PDAC cells were orthotopically injected (with or without CAF-1299) into the pancreas of nu/nu mice. After 3 weeks, luciferase imaging was performed to survey tumor establishment in the pancreas. B, FN knockdown prevents CAF assembly of COL fibers. CAF-1299 and CAF-1424 cells were treated with siRNA for a scramble control vs. FN. After 72 hours, IF staining shows FN and COL content. Images are representative of at least three independent experiments. C, Knockdown of FN in CAFs increases soluble COL in media. CAF-1299 cells were cultured for 72 hours, and then the conditioned media and cell lysates were collected and processed for immunoblotting to confirm FN knockdown and assess the level of soluble COL secreted by the cells into the media. si-CTRL, siRNA Universal Negative Control; si-FN, siRNA-mediated knockdown of FN1.
Data from Targeting Pancreatic Cancer Cell Stemness by Blocking Fibronectin-Binding Integrins on Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts
Authors: Wu Chengsheng , Von Schalscha Tami , Sansanwal Diva , Qian Chen , Jiang Qinlin , Shepard Ryan M. , Wettersten Hiromi I. , McCormack Stephen J. , Weis Sara M. , Cheresh David A.
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAF) generate an extracellular matrix (ECM) which provides a repository for factors that promote pancreatic cancer progression. In this study, we establish that CAF contribution to pancreatic tumor initiation, i.e., stemness, depends on fibronectin (FN) as a scaffold required for assembly of a collagen-containing fibrotic ECM with a critical dependence on the FN-binding integrins, α5β1 and αvβ3. CAF matrix assembly can be prevented by knockdown of FN, integrin α5, or integrin β3 or by a bispecific antibody with dual recognition of α5β1 and αvβ3 that can also destabilize a preexisting matrix. In mice, the ability of CAFs to produce a stiff collagenous matrix and accelerate tumor initiation can be blocked by knockdown of FN or FN-binding integrins or systemic treatment with the α5β1/αvβ3 bispecific antibody. Together, these results reveal that dual targeting of the FN-binding integrins, α5β1 and αvβ3, can block the ability of CAFs and their matrix to enhance pancreatic cancer stemness and progression.
Significance:
Simultaneous targeting of two integrins that function as receptors for FN, a protumor ECM protein, can prevent fibroblasts from supporting the malignant behavior of pancreatic cancer cells.
Anexos
Authors: Editores Os
Published: January 2025

Tabelas apresentadas originalmente na página 56 do artigo "Tradução de poesia entre português e chinês", de Raquele Abi-Sâmra e Márcia Schmaltz, nesta mesma edição, mas aqui publicadas em tamanho maior, para facilitar a leitura.
Two poems by James Joyce
Authors: Amaral Vitor Alevato do
Published: January 2025

James Joyce (1882-1941) the poet is considerably less read than Joyce the novelist. The importance and influence of Ulysses (1922) and Finnegans Wake (1939) in Modernist literature are great enough to overshadow even the other fictional works by Joyce. As a result, only recently were Joyce’s uncollected poems translated in Brazilian Portuguese (Outra poesia, 2022, trans. Vitor Amaral). Moreover, no volume with Joyce’s complete poems – that is, with the collected and uncollected poems together – has ever been published in Portuguese. I present here the translation of “Strings in the earth and air” (from Chamber Music, 1907) and “Bahnhofstrasse” (from Pomes Pennyeach, 1927) as the first step towards the publication of Joyce’s complete poetry in Portuguese: Toda a poesia [All the Poetry].
Long-Term Blood Pressure Trends After a Remote Hypertension Intervention: A Secondary Analysis of the Digital Care Transformation: Remotely Delivered Hypertension Management Program
Authors: Hassan Shahzad , Blood Alexander J. , Zelle David , Kumar Sanjay , Wagholikar Kavishwar , Gabovitch Daniel , Cannon Christopher P. , Fisher Naomi , Scirica Benjamin M.
Published: January 2025

BACKGROUND:

Hypertension is a major cardiovascular risk factor, yet traditional care often results in suboptimal blood pressure (BP) control at the population level. We implemented a remote hypertension management program that monitored home BP and titrated medications per algorithm. This study assessed the program’s long-term effects by examining participants’ office BP up to 42 months post-enrollment.

METHODS:

Participants of the remote hypertension program were categorized into 4 groups: (1) enrolled-maintenance (achieved goal home BP of ≤130/80 mm Hg), (2) enrolled–early exit (left before achieving goal BP), (3) education-only (lifestyle modifications and medications compliance), and (4) white coat hypertension group (high office BP but normal home BP). Office BP readings of participants were collected up to 42 months post-enrollment. A linear mixed-effects regression model estimated mean BP levels and studied factors associated with above-goal systolic BP in the maintenance group.

RESULTS:

Office BP readings from 3601 participants (mean age, 61±11 years; 57% female; 60% white; 52% atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease) were extracted from electronic health records and analyzed. All groups sustained office BP below their qualifying values (
P
<0.001) over 42 months. In the maintenance group, 89.7% of participants maintained systolic BP at goal, compared with 63.5% in the early exit group, 69.4% in the education-only group, and 90.7% in the white coat hypertension group. Age >50 years was associated with above-goal systolic BP in the maintenance group.

CONCLUSIONS:

Participants who achieved BP control through the remote hypertension program maintained goal systolic BP in 90% of cases up to 42 months post-enrollment. These findings highlight the long-term benefits of remote, intensive management programs for effective hypertension control.
Spurious correlations in surface-based functional brain imaging
Authors: Jeganathan Jayson , Koussis Nikitas C. , Paton Bryan , Phogat Richa , Pang James , Mansour L Sina , Zalesky Andrew , Breakspear Michael
Published: January 2025

The study of functional MRI (fMRI) data is increasingly performed after mapping from volumetric voxels to surface vertices. Processing pipelines commonly used to achieve this mapping produce meshes with uneven vertex spacing, with closer neighbours in sulci compared to gyri. Consequently, correlations between the fMRI time series of neighbouring sulcal vertices are stronger than expected. However, the causes, extent, and impacts of this “gyral bias” are not completely understood or widely appreciated. We explain the origins of this bias, and using in-silico models of fMRI data, illustrate how it leads to spurious results and leakage of anatomical cortical folding information into fMRI time series. We show that many common analyses can be affected by this bias, including test-retest reliability, fingerprinting, functional parcellations, and regional homogeneity. The recently developed onavg template partly reduces the bias but has relatively high residual variability in vertex spacing when projected to participant-specific surfaces. Finally, we outline recommendations to avoid or remedy the gyral bias.
Utilizing PBL Height Data from Multiple Observing Systems in the GEOS System (I): Assimilation Framework
Authors: Zhu Y. , Arnold N. P. , Yang E.-G. , Ganeshan M. , Salmun H. , Palm S. , Santanello J. , McGrath-Spangler E. L. , Lewis J. , Molod A. , Wu D. , Lei T. , El Akkraoui A. , Sienkiewicz M.
Published: January 2025

In this study, a strategy and framework are developed to build a global Planetary Boundary Layer (PBL) height (PBLH) analysis and monitoring capability from multiple observing systems in the NASA Global Earth Observing System (GEOS) data assimilation system. To facilitate this effort, PBLH are derived from radiosonde and Global Navigation Satellite System Radio Occultation (GNSS-RO) refractivity data. As PBLH can be sensitive to potentially disparate observables and retrieval algorithms, new model PBLH definitions consistent with each observation type are added to the forecast model for the calculation of first guess departures from observations (OmF). These model definitions are augmented to the control variable vector, interacting with other control variables through flow-dependent ensemble background error covariance component. Moreover, to capture capping inversions, methods are explored using PBLH data to improve background error covariance through inflation of ensemble spread and adjustment of vertical localization length scale for virtual temperature and relative humidity variables. Experiments are conducted to assess the separate and combined impacts of these methods and the correlation relationships between PBLH and other control variables in the background error covariance. Preliminary results show that these changes are beneficial to the assimilation of other observations to improve the PBL thermodynamic structure.
Engaging Indigenous Families and Community Members: Leadership Towards Relationality and Relational Accountability
Authors: Washington Shaneé A.
Published: January 2025

Purpose: Using relationality and relational accountability as both a conceptual and methodological framework, this study explored the leadership practices of educational leaders in a community that a Wampanoag Tribe has called home for 12,000 plus years. It asked if and how leaders were exercising relationality and relational accountability in their engagement practices with Wampanoag and other Indigenous families and community members. Research Methods: Drawing from an exploratory case study that included 30 participants, 10 months of participant observation, 45 semi-structured conversations and interviews, and two talking circles, this article shares findings from observations, conversations, and interviews with six school and district leaders and five Indigenous parents and community leaders. Wilson's (2008) Intuitive logic and Braun's and Clarke's (2006) thematic analysis were used to identify the results that are presented in this article. Findings: Town and school history have been major barriers to building trusting and accountable relationships with Wampanoag families. Leaders nonetheless hoped to build relationships by creating opportunities for families to engage for what they called “community purposes” and through “open” and “reciprocal” communication. A newly formed Tribe-District Partnership held the most promise for building trusting and accountable relationships with Tribal members. Implications of Research and Practice: Relationality and relational accountability are powerful Indigenous protocols with the potential of disrupting colonial leadership practices that have perpetuated legacies of Indigenous erasure. Leadership towards relationality and relational accountability positions educational leaders to support Indigenous communities in their efforts to revitalize and sustain what legacies of colonization and colonial schools have disrupted.
Obtaining a Bayesian Estimate of Coefficient Alpha Using a Posterior Normal Distribution
Authors: DelosReyes John Mart V. , Padilla Miguel A.
Published: January 2025

A new alternative to obtain a Bayesian estimate of coefficient alpha through a posterior normal distribution is proposed and assessed through percentile, normal-theory-based, and highest probability density credible intervals in a simulation study. The results indicate that the proposed Bayesian method to estimate coefficient alpha has acceptable coverage probability performance across the majority of investigated simulation conditions.
Examining the Nexus Between Migration and Family Planning Access: A Case Study of Zimbabwean Emigrants in South Africa
Authors: Ndlovu Sindiso , Ndlovu Ntobeko , Moyo Funa , Dube Zenzo Lusaba , Murai Travor , Ndlovu Thabo , Ncube Mthuthukisi , Nkala Peter , Ncube Vusisizwe , Mathe Tumelo , Mamba Felix Sipho
Published: January 2025

Migration plays a significant role in shaping demographic patterns and access to healthcare services, including family planning. This study investigates the complex relationship and interconnection between migration and family planning access among Zimbabwean emigrants residing in South Africa. Despite the geographical separation from their country of origin, Zimbabwean emigrants have been observed to access family planning pills from back home. This phenomenon raises important questions regarding the factors influencing their decision to obtain family planning resources from their country of origin rather than from their current country of residence. Through a qualitative study approach, this research explored the motivations behind this behaviour and the implications it may have on the reproductive health outcomes of Zimbabwean emigrants in South Africa. Focus group discussions ( n = 6) and in-depth interviews ( n = 11) were conducted in Hillbrow, Berea and Orange Farm. Participants enrolled in the study encompassed females of the reproductive age group (18–45 years), healthcare providers and key stakeholder informants. Thematic content analysis was employed to explore the data using NVivo14. Emergent themes were explained and thematically categorized. Reported results indicated that despite family planning and contraceptives being free in the host countries, and also having the same chemical compositions – perceived socio-cultural and structural barriers had a significant influence on the ‘home-is-best’ attitudes upheld by migrant Zimbabweans. By addressing the specific needs of migrants, including legal rights, cultural sensitivity and healthcare provision, efforts can be made to ensure universal access to reproductive healthcare services, thereby advancing both individual well-being and broader public health goals.
Herbal synthesis of silver nanoparticles for improved dyeing and UV protection of cotton fabric
Authors: Rajput Sanjeev Kumar , Singh Mukesh Kumar , Shakyawar Dinesh Babu
Published: January 2025

Sustainability in textile processing can be induced by the use of green nanotechnology and biomaterials. In this study, silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) have been synthesized by the bio-reduction of silver nitrate using eucalyptus ( Eucalyptus globulus) leaves extract. Biosynthesized AgNPs were characterized by using particle size analyzer, ultraviolet (UV) spectroscopy, Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive X-ray (EDX) spectroscopy, and X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis. AgNPs were employed for natural dyeing of cotton fabric with pomegranate rind ( Punica granatum) extract and chitosan as a binder. The effects of AgNPs concentration (100–300 mg L–1), chitosan concentration (0.5–1.5%), and pomegranate rind extract (5–15%) on color strength ( K/S) and UV protection (UPF) values were investigated. These variables were optimized using response surface methodology. The quadratic models were developed for further sustainable product development. AgNPs of 279 mg L−1 concentration, 1.3% chitosan, and 14.8% pomegranate dye yielded maximum K/S (8.11) and UPF (223.5) values. This research work can be extended for other bio-reducing agents.
The Effects of Collaborative Practice Testing on Memory for Course Content in Introductory Psychology
Authors: Imundo Megan N. , Clark Courtney M. , Bjork Elizabeth Ligon , Paquette-Smith Melissa
Published: January 2025

Background

The benefit of collaborative testing to learning has been examined via two-stage exams (individual then group) for high-stakes tests. However, group testing might be particularly beneficial to students when implemented during the earlier stages of learning (i.e., collaborative practice testing).

Objective

In a large Introductory Psychology course, we investigated whether low-stakes collaborative practice testing enhanced learning compared to individual practice testing.

Methods

Students completed collaborative and individual practice tests followed by two delayed retention tests. Across sections of the course, some students also engaged in group-building exercises prior to practice testing.

Results

Collaborative practice testing improved performance on surprise individual retention tests administered approximately one and two weeks later ( n = 569). The addition of group-building exercises did not affect the benefits of collaborative testing.

Conclusion

The present research suggests that collaborative practice testing can enhance long-term retention of course material.

Teaching Implications

This work provides a potential model for implementing collaborative practice testing in large undergraduate psychology classes and suggests that group-building exercises may not be necessary to produce durable learning from collaborative practice testing.
Pilate, Barabbas, and the Privilegium Paschale: Law and Leverage in Roman Judaea
Authors: Curran John
Published: January 2025

Pilate’s Passover offer to release ‘Barabbas’ has long been considered one of the least historically credible details of the Passion narrative. This paper returns to the so-called privilegium paschale once more and argues that new perspectives on law in the provinces of Rome, further reflection on the realities of government in Judaea, and the deployment of some comparative legal thinking may be able to retrieve Pilate’s offer for the historical record.
Managing it investment and strategic alignment for firm performance: A comparative study in emerging economies
Authors: Ilmudeen Aboobucker , Attar Razaz Waheeb , Alhazmi Amal Hassan
Published: January 2025

Studies on the impact of strategic alignment between managing IT investment and firm performance are limited. Drawing on the multi-theoretic lens such as the resource- The IT investments simply do based theory, and process theory this study examines the impact of managing IT and strategic alignment on firm performance as a comparative study between China and Sri Lanka. This study uses the primary data of 206 responses from Chinese and 182 responses from Sri Lankan IT and business managers. Accordingly, the findings revealed a strong and positive relationship in the hypothesized relationships. Further, the strategic alignment partially mediates the relationship between managing IT investment and firm performance between the above two countries context. This study opens for a greater understanding of the dilemma in the nomological linkage for the above relationship and contributes to the literature by lengthening the theory while suggesting insightful, and practical implications.
The Consensus (?) on Public Spending on Professional Sports Facilities
Authors: Johnson Sidney A. , Fort Rodney , Rosentraub Mark S.
Published: January 2025

Based on surveys and reviews of past academic work, many social scientists and policy pundits claim that public spending on professional sports team venues has been and will be poor public spending choices. Since the late 2000s, this claimed consensus has become a strident policy stance—such spending violates public finance principles and cannot pass a benefit-cost test. The authors raise three main concerns with this claimed consensus and resurrect a method of assessing this type of spending issue that has been steamrolled by the claimed consensus. The goal is the careful assessment of the minimum level of public spending that can be supported by achieving efficient levels of consumers’ surpluses and externalities.
Molecular Characteristics of a ZFTA::RELA Fusion Gliosarcoma: A Case Report
Authors: Feldman Tzah , Vlodavsky Eugene , Sarji Shada , Abu El Hija Asmaa Yousef , Benifla Mony , Oren Liat , Ben-Arush Myriam , Zohar Yaniv
Published: January 2025

The combination of ependymoma and gliosarcoma elements in the same tumor is extremely rare, and the molecular characteristics of these entities are not clear. Here, we present a rare aggressive brain tumor in a 12-year-old boy harboring a ZFTA::RELA gene fusion, a characteristic feature of supratentorial ependymomas. On the other hand, the histopathological, molecular, and methylation profiles were compatible with a diagnosis of a mesenchymal type, IDH wild-type glioblastoma multiforme (GBM). Additional somatic alterations provide evidence of RAS/MAPK signaling pathway activation. Overall, this report highlights the histopathological and molecular characteristics of a rare and aggressive glial tumor.