bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Epigenetic Resources: Gaps in Aquatic Animal Germplasm Research
Authors: Li Fangcheng , Zhang Junfang , Cheng Xiangbing , Cui Xinyao , Sun Jiamin , Liu Qigen
Published: December 2024

Aquatic animal germplasm research plays a vital role in biodiversity conservation and sustainable aquaculture. The traditional view is that diversity of germplasm resources is commonly attributed to genetic variation. However, recent studies in transgenerational epigenetics have shown that epigenetic information can also be passed down to offspring, which is consistent with the definition of germplasm. Therefore, it is necessary to define epigenetic information, such as DNA methylation, histone modifications, and ncRNAs, which can be passed down through generations, as epigenetic resources and incorporate them into the concept of germplasm. Germplasm resources should include not only genetic resources but also epigenetic resources. Epigenetic variation can arise from genetic, environmental, or stochastic factors. Genetic and epigenetic variation co‐determine phenotypic traits. It has been demonstrated that epigenetic information can be inherited across generations in aquatic animals. DNA methylation, histone modification, and ncRNAs are involved in addressing environmental challenges, maintaining genetic diversity, improving breeding strategies, combating inbreeding decline, and age determination. Therefore, future research on epigenetic resources is important for germplasm conservation, development, and utilization. This review proposes a new theoretical framework to elucidate the place of epigenetic resources in germplasm research and collects articles from the past 8 years that explore the inheritance of epigenetic information in aquatic animals. Integrating epigenetic research into germplasm studies enhances our understanding of population dynamics, adaptation, and evolutionary processes, thereby informing conservation strategies and enhancing aquaculture practices. By considering both genetic and epigenetic resources, we can address the challenges facing germplasm diversity and sustainable aquaculture more comprehensively.
From Multicultural Experiment to Performing “China's Story”: Complying With Shifting Norms at a Chinese–Hungarian Bilingual School
Authors: Beck Fanni , Nyíri Pál
Published: December 2024

Adopting a broad understanding of compliance as adherence to norms, this study examines the role of the Chinese–Hungarian Bilingual School in Budapest in the propagation of institutional, educational, and civic norms, through an anthropological inquiry into the discourses and practices embraced and enacted by teachers, parents, and students. Set up by bilateral agreement between China and another state, the school we discuss is a unique K‐12 educational institution that exemplifies both the potential and the complexity of harnessing education for the globalization of Chinese institutional, educational, and civic norms. Against the background of Hungary's “Opening to the East” and China's “going global,” we situate our study at the intersection of foreign propaganda, institutional globalization, and education. The node of contact created by the encounter between the Chinese and Hungarian education systems, each struggling with their own paradoxes and mediated by China's overlapping frameworks of foreign propaganda and overseas Chinese policies, stands at the center of our inquiry. By analyzing the daily interactions among students, parents, and educators, the article focuses on the borrowing, appropriation, rejection, and coexistence of dual sets of norms. In contrast to Confucius Institutes, where interaction is typically between Chinese instructors and non‐Chinese students, the school, with its diverse community of Chinese and Hungarian educators, parents, and students, fosters a complex environment where Chinese teachers and students actively participate in norm propagation while also being influenced by it. Similarly, Hungarian teachers and students emerge as active contributors beyond their role as recipients, showing the context‐dependent and oftentimes unexpected nature of the adoption or rejection of norms.
The effect of incarceration on political beliefs for vulnerable populations
Authors: Martinez Hope
Published: December 2024

Objective

This article examines whether incarceration influences a change in political beliefs for those incarcerated and the extent to which it affects more vulnerable groups, including women and people of color.

Method

I use a series of logit models to analyze responses to the Marshall Project's 2020 prison survey.

Results

My analysis reveals a significant change in political beliefs since being incarcerated. There is an increased effect of changing political beliefs for women and people of color incarcerated. The effect reveals that people of color are becoming, either for the first time or further aligned, with the Republican Party since being incarcerated.

Conclusion

The experience of violence and abuse while incarcerated extends the tools of white supremacy in the prison system by influencing feelings of shame, hopelessness, and cultural inferiority, further aligning vulnerable groups to conservatism and whiteness. My Incapacitation theory begins to explain the change in political beliefs due to the carceral system's use of incapacitation and its long‐term effect on political behavior of incarcerated groups.
Clinical Applicability of 2‐Field High‐Resolution and Extended HLA‐Allele Typing in Deceased Donor Kidney Allocation
Authors: Lim Zhan , Taverniti Anne , Downing Jonathan , Le Cindy , Lopez Pedro , Larkins Nicholas , Chan Doris , Chakera Aron , D'Orsogna Lloyd , Krishnan Anoushka , Chau Matthew , Ooi Esther , Boroumand Farzaneh , Teixeira‐Pinto Armando , Gately Ryan , Sharma Ankit , Wong Germaine , Lim Wai H.
Published: December 2024

HLA‐compatibility remains an important triage test for deceased donor kidney allocation. Low–intermediate resolution donor HLA‐typing is typically available at allocation, but its accuracy in assigning pre‐transplant donor‐specific anti‐HLA antibody (DSA) and HLA mismatches compared to 2‐field high‐resolution typing is poorly characterised. Consecutive deceased donor/recipient pairs from a single centre between 2016 and 2020 were included. Majority of donor typing at HLA‐ABDRB1 loci were performed at low–intermediate resolution, with 2‐field high‐resolution NGS typing across extended loci performed by NGS‐technique post‐transplantation. We compared the two typing methods for (1) accuracy of pre‐transplant DSA assignment; (2) misassignment of HLA‐antigen/allele mismatches and performance of each model for acute rejection and (3) proportion of recipients who developed de novo DSA (dnDSA) when matched at antigen but mismatched at allele level. Of 179 deceased donor/recipient pairs, 157 donors had low–intermediate resolution typing and 22 with high‐resolution ONT typing. Sixty‐two recipients (35%) had potential pre‐transplant DSAs, with incorrect assignment of allele‐specific Class I and II actual DSAs in 31% and 53% of cases, respectively. NGS typing identified 59 (33%) additional HLA‐DRB1 allele mismatches. ONT typing accurately assigned pre‐transplant DSAs and allele mismatches in all cases. Seven (4%) recipients with antigen/allele level discordance developed dnDSAs, majority HLA‐DQ antibodies. Two‐field high‐resolution donor HLA typing may provide a more accurate transplant immunological risk assessment and identify those at risk of developing dnDSA to matched HLA antigen.
Identification of HLA‐B*13:01:01:12 by Next Generation Sequencing in Indian Population
Authors: Agarwal Samir , Kumari Shikha , Jaiswal Nisha , Kumar Vineeth , Kumar Rajnesh
Published: December 2024

HLA‐B*13:01:01:12 differs from HLA‐B*13:01:01:01 by a single nucleotide.
Assessment of change in end‐tidal CO2 after fluid challenge as a marker of fluid responsiveness as measured by the aortic velocity time integral in healthy anesthetized mechanically ventilated dogs
Authors: Tarragona Lisa , Donati Pablo A. , Zaccagnini Andrea S. , Díaz Alfredo J. , Ceballos Martín R. , Nigro Nestor M. , Fuensalida Santiago E. , Otero Pablo E.
Published: December 2024

Objective

To evaluate if variation in the end‐tidal CO2 partial pressure (∆Petco2) after a fluid challenge could predict fluid responsiveness with a sensitivity of 75% and a specificity of 70% in healthy anesthetized and mechanically ventilated dogs.

Design

Diagnostic accuracy study.

Setting

University hospital.

Animals

Twenty‐seven dogs admitted for neutering.

Interventions

To obtain a balanced sample between fluid responder and nonresponder dogs, a 10‐mL/kg lactated Ringer's solution was administered over 15 minutes to half of the population before the baseline measurements. All animals then received a fluid challenge of 10 mL/kg lactated Ringer's solution in 5 minutes.

Measurements and Main Results

The velocity–time integral of aortic blood flow (VTIAo) was evaluated with Doppler echocardiography before and after a fluid challenge to classify the included dogs as fluid responders or nonresponders. Fluid responsiveness was defined as an increase of ≥15% of the VTIAo after the fluid challenge. Petco2 was evaluated at 1, 5, and 10 (T1, T5, T10) minutes after fluid expansion. Area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC) analysis was used to assess the ability of ∆Petco2 to predict fluid responsiveness at different time points. A total of 13 dogs were fluid responders, and 14 were nonresponders. The best predictive capacity for ∆Petco2 was observed at T10. The AUROC with its 95% confidence interval (CI) for ∆Petco2 at T10 was 0.75 (0.56–0.93), with a sensitivity of 84.62% (95% CI, 54.60–98.10), a specificity of 64.29% (95% CI, 35.10–87.20), a positive predictive value of 68.80% (95% CI, 41.30–89.00), and a negative predictive value of 81.80% (95% CI, 48.20–97.70). The optimal cutoff was 1 mm Hg.

Conclusions

The current study showed that, although minimal, ∆Petco2 predicted fluid responsiveness in the dogs studied.
The Impact of Social Media Dependency on Chinese Netizens' Willingness to Forward Health Rumors: The Moderating Role of Social Media Literacy
Authors: Li Yanli , Mohamad Emma , Azlan Arina Anis
Published: December 2024

In the digital era, the forwarding of false health rumors by netizens causes secondary dissemination of information, leading to its fission-like spread and bringing serious social problems. Based on an empirical survey of Chinese netizens, this paper aims to explore how social media dependency and media literacy affect netizens' willingness to forward health rumors. Data analysis found that social media dependency has a significant positive impact on forwarding willingness, social media literacy has a significant negative impact, and social media literacy has a negative moderating effect on the relationship between social media dependency and forwarding willingness. As the level of netizens' social media literacy changes, the impact of social media dependency on the forwarding willingness is no longer a simple linear positive correlation. High social media literacy will weaken its positive promoting effect and even make it show a negative change.
NEW BACTERIOLYTIC ENZYME PREPARATION N-ACETYL-D-GLUCOSAMINIDASE
Authors: Rozhkova A.M. , Chulkin A.M. , Sinelnikov I.G. , Sinitsyna O.A. , Zorov I.N. , Sinitsyn A.P.
Published: December 2024

A new nag1 gene encoding N-acetyl-D-glucosaminidase from Streptomyces kursanovii was cloned. The soluble form of N-acetyl-D-glucosaminidase was obtained after improving its expression in E. coli ArcticExpressTM (DE3) cells. The homogeneous form of the enzyme was isolated by affinity chromatography, and its bacteriolytic ability against cells of the Gram-positive bacterium Micrococcus lysodeikticus was studied. It was demonstrated that the new enzyme's bacteriolytic capacity surpasses that of chicken lysozyme.
Understanding the Impact of Applying Large Language Model in Engineering Design Education
Authors: Zhang Chonghui , Zhao Yaoyao Fiona , El Haddad Randous
Published: December 2024

In the contemporary era of engineering education, the integration of large language models, offers a novel perspective on enhancing the design process. This study investigates the impact of ChatGPT-3.5 on mechanical engineering design education, focusing on concept generation and detailed modeling. By comparing outcomes from artificial intelligence (AI)-assisted groups to those without AI assistance, our research reveals that AI significantly broadens concept generation diversity but also introduces bias for existing popular designs. Additionally, while AI aids in suggesting functions for computer-aided design (CAD) modeling, its textual nature and the occurrence of unreliable responses limit its usefulness in detailed CAD modeling tasks, highlighting the irreplaceable value of traditional learning materials and hands-on practice. The study concludes that AI should serve as a complement to, rather than a replacement for, traditional design education. Additionally, it highlights the necessity for further specialization within AI to enhance its effectiveness.
Microstructure and improved corrosion properties of TP347H stainless steel via vacuum cladding high-entropy alloy coating
Authors: Zhai Changsheng , Xie Fang , Zhang Xi , Li Hui , Zhang Xin , Hua Xijin , Jiang Sainan , Li Xingchao
Published: December 2024

Developing advanced materials for high-temperature components in supercritical coal-fired boilers is essential for ensuring their longevity and safety. In this study, NiMoFeCoCrSiB high-entropy alloy (HEA) coatings were vacuum-cladded on the surface of TP347H steel. The result shows that the HEA coating is composed of an FCC (Bauhinia equiaxed crystal) + σ eutectic phase. The HEA coating exhibited strong metallurgical bonding with the substrate. Thermodynamic parameters (ΔHmix = −10.28 kJ/mol, ΔSmix = 15.07 J/(mol K), δ = 8.46%, Ω = 2.19) supported FCC + σ eutectic phase formation. In a 0.5 mol/l H2SO4 solution, compared with TP347H, HEACs showed greater arc resistance, lower Icorror (4.8 μA/cm2), and higher Ecorror (121.7 mV), whose impedance modulus |Z| (2070.29 W cm2) was 3.38 times that of the former. The average rate of corrosion for TP347H steel was 81.2 times that of the HEA coating in a 55% H2SO4 solution. TP347H steel showed severe and fast heterogeneous corrosion, while the HEA coating showed uniform corrosion. The improved corrosion resistance of the HEACs can be attributed to the comprehensive effect of both the passivation film and the FCC + σ eutectic phases. This study offers valuable insights for developing advanced materials for ultra-supercritical boiler tubes.
Active-reset protein sensors enable continuous in vivo monitoring of inflammation
Authors: Zargartalebi H. , Mirzaie S. , GhavamiNejad A. , Ahmed S. U. , Esmaeili F. , Geraili A. , Flynn C. D. , Chang D. , Das J. , Abdrabou A. , Sargent E. H. , Kelley S. O.
Published: December 2024

Continuous measurement of proteins in vivo is important for real-time disease management and prevention. Implantable sensors for monitoring small molecules such as glucose have been available for more than a decade. However, analysis of proteins remains an unmet need because the lower physiological levels require that sensors have high affinities, which are linked to long complexation half-lives (
t
1/2
~20 hours) and slow equilibration when concentrations decrease. We report active-reset sensors by use of high-frequency oscillations to accelerate dissociation, which enables regeneration of the unbound form of the sensor within 1 minute. When implemented within implanted devices, these sensors allow for real-time, in vivo monitoring of proteins within interstitial fluid. Active-reset protein sensors track biomarker levels on a physiological timescale for inflammation monitoring in living animals.
A microRNA is the effector gene of a classic evolutionary hotspot locus
Authors: Tian Shen , Asano Yoshimasa , Das Banerjee Tirtha , Komata Shinya , Wee Jocelyn Liang Qi , Lamb Abigail , Wang Yehan , Murugesan Suriya Narayanan , Fujiwara Haruhiko , Ui-Tei Kumiko , Wittkopp Patricia J. , Monteiro Antónia
Published: December 2024

In Lepidoptera (butterflies and moths), the genomic region around the gene
cortex
is a “hotspot” locus, repeatedly implicated in generating intraspecific melanic wing color polymorphisms across 100 million years of evolution. However, the identity of the effector gene regulating melanic wing color within this locus remains unknown. We show that none of the four candidate protein-coding genes within this locus, including
cortex
, serve as major effectors. Instead, a microRNA (miRNA),
mir-193
, serves as the major effector across three deeply diverged lineages of butterflies, and its role is conserved in
Drosophila
. In Lepidoptera,
mir-193
is derived from a gigantic primary long noncoding RNA,
ivory
, and it functions by directly repressing multiple pigmentation genes. We show that a miRNA can drive repeated instances of adaptive evolution in animals.
Molecular basis of FIGNL1 in dissociating RAD51 from DNA and chromatin
Authors: Carver Alexander , Yu Tai-Yuan , Yates Luke A. , White Travis , Wang Raymond , Lister Katie , Jasin Maria , Zhang Xiaodong
Published: December 2024

Maintaining genome integrity is an essential and challenging process. RAD51 recombinase, the central component of several crucial processes in repairing DNA and protecting genome integrity, forms filaments on DNA, which are tightly regulated. One of these RAD51 regulators is FIGNL1 (fidgetin-like 1), which prevents RAD51 genotoxic chromatin association in normal cells and persistent RAD51 foci upon DNA damage. The cryogenic electron microscopy–imaged structure of FIGNL1 in complex with RAD51 reveals that FIGNL1 forms a nonplanar hexamer and encloses RAD51 N terminus in the FIGNL1 hexamer pore. Mutations in pore loop or catalytic residues of FIGNL1 render it defective in filament disassembly and are lethal in mouse embryonic stem cells. Our study reveals a distinct mechanism for removing RAD51 from bound substrates and provides the molecular basis for FIGNL1 in maintaining genome stability.
A single mutation in bovine influenza H5N1 hemagglutinin switches specificity to human receptors
Authors: Lin Ting-Hui , Zhu Xueyong , Wang Shengyang , Zhang Ding , McBride Ryan , Yu Wenli , Babarinde Simeon , Paulson James C. , Wilson Ian A.
Published: December 2024

In 2024, several human infections with highly pathogenic clade 2.3.4.4b bovine influenza H5N1 viruses in the United States raised concerns about their capability for bovine-to-human or even human-to-human transmission. In this study, analysis of the hemagglutinin (HA) from the first-reported human-infecting bovine H5N1 virus (A/Texas/37/2024, Texas) revealed avian-type receptor binding preference. Notably, a Gln
226
Leu substitution switched Texas HA binding specificity to human-type receptors, which was enhanced when combined with an Asn
224
Lys mutation. Crystal structures of the Texas HA with avian receptor analog LSTa and its Gln
226
Leu mutant with human receptor analog LSTc elucidated the structural basis for this preferential receptor recognition. These findings highlight the need for continuous surveillance of emerging mutations in avian and bovine clade 2.3.4.4b H5N1 viruses.
Home sweet home
Authors: Smith T. Jarrod , Guillemin Karen
Published: December 2024

Sugar-binding adhesins enable bacteria to persist in specific host niches
Trump picks an ‘outsider’ and NIH critic to lead agency
Authors: Kaiser Jocelyn
Published: December 2024

Jay Bhattacharya, who has analyzed NIH funding and ripped U.S. COVID-19 policies, could overhaul key funder
Antibacterial and antifungal drug concentrations in intra-abdominal abscesses: a prospective clinical study
Authors: Cancela Costa Alicia , Grass Fabian , Andres Cano Ignacio , Desgranges Florian , Delabays Constant , Kritikos Antonios , Glampedakis Emmanouil , Buclin Thierry , Duran Rafael , Guery Benoit , Pagani Jean-Luc , Uldry Emilie , Decosterd Laurent Arthur , Lamoth Frederic
Published: December 2024

Secondary peritonitis with intra-abdominal abscesses (IAA) is difficult to treat because of the supposed low rate of penetration of antimicrobial drugs at the site of infection. However, clinical data about the actual bioavailability of antimicrobial drugs in IAA are scarce. This prospective observational study aimed at assessing the drug penetration in IAA of the antibiotics (piperacillin-tazobactam, carbapenems) and antifungals (fluconazole, echinocandins) that are usually recommended for the treatment of intra-abdominal infections. Patients with IAA who underwent a radiological or surgical drainage procedure were included. Antimicrobial drug concentrations were measured in IAA (C
IAA
) and in a simultaneous plasma sample (C
plasma
) to assess the C
IAA
/C
plasma
ratio. The pharmacodynamic target was defined as a C
IAA
equal or superior to the clinical breakpoints of susceptibility of the most relevant intra-abdominal pathogens. Clinical outcomes were assessed at hospital discharge. A total of 54 antimicrobial drug measurements were performed in 39 IAA samples originating from 36 patients. Despite important inter-individual variability, piperacillin-tazobactam exhibited the highest C
IAA
/C
plasma
ratios (median 2). The rates of target achievement were 75%–80% for piperacillin-tazobactam and meropenem but 0% for imipenem and ertapenem. These results tended to correlate with clinical outcomes (96% success rate versus 73%, respectively,
P
= 0.07). Among antifungals, fluconazole exhibited higher C
IAA
/C
plasma
ratios and rates of target achievement compared to echinocandins. However, no differences in clinical outcomes were observed. These results provide unique information about antimicrobial drug penetration in IAA in real clinical conditions and suggest that piperacillin-tazobactam and meropenem may have better efficacy compared to imipenem or ertapenem.
Development of a Diagnostic System for Studying Plasma Processes in the Magnetic Nozzle of an Electrodeless Plasma Rocket Thruster Prototype
Authors: Bragin E. Yu. , Bunin E. A. , Gusev S. S. , Zhil’tsov V. A. , Kazeev M. N. , Kamin D. V. , Kozlov V. F. , Korobtsev S. V. , Kostrichenko I. A. , Kutuzov D. S. , Spitsyn A. V. , Sukhov A. E. , Shchurovskii D. O. , Yanchenkov S. V.
Published: December 2024

An approach is proposed to creating a diagnostic system for studying the main plasma processes (acceleration and detachment of the plasma flow from the magnetic field lines) in the magnetic nozzle of an electrodeless plasma rocket thruster. The diagnostic system has been developed for the PN-3 setup, an electrodeless plasma rocket thruster prototype, in which this approach has been implemented.
Child with KBG syndrome
Authors: Jyothi Badiginchala Naga , Angel Sumathi , Ravi Kumar Chinthalapalli Prakash , Tamhankar Parag M
Published: December 2024

We report a male child with developmental delay, microcephaly and facial dysmorphism in the form of a turri-brachycephaly-shaped skull, triangular face, posteriorly rotated lop ears, thick bushy eyebrows, synophrys, long deep philtrum and prominent incisors. The mobile application Face2Gene was used to screen the patient’s facial photographs for known syndromes. The application suggested a high likelihood of KBG syndrome. Exome sequencing confirmed this by identifying a heterozygous pathogenic known mutation p.Tyr1406Ter in theANKRD11gene. Thus, the diagnosis of KBG syndrome was suggested only by the Face2Gene application, and the confirmation required DNA testing such as exome sequencing analysis.
Performance of machine learning versus the national early warning score for predicting patient deterioration risk: a single-site study of emergency admissions
Authors: Watson Matthew , Boulitsakis Logothetis Stelios , Green Darren , Holland Mark , Chambers Pinkie , Al Moubayed Noura
Published: December 2024

Objectives

Increasing operational pressures on emergency departments (ED) make it imperative to quickly and accurately identify patients requiring urgent clinical intervention. The widespread adoption of electronic health records (EHR) makes rich feature patient data sets more readily available. These large data stores lend themselves to use in modern machine learning (ML) models. This paper investigates the use of transformer-based models to identify critical deterioration in unplanned ED admissions, using free-text fields, such as triage notes, and tabular data, including early warning scores (EWS).

Design

A retrospective ML study.

Setting

A large ED in a UK university teaching hospital.

Methods

We extracted rich feature sets of routine clinical data from the EHR and systematically measured the performance of tree- and transformer-based models for predicting patient mortality or admission to critical care within 24 hours of presentation to ED. We compared our proposed models to the National EWS (NEWS).

Results

Models were trained on 174 393 admission records. We found that models including free-text triage notes outperform structured tabular data models, achieving an average precision of 0.92, compared with 0.75 for tree-based models and 0.12 for NEWS.

Conclusions

Our findings suggests that machine learning models using free-text data have the potential to improve clinical decision-making in the ED; our techniques significantly reduce alert rate while detecting most high-risk patients missed by NEWS.
Retinal detachments secondary to inferior retinal breaks: anatomic outcomes following the use of different surgical techniques
Authors: Bernardi Enrico , Ferro Desideri Lorenzo , Artemiev Dmitri , Zinkernagel Martin , Anguita Rodrigo
Published: December 2024

Purpose

To compare the anatomical and functional outcomes of pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) alone versus PPV with the addition of a scleral buckle in treating inferior rhegmatogenous retinal detachments (RRDs).

Methods

Comparative, retrospective cohort study including patients who were diagnosed with primary inferior RRD, defined as RRD with one or more retinal tears located between 4 and 8 hours, and divided into two treatment groups. Group 1 patients were treated with PPV and gas tamponade alone, whereas group 2 patients were treated with PPV, gas tamponade and the addition of an encirclement band. Demographic and clinical features were collected, and surgical outcomes of both groups were analysed. A univariable logistic regression model evaluated the factors influencing surgical success.

Results

A total of 161 eyes were included in the study. The average age at diagnosis was 64.1 years. There was a male predominance (66.5%), and most patients had macula-off detachments (54%). Group 1 included 75 eyes (43.1%), whereas group 2 included 86 eyes (56.9%). Baseline best-corrected visual acuity was 1.00 logMAR, improving to 0.62 logMAR at the last visit (p=0.003). No significant difference in primary success rate was observed between the two groups (86.0% with encirclement band vs 80.0% without; p=0.3). The mean follow-up period was 29 weeks (SD 39).

Conclusions

PPV alone may be as effective as PPV with an encirclement band when treating inferior RRDs. The choice of tamponade does not appear to significantly influence anatomical success, and short-acting gas can be considered sufficient for favourable outcomes.
Municipal breast and colorectal–anal cancer mortality in Sardinia, Italy from 2012 to 2020: application of a hierarchical Bayesian method
Authors: Russo Antonello , Belotti Laura Maria Beatrice , Gianicolo Emilio AL
Published: December 2024

Background

Excess mortality rates for breast cancer and colorectal–anal cancer in Sardinia are reported in the literature. The aim of the study is to analyse mortality for both cancer entities in Sardinian at municipality level.

Methods

Sex-specific mortality rates by region and municipality of residence were computed using data from the Italian National Institute of Statistics for the years 2012–2020. Causes of death for malignant breast cancer in women and colorectal–anal cancer in both genders were analysed. The epidemiological analysis was based on the direct and indirect standardisation method. To obtain better interpretable maps of the distribution of relative risk (RR) of mortality, the hierarchical Bayesian Poisson-Gamma method was used.

Results

With regard to breast cancer mortality in women, RRs showed an excess of mortality at the municipal level in four municipalities. In relation to colorectal–anal cancer, RRs showed an excess mortality in four municipalities for men and in three municipalities when considering the total population. At the health-district level, an excess mortality was observed in 1 out 24 districts for colorectal–anal cancer, in both men and the total population.

Conclusion

This study provides an analysis of mortality at the municipal level for breast cancer and colorectal–anal cancer in Sardinia. It is recommended that the Sardinian regional authorities act on modifiable risk factors, like increasing the screening coverages for both neoplasms, in order to reduce the burden of both diseases.
Inequalities in local government expenditure on environmental and regulatory services in England from 2009 to 2020: a longitudinal ecological study
Authors: Murrell Lauren , Fahy Katie , Clough Helen E , Gibb Roger , Zhang Xingna , Chattaway Marie Anne , Green Mark Alan , Buchan Iain Edward , Barr Ben , Hungerford Daniel
Published: December 2024

Background

Gastrointestinal (GI) infections affect one in five people in the UK and local authorities play a crucial role in controlling these infections. However, there have been substantial reductions in funding for environmental and regulatory (ER) services that enable GI infectious disease prevention and control via food safety and infection control (FSIC) services. This study investigates how local funding cuts to these services have varied across England to understand the potential consequences of inequalities in GI infections.

Methods

We carried out a longitudinal observational ecological study, using a panel of annual data between 2009/2010 and 2020/2021. Analysis of ER service expenditure and FSIC service expenditure included 312 and 303 local authorities respectively. Generalised estimating equation models were used to estimate the annual per cent change of ER service expenditure between 2009/2010 and 2020/2021 in addition to FSIC expenditure change overall, and as a share of total ER expenditure. Models analysed trends by local authority structure, population density and deprivation level.

Results

ER services saw the largest cuts in unitary authorities, declining by 1.9%. London boroughs had the greatest reductions in FSIC expenditure, decreasing by 9.9%. Both ER and FSIC expenditure decreased with increasing population density. Areas of higher deprivation had the largest reduction in expenditure, with ER and FSIC cuts of 2.4% and 22.8%, respectively, compared with a 1.2% and 7.5% reduction in the least deprived areas. The share of ER expenditure spent on FSIC decreased by 13.4% in the most deprived authorities compared with 6.3% in the least deprived areas.

Conclusion

The unequal distribution of cuts shows the need for increased and equitable investment into these services to enable resilience to emerging infectious disease threats and to prevent the widening of health inequalities.
Mpox in the news: social representations, identity, stigma and coping
Authors: Nerlich Brigitte , Jaspal Rusi
Published: December 2024

In May 2022, when the COVID-19 pandemic began to recede from public view, another infectious disease surprised the world—mpox (formerly monkeypox). It appeared to disproportionately affect gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men (GBMSM). Using qualitative thematic analysis and social representations theory, we analysed a corpus of 91 items from a variety of news outlets that included GBMSM community members’ personal accounts of living through an mpox outbreak. The aim was to study the various ways in which members of a marginalised group created social representations of mpox and to ascertain whether these challenged older representations related to HIV and AIDS and newer ones related to COVID-19. Commentators anchored mpox to known, culturally accessible phenomena to render this previously unfamiliar disease familiar; objectified aspects of mpox, especially pain, through emotive language, making it ‘real’ and psychologically tangible; personified it by linking it to accounts of celebrity activists; and ontologised it through visually vivid descriptions. Challenging stigma was a cross-cutting theme in people’s accounts. In contrast to the stigmatising imagery of health issues affecting GBMSM, these accounts contribute to the development of social representations designed to challenge such stigmatisation, which, in the contexts of HIV and AIDS and COVID-19, has hindered effective medical interventions, promoted misinformation and fuelled denigration.
MODULATION OF GUT MICROBIOTA THROUGH PHYSICAL ACTIVITY IN INDIVIDUALS WITH OBESITY – A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW
Authors: Cancino Javiera , González Rojas Luis , Magne Fabien , Gotteland Martin
Published: December 2024

Overweight/obesity (OW/OB) have been associated with gut dysbiosis, changes in gastrointestinal motility and sedentary behavior, contributing to metabolic and inflammatory alterations. This systematic review aims to assess the evidence supporting the influence of physical activity and exercise on gut microbiota composition and diversity in OW/OB and was conducted according to PRISMA guidelines, using Medline, Embase, Ebsco and Scopus databases. Risk of bias was assessed with RoB 2 for randomized controlled trials (RCT), ROBINS-I for non-RCT and JBI Critical Appraisal tool for cross-sectional studies. Eleven studies were selected including 476 OW/OB and 382 normal weight individuals. Seven studies included different types of exercise intervention while the other four were cross-sectional studies assessing physical activity. Results show no clear evidence of a less diverse microbiota in OW/OB. Exercise does not significantly affect alpha diversity of gut microbiota but modifies beta diversity depending on obesity status. Moderate to vigorous physical activity positively associates with gut microbiota composition and SCFA-producing bacteria. These findings highlight the importance of considering gut microbiota contribution to inter-individual variability of response to obesity treatments. Modulation of gut microbiota by physical activity should be considered in the design of personalized therapeutic strategies in obesity. PROSPERO registration number: CRD42021262107.
Geometric phase for mixed squeezed-coherent states
Authors: Almas S. Mohammadi , Najarbashi G.
Published: December 2024

In this paper, we investigate the geometric phase (GP) acquired by two-mode mixed squeezed-coherent states (SCSs) during unitary cyclic evolution, examining the influence of squeezing parameter and classical weight. We analyze the GP for three distinct mixed states, each characterized by different configurations of the SCSs. Our results reveal that increasing the squeezing parameters of individual modes compresses the GP contours in different patterns: linearly, hyperbolically, and elliptically, depending on the mixed state configuration. This behavior demonstrates the enhancement of quantum measurement precision in squeezed states through uncertainty adjustment, consistent with the established theoretical predictions.
Analysis of 2D fractional diffusion equation using the Yang–Abdel–Cattani and Caputo–Fabrizio operators via q-HATM
Authors: Alzaid Sara Salem , Gouri Aafrin , Alkahtani Badr Saad T. , Dubey Ravi Shanker
Published: December 2024

In this paper, we investigate the 2D fractional diffusion equation using the Yang–Abdel–Cattani (YAC) and Caputo–Fabrizio (CF) fractional derivative operators, which offer a novel and efficient framework for addressing fractional calculus problems. We employ the q-Homotopy Analysis Transform Method (q-HATM) to derive the analytical solution to the 2D fractional diffusion equation. A detailed discussion on the existence and uniqueness of the solution is provided, ensuring the robustness of our approach. Furthermore, we present several special cases of the 2D fractional diffusion equation, showcasing the adaptability of the solution method across different scenarios. To validate our results, we perform a comparison with exact solutions, supported by graphical data that highlight the precision of the q-HATM approach. Our study contributes significantly to the growing field of fractional diffusion equations, offering new insights into the applicability of fractional derivative operators. The findings pave the way for future exploration of higher-dimensional diffusion equations and the use of alternative fractional operators in modeling real-world diffusion phenomena across various scientific and engineering domains.
Reliability of 4D Flow MRI for Investigation of Fetal Cardiovascular Hemodynamics in the Third Trimester
Authors: Englund Erin K. , Fujiwara Takashi , Smith Sarah A. , Meyers Mariana L. , Friesen Richard M. , Browne Lorna P. , Barker Alex J.
Published: December 2024

Four-dimensional flow MRI was feasible in third-trimester fetuses, and hemodynamic measurements were precise across measurement locations, internally consistent based on conservation of mass, repeatable from test-retest data, and correlated to two-dimensional phase contrast MRI measurements.
Study on Adsorption and Desorption Mechanism of CuO Particles on the Post-CMP Wafer Surface of Multi-Layered Copper
Authors: Yang Liu , Yin Da , Zhang Wenqian , Han Tiecheng , Zhao Peng , Wang Tongju , Xia Qing
Published: December 2024

In the process of chemical mechanical polishing (CMP), the removal of surface pollution contamination on the wafer surface is an urgent problem to be solved, and the CuO removal is important for the cleaning after CMP. In this paper, a new type of alkaline cleaning solution based on composite complexing agent was proposed for CuO particles removal. The optimal concentration of the cleaning solution was explored using static corrosion rate and electrochemical quartz crystal microbalance measurements. When the components were 200 ppm FA/OII chelating agent and 0.1 vol% ammonium citrate, CuO residue on copper surface can be effectively removed. It can be confirmed that CuO cleaning depends mainly on the complexation of composite complexing agent. Scanning electron microscopy showed that a lower surface roughness was obtained after cleaning. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and UV–vis measurements confirmed that the synergistic effect of FA/OII chelating agent and ammonium citrate could effectively remove copper oxide contamination on the surface. The ratio of copper oxide on copper surface after CMP decreased significantly to 8.86%.
Autofluorescence Virtual Staining System for H&E Histology and Multiplex Immunofluorescence Applied to Immuno-Oncology Biomarkers in Lung Cancer
Authors: Loo Jessica , Robbins Marc , McNeil Carson , Yoshitake Tadayuki , Santori Charles , Shan Chuanhe (Jay) , Vyawahare Saurabh , Patel Hardik , Wang Tzu Chien , Findlater Robert , Steiner David F. , Rao Sudha , Gutierrez Michael , Wang Yang , Sanchez Adrian C. , Yin Raymund , Velez Vanessa , Sigman Julia S. , Coutinho de Souza Patricia , Chandrupatla Hareesh , Scott Liam , Weaver Shamira S. , Lee Chung-Wein , Rivlin Ehud , Goldenberg Roman , Couto Suzana S. , Cimermancic Peter , Wong Pok Fai
Published: December 2024

Virtual staining for digital pathology has great potential to enable spatial biology research, improve efficiency and reliability in the clinical workflow, as well as conserve tissue samples in a nondestructive manner. In this study, we demonstrate the feasibility of generating virtual stains for hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) and a multiplex immunofluorescence (mIF) immuno-oncology panel (DAPI, PanCK, PD-L1, CD3, and CD8) from autofluorescence (AF) images of unstained non–small cell lung cancer tissue by combining high-throughput hyperspectral fluorescence microscopy and machine learning. Using domain-specific computational methods, we evaluated the accuracy of virtual H&E staining for histologic subtyping and virtual mIF for cell segmentation–based measurements, including clinically relevant measurements such as tumor area, T-cell density, and PD-L1 expression (tumor proportion score and combined positive score). The virtual stains reproduce key morphologic features and protein biomarker expressions at both tissue and cell levels compared with real stains, enable the identification of key immune phenotypes important for immuno-oncology, and show moderate to good performance across various evaluation metrics. This study extends our previous work on virtual staining from AF in liver disease and prostate cancer, further demonstrating the generalizability of this deep learning technique to a different disease (lung cancer) and stain modality (mIF).

Significance:

We extend the capabilities of virtual staining from AF to a different disease and stain modality. Our work includes newly developed virtual stains for H&E and a multiplex immunofluorescence panel (DAPI, PanCK, PD-L1, CD3, and CD8) for non–small cell lung cancer, which reproduce the key features of real stains.
Nasopharyngeal Metastasis from Lung Adenocarcinoma: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Conti Chiara , Nucera Sabrina , Di Grazia Giuseppe , Martorana Federica , Motta Fabio , Vigneri Paolo , Di Grazia Alfio M.
Published: December 2024

Introduction: Managing uncommon metastatic sites from different solid tumors is challenging since no available guidelines define the best therapeutic approaches for these rare clinical events. Thus, malignancies giving rise to distant metastases involving infrequent anatomical regions are often associated with a poor prognosis. Case Presentation: We present the case of a 75-year-old man who developed uncontrolled epistaxis following the detection of a metachronous nasopharyngeal metastasis from a previous lung adenocarcinoma. The lesion was identified with a computed tomography scan and its origin from the earlier non-small cell lung cancer was confirmed by a biopsy. The patient was successfully treated with radiation therapy and is currently continuing his oncological follow-up. To the best of our knowledge, this is the fifth reported case of a lung malignancy spreading to the nasopharyngeal region. Conclusion: Meticulous patient monitoring and accurate radiological diagnosis followed by histological confirmation are of paramount importance for the management of uncommon metastatic sites. Likewise, a multidisciplinary approach is essential to devise the appropriate treatment strategy for each patient with locoregional interventions, such as radiation therapy, often playing a pivotal role for the management of symptomatic lesions in unusual anatomical sites.
Changes in Cerebral Hemodynamics and Progression of Subclinical Vascular Brain Disease: A Population-Based Cohort Study
Authors: Ma Yuan , Bos Daniel , Wolters Frank J. , Niessen Wiro , Hofman Albert , Ikram M. Arfan , Vernooij Meike W.
Published: December 2024

BACKGROUND:

Cerebral hypoperfusion is associated with vascular brain injury and neurodegeneration, but their longitudinal relationship is largely unknown, especially in healthy older adults.

METHODS:

We investigated the longitudinal relationship between cerebral hemodynamics and subclinical vascular brain disease in community-dwelling older adults without stroke or dementia at baseline. Participants underwent brain magnetic resonance imaging scans every 3 to 4 years between 2005 and 2016. Cerebral blood flow (CBF) was measured through 2-dimensional phase-contrast magnetic resonance imaging; the cerebrovascular resistance index (CVRi) was defined as the ratio of mean arterial blood pressure to total CBF. Simultaneous progression in subclinical brain disease was evaluated through repeated magnetic resonance imaging assessment of white matter hyperintensities (WMH), cerebral microbleeds, lacune, and brain atrophy. The longitudinal relationship was estimated using generalized estimating equations, with adjustment for age, sex, smoking habits, body mass index, systolic blood pressure (for CBF measures), lipid level, history of diabetes and cardiovascular disease, and the baseline burden of magnetic resonance imaging markers.

RESULTS:

Among 3623 older adults (mean age, 61.4±9.3 years; 54.6% women), large decreases and increases in CBF and increases in CVRi over time were associated with white matter hyperintensity progression. The risk ratios for white matter hyperintensity progression were 1.36 (95% CI, 1.19–1.55) for large decreases in total CBF (lowest quartile), 1.02 (95% CI, 0.91–1.14) for moderate decreases (second quartile), and 1.28 (95% CI, 1.14–1.45) for large increases (highest quartile), compared with stable CBF (third quartile). The corresponding risk ratios for changes in CVRi were 1.13 (95% CI, 1.00–1.30), 1.25 (95% CI, 1.09–1.43), and 1.33 (95% CI, 1.16–1.52) for the second to fourth (versus lowest) quartiles, respectively, showing a dose-response relationship. The changes in CBF also demonstrate a similar U-shaped association with the progression of brain atrophy and incident microbleeds, whereas increases in CVRi were associated with lower microbleed risk.

CONCLUSIONS:

Longitudinal changes in CBF and CVRi may capture distinct pathophysiologies linking cerebral hemodynamics to subclinical brain disease, extending beyond single–time point measurements.
Digital Minority Religions
Authors: Evolvi Giulia
Published: December 2024

Religion has always been, to a certain extent, mediated. Communication practices are at the core of religious communities, but it is in recent decades that the rapid developments of media technologies have created new possibilities for interactions about religion. In this context, a focus on religious minorities represents a unique opportunity for scholars to analyze the internet in nuanced ways within the framework of digital religion. Through the analysis of minority groups, the internet can be understood both as a space of empowerment of marginal voices and as a venue that further increases social exclusion. In this editorial I outline previous works that show this double-faced role of the internet for minorities, and I offer some reflections on theoretical perspectives for the future of digital minority religions.
The Humanities in Jesuit Schools 1548–1773
Authors: Grendler Paul F.
Published: December 2024

The humanities were the most important part of Jesuit education. The Jesuit lower school taught grammar, humanities, and rhetoric to boys and young men in the Society of Jesus and it was free. The goal was to educate boys in the humanities so that they would become adult leaders who would make wise decisions for the common good. Most Jesuit schools were small. Enrollment information for classes in the province of Milan in 1661 offers an example. About seventy-five percent of students in Jesuit schools attended the lower school classes. The Ratio studiorum of 1599 prescribed a humanities curriculum that focused on Golden Age ancient authors especially Cicero and Virgil. However, Jesuit schools did not follow the Ratio studiorum strictly in the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries. They taught baroque Latin. They taught vernacular languages. They taught little Greek. But they retained the core of the Ratio studiorum.
Capta Vitrix: Virgil at the Collegium Romanum
Authors: Gwynne Paul
Published: December 2024

According to several contemporary sources, the Ottoman success at the siege of Nicosia (September 1570) was completely foiled when the fleet shipping the spoils of war to Constantinople was blown out of the water while sailing from the harbour at Famagusta. It seems that a brave captive chose death rather than dishonor as a slave in the harem of Sultan Mehmed ii and fired the gunpowder magazine on board one of the ships blowing it and adjacent vessels in the flotilla to smithereens. A poetic rendition of this event is given by Famiano Strada (1572–1649) in his massive three-book commentary on ancient literature, intended for use in the Jesuit classroom: Prolusiones et paradigmata eloquentiae (Rome, 1617). Here, the story is retold in Virgillian hexameters as a blueprint of heroic behavior for seminarians as they pursue the Jesuit global mission. This article analyzes three short passages and places them within the larger context of Jesuit pedagogy at the Collegium Romanum.