bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A novel classification framework for genome-wide association study of whole brain MRI images using deep learning
Authors: Yu Shaojun , Wu Junjie , Shao Yumeng , Qiu Deqiang , Qin Zhaohui S. ,   for the Alzheimer’s Disease Neuroimaging Initiative
Published: October 2024

Genome-wide association studies (GWASs) have been widely applied in the neuroimaging field to discover genetic variants associated with brain-related traits. So far, almost all GWASs conducted in neuroimaging genetics are performed on univariate quantitative features summarized from brain images. On the other hand, powerful deep learning technologies have dramatically improved our ability to classify images. In this study, we proposed and implemented a novel machine learning strategy for systematically identifying genetic variants that lead to detectable nuances on Magnetic Resonance Images (MRI). For a specific single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP), if MRI images labeled by genotypes of this SNP can be reliably distinguished using machine learning, we then hypothesized that this SNP is likely to be associated with brain anatomy or function which is manifested in MRI brain images. We applied this strategy to a catalog of MRI image and genotype data collected by the Alzheimer’s Disease Neuroimaging Initiative (ADNI) consortium. From the results, we identified novel variants that show strong association to brain phenotypes.
Unsupervised clustering of longitudinal clinical measurements in electronic health records
Authors: Mariam Arshiya , Javidi Hamed , Zabor Emily C. , Zhao Ran , Radivoyevitch Tomas , Rotroff Daniel M.
Published: October 2024

Longitudinal electronic health records (EHR) can be utilized to identify patterns of disease development and progression in real-world settings. Unsupervised temporal matching algorithms are being repurposed to EHR from signal processing- and protein-sequence alignment tasks where they have shown immense promise for gaining insight into disease. The robustness of these algorithms for classifying EHR clinical data remains to be determined. Timeseries compiled from clinical measurements, such as blood pressure, have far more irregularity in sampling and missingness than the data for which these algorithms were developed, necessitating a systematic evaluation of these methods. We applied 30 state-of-the-art unsupervised machine learning algorithms to 6,912 systematically generated simulated clinical datasets across five parameters. These algorithms included eight temporal matching algorithms with fourteen partitional and eight fuzzy clustering methods. Nemenyi tests were used to determine differences in accuracy using the Adjusted Rand Index (ARI). Dynamic time warping and its lower-bound variants had the highest accuracies across all cohorts (median ARI>0.70). All 30 methods were better at discriminating classes with differences in magnitude compared to differences in trajectory shapes. Missingness impacted accuracies only when classes were different by trajectory shape. The method with the highest ARI was then used to cluster a large pediatric metabolic syndrome (MetS) cohort (N = 43,426). We identified three unique childhood BMI patterns with high average cluster consensus (>70%). The algorithm identified a cluster with consistently high BMI which had the greatest risk of MetS, consistent with prior literature (OR = 4.87, 95% CI: 3.93–6.12). While these algorithms have been shown to have similar accuracies for regular timeseries, their accuracies in clinical applications vary substantially in discriminating differences in shape and especially with moderate to high missingness (>10%). This systematic assessment also shows that the most robust algorithms tested here can derive meaningful insights from longitudinal clinical data.
Loss of PHF6 causes spontaneous seizures, enlarged brain ventricles and altered transcription in the cortex of a mouse model of the Börjeson–Forssman–Lehmann intellectual disability syndrome
Authors: McRae Helen M. , Leong Melody P. Y. , Bergamasco Maria I. , Garnham Alexandra L. , Hu Yifang , Corbett Mark A. , Whitehead Lachlan , El-Saafin Farrah , Sheikh Bilal N. , Wilcox Stephen , Hannan Anthony J. , Gécz Jozef , Smyth Gordon K. , Thomas Tim , Voss Anne K.
Published: October 2024

Börjeson-Forssman-Lehmann syndrome (BFLS) is an X-linked intellectual disability and endocrine disorder caused by pathogenic variants of plant homeodomain finger gene 6 (PHF6). An understanding of the role of PHF6 in vivo in the development of the mammalian nervous system is required to advance our knowledge of how PHF6 mutations cause BFLS. Here, we show that PHF6 protein levels are greatly reduced in cells derived from a subset of patients with BFLS. We report the phenotypic, anatomical, cellular and molecular characterization of the brain in males and females in two mouse models of BFLS, namely loss of Phf6 in the germline and nervous system-specific deletion of Phf6. We show that loss of PHF6 resulted in spontaneous seizures occurring via a neural intrinsic mechanism. Histological and morphological analysis revealed a significant enlargement of the lateral ventricles in adult Phf6-deficient mice, while other brain structures and cortical lamination were normal. Phf6 deficient neural precursor cells showed a reduced capacity for self-renewal and increased differentiation into neurons. Phf6 deficient cortical neurons commenced spontaneous neuronal activity prematurely suggesting precocious neuronal maturation. We show that loss of PHF6 in the foetal cortex and isolated cortical neurons predominantly caused upregulation of genes, including Reln, Nr4a2, Slc12a5, Phip and ZIC family transcription factor genes, involved in neural development and function, providing insight into the molecular effects of loss of PHF6 in the developing brain.
Proximity labeling reveals new functional relationships between meiotic recombination proteins in S. cerevisiae
Authors: Voelkel-Meiman Karen , Liddle Jennifer C. , Balsbaugh Jeremy L. , MacQueen Amy J.
Published: October 2024

Several protein ensembles facilitate crossover recombination and the associated assembly of synaptonemal complex (SC) during meiosis. In yeast, meiosis-specific factors including the DNA helicase Mer3, the “ZZS” complex consisting of Zip4, Zip2, and Spo16, the RING-domain protein Zip3, and the MutSγ heterodimer collaborate with crossover-promoting activity of the SC component, Zip1, to generate crossover-designated recombination intermediates. These ensembles also promote SC formation ‐ the organized assembly of Zip1 with other structural proteins between aligned chromosome axes. We used proximity labeling to investigate spatial relationships between meiotic recombination and SC proteins in S. cerevisiae. We find that recombination initiation and SC factors are dispensable for proximity labeling of Zip3 by ZZS components, but proteins associated with early steps in recombination are required for Zip3 proximity labeling by MutSγ, suggesting that MutSγ joins Zip3 only after a recombination intermediate has been generated. We also find that zip1 separation-of-function mutants that are crossover deficient but still assemble SC fail to generate protein ensembles where Zip3 can engage ZZS and/or MutSγ. The SC structural protein Ecm11 is proximity labeled by ZZS proteins in a Zip4-dependent and Zip1-independent manner, but labeling of Ecm11 by Zip3 and MutSγ requires, at least in part, Zip1. Finally, mass spectrometry analysis of biotinylated proteins in eleven proximity labeling strains uncovered shared proximity targets of SC and crossover-associated proteins, some of which have not previously been implicated in meiotic recombination or SC formation, highlighting the potential of proximity labeling as a discovery tool.
Urban public space initiatives and health in Africa: A mixed-methods systematic review
Authors: Meelan Thondoo , Mogo Ebele R. I. , Onyemaobi Nnenna , Ogunro Toluwalope , Odekunle Damilola , Unuigboje Richard , K. Muyiolu Salimon , Olalekan Damilola , Dominic Catherine , Thomas Abimbola , Ngwa Edwin , Walter Okwong , Sanga Chimba , Onifade Victor , Ndiabamoh Crespo’o Mbe-cho , Blanche Nfondoh , Seyinde Doris , Ogunjimi Temitope F. , Mapa-Tassou Clarisse , Buraimoh Olanike Maria , Teguia Stéphanie S. , Mukhtar Ghazel , Iorse Mvendaga P. , Farr Colin , Oguntade Ayodipupo S. , Olowoniyi Ife , Chatzidiakou Lia , Foley Louise , Alani Rose , Lawanson Taibat , Assah Felix , Oni Tolu
Published: October 2024

Public space initiatives (PSIs) in African cities can significantly promote health and social well-being, yet their implementation and impact are unknown across the continent. There is a substantial gap in literature on PSIs in African countries, with most studies concentrated in wealthier cities and lacking comprehensive assessments of long-term health impacts. The objective of this study was to synthesise evidence on the typology, location, features, and outcomes of these initiatives as well as the guiding principles that underlie their design and implementation. Employing a mixed-methods model, the study systematically reviews peer-reviewed and grey literature articles, focusing on the types, settings, and outcomes of PSIs. Data is analyzed using the CASP appraisal tool and thematic analysis. We analysed 47 studies, 15 of which were mixed methods, 22 qualitative and 10 quantitative. Sports accounted for 50% of initiatives. 30 of the 47 papers originated from South Africa. Communities viewed initiatives’ wellbeing impacts through social, economic, and ecological lenses, with health being but one dimension. The sustainability of initiatives was often limited by funding, historical marginalization, and competing land uses. Findings underscore the need for more comprehensive, long-term evaluations and cross-sector collaborations to sustain and enhance health-promoting public spaces in African cities.
Gut-microbiome profiles among Soil-transmitted helminths (STHs) infected Ethiopian children enrolled in the school-based mass deworming program
Authors: Taye Bineyam , Mekonnen Zeleke , Belanger Kenneth D. , Davenport Emily R.
Published: October 2024

Background

Soil-transmitted helminths (STHs) and mutualistic gut microbes coexist in the gastrointestinal tract. However, limited data exist regarding how STH infections are associated with gut microbiome profiles.

Method

We conducted a cross-sectional analysis of baseline data collected in a longitudinal study to identify and explain differences in microbial communities between STH-infected and non-infected Ethiopian school children. We collected 138 stool samples and analyzed them for STH infection using standard direct wet mount and Kato Katz methods. The gut microbiome profiles were characterized using targeted amplicon sequencing of the 16S rRNA gene from the total DNA extracted from the stools.

Results

Children infected with Trichuris trichiura showed significantly lower microbial diversity than those who were non-infected (p<0.05). We also observed significant difference in microbiome composition based on Trichuris trichiura infection status (PERMANOVA p< 0.01). A comparison of microbial taxa at the genus level among participants infected with different helminth species showed a significant increase in Agathobacter relative abundance among children infected with Trichuris trichiura compared to non-infected subjects (adjusted p = 0.001).

Conclusions

Our results indicate that changes in the gut microbiome composition may vary depending on the species of helminth present. Further studies should investigate how Trichuris trichiura selectively alters microbiome composition compared to other STH species.
Diabetes self-care intervention strategies and their effectiveness in Sub-Saharan Africa: A systematic review
Authors: Ageru Temesgen Anjulo , Le Cua Ngoc , Wattanapisit Apichai , Woticha Eskinder Wolka , Truong Nam Thanh , Stanikzai Muhammad Haroon , Abiso Temesgen Lera , Suwanbamrung Charuai
Published: October 2024

Background

Diabetes poses a significant public health challenge, predominantly affecting low-and middle-income countries (LMICs), including in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). The evolving landscape characterized by resource constraints, gaps in availability and functionality of healthcare system, and socio-demographic impediments has compounded these challenges. As an example, self-care interventions have played a crucial role in diabetes care. However, the effectiveness of these interventions in the SSA remains insufficiently explored. Therefore, this systematic review evaluated the effectiveness and implementation approach of diabetes self-care interventions in SSA.

Method

A comprehensive search was conducted across electronic databases including PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar, to identify studies focusing on diabetes self-care interventions in SSA from 2013 to 2023. The included studies reported interventions targeting dietary adherence, physical activity, medication adherence, blood glucose monitoring, foot care, and educational or support programs. The quality of the studies was assessed using the JBI checklist. Effectiveness was assessed through outcomes including glycemic control, adherence rate, complication reduction, and improvement in patient outcomes.

Result

Overall, 38.5% of interventions result showed positive changes in either primary or secondary outcomes. Studies that employed diabetes self-management education showed positive changes in approximately 28.6% of cases. However, SMS text messaging interventions did not demonstrate significant changes in the measured outcomes.

Of the 13 studies reviewed, 12 used randomized controlled trial designs, whereas one study employed a quasi-experimental approach. The total of participants across intervention and control groups was 3172 adults with diabetes. The interventions employed various strategies including diabetes self-management education led by nurses and other professionals, SMS text messaging for treatment adherence, and other targeted approaches. The duration of these interventions varied from 2 to 12 months. Specific interventions, such as glucose machine provision with training, family support with culturally tailored educations, and periodontal treatment, exhibited notable improvement in adherences and reductions in HbA1c levels.

Conclusion

The review underscores the significance of diabetes self-care interventions in SSA, showing varying effectiveness levels across different strategies. It emphasizes the importance of tailored approaches and highlight interventions that have shown promising outcomes, providing insights for future research, policy, and healthcare strategies in the region.
Drying kinetics and thermo-environmental analysis of a PV-operated tracking indirect solar dryer for tomato slices
Authors: Elwakeel Abdallah Elshawadfy , Gameh Mohsen A. , Oraiath Awad Ali Tayoush , Elzein I. M. , Eissa Ahmed S. , Mahmoud Mohamed Metwally , Mbadjoun Wapet Daniel Eutyche , Hussein Mahmoud M. , Tantawy Aml Abubakr , Mostafa Mostafa B. , Metwally Khaled A.
Published: October 2024

The purpose of this study is to investigate how a tracking indirect solar dryer (SD) powered by photovoltaic cells affected the drying kinetics (DK) and thermo-environmental conditions of tomato slices. In this current investigation, three air speeds (1, 1.5, and 2 m/s) are used, as well as three slice thicknesses (ST) (4, 6, and 8 mm) and two SD, one of which is integrated with fixed collector motion (FCM) and another with SD tracking collector motion (TCM). The obtained results showed that the drying time (DT) isn’t significantly change with increasing air speeds from 1 to 2 m/s, this may be due to many reasons such as short DT, high temperature inside drying room, and little difference between the exanimated air speeds. When the ST is changed from 4 to 8 mm and maintaining constant air speeds, the DT for FCM and TCM rose by roughly 1.667 and 1.6 times, respectively. In addition, the drying coefficient of the TCM is higher than the FCM due to higher temperature. At 1.5 m/s air speed and 8 mm ST, the maximum values of moisture diffusivity (MD) are 7.15×10−10 and 9.30×10−10 m2/s for both FCM and TCM systems, respectively. During the study of DK, nine drying models and chose the best based on higher R2 and lower χ2 and RMSE are used. The findings of the DK analysis revealed that the modified two term II model fit the experimental data of various air speeds well when TF was dried using TCM and FCM systems at varying ST. These findings are based on recorded observations. Where the models’ R2 values varied from 0.98005 to 0.99942 for FCM system and varied from 0.99386 to 0.99976 for TCM system. Regarding environmental analysis, it is found that the CO2 mitigation per lifetime is ranged between 5334.9–6795.4 tons for FCM and 6305.7–6323.3 tons for TCM.
Cardiovascular health of women 10 to 20 years after placenta-related pregnancy diseases considering the possible effect of pentaerythrityl tetranitrate treatment during pregnancy on long-term maternal cardiovascular health (PAVA study)
Authors: Lößner Charlotte , Multhaup Anna , Bäz Laura , Lehmann Thomas , Heimann Yvonne , Schleußner Ekkehard , Franz Marcus , Groten Tanja
Published: October 2024

Background

Women developing preeclampsia (PE) or fetal growth restriction (FGR) during pregnancy are at higher risk for cardiovascular diseases (CVD) later in life. We aimed to analyse cardiovascular health of women 10–20 years after affected pregnancies in comparison to women after uneventful pregnancies. In addition, we assessed a potential long-term effect of the NO-donor pentaerythrityl tetranitrate (PETN).

Methods

Women 10–20 years after severe PE, including women receiving PETN during pregnancy and matched controls were recruited and assessed for baseline clinical data and cardiovascular function by transthoracic echocardiography, VICORDER and USCOM. SPSS was used for statistical analysis.

Results

53 participants after PE/FGR (13 with former PETN intake) and 51 controls were recruited for follow-up at an average of 14 years after index pregnancies. Compared to controls, women after PE/FGR had a significantly higher incidence of arterial hypertension (13.7% vs. 41.5%, p<0.001), and were more likely to be hypertensive (41.2% vs. 67.30%, p = 0.008). There were no differences in cardiovascular function observed. Affected women with PETN intake during pregnancy showed lower mean values for right atrial area and ventricle in comparison to controls and also to affected women without former medication.

Conclusions

In conclusion, our study results confirm that the risk of CVD is increased in women after PE/FGR compared to women after uneventful pregnancies. Contrary to our expectations, no major cardiovascular changes were observed in our cohort 10–20 years post pregnancy. The observed differences found in right heart dimensions were within reference ranges, and should be interpreted with caution.
Cognitive support for political partisans’ understanding of policy data
Authors: Yu Shuyuan , Opfer John E.
Published: October 2024

Political partisanship might lead educated adults–even the highly numerate–to reason selectively about numbers that are relevant to and support their ideology (“motivated numeracy”). In this pre-registered study, we sought to examine the replicability of motivated numeracy, and investigate whether cognitive support (number lines) that improves the reasoning of children might also improve the reasoning of political partisans. To test this, we asked 1000 adults about their political ideology and asked them to interpret fictional data, in a table or number-line format, about ideology relevant (i.e., the effect of gun control on crime) or irrelevant (i.e., the effect of skin cream on rash) issues. We failed to replicate motivated numeracy when political identity was used but observed motivated numeracy when prior attitude was used. Moreover, data presented on number lines elicited 75 percent greater accuracy than data presented in tables, regardless of whether the information was ideology-relevant, or whether data supported, was neutral to, or contradicted participants’ political outlooks. Findings imply that political partisans require cognitive support to be more objective about policy data.
Variation in SSRs at different genomic regions and implications for the evolution and identification of Armillaria gallica
Authors: Li Shengnan , Xu Jiao , Hu Yipu , Ou Xiaohong , Yuan Qingsong , Li Pengfei , Jiang Weike , Guo Lanping , Zhou Tao
Published: October 2024

Armillaria spp. are devastating forest pathogens. Due to its low pathogenicity and abundant genetic variation, Armillaria gallica exhibited a unique and beneficial symbiosis with Gastrodia elata, which was used as a traditional Chinese medicine. However, the variation and population structure of A. gallica populations have rarely been investigated. Hence, we analyzed the evolution and variation in simple sequence repeats (SSRs) in three Armillaria genomes: A. gallica, A. cepistipes, and A. ostoyae to assess the genetic diversity and population structure of 14 A. gallica strains. Genome analysis revealed that SSRs were more abundant in the intergenic region than the intron and exon region, as was the SSR density. Compared with other two genomes, SSR density was the lowest in exon region and largest in the intron region of A. gallica, with significant variation in genic region. There were 17 polymorphic markers in A. gallica genome was identified, with 26.7% in genic region, which is higher than that of 18.8% in the intergenic region. Moreover, a total of 50 alleles and 42 polymorphic loci were detected among these A. gallica strains. The averaged polymorphism information content (PIC) was 0.4487, ranged from 0.2577 to 0.6786. Both principal coordinate analysis (PCoA) and population structure analyses based on the genotype data of SSRs divided the strains into two clusters. The cluster I included all the strains from high-altitude G. elata producing areas and some low-altitude areas, while the strains in Cluster II originated from low-altitude G. elata producing areas. These results indicated that substantial genome-specific variation in SSRs within the genic region of A. gallica and provide new insights for further studies on the evolution and breeding of A. gallica.
Orthosilicic acid inhibits human osteoclast differentiation and bone resorption
Authors: Magnusson Catarina , Ransjö Maria
Published: October 2024

Context

Silicon (Si), which is present in the diet in the bioavailable form of orthosilicic acid (OSA) and is detected as a dissolution product of certain bone-substitute materials, is suggested to promote bone health, and enhance bone healing, respectively. Silicon has been shown to stimulate osteoblastic cell differentiation and function, although the effect of Si on human osteoclasts is unclear.

Aim

The present study investigated the direct effects of Si on human osteoclast differentiation, gene expression, and bone resorption.

Material & methods

Human CD14+ monocytes were isolated from buffy coats and cultured with M-CSF and RANKL in medium without or with Si (50 μg/ml; constituting 75% OSA). The effects of Si on osteoclast differentiation were evaluated by TRAP-staining and the expression levels of CtsK, CalcR, TRAP, and DC-STAMP measured by RT-qPCR. The effect of Si on the expression level of AQP9, which encodes a potential Si transporter, was also analyzed. Bone resorption was determined based on the number of resorption pits formed when the RANKL-stimulated monocytes were cultured on bone slices, and by the levels of type I collagen fragments released into the cell culture medium.

Results

Silicon significantly inhibited the number of TRAP+ multinucleated cells and the expression of osteoclast related genes but increased the late expression of AQP9. Furthermore, Si significantly inhibited the number of resorption pits and the amount of collagen fragments in the medium when cells were cultured on bone slices.

Conclusion

Our results demonstrate that OSA inhibits RANKL-stimulated human osteoclast differentiation, gene expression of osteoclast phenotypic markers, and bone resorption.
Neural network and layer-wise relevance propagation reveal how ice hockey protective equipment restricts players’ motion
Authors: Lennartz Rebecca , Khassetarash Arash , Nigg Sandro R. , Eskofier Bjoern M. , Nigg Benno M.
Published: October 2024

Understanding the athlete’s movements and the restrictions incurred by protective equipment is crucial for improving the equipment and subsequently, the athlete’s performance. The task of equipment improvement is especially challenging in sports including advanced manoeuvres such as ice hockey and requires a holistic approach guiding the researcher’s attention toward the right variables. The purposes of this study were (a) to quantify the effects of protective equipment in ice hockey on player’s performance and (b) to identify the restrictions incurred by it. Twenty male hockey players performed four different drills with and without protective equipment while their performance was quantified. A neural network accompanied by layer-wise relevance propagation was applied to the 3D kinematic data to identify variables and time points that were most relevant for the neural network to distinguish between the equipment and no equipment condition, and therefore presumable result from restrictions incurred by the protective equipment. The study indicated that wearing the protective equipment, significantly reduced performance. Further, using the 3D kinematics, an artificial neural network could accurately distinguish between the movements performed with and without the equipment. The variables contributing the most to distinguishing between the equipment conditions were related to the upper extremities and movements in the sagittal plane. The presented methodology consisting of artificial neural networks and layer-wise relevance propagation contributed to insights without prior knowledge of how and to which extent joint angles are affected in complex maneuvers in ice hockey in the presence of protective equipment. It was shown that changes to the equipment should support the flexion movements of the knee and hip and should allow players to keep their upper extremities closer to the torso.
Do morphogenetic switching and intraspecies variation enhance virulence of Candida auris?
Authors: Phan-Canh Trinh , Kuchler Karl
Published: October 2024

Intraspecies variations that affect pathogenicity and antifungal resistance traits pose a serious obstacle to efficient therapy of Candida auris infections. Recent reports indicate that mutations determine drug susceptibility and virulence. However, mutations alone cannot fully explain a bewildering variety of phenotypes in clinical isolates from known C. auris clades, suggesting an unprecedented complexity underlying virulence traits and antifungal resistance. Hence, we wish to discuss how phenotypic plasticity promotes morphogenetic switching and how that contributes to intraspecies variations in the human fungal pathogen C. auris. Further, we will also discuss how intraspecies variations and morphogenetic events can impact the progress in molecular mycology research that aims to find better treatments for C. auris infections. Finally, we will present our opinion as to the most relevant questions to be addressed when trying to better understand the pathophysiology of C. auris.
pK205R targets the proximal element of IFN-I signaling pathway to assist African swine fever virus to escape host innate immunity at the early stage of infection
Authors: Huang Zhao , Kong Cuiying , Zhang WenBo , You Jianyi , Gao Chenyang , Yi Jiangnan , Mai Zhanzhuo , Chen Xiongnan , Zhou Pei , Gong Lang , Zhang Guihong , Wang Heng
Published: October 2024

African swine fever virus (ASFV) is a nuclear cytoplasmic large DNA virus (NCLDV) that causes devastating hemorrhagic diseases in domestic pigs and wild boars, seriously threatening the development of the global pig industry. IFN-I plays an important role in the body’s antiviral response. Similar to other DNA viruses, ASFV has evolved a variety of immune escape strategies to antagonize IFN-I signaling and maintain its proliferation. In this study, we showed that the ASFV early protein pK205R strongly inhibited interferon-stimulated genes (ISGs) as well as the promoter activity of IFN-stimulated regulatory elements (ISREs). Mechanistically, pK205R interacted with the intracellular domains of IFNAR1 and IFNAR2, thereby inhibiting the interaction of IFNAR1/2 with JAK1 and TYK2 and hindering the phosphorylation and nuclear translocation of STATs. Subsequently, we generated a recombinant strain of the ASFV-pK205R point mutation, ASFV-pK205R7PM. Notably, we detected higher levels of ISGs in porcine alveolar macrophages (PAMs) than in the parental strain during the early stages of ASFV-pK205R7PM infection. Moreover, ASFV-pK205R7PM attenuated the inhibitory effect on IFN-I signaling. In conclusion, we identified a new ASFV immunosuppressive protein that increases our understanding of ASFV immune escape mechanisms.
Characterisation of the antibody-mediated selective pressure driving intra-host evolution of SARS-CoV-2 in prolonged infection
Authors: Schoefbaenker Michael , Günther Theresa , Lorentzen Eva Ulla , Romberg Marie-Luise , Hennies Marc Tim , Neddermeyer Rieke , Müller Marlin Maybrit , Mellmann Alexander , Bojarzyn Chiara Robin , Lenz Georg , Stelljes Matthias , Hrincius Eike Roman , Vollenberg Richard , Ludwig Stephan , Tepasse Phil-Robin , Kühn Joachim Ewald
Published: October 2024

Neutralising antibodies against the SARS-CoV-2 spike (S) protein are major determinants of protective immunity, though insufficient antibody responses may cause the emergence of escape mutants. We studied the humoral immune response causing intra-host evolution in a B-cell depleted, haemato-oncologic patient experiencing clinically severe, prolonged SARS-CoV-2 infection with a virus of lineage B.1.177.81. Following bamlanivimab treatment at an early stage of infection, the patient developed a bamlanivimab-resistant mutation, S:S494P. After five weeks of apparent genetic stability, the emergence of additional substitutions and deletions within the N-terminal domain (NTD) and the receptor binding domain (RBD) of S was observed. Notably, the composition and frequency of escape mutations changed in a short period with an unprecedented dynamic. The triple mutant S:Delta141-4 E484K S494P became dominant until virus elimination. Routine serology revealed no evidence of an antibody response in the patient. A detailed analysis of the variant-specific immune response by pseudotyped virus neutralisation test, surrogate virus neutralisation test, and immunoglobulin-capture enzyme immunoassay showed that the onset of an IgM-dominated antibody response coincided with the appearance of escape mutations. The formation of neutralising antibodies against S:Delta141-4 E484K S494P correlated with virus elimination. One year later, the patient experienced clinically mild re-infection with Omicron BA.1.18, which was treated with sotrovimab and resulted in an increase in Omicron-reactive antibodies. In conclusion, the onset of an IgM-dominated endogenous immune response in an immunocompromised patient coincided with the appearance of additional mutations in the NTD and RBD of S in a bamlanivimab-resistant virus. Although virus elimination was ultimately achieved, this humoral immune response escaped detection by routine diagnosis and created a situation temporarily favouring the rapid emergence of various antibody escape mutants with known epidemiological relevance.
Exploring the self-as-memorial through arts-based writing
Authors: Isurin Polina
Published: October 2024

In 2021, a Cold War Veterans Memorial Commission was announced and immediately, I became interested in this concept. Who are the veterans? What are the memories? And what are the repercussions of giving permanence to this specific history during the post-Cold War era? Writing is the only form I can conceive of for such a memorial, as it allows for a post-structural analysis of memory, experience and life. Writing as a method of inquiry allows one to consider the relationship between personal narrative, materiality and research. In this article, I explore these questions through a braided narrative that weaves together family narratives, historical time periods and imaginings of myself-as-memorial. But like braiding hair, or yarn, some threads become tangled with other threads, representing an entanglement of time and experience, and of individual and collective memories. Not meant to be easily delineated, transitions between narratives are used to evoke the sudden, and sometimes abrupt, emergence of memory. Additionally, by positioning a memorial as a person, questions of the humanness of memory and the nonhumanness of memory objects arise.
A Case of Immune Checkpoint Inhibitor–Induced Duodenitis
Authors: Au Sandra , Chen Wei , Vance Iris , Wegermann Kara
Published: October 2024

Immune checkpoint inhibitors improve patient survival in multiple cancers, but immune-related adverse events, including new immunologic conditions arising during therapy, pose a significant challenge. Gastrointestinal immune-related adverse events, although common, exhibit diverse presentations. We present a case of duodenitis resembling celiac disease because of the anti–programmed cell death protein-1 antibody, pembrolizumab. Despite diagnostic uncertainty and therapeutic interventions, including gluten-free diet, symptoms stabilized even with resuming gluten. In addition, endoscopic abnormalities after pembrolizumab therapy have neither progressed nor completely resolved. This case underscores the need for investigation into the pathogenesis of immune checkpoint inhibitor–induced duodenitis, with implications for care of patients on immunotherapies.
Metastatic Small Cell Carcinoma of the Stomach
Authors: Gunay Mirac , Leone Celia , Albayati Oksana , Mohamed Abdalla , Anyadike Nnaemeka
Published: October 2024

Primary gastric small cell carcinoma (GSCC) is an extremely rare type of small cell carcinoma. Its aggressive nature with early widespread metastasis and late detection gives it a poor prognosis with overall survival of <12 months. GSCC is a type of neuroendocrine tumor, and because of its histopathological similarity to small cell lung carcinoma (SCLC), treatment regimen of GSCC includes the same chemotherapy agents as SCLC. We report a case of a 57-year-old man who presented with signs of partial gastrointestinal obstruction and was found to have a primary stage IV GSCC with metastasis to the liver.
Extraction and Characterization of Silicon Dioxide from Coal Fly Ash as Counter Electrode Material in Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells (DSSCs)
Authors: Pratiwi Mitha , Kalsum Leila , Rusdianasari Rusdianasari
Published: October 2024

The counter electrode in DSSCs must be made of a material with various advantageous chemical and physical characteristics to guarantee the cell’s efficient functioning and cost efficiency. Coal fly ash is recognized for its substantial silicon dioxide (SiO2) content and other minerals and metals. This paper provides a detailed analysis and description of extracting and characterizing SiO2 from coal fly ash. This extraction aims to utilize SiO2 as a material for the counter electrode in DSSCs. The extraction procedure of SiO2 from coal fly ash involves a multi-step process that entailed the utilization of acid leaching using hydrochloric acid 1 M at 90°C for 4 h, which was subsequently followed by precipitation using NaOH 3 M at 90°C for 4 h to separate SiO2. The SiO2 gel was cleaned of contaminants with hot distilled water and dried at 110°C for 12 h. The SiO2 that was obtained was analyzed utilizing a range of analytical techniques to evaluate its structural, morphological, chemical, and optical properties. The X-ray diffractometer (XRD) examination revealed that the crystal structure of coal fly ash consisted of quartz, corundum, hematite, lime, and periclase. The SiO2 that was obtained exhibited a crystal structure that was both cubic and triclinic. The morphology is visualized using a scanning electron microscope (SEM). The study using atomic absorption spectroscopy revealed that the coal fly ash contained 52.91% SiO2, whereas the extracted SiO2 had a purity of 91.20%. The UV-Vis spectrophotometry investigation revealed that the SiO2 exhibited absorbance spectra with a wide band gap of 4.17 eV, whereas the coal fly ash had absorbance spectra of 3.37 eV.
Impact of disclosing a working diagnosis during simulated patient handoff presentation in the emergency department: correctness matters
Authors: Amano Masayuki , Harada Yukinori , Shimizu Taro
Published: October 2024

Objectives

Diagnostic errors in emergency departments (ED) are a significant concern and exacerbated by cognitive biases during patient handoffs. The timing and accuracy of disclosing working diagnoses during these handoffs potentially influence diagnostic decisions, yet empirical evidence remains limited.

Materials and Methods

This parallel, quasi-experimental study involved 40 interns from Japanese teaching hospitals, randomly assigned to control or intervention groups. Each group reviewed eight audio-recorded patient handoff scenarios where working diagnoses were disclosed at the start (control) or end (intervention). Four cases presented correct diagnoses, while four featured incorrect ones. The main measure was diagnostic error rate, calculated as the proportion of incorrect post-handoff responses to total questions asked.

Results

No significant difference in diagnostic error rates emerged between the control (39.4 %, 63/160) and intervention (38.8 %, 62/160) groups (point estimate −0.6 %; 95 % CI: −11.3–10.1 %, p=0.91). However, a substantial difference was evident between diagnostic errors after correct (20.6 %, 33/160) and incorrect (57.5 %, 92/160) working diagnoses presented (point estimate: 36.9 %; 95 % CI: 27.0–46.8 %, p<0.001). Diagnostic momentum accounted for 52 % (48/92) of errors under incorrect diagnoses.

Conclusions

While the timing of working diagnosis disclosure did not significantly alter diagnostic accuracy during ED handoffs, exposure to incorrect diagnoses markedly increased error rates. These findings underscore the imperative to refine diagnostic skills and reconsider ED handoff protocols to mitigate cognitive biases and optimize patient care outcomes.
Acetylation of wood: understanding the risk of de-acetylation during exposure to elevated temperature
Authors: Slabohm Maik , Emmerich Lukas , Valkonen Mikko Juhani , Rautkari Lauri , Militz Holger
Published: October 2024

Acetylation is a breakthrough in wood modification and has been established on industrial scale. However, concerns have been raised regarding the stability of acetylated wood under elevated temperatures, particularly during post hot-pressing processes to manufacture products such as laminated veneer lumber (LVL). At around 150 °C, the added acetyl groups might cleave off (“de-acetylation”) and by that release sorption sites for water. This would increase the moisture uptake of the modified wood. In this study, the impact of hot-pressing at 150 °C on the stability of acetylated beech veneers and LVL was investigated. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy showed that the chemical composition of acetylated veneers seemed to be unaffected after the heat treatment. Dynamic vapor sorption (DVS) analysis and long-term storing over saturated salt-solutions in miniature climate chambers, indicated no de-acetylation on the basis of negligible changes in wood-water interactions. The number of hydroxyl groups of heat-treated acetylated samples was similar to that of not heat-treated ones, indicating the persistence of the effects of acetylation. By the present study, a certain resilience of acetylated wood towards elevated temperature, like it may occur during hot-pressing of acetylated veneers, became apparent and illustrated the thermal stability of this chemical modification approach.
Antenatal corticosteroids for late small-for-gestational-age fetuses
Authors: Sgayer Inshirah , Hassan Sondos , Sarhan Talal , Ashkar Nadine , Lowenstein Lior , Wolf Maya Frank
Published: October 2024

Objectives

To compare neonatal morbidity in late preterm pregnancies with small-for-gestational-age fetuses, between those exposed and not exposed to antenatal corticosteroids (ACS).

Methods

A retrospective study which included growth-restricted fetuses delivered at gestational week 34+0 to 36+6 weeks at a tertiary university-affiliated hospital, from March 2016 to March 2022. The primary composite outcome included the need for oxygen therapy or ventilation, respiratory distress syndrome, transient tachypnea of the newborn, bronchopulmonary dysplasia, necrotizing enterocolitis, intraventricular hemorrhage grade III/IV and neonatal mortality.

Results

The primary composite outcome was comparable between those who did and did not receive ACS (26.1 vs. 20.8 %, p=0.512). Neonatal morbidity rates did not differ significantly between the groups, except for hypoglycemia, which was more common among neonates from ACS-exposed mothers (37.0 vs. 19.5 %, p=0.037). Multivariate analysis, adjusted for gestational diabetes and the mode of delivery showed no significant difference in the composite outcome between the groups (OR=2.03, 95 % CI 0.79–5.20, p=0.142). Cesarean delivery was associated with a higher risk of the primary outcome (OR=2.13, 95 % CI 1.17–3.85, p=0.013). After excluding those who did not receive the initial betamethasone dose within 2–7 days before delivery, the primary composite outcome remained similar between the groups. The primary composite outcome was similar among severely growth-restricted fetuses (<5th percentile) exposed and not exposed to ACS (29.2 vs. 22.0 %, p=0.560).

Conclusions

Among preterm pregnancies complicated by small-for-gestational-age fetuses, ACS did not lower the rate of neonatal morbidity.
Characterization of continuous additive set-valued maps “modulo K” on finite dimensional linear spaces
Authors: Jabłońska Eliza
Published: October 2024

Let Y be a real vector metric space and K ⊂ Y be a closed convex cone such that K ∩ (− K) = {0}. We prove that a convex compact-valued map F : ℝ → 2
Y
∖ {∅} is K-continuous and K-additive if and only if there are non-empty convex compact sets A, B ⊂ Y such that 0 ∈ A − B ⊂ K and F is equal “modulo K” to the continuous set-valued map

G
(
t
)
=

t
A
,

t
≥
0
,

t
B
,

t
<
0.

$$\begin{array}{}
\displaystyle
G(t)=\begin{cases}
tA,&t\geq0,\\
tB,& t \lt 0.
\end{cases}
\end{array}$$

Next, we use this result to characterize convex compact-valued maps F : ℝ
N
→ 2
Y
∖ {∅}.
Crystal structure of bromido-(2,2′:6′,2″-terpyridine-4′-onato-κ3N)palladium(II) methanol solvate
Authors: Wang Dong-E , Zhao Li-Feng
Published: October 2024

C16H14BrN3O2Pd, triclinic,

P

1
‾

$P\overline{1}$

(no. 2), a = 7.5162(5) Å, b = 12.5437(9) Å, c = 17.7525(12) Å, α = 73.149(2)°, β = 82.186(2)°, γ = 73.616(2)°, V = 1534.13(18) Å3, Z = 4, T = 100(2) K, R

gt
(F) = 0.0208, wR

ref
(F
2) = 0.0573.
The crystal structure of ethyl 2-amino-(4-nitrophenyl)-5-oxo-5,6,7,8-tetrahydro-4H-chromene-3-carboxylate, C20H22N2O6
Authors: Song Hanbing , Li Hao
Published: October 2024

C20H22N2O6, triclinic,

P

1
‾

$P\overline{1}$

(no. 2), a = 5.9101(16) Å, b = 10.619(3) Å, c = 16.466(4) Å, α = 74.619(5)°, β = 82.490(5)°, γ = 82.617(5) %, V = 983.1(5) Å3, Z = 2, R
gt(F) = 0.0522, wR
ref(F
2) = 0.1536, T = 296(2) K.
The crystal structure of 3-(2,5-dimethylanilino)-1-(2,5-dimethylphenyl)-4-methyl-1H-pyrrole-2,5-dione, C21H22N2O2
Authors: Chokwe Ramakwala Christinah , Smith Mark G.
Published: October 2024

C21H22N2O2, monoclinic, C2/c (no. 15), a = 15.4261(9) Å, b = 10.0885(6) Å, c = 23.9311(13) Å, β = 106.875(2)°, V = 3563.9(4) Å3, Z = 8, R

gt
(F) = 0.0457, wR

ref
(F
2) = 0.1196, T = 173 K.
Triethanolamine-modified poloxamer temperature-sensitive hair care gel for intelligent controlled release of sodium thioglycolat
Authors: Zheng Wenrui , Lei Yue , Li Yuheng , Gao Haiyan , Lin Liangliang , Xu Hujun
Published: October 2024

A triethanolamine-modified poloxamer temperature-sensitive hair care gel was formulated in order to reduce the adverse health effects associated with sodium thioglycolate (TGA(Na)), the active component in hair treatment agents, while maintaining excellent efficacy. It was found that TEA-3 gelled at 32 °C with a triethanolamine concentration of 3 %. This formulation exhibited a reversible phase transition, transitioning to a solid state upon contact with the scalp (>32 °C) and reverting to a liquid state when in contact with hair (<32 °C). The release behavior of TGA(Na) from the gel was assessed by both in vitro release studies and transdermal experiments. In addition, it was observed that the triethanolamine-modified poloxamer gel exhibited improved hair care efficiency compared to conventional hair care agents. These results suggest that the triethanolamine-modified poloxamer gel is a promising alternative to conventional hair care products, offering improved efficacy while minimizing potential adverse health effects.
Student Led Observations for Course Improvement (SLOCI)
Authors: McAnally Shaun , Buczynski Julia , Kavanagh Lydia
Published: October 2024

As universities strive to enhance course delivery and the student experience, typical end-of-semester course evaluations have been demonstrated to provide insufficient and potentially biased detail for course improvement and innovation. The Student Led Observations for Course Improvement (SLOCI) team at The University of Queensland aims to provide high-quality student experience data through a student-led approach. The team comprises current undergraduate university students who have a basic understanding of pedagogical strategies and methods of evaluation, bridging the gap between students and academics. SLOCI utilises a course partnership model to work with academics to identify key research questions that can direct and inform a process of real-time feedback. Since 2018, SLOCI has conducted 48 single-semester course partnerships and nine research partnerships focussed on other aspects of the student experience. The student experience data generated from these collaborations has underpinned improvements resulting in higher student engagement and better learning outcomes.
Analysis of Qualitative Indicators of Norway Spruce and Silver Fir Seed Stands in the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina
Authors: Ballian Dalibor , Memišević Hodžić Mirzeta
Published: October 2024

The research aims to determine the quantity and quality of Norway spruce and silver fir seed stands in the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina and to recommend measures for their improvement to produce the highest quality reproduction material and achieve genetic gain in newly planted forests. For this research, four measured and 19 observed phenotypic traits were analyzed in 11 Norway spruce and 14 silver fir seed stands. The average age of the trees in Norway spruce seed stands was 70 years, and in silver fir stands 85 years. The average diameter of trees in Norway spruce seed stands was 49 cm, and 46 cm for silver fir. The average height of trees for both species was 26 m. In all seed stands of both species, there was a sufficient number of favorably shaped and straight trees. There was a small incidence of forkness and a high incidence of thin and medium-thick branches. The number of branches in the whorl was high in the seed stands of both species. There was a large number of trees growing poorly and trees with poor trunk clearance from dead branches. A small number of damaged trees in seed stands were also registered, and a low percentage of trees with moderate twisting. The appearance of mistletoe was registered in silver fir seed stands. Some of the analyzed seed stands have shown very good quality, and individual selection should be made in them. In some of the analyzed stands, activities of arrangement and removal of part of the trees are necessary. Considering the great ecological-vegetation diversity of Bosnia and Herzegovina, with four ecological-vegetation regions, 14 areas and 20 districts, most of which are also represented in the Federation of BiH, a higher number of seed stands is needed. When selecting new seed stands for spruce and fir, the focus should be on small stands that grow in extreme conditions.