bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Biomechanical Comparison of Human Walking Locomotion on Solid Ground and Sand
Authors: Zhu Chunchu , Chen Xunjie , Yi Jingang
Published: February 2025

Current studies on human locomotion focus mainly on solid ground walking conditions. In this paper, we present a biomechanic comparison of human walking locomotion on solid ground and sand. A novel dataset containing 3-dimensional motion and biomechanical data from 20 able-bodied adults for locomotion on solid ground and sand is collected. We present the data collection methods and report the sensor data along with the kinematic and kinetic profiles of joint biomechanics. The results reveal significant gait adaptations to the yielding terrain (i.e., sand), such as increased stance duration, reduced push-off force, and altered joint angles and moments. Specifically, the knee angle during the gait cycle on sand shows a delayed peak flexion and an increased overall magnitude, highlighting an adaptation to maintain stability on yielding terrain. These adjustments, including changes in joint timing and energy conservation mechanisms, provide insights into the motion control strategies humans adopt to navigate on yielding terrains. The dataset, containing synchronized ground reaction forces (GRFs) and kinematic data, offers a valuable resource for further exploration in foot-terrain interactions and human walking assistive devices development on yielding terrains.
On Order Elevation for Unstructured Finite Volume Solvers Using Defect Correction
Authors: Jayasankar Akhil , Ollivier-Gooch Carl
Published: February 2025

Much of the effort in improving the accuracy of computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations is focused on mesh refinement and adaptation although studies have shown that the use of high-order methods are more efficient in improving accuracy. Stability issues, complexity of implementation, and demand of computational resources are some of the key factors hindering the use of high-order methods in commercial CFD solvers. This paper demonstrates an improvement in the order of accuracy of finite volume solutions on unstructured meshes without using a high-order solver. Defect correction and the error transport equation method are the techniques discussed, along with the method for obtaining an appropriate estimate of the truncation error, which is crucial in both these techniques. Methods to obtain high-order interpolation of the control volume averages and high-order integral functionals along curved boundaries are also discussed. Third-order accurate results are obtained for a variety of problems, including the 2D Euler equations, without using a third-order discretization scheme.
Investigation of Grooved Front Plate for Inlet Swirl Reduction in Brush Seals
Authors: Aboseada Abdullah , Pekris Michael J , Chew John W.
Published: February 2025

Brush seals are plausible replacements for conventional labyrinth seals in gas turbine internal air systems. They can offer superior leakage performance due to their compliant nature and reduced effective clearance during operation. However, highly swirling flow and aerodynamic forces on the upstream bristles could lead to bristle back aero-elastic instability at high-shaft speed locations. Previous research has shown that the bristles in an idealized pack are displaced from their equilibrium position at swirl velocities of 150m.s-1 and above for a bristle diameter of 0.1mm. This study investigates grooves as a means of improving brush seal robustness in these locations by reducing inlet swirl incident on the bristle pack. A parametric study of a simple groove geometry was conducted using CFD and a porous medium representation of the bristle pack to achieve representative seal leakages. Groove length, width, angle and pitch were identified as important parameters for swirl reduction. The performance of ribs from previous research can be replicated and improved upon. A Design of Experiments (DOE) approach was implemented to investigate a novel groove design geometry. Combining a horizontal channel with an inclined groove enables a higher spacing to achieve the same swirl reduction due to drag and flow channeling/mixing effects at the inner radius. The resulting trends indicate that the novel design performs as intended, for the selected boundary conditions, in substantially reducing the swirl and bristle aerodynamic loading, thus helping to mitigate the above risk of premature seal deterioration and failure.
Revisiting the assignment of atomic charges in metal oxides based on core-level x-ray photoelectron spectra: The case of Ti in SrTiO3(001)
Authors: Chambers Scott A. , Sushko Peter V. , Bagus Paul S.
Published: February 2025

We demonstrate that assigning formal charges to transition metal (TM) cations based on core-level (CL) x-ray photoemission binding energies in oxides leads to physically inconsistent pictures of electronic structure. O 2p–TM 3d hybridization is well known to result in significant covalency in TM–O bonds, thereby reducing TM cation charges from their fully ionic values. However, the ionic bonding model remains the working paradigm for assigning TM CL features, and the resulting cation charges are often taken to be representative of the material under study. Here, we show that a more physically meaningful way to assign charges is to extract information about charge distributions utilizing Dirac–Hartree–Fock theory to calculate CL spectra from first principles and then use the resulting wave functions to determine charges based on orbital occupancies. TM cation charges can also be determined using density functional theory and Bader population analysis. We illustrate these two methods using the Ti 2p spectrum for SrTiO3(001) and show that the agreement between them is excellent. Significantly, the resulting Ti charge is considerably lower than the formal charge. The high degree of similarity between the Ti 2p spectrum for SrTiO3 and those for the rutile and anatase polymorphs of TiO2 suggests that the charge densities surrounding Ti in the latter materials are similar to that in SrTiO3. Taking a broader perspective, oxides containing other first-row transition metals also exhibit covalent character, leading to TM cation charges lower than the analogous fully ionic values in these materials as well.
Systematic Review of Methods of Teaching Swimming to People With Disabilities
Authors: Caballero Chávez Erick , Ortiz Olivar Ana , Moreno-Murcia Juan Antonio
Published: February 2025

This systematic review aimed to analyze the methodologies used to teach swimming skills to individuals with disabilities and followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. 13 studies were reviewed to identify the most effective approaches in aquatic education. The studies analyzed included participants with a range of disabilities, such as autism spectrum disorder, cerebral palsy, and visual impairments. Key findings suggest that tailored methodologies like the Halliwick Method and Water Exercise Swimming Program improve motor and social skills significantly, while inclusive frameworks such as the Sherrill Swimming Model promote participation across diverse groups. In addition, the Comprehensive Aquatic Method offers an innovative framework, which includes cognitive challenges and creative activities promoting social and emotional development. However, gaps remain in addressing sensory disabilities, particularly hearing impairments. This review provides insights for educators and practitioners to develop inclusive aquatic programs while highlighting the need for further research into underexplored populations and socioaffective outcomes.
Efficacy of unified protocol for transdiagnostic treatment of emotional disorders in adolescents (UP-A) in China: protocol for a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Liu Xue-Ying , Pan Mei-Rong , Gao Xue , Fu Zhong-Fang , Liu Lu , Li Hai-Mei , Wang Yu-Feng , Qian Qiujin
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Emotional disorders are highly prevalent among adolescents, with a high rate of comorbidity. Convenient and effective treatment options are needed to reduce costs and improve effectiveness. The unified protocol for transdiagnostic treatment of emotional disorders in adolescents (UP-A) is an evidence-based transdiagnostic approach aimed at ameliorate emotional symptoms. The objective of this study is to assess the efficacy of the UP-A in Chinese adolescents with emotional disorders using multidimensional evaluations.

Methods and analysis

This study is a two-armed, randomised controlled trial on the efficacy of 12 week UP-A on adolescents with emotional disorders along with their parents. Forty-eight participants will be randomly assigned to either the treatment as usual (TAU) group or the TAU combined with UP-A (UP-A+TAU) group. We will evaluate the efficacy of the UP-A, through the following primary and secondary outcomes: emotional disorder severity, emotional symptoms, emotion regulation, cognitive patterns, executive function, resilience, quality of life, social and family functioning. Participants will be assessed at baseline (T1), week 4 (T2), week 8 (T3), post-treatment (T4) and 3 month follow-up (T5).

Discussion

This protocol outlines the first randomised controlled trial investigating the efficacy of the UP-A among Chinese adolescents with emotional disorders. The findings may contribute to providing an effective and feasible transdiagnostic intervention in Chinese clinical settings.

Ethics and dissemination

This trial has been approved by the Ethics and Clinical Research Committees of Peking University Sixth Hospital and will be performed under the Declaration of Helsinki with the Medical Research Involving Human Subjects Act (WMO). The results will be disseminated in a peer-reviewed journal and a conference presentation.

Trial registration number

ChiCTR2300069354.
Antecedents to aggression and the use of coercive measures in inpatient mental health settings: a scoping review protocol
Authors: Sterri Njål Herman E , Lockertsen Øyvind , Husum Tonje Lossius , Lockertsen Veronica , Siqveland Johan , Senneseth Mette
Published: February 2025

Objective

To investigate the antecedents to episodes of aggression and the use of coercive measures in inpatient mental health settings, organize and explore their relationships and patterns through thematic analysis, identify gaps in the literature and provide insights for future research.

Introduction

The use of coercive measures in inpatient mental health settings remains controversial and ethically challenging. Despite an international consensus on the need to reduce their use, the antecedents to aggression and episodes involving coercive measures remain insufficiently explored. This review seeks to address this gap by systematically mapping the evidence of these antecedents and exploring their relationship, providing a foundation for future research.

Inclusion criteria

Studies included were those published from 2014 to the present in the English language, focusing on either adult mental health inpatients or mental healthcare professionals aged 18 years or older involved in episodes of aggression or exposure to coercive measures in both acute and long-term inpatient mental health settings. Included studies must address antecedents to aggression or the use of coercive measures. Exclusions apply to studies focusing exclusively on behaviours unrelated to aggression or coercive measures, studies conducted in non-inpatient settings and those involving child, adolescent, geriatric or forensic populations.

Methods

The review will follow the Joanna Briggs Institute methodology for scoping reviews. The search strategy will cover key databases, including Ovid Medline, APA PsycINFO and Scopus, with reference list screening to ensure comprehensive coverage. Initial exploratory searches were conducted in June 2024, with the formal searches updated in January 2025. Studies will be screened against the inclusion criteria, and data will be extracted using a standardised form adapted to the review objectives. Grey literature will be excluded, focusing on peer-reviewed evidence. The analysis will include descriptive mapping of the antecedents to aggression and the use of coercive measures, supplemented by thematic analysis to organize and explore patterns and relationships between them. Results will be presented in a descriptive summary, supported by thematic analysis and descriptive statistics.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethical approval is not required since this study uses existing published literature. The results will be disseminated through a peer-reviewed journal and presented at relevant international conferences.
Association between frailty and hospital-related adverse events in older hospitalised patients: a systematic literature review protocol
Authors: Alotaibi Faris , Alshibani Abdullah , Banerjee Jay , Manktelow Brad
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Research indicates that older hospitalised individuals are more susceptible to hospital adverse events (AEs). Frailty is a syndrome marked by increased vulnerability, sudden and severe health changes and the risk of adverse outcomes. The majority of the available research puts a limited emphasis on those who live with frailty and examines the relationship between age alone and the occurrence of AEs. This review investigates the association between frailty and the likelihood of hospital AE occurrences in hospitalised older patients.

Methods and analysis

The proposed systematic review will search Ovid MEDLINE, CINAHL, Scopus and Web of Science databases. Studies that published original data in English using any methodology will be included. A manual search of the final included studies reference list will be made to identify studies that meet the inclusion criteria. If feasible, a meta-analysis will be conducted using the R statistical programme, and results will be visually presented using a forest plot. If there is high heterogeneity and a meta-analysis is not feasible, a narrative synthesis and analysis guided by Cochrane criteria will be conducted, and results will be presented in appropriate tables and figures.

Ethics and dissemination

No ethical approval will be obtained for this review since it will use secondary published data. The systematic review’s results will be published in a peer-reviewed frailty and geriatrics care-related journal and disseminated in conferences, congresses and scientific meetings.
Formal Modeling of Hybrid System Based on Semi-continuous Colored Petri Net: A Case Study of Adaptive Cruise Control System
Authors: Yu Wangyang , Guo Qi , Cheng Yumeng , Liu Lu , Hao Fei , Zhai Xiaojun , Chen Minsi
Published: February 2025

Many Next-Generation consumer electronic devices would be distributed hybrid electronic systems, such as UAVs (Unmanned Aerial Vehicles) and smart electronic cars. The safety and risk control are the key issues for the sustainability of such consumer electronic systems. The modeling of hybrid electronic systems is difficult to be abstracted by traditional Petri Nets. This also makes the reachable marking graph unable to be applied to Petri nets of the hybrid electronic systems. This paper proposes a novel Petri Net to model and analyze the hybrid electronic systems. We name it a Semi-continuous Colored Petri Net (SCPN) that inherits the excellent modeling capabilities and analysis methods of Petri Nets, and can formally depict hybrid quantities. In addition, we propose the construction algorithm for an SCPN reachable marking graph and prove its finiteness. Finally, we model and analyze an Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) system of smart electronic cars as an example to prove the validity of SCPN. We use the proposed SCPN to model and analyze the running process of an ACC system under the continuous deceleration scenario of the front vehicle. The application study shows that the ACC system has logic flaws under the constant headway strategy when the front vehicle continues to decelerate. Based on this analysis, improvements to the SCPN of the ACC system are made, effectively enhancing its safety and logical correctness.
Some Results on Approximability of Minimum Sum Vertex Cover
Authors: Stankovic Aleksa
Published: February 2025

We study the Minimum Sum Vertex Cover problem, which asks for an ordering of vertices in a graph that minimizes the total cover time of edges. In particular,
n
vertices of the graph are visited according to an ordering, and for each edge this induces the first time it is covered. The goal of the problem is to find the ordering that minimizes the sum of the cover times over all edges in the graph.

In this work we give the first explicit hardness of approximation result for Minimum Sum Vertex Cover. In particular, assuming the Unique Games Conjecture, we show that the Minimum Sum Vertex Cover problem cannot be approximated within 1.0748. The best approximation ratio for Minimum Sum Vertex Cover as of now is 16/9, due to a recent work of Bansal, Batra, Farhadi, and Tetali.

We also study the Minimum Sum Vertex Cover problem on regular graphs. In particular, we show that in this case the problem is hard to approximate within 1.0157. We also revisit an approximation algorithm for regular graphs outlined in the work of Feige, Lovász, and Tetali, to show that Minimum Sum Vertex Cover can be approximated within 1.225 on regular graphs.
Encoded Marker Clusters for Auto-Labeling in Optical Motion Capture
Authors: Wang Hao , Hou Taogang , Liu Tianhui , Li Jiaxin , Wang Tianmiao
Published: February 2025

Marker-based optical motion capture (MoCap) is a vital tool in applications such as virtual production, and movement sciences. However, reconstructing scattered MoCap data into real motion sequences is challenging, and data processing is time-consuming and labor-intensive. Here we propose a novel framework for MoCap auto-labeling and matching. In this framework, we designed novel clusters of reflective markers called auto-labeling encoded marker clusters (AEMCs), including clusters with an explicit header (AEMCs-E) and an implicit header (AEMCs-I). Combining cluster design and coding theory gives each cluster a unique codeword for MoCap auto-labeling and matching. Moreover, we provide a method of mapping and decoding for cluster labeling. The labeling results are only determined by the intrinsic characteristics of the clusters instead of the skeleton structure or posture of the subjects. Compared with commercial software and data-driven methods, our method has better labeling accuracy in heterogeneous targets and unknown marker layouts, which demonstrates the promising application of motion capture in humans, rigid or flexible robots.
GPR180 reduces adiposity by inhibiting lipogenesis and fatty acid uptake in adipocytes
Authors: Zhu Ziming , Yang Yaxu , Sun Lijun , Zhang Yunhua , Han Xue , Luo Chao , Yin Yue , Zhang Weizhen
Published: February 2025

This study identifies GPR180 as a novel regulator of lipid metabolism and energy homeostasis. It demonstrates that GPR180 influences adipose tissue function, mitigates high-fat diet-induced obesity, and inhibits lipogenesis. Unique expression patterns and GWAS data linking GPR180 to lipid regulation highlight its systemic role. These findings establish GPR180 as a promising therapeutic target for metabolic disorders, warranting further research to uncover its molecular mechanisms and clinical applications.
Favorable alterations in ventricular-arterial interactions across the menstrual cycle in healthy premenopausal women
Authors: Shenouda Ninette , Stock Joseph M. , Chouramanis Nicholas V. , Lincoln Zoe R. , Wenner Megan M. , Chirinos Julio A. , Edwards David G.
Published: February 2025

Using aortic pressure-flow analyses, we demonstrate favorable reductions in left ventricular wasted pressure effort across menstrual cycle phases in healthy premenopausal women, but not across time-matched visits in men. Increases in estradiol were related to changes in total peripheral resistance, which, along with reflected wave amplitude and timing, leads to a reduced wasted pressure effort. Our findings suggest a need to consider sex hormones and cycle phases when assessing ventricular load in naturally menstruating women.
Role of α1 adrenergic receptors in the cerebral cortical blood flow response to acute hypoxia in low and high altitude near-term fetal lambs
Authors: Bierwirth Jacqueline , Tan John B. , Mendez Bobby , Zhang Lubo , Schroeder Hobe , Liu Taiming , Power Gordon G. , Blood Arlin B.
Published: February 2025

Fetal cerebral blood flow increases in response to acute hypoxia, mediated in part by an adrenergic α1 receptor (α1-R)-mediated increase in peripheral vascular resistance that redirects cardiac output to the brain. Activation of cerebral α1-R may attenuate the increase in cerebral blood flow during hypoxia, and this effect may be even greater in fetuses exposed to chronic high-altitude hypoxia, previously shown to increase the contractile function of cerebral artery α1-Rs. We hypothesized that α1-R activation in the fetal sheep brain attenuates increases in cerebral blood flow during acute hypoxia and that this effect would be accentuated in fetuses exposed to chronic hypoxia.

Near-term fetal sheep gestated at low or high altitude (3801 m) were instrumented chronically for measurement of mean arterial pressure (MAP), heart rate (HR), cerebral cortical blood flow (CBF), and cortical vascular resistance (CVR). Responses to acute hypoxia were then measured in the presence and absence of prazosin (α1-R antagonist).

Prazosin infusion resulted in a decrease in baseline MAP and CBF. During acute hypoxia, CBF increased by only 14±6% above baseline in the prazosin group, compared to 28±9% in the vehicle group (Fig. 1), with no significant difference in CVR in either group. Similar to the low altitude animals, prazosin did not significantly alter the CBF or CVR response to acute hypoxia, nor recovery following acute hypoxia, in the high altitude fetuses. We conclude that cortical α1-Rs neither attenuate increased CBF during acute hypoxia, nor mediate the cortical vasoconstriction that occurs in recovery from acute hypoxia.
No sex differences in performance and perceived fatigability during a self-paced endurance exercise performed under moderate hypoxia
Authors: Hasegawa Julio S. , Silveira Andre C. , Azevedo Rafael A. , Schamne Julio Cezar , Rondon Maria Urbana Pinto Brandão , Papoti Marcelo , Lima-Silva Adriano Eduardo , Koehle Michael S. , Bertuzzi Romulo
Published: February 2025

This study examined potential sex differences on performance and perceived fatigability during a whole-body endurance exercise performed under normoxia or moderate hypoxia. Nine male and eight female cyclists performed a 4-km cycling time-trial under normoxia or hypoxia conditions. Performance fatigability and its central and peripheral determinants were measured via pre- to post-exercise changes in maximal voluntary isometric contraction (IMVC), voluntary activation (VA), and potentiated twitch force (TwPt) of knee extensors, respectively. Perceived fatigability was characterized via rating of perceived exertion (RPE). Time to complete the trial was longer in hypoxia than normoxia in females (482 ± 24 vs 465 ± 21 s) and males (433 ± 30 vs 408 ± 31 s) (P = 0.039). There was no effect of sex or condition (P ≥ 0.370) for the magnitude of decrease in IMVC (female: normoxia = −14.3 ± 4.4 %, hypoxia = −11.8 ± 5.2 % vs male: normoxia = −13.1 ± 9.4 %, hypoxia = −12.9 ± 9.8 %), TwPt (female: normoxia = −34.4 ± 11.4 %, hypoxia = −31.8 ± 18.9 % vs male: normoxia = −30.5 ± 17.9 %, hypoxia = −31.9 ± 20.9 %), and VA (female: normoxia = −0.5 ± 2.3 %, hypoxia = −1.6 ± 1.6 % vs male: normoxia = 0.8 ± 2.2 %, hypoxia = −0.5 ± 1.3 %). RPE was higher in hypoxia than normoxia for both groups (P = 0.002). In conclusion, moderate hypoxia similarly impairs performance and perceived fatigability development in females and males during a 4-km cycling time-trial.
Results of the phase I/II study and preliminary B cell gene signature of combined inhibition of glutamine metabolism and EGFR in colorectal cancer
Authors: Ciombor Kristen K. , Bae Seong-Woo , Whisenant Jennifer G. , Ayers Gregory D. , Sheng Quanhu , Peterson Todd E. , Smith Gary T. , Lin Kangyu , Chowdhury Saikat , Kanikarla Marie Preeti , Sorokin Alexey , Cohen Allison S. , Goff Laura W. , Cardin Dana B. , Shen John Paul , Kopetz Scott , Eng Cathy , Shyr Yu , Berlin Jordan , Manning H. Charles
Published: February 2025

Purpose: EGFR-targeting monoclonal antibodies are essential for managing RAS WT metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC), but their limited efficacy necessitates exploring immunological and metabolic factors influencing response. This study evaluated glutamine metabolism targeting with EGFR inhibition to identify response biomarkers in patients with prior anti-EGFR treatment progression. Experimental Design: We conducted a phase I/II trial in KRAS WT mCRC patients, combining panitumumab and CB-839, hypothesizing that dual inhibition of glutamine metabolism and MAPK signaling would enhance outcomes. As study correlatives, we investigated the B cell activation signature ‘Bscore’ and glutamine PET as potential treatment response biomarkers. Results: The combination of panitumumab and CB-839 was tolerable with manageable side effects, including Grade 4 hypomagnesemia in four patients, a known panitumumab-related event. Two patients achieved partial response (PR), and five had stable disease (SD), with a 41% disease control rate (DCR). Median progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) were 1.84 and 8.87 months, respectively. A positive correlation between ‘Bscore’ and lesion size reduction suggested its association with clinical benefit (PR and SD). Lower ‘Bscore’ correlated with greater tumor avidity for glutamine by PET, indicating B cell activation sensitivity to glutamine depletion. Conclusions: The combination of CB-839 and panitumumab showed safety and promising preliminary responses, but the study closed early due to CB-839 development termination. The B cell activation signature ‘Bscore’ emerged as a potential biomarker for EGFR and glutaminase inhibition in mCRC, warranting further studies. These findings suggest opportunities to improve immune response and therapies in glutaminolysis-dependent tumors.
Table 6 from Real-World Incidence of Anaplastic Lymphoma Kinase Alterations in Hispanics with Non–Small Cell Lung Cancer at a Large Academic Institution in Los Angeles
Authors: Poei Darin , Ali Sana , Thomas Jacob S. , Nieva Jorge J. , Hsu Robert C.
Published: February 2025

Reported ALK prevalence across the Hispanic populations in Latin America and Florida/Puerto Rico from literature search
Table 2 from Real-World Incidence of Anaplastic Lymphoma Kinase Alterations in Hispanics with Non–Small Cell Lung Cancer at a Large Academic Institution in Los Angeles
Authors: Poei Darin , Ali Sana , Thomas Jacob S. , Nieva Jorge J. , Hsu Robert C.
Published: February 2025

Prevalence of adenocarcinoma histology, stage at diagnosis, and metastasis to brain by race/ethnicity
Patient-Derived Bladder Cancer Organoids: Model Construction and Drug Sensitivity Testing
Authors: Liu Runze , Zhang Yong , Zhou Zhongbao
Published: February 2025

Introduction: Bladder urothelial carcinoma is highly heterogeneous and is prone to recurrence. There are many types of drugs for intravesical instillation, and there is an urgent need for reliable tumor models for individualized treatment strategies. Patient-derived organoids (PDOs) are efficient and accurate neotype tumor models that can compensate for the deficiencies of traditional tumor models.
Methods: From September 2023 to February 2024, bladder cancer tissues were collected from surgical resections in the Department of Urology, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University. We explored suitable culture systems and cultured primary tumor cells in Matrigel matrix gels. Hematoxylin and eosin (HE) staining and immunohistochemistry were performed for comparison with the original tumor tissue at the histological level for validation. Drug sensitivity tests were also conducted.
Results: In this study, a culture system for PDOs was successfully established. Hematoxylin and eosin (HE) staining and immunohistochemistry were used to morphologically verify the organ model. Drug sensitivity tests have clarified the value of PDOs as preclinical models of precision medicine.
Conclusion A bladder tumor PDOs culture platform was initially established, which laid a foundation for the subsequent construction of the organoid bank, the study of bladder tumor progression mechanism, and research in precision medicine.
Single Cell Transcriptomic Analysis of Myeloid Lineage Evolution from CD19 CAR-T Cell Therapy
Authors: Cui Yajuan , Wang Peilong , Zhu Hongkai , Wang Zhihua , Zhang Huifang , Xu Haodong , Li Ruijuan , Sheng Yue , Peng Hongling
Published: February 2025

Introduction: We report a case of relapse and refractory acute B lymphoblastic leukemia (r/r B-ALL) apparent turned to acute myeloid leukemia (AML), which is occasional and fatal during CAR-T treatment. There are still limited data to clarify the molecular mechanism of myeloid blast populations proliferation during CAR-T treatment.
Case Presentation: A 21-year-old man with an established history of r/r B-ALL with a complex chromosome karyotype and renal extramedullary infiltration presented to our institution. He exhibited a rapid relapse with acute monocytic leukemia 19 days after CD19 CAR-T cell infusion with extensive infiltration of skin and brain. Salvage chemotherapy was ineffective, and he subsequently succumbed to the uncontrolled invasion and infiltration of leukemia cells and hemorrhage. RNA velocity analysis predicted that HSCs differentiated into GMPs and then GMPs differentiated into myeloid lineage cells. The ANXA1-FPR1/2 axis expression was significantly increased post-treatment, which promotes tumor cell proliferation, invasion and angiogenesis. 6q deletion (6q-) was the common genetic abnormality across all cell populations, indicating that 6q- conferred a survival ability to HSCs during CAR-T cell therapy.
Conclusions: This case demonstrates potential mechanisms of clone evolution molecular events that CD19 CAR-T cell infusion accelerated the existing myeloid lineage evolution via ANXA1-FPR1/2 axis expression from HSCs with 6q-. (Cyto-)genetic aberrations and/or pathways previously not included in the risk stratification of B-ALL might well be predictive for response and outcome in the era of immunotherapy.
GAPDH, β-actin, and β-tubulin display age-dependent protein expression changes in the mouse cortex during development
Authors: Rodriguez Daniella , Nguyen Michelle , Devata Tejas , Patel Deval , Tavares-Ferreira Diana , Nguyen Lena H.
Published: February 2025

GAPDH, β-actin, and β-tubulin are essential housekeeping proteins commonly used as reference controls for protein expression studies. GAPDH is a key glycolytic enzyme that facilitates the production of cellular energy, while β-actin and β-tubulin are major structural components of the cytoskeleton. Besides their well-established housekeeping functions, emerging studies have demonstrated critical roles for these proteins in brain developmental and pathological processes. However, few studies have examined how the expression patterns of these proteins change throughout mammalian brain development to adulthood. Considering the dynamic structural and functional changes that occur during brain development and the roles of GAPDH, β-actin, and β-tubulin in related biological processes, we investigated the developmental expression levels of these proteins in the mouse cortex at various embryonic (E15-P0) and postnatal (P0-P20, adult) stages using western blotting analysis with total protein normalization. We identified a substantial increase in GAPDH protein levels and a decrease in β-actin and β-tubulin in protein levels in the mouse cortex between birth and early adulthood, which occurred during the second week of postnatal life. Analysis of RNA-seq data from the ENCODE Consortium revealed correlated changes at the RNA transcript level. Overall, our study reveals robust age-dependent changes in cortical GAPDH, β-actin, and β-tubulin expression levels during mouse postnatal development and suggests precautions when using these proteins as reference controls in cortical development studies.
Failures of Sealed Molars: Three-Year Results from a Multi-Center, Prospective Study in Public Dental Service in Norway
Authors: Stangvaltaite-Mouhat Lina , Uhlen-Strand Marte-Mari , Klepaker Ingrid Volden , Skudutyte-Rysstad Rasa
Published: February 2025

The efficacy of fissure sealants (FS) in controlling occlusal caries is well documented. However, several factors can potentially modify the caries-preventive effect of FS and their failure rate in real life might be higher than in controlled experimental settings.

The aim of this study was to prospectively examine failures and risk factors in sealed first permanent molars (FPMs) with sound occlusal surfaces or initial caries lesions of children in a practice-based setting in public dental service (PDS) in Norway. Methods. Children aged 6 to 10 years considered at high caries risk (D3MFT/d3mft > 0) were recruited by dentists and dental hygienists during routine examination at local dental clinics in PDS. After the application, resin-based FS were maintained according to clinicians’ conventional procedures. Occlusal surface/FS status and the following treatment were registered at 6- , 12-, 24- and 36-months. The outcome was categorized into success, minor failure, and failure of sealed FPM based on a combination of diagnosis of occlusal surface/FS status and the following treatment at each follow-up. Univariable and multivariable Cox survival analyses were used to investigate potential risk factors for failure.

Results. Out of 409 participants, 4% (16) were lost to follow-up. Of 393 FPMs, 72% (284) were evaluated as success, 9% (34) as minor failure, and 19% (75) failed during the 36-months of this study period: 13% (51) received FS reapplication and 6% developed dentine caries or were restored. One third of FS were additionally treated with fluoride varnish (FV) at least once during the follow-up. Occlusal surface with caries grade 1-2 (vs intact) increased (adHR 1.9, 95% CI 1.1-3.1), while FV application over FS decreased hazards (adHR 0.4, 95% CI 0.3-0.7) for failure. The clinic’s county was associated with failure.

Conclusion. After 3-year follow-up, nearly one out of five sealed FPMs failed, i.e., had to be resealed, developed dentine caries, or were restored. Initial caries lesion on occlusal surface increased while FV application over FS reduced risk for failure. Moreover, regional differences in sealed FPM failures were observed.
Apresentação do Dossiê
Authors: Souza Rafael de , Alves Fillipe , Perez Olivia Cristina
Published: February 2025

Apresentação do dossi´´ê 
Para Além do Centro: Atores Coletivos Periféricos, Movimentos Sociais e Territórios Marginais na Política de Confronto Pós-Junho de 2013
Comparing Phenotypes for Acute and Long-Term Response to Atrial Fibrillation Ablation Using Machine Learning
Authors: Ganesan Prasanth , Pedron Maxime , Feng Ruibin , Rogers Albert J. , Deb Brototo , Chang Hui Ju , Ruiperez-Campillo Samuel , Srivastava Viren , Brennan Kelly A. , Giles Wayne R. , Baykaner Tina , Clopton Paul , Wang Paul J. , Schotten Ulrich , Krummen David E. , Narayan Sanjiv M.
Published: February 2025

BACKGROUND:

It is difficult to identify patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) most likely to respond to ablation. While any arrhythmia patient may recur after acutely successful ablation, AF is unusual in that patients may have long-term arrhythmia freedom despite a lack of acute success. We hypothesized that acute and chronic AF ablation outcomes may reflect distinct physiology and used machine learning of multimodal data to identify their phenotypes.

METHODS:

We studied 561 consecutive patients in the Stanford AF ablation registry (66±10 years, 28% women, 67% nonparoxysmal), from whom we extracted 72 data features of electrograms, electrocardiogram, cardiac structure, lifestyle, and clinical variables. We compared 6 machine learning models to predict acute and long-term end points after ablation and used Shapley explainability analysis to contrast phenotypes. We validated our results in an independent external population of n=77 patients with AF.

RESULTS:

The 1-year success rate was 69.5%, and the acute termination rate was 49.6%, which correlated poorly on a patient-by-patient basis (φ coefficient=0.08). The best model for acute termination (area under the curve=0.86, Random Forest) was more predictive than for long-term outcomes (area under the curve=0.67, logistic regression;
P
<0.001). Phenotypes for long-term success reflected clinical and lifestyle features, while phenotypes for AF termination reflected electrical features. The need for AF induction predicted both phenotypes. The external validation cohort showed similar results (area under the curve=0.81 and 0.64, respectively) with similar phenotypes.

CONCLUSIONS:

Long-term and acute responses to AF ablation reflect distinct clinical and electrical physiology, respectively. This de-linking of phenotypes raises the question of whether long-term success operates through factors such as attenuated AF progression. There remains an urgent need to develop procedural predictors of long-term AF ablation success.
Taphrorychus hirtellus Eichhoff (Curculionidae: Scolytinae, Dryocoetini) a new species to the Italian fauna, with a key to the Taphrorychus species of Europe
Authors: CRESTA ELEONORA , FACCOLI MASSIMO , GIARRUZZO FEDERICA , SIERO EMANUELE DI , RUZZIER ENRICO , SORA NICOLÒ DI , SPERANZA STEFANO
Published: February 2025

Taphrorychus hirtellus Eichhoff (Coleoptera, Curculionidae, Scolytinae), a European scolytine beetle previously documented in Central and Southeastern Europe, Turkey (type locality), and Algeria, is recorded for the first time in Italy. Specimens were collected in April and May 2021 in the Circeo National Park (Latium Region, central Italy) in multifunnel traps baited with a blend of quercivorol, α-copaene, ethanol and α-pinene. The species, considered native, is a new addition to the Italian fauna. In addition to the faunistic record, an identification key to the European Taphrorychus species is provided.
Diagnostic Study of Seasonal Prediction of Malaria: A Case Study in Senegal, West Africa
Authors: Diouf Ibrahima , Barry Mamadou Baïlo , Diakhaté Moussa , Fall Papa , Senghor Habib
Published: February 2025

This study aims to improve malaria predictability in Senegal using sea surface temperatures (SSTs) data. It assesses malaria predictability during the September to November period using Canonical Correlation Analysis (CCA) and two malaria models: the Liverpool Malaria Model (LMM) and the VECtor-borne disease community TRIeste (VECTRI). Both models use CPC gridded global air temperature (CPC) and African Rainfall Climatology Version 2 (ARC2). SSTs predictors from the Extended Reconstructed SST version 5 (ERSSTv5) and the North American Multi-Model Ensemble (NMME) are incorporated. The study compares observed malaria data from the National Malaria Control Program in Senegal (PNLP) with VECTRI model outputs, validating the models against real-world malaria cases. Focusing on the tropical Pacific (TROP_PAC), Gulf of Guinea (GG), and tropical Atlantic (TROP_ATL) ocean basins, which influence the West African monsoon and malaria outbreaks, the research covers 1982 to 2010. Negative SST anomalies in TROP_PAC correlate with increased malaria transmission due to increased rainfall, while a dipole pattern in TROP_ATL corresponds to decreased malaria transmission in Senegal. The study finds a strong correlation, with a coefficient of 0.7 for TROP_PAC SSTs five months in advance and significant correlation scores nearing 0.6 for TROP_ATL with a five-month lead time. Furthermore, the study identifies significant lagged correlations in parts of the Indian Ocean, suggesting its potential influence on West African rainfall during the JAS season. This finding underscores the complex interactions between oceanic basins, indicating that variations in the Indian Ocean can also affect West African rainfall and, indirectly, malaria incidence by interacting with Pacific Ocean influences. These findings provide valuable insights for planning malaria prevention and control initiatives in Senegal, improving public health strategies. The research faced challenges due to complex data and limited existing research.
Evaluating Current Statistical and Dynamical Forecasting Techniques for Seasonal Coastal Sea Level Prediction
Authors: Long Xiaoyu , Newman Matthew , Shin Sang-Ik , Balmeseda Magdelena , Callahan John , Dusek Gregory , Jia Liwei , Kirtman Benjamin , Krasting John , Lee Cameron C. , Lee Tong , Sweet William , Wang Ou , Wang Yan , Widlansky Matthew J.
Published: February 2025

The need for skillful seasonal prediction of coastal sea level anomalies (SLAs) has become increasingly evident as climate change has increased coastal flooding risks. Here, we evaluate nine current forecast systems by calculating deterministic and probabilistic skill from their retrospective forecasts (“hindcasts”) over 1995-2015, for lead times up to 6-9 months, at two United States tide gauge stations (Charleston, SC and San Diego, CA). Additionally, we assess local skill enhancement by two post-processing/downscaling techniques: an observationally-based multivariate linear regression and a hybrid dynamical approach convolving sea-level sensitivity to surface forcings with predicted surface forcing variations. All these approaches face challenges stemming from whether modeled SLAs sufficiently represent observed local coastal SLA variations because of ocean model limitations and inadequacies in model initialization and ensemble spread. Some of these issues also complicate the ability of the post-processing techniques to improve probabilistic skill, even though they do somewhat improve deterministic skill. In general, deterministic hindcast skill is considerably higher for San Diego than Charleston, as expected from the stronger influence of ENSO. However, ensemble spread metrics such as forecast reliability and sharpness remain low for both locations, highlighting model deficiencies in representing uncertainty. Additionally, evaluating how well any technique predicts seasonal coastal sea level variations is complicated by the forced trend component, particularly how it is estimated. Moreover, model skill is matched by a stochastically-forced multivariate linear prediction model constructed from observations, suggesting that substantial improvement remains for predicting coastal seasonal SLAs, which could also include leveraging other predicted fields, including sea level pressure and prevailing winds.
Prognostic Value of Neutrophil/Lymphocyte, Lymphocyte/C-reactive protein, Platelet/ Lymphocyte Rates in Covid-19 Cases Monitored in the Intensive Care Unit
Authors: Sezak Nurbanu , Karaca Banu , Balik Recep , Aksun Murat
Published: February 2025

Coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) infection has a significant mortality rate. Despite the disease’s extensive effects, little is known about the prognostic indicators that can be used. We aimed to assess the prognostic value of neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), lymphocyte-to-C-reactive protein ratio (LCR) and platelet-to- lymphocyte ratio (PLR) in predicting mortality of intensive care unit (ICU) patients. Demographic data, underlying diseases, laboratory parameters were evaluated. The study included 222 cases. The mortality rate was 57.65%. No significant differences in terms of sex, age, or underlying disease were observed between the two groups with and without mortality. Obesity, oxygen therapy, invasive mechanical ventilation (IMV) rates and high SOFA (Sequential Organ Failure Assessment) scores were found to be significantly higher in the group with a mortal course. The mortality rate was significantly higher in patients with lung involvement over 50%, with a low lymphocyte count at ICU admission. In this patient group, NLR was found to be higher, and LCR was found to be lower ( P = .001). Although there was no significant difference in PLR between the two groups in univariate analysis, multivariate analysis revealed that PLR was independently associated with mortality. High NLR and low LCR values at ICU admission might serve as early warning signs for healthcare providers, allowing them to identify patients at higher risk of mortality.
The ‘good story’ and kindness Twitter: Tales of hope and fears of dupery during Covid-19
Authors: Brownlie Julie , Al Hariri Youssef , Anderson Simon
Published: February 2025

There is a long history of investment in solidaristic stories in the face of social upheaval, threat or conflict, and this was especially evident in relation to Covid-19. This article examines the way that one such narrative – the idea of kindness – was drawn on by Twitter users during the pandemic. Setting it in the context of a wider cultural preoccupation with kindness that both predates and continues beyond the pandemic, we draw on empirical research to develop the concept of the ‘good story’: a compelling collective narrative about goodness that carries with it anxieties about authenticity and dupery. We argue that ambivalences are inherent in the good story but are especially prominent in an age of social upheaval, polarisation, digital interaction and uncertainty. Such ambivalences cannot be wished away but need to be worked with, theoretically and practically. The good story is one tool for beginning to do this.
Stratification in Countries with Flatter (Institutional) Hierarchies? Insights from Administrative Data in Canada
Authors: Zarifa David , Sano Yujiro , Milian Roger Pizarro
Published: February 2025

Researchers have repeatedly found that within modern higher education systems, students from wealthier backgrounds tend to be concentrated in the most advantageous sectors. Dubbed “effectively maintained inequality,” this process allows these groups to maintain a competitive advantage in the labor market by virtue of acquiring more elite credentials. But what happens in nations with flatter university hierarchies, where there is relatively modest vertical differentiation in the brand strength of domestic universities? Through this study, we provide the first national-level analysis of the relationship between parental income and access to more selective, better resourced, and higher ranking Canadian universities. We also assess the extent to which there is an earnings premium associated with attending these more elite institutions. Our results suggest there are few differences in the types of universities attended by Canadians from different economic strata. Moreover, any earnings premium associated with attending a more elite Canadian university disappears once we account for basic demographic and field of study controls. We theorize that Canadian universities’ flatter institutional hierarchy drives wealthy families to seek advantages through enrollment in elite majors (e.g., business, engineering) and other tactics that take place outside the higher education system.
A rare presentation of a mediastinal retiniform type hemangioendothelioma
Authors: Rivas Ubaldo E. , Rendón Juan C. , Vinck Eric E. , Correa Luis A. , Castilla Gustavo A. , Castillero Bruno Ramírez
Published: February 2025

Cardiac tumors, whether primary (mostly benign) or secondary (metastatic), are extremely rare, and very few cases of retiniform hemangioendothelioma have been documented since its initial diagnosis in 1994. We present a 67-year-old male who presented with pericarditis, recurrent pericardial and pleural effusions. On computed axial tomography, an oval lesion located on the superior aspect of the left pulmonary pericardial recess within the transverse sinus, adjacent to the trunk of the pulmonary artery. In the operating room, after dissection and resection of the mass, the histopathological diagnosis of retiniform hemangioendothelioma was confirmed.