bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Validity of A-Mode Ultrasound for Estimating Body Fat Percentage of Young Adult Athletes: A Multicomponent Model Study
Authors: Wagner Dale R. , Cafferty Elizabeth A. , Harper Sara A. , Vakula Michael N.
Published: January 2025

Body fat percentage (%BF) estimated from subcutaneous fat thickness measured by A-mode ultrasound (%BFUS) has been compared to %BF estimates from laboratory methods such as dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA) and air displacement plethysmography (ADP); however, comparison to a four-component (4C) reference model is lacking.

Purpose

This study compared %BFUS to %BF4C in young adult athletes.

Methods

University club sport athletes (86 women, 138 men) from a variety of teams participated. ADP, DXA, and bioimpedance spectroscopy were used to measure body volume, bone mineral content, and total body water, respectively, for the 4C model. Ultrasound measurements were taken at three sites to estimate %BFUS. Comparisons between %BFUS and %BF4C were evaluated with Pearson correlation, paired t-test, linear regression, equivalence testing, and plots of individual errors.

Results

For the combined sample of men and women (N = 224), the two methods were highly correlated (r = 0.93) with a constant error (CE) of 0.8% BF (P < .001) and standard error of estimate (SEE) of 3.0% BF. The 90% confidence intervals of the mean difference (0.47 to 1.17) were well within the ±2% BF limits for equivalence testing, and no bias was evident from the error plot. However, equivalence testing failed to remain inside the ±2% BF range for women, and the prediction errors for women (CE = 1.9% BF, P < .001, SEE = 3.2% BF) were larger than for men (CE = 0.1% BF, P = .597, SEE = 2.8% BF).

Conclusions

Overall, the %BFUS errors were low, suggesting that A-mode ultrasound is a valid field measure of %BF for young adult athletes. Accuracy is better for men than women.
Diagnostic and Prognostic Values of miRNAs in High-Grade Gliomas: A Systematic Review
Authors: Aman Renindra Ananda , Pratama Mohammad Galih , Satriawan Ricky Rusydi , Ardiansyah Irfani Ryan , Suanjaya I Ketut Agus
Published: January 2025

Background Gliomas, particularly glioblastomas, have grim prognoses, necessitating early diagnostic and prognostic indicators. MicroRNAs (miRNAs), influential in cancer research, show potential as glioma biomarkers. This systematic review aimed to examine the efficacy of miRNAs in the diagnosis and prognosis of high-grade glioma. Methods A comprehensive search was conducted of PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science for studies published from 2013 to 2023. The eligibility criteria included high-grade glioma, histopathological confirmation, miRNA samples from cerebrospinal fluid or plasma, and relevant outcome data. Studies were excluded if they were experimental or reviews and not in English. Results Of the 1120 initial results, 8 studies involving 660 subjects met the inclusion criteria. Several studies have assessed miRNA expression and its association with diagnosis and prognosis of high-grade gliomas. Overexpression of miR-221, miR-222, miR-210, miR-21, miR-125b, and miR-223 and under-expression of miR-15b and miR-124-3p showed significant potential in differentiating high-grade glioma patients from controls. Additionally, miRNAs are associated with distinct tumorigenic pathways. Conclusion Elevated or depressed expression levels of specific circulating miRNAs hold significant promise as noninvasive biomarkers for the diagnosis and prognosis of high-grade glioma. These miRNAs offer valuable insights into disease progression and patient outcome. Further validation through extensive clinical trials and in-depth mechanistic studies is essential to realize their full clinical utility.
Beyond the Surface: A Multidetector Computer Tomography Scan Investigation into Age and Gender Differences.
Authors: Ranade Anu Vinod , Rai Rajalakshmi , Ray Biswabina , Vinod Soumya
Published: January 2025

Background The identification of an individual after mass calamities poses challenges to experts when bones are fragmented. Dense bones, such as the maxilla, surpass this challenge and remain intact with sinuses even after incineration, thereby making the sinuses an ideal and reliable forensic science tool. No-ninvasive imaging techniques, such as Computed Tomography (CT), can be used to evaluate such cases and help detect fractures and further locate foreign bodies. This study aimed to estimate the dimensions and volumes of the frontal (FS), maxillary (MS), and sphenoidal air sinuses (SS) on CT scans and investigate age- and sex-related differences. Methods CT scans of the paranasal sinuses were acquired from 158 patients ranging in age from 19 to 73 years, and written consent was obtained from all participants. This study was approved by the Institutional Ethical Committee (ethical clearance number IEC 064/2010). All parameters were statistically analyzed using SPSS 20 version and the significance level was set at p<0.05. Results The bilateral anteroposterior length and height of the FS were significantly larger in men than females (p<0.05). The overall dimensions of the MS and SS were substantially greater in males than females (P <0.05). Likewise, the overall volumes of the fFS, MS, and SS were significantly greater in males than females (p<0.05). However, no significant age-related correlation was observed in the dimensions and volumes of the sinuses. Conclusion The results of this study showed that imaging could be a reliable instrument for personal identification in forensic anthropology. Countries that do not allow autopsies may implement this method to clarify the cause of death.
Pythagorean fuzzy LiuB – subalgebra of LiuB - algebra
Authors: Biabeyin Asmamaw Abebe , Alaba Berhanu Assaye , Wondifraw Yohannes Gedamu
Published: January 2025

Background This article introduces the fuzzy LiuB-subalgebra (LBS) of LiuB-algebra (LBA), a concept previously undefined in the context of BCL-algebras (other than BCL+-algebras). Additionally, we explore the use of a new notion of Pythagorean fuzzy sets within LiuB-subalgebras of LiuB-algebra. Methods We define the Pythagorean fuzzy LiuB-subalgebra and investigate its basic characteristics. The methodology involves applying the concept of Pythagorean fuzzy sets to LiuB-subalgebras, with a focus on properties such as the complement of a fuzzy set, square deviation, accuracy function, score function, and degree of indeterminacy. Results The paper introduces a new concept—the Pythagorean fuzzy LiuB-subalgebra of LiuB-algebra—and provides theorems and properties associated with this structure. These findings demonstrate how these fuzzy subalgebras can be defined and explored within the broader framework of LiuB-algebra. Conclusions This work contributes to the theory of LiuB-algebras by presenting the Pythagorean fuzzy LiuB-subalgebra, along with its key properties and characteristics. The study provides new insights into the relationships between fuzzy sets and LiuB-algebras, opening up further avenues for research in this area.
Universal mental health training for frontline professionals (UMHT)’s feasibility analysis
Authors: Gorbunova Viktoriia , Klymchuk Vitalii , Santangelo Philip
Published: January 2025

Background Universal Mental Health Training for Frontline Professionals (UMHT) is an educational programme developed and piloted in Ukraine in 2021-2023. The UMHT trains frontline professionals (FLPs) to interact with, support, and refer individuals with mental health conditions for professional help. Methods To assess the UMHT feasibility in four focus areas (programme’s demand, acceptability, adaptability, and extendability), we used statistics on the actual use of the programme, as well as data from satisfaction and usability surveying of 144 programme deliverers and 714 trained frontline professionals. A combination of Kruskal-Wallis and Post Hoc Dunn tests was used to identify statistically significant intergroup differences in the UMHT usability. Results Programme’s demand increased through years of implementation (2021, 2022, 2023) in terms of the numbers of training events (27, 35, 90), trained frontline professionals (596, 779, 1548), involved donors and supporters (1, 4, 9) and implementers (2, 10, 18). The UMHT acceptability as satisfaction with the programme content and delivery, measured out of 5, is 4.81 (SD=0.291) for the UMHT trainers and 4.78(SD=0.434) for trained FLPs. The UMHT preparedness to use trained skills after participation in the training events, on the same scale, is 4.57 (SD=0.438) for the UMHT trainers and 4.46 (SD=0.650) for trained FLPs. The highest levels of usability of all UMHT skills on a scale from 0 to 1 were found for educators (0.68 [SD=0.118]), police officers (0.67 [SD=0.098]), and social workers (0.66 [SD=0.113]). Conclusions The UMHT offers a universal frame of interaction with people with mental health conditions for frontline professionals. Assessment of the UMHT feasibility shows the programme’s potential for further development and implementation. Programme trainers as its deliverers and frontline professionals as its recipients report high satisfaction with training content and delivery as well as preparedness to apply gained knowledge and skills in practice.
The PAICE project: Integrating health and health equity into UK climate change policy
Authors: Davies Michael , Dearman Charlie , Green Rosemary , Haines Andrew , Heaviside Clare , Karakas Filiz , Kumar Kuppili Sudheer , Michie Susan , Milner James , Moore Gemma , Osrin David , Pastorino Silvia , Petrou Giorgos , Pluchinotta Irene , Simpson Charles , Symonds Phil , Turcu Catalina , Whitmee Sarah , Zhou Ke , Zimmermann Nici
Published: January 2025

This paper announces a new initiative - the research project Policy and Implementation for Climate & Health Equity (PAICE), which aims to investigate the complex systemic connections between climate change action, health and health equity, for translation of evidence into policy and practice in the UK. Using transdisciplinary approaches, PAICE will: (1) co-develop a programme theory and linked monitoring and evaluation plan, (2) work with the UK Climate Change Committee (CCC) and the Greater London Authority (GLA) using system dynamics to analyse national and local policy opportunities, (3) build an integrated model of the effects of these policies on population health, health equity and greenhouse gas emissions, (4) apply the findings to the CCC monitoring framework and GLA policy development, and (5) use the programme theory to help evaluate achievement of PAICE processes and objectives. If successful, PAICE will have helped to establish a systems capability to (i) monitor whether Government plans are on track to deliver their climate targets and associated health impacts and (ii) understand how relevant policy and implementation approaches could be enhanced.
The genome sequence of the tawny cockroach, Ectobius (Ectobius) pallidus (Olivier, 1789)
Authors: Hunter Tony ,   Natural History Museum Genome Acquisition Lab,   Darwin Tree of Life Barcoding collective,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Tree of Life Management, Samples and Laboratory team,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Scientific Operations: Sequencing Operations,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Tree of Life Core Informatics team,   Tree of Life Core Informatics collective,   Darwin Tree of Life Consortium
Published: January 2025

We present a genome assembly from a specimen of Ectobius pallidus (tawny cockroach; Arthropoda; Insecta; Blattodea; Ectobiidae). The assembly contains two haplotypes with total lengths of 2,087.55 megabases and 2,124.67 megabases, respectively. Most of haplotype 1 (98.55%) is scaffolded into 11 chromosomal pseudomolecules, while haplotype 2 is assembled to scaffold level. The mitochondrial genome has also been assembled and is 15.75 kilobases in length.
Taxes and taxation: a practical course
Authors: Sidorova Elena , Boboshko Diana
Published: January 2025

The textbook implements a practice-oriented approach to the educational process. In addition to tests, the workshop presents tasks of various levels of complexity, tasks for filling out tax returns and documents used in tax legal relations, and complex tasks.
It includes 17 topics, including: the tax system, the tax policy of the state; taxpayers, fee payers and tax agents as subjects of tax legal relations; government agencies involved in tax legal relations; tax accounting and reporting in tax inspections; tax administration; the system of customs payments in the Russian Federation; state duty.
Meets the requirements of the federal state educational standards of secondary vocational education of the latest generation.
It is intended for students of secondary vocational education institutions studying in the enlarged group of specialties 38.00.00 "Economics and Management".
A Generic Approach to Optimize a Blueprint Schedule for Multidisciplinary Group Therapy in Rehabilitation Care
Authors: Bikker Ingeborg A. , Buil Jasper H. , van den Bosch Brigitte , van As Nydia , van der Heijden-Ermers Wieteke A. M. J. , Reijers Charlotte , Kortbeek Nikky , van Houdenhoven Mark , Boucherie Richard J.
Published: January 2025

This paper presents generic approach for tactical blueprint scheduling in multidisciplinary rehabilitation care. A blueprint prescribes both the timing of group therapy sessions and the allocation of therapist and treatment room capacity to these sessions and thus defines which appointment types can be booked on which time slots. The blueprint schedule was integrated in a decision support tool, and applied in the rehabilitation center of Sint Maartenskliniek in Nijmegen, the Netherlands.
To Teach Is to Learn? The Effects of Student-generated Questioning on Reading Comprehension
Authors: III Dawson R. Lewis
Published: January 2025

A large body of evidence demonstrates that cooperative learning promotes reading achievement.  Cooperative learning is based on Social Interdependence Theory, which holds that learners benefit from leveraging cooperative effort to achieve individual and mutual goals. Student-generated questioning (SGQ) is a cooperative learning strategy that promotes learning through an iterative self and peer-assessment process. SGQ has yielded mixed results among lower-proficiency language users, where linguistic and cultural barriers can impede efficacy. Providing students with pre-training, procedural prompts, and language modeling has proven effective. A quasi-experimental, pretest-posttest design was employed to determine the impact of a highly scaffolded SGQ strategy on reading comprehension in two intact CEFR-A2 reading classes (n = 62) over a 16-week semester at a Japanese university. The Cambridge A2 Key Test was administered before and after the reading intervention. Parametric test results revealed SGQ had no significant effect on any of the five reading subskills. Further discussion of findings and recommendations may prove instructive for reading educators and researchers of low-proficiency English students in Japan and other East Asian contexts.
Discussing Trauma and Generational Memory Among Native Taiwanese Communities
Authors: Huang Yu-Chen
Published: January 2025

ABSTRACT: The article addresses generational trauma and collective memory, providing insight into the little-known history of native Taiwanese communities, their struggles, and ultimate survival from an Adlerian perspective.
Design and analysis of a 0.36  NA central obscuration extreme ultraviolet objective system
Authors: Wang Shuai , Chen Xianxing , Xu Xinhuai , Wang Liping
Published: January 2025

The prevalent 0.33 NA unobstructed extreme ultraviolet lithography (EUVL) six-mirror objective system is characterized by a large average incidence angle at M5, which adversely affects imaging performance and energy transmission following coating. In order to improve the system performance of coated EUVL objectives, this paper presents an innovative 0.36 NA EUVL objective system, to our knowledge, designed to mitigate these issues by reducing the average incidence angle. Meanwhile, the genetic adaptive particle swarm hybrid effective set algorithm (GA-APSO-Aset), which does not need to provide a starting point, is proposed to search the initial structure of the new system, and further optimized. It achieves comprehensive wavefront aberration across the full field-of-view (FOV), exceeding the benchmark of 1/60λ (λ=13.5nm). In comparison to a conventional 0.33 NA unobstructed EUVL system, the new system exhibits an enhanced average light transmission of over 26% post-coating, providing a strategic approach for the integrated design of EUVL coatings and objective systems.
Multi-modal transport of intensity diffraction tomography microscopy with an electrically tunable lens [Invited]
Authors: Zhou Zihao , Zhang Runnan , Zhou Ning , Chen Qian , Zuo Chao
Published: January 2025

Optical diffraction tomography (ODT) is an important technique for three-dimensional (3D) imaging of semi-transparent biological samples, enabling volumetric visualization of living cells, cultures, and tissues without the need for exogenous dyes. However, ODT faces significant challenges in imaging complex biological specimens due to the limited specificity of refractive index (RI) and the coupled relationship between absorption and phase in image formation. Here, we present multi-modal transport of intensity diffraction tomography (MM-TIDT), a high-speed 3D microscopy technique that integrates an electrically tunable lens with modified illumination patterns to decouple phase and absorption information. Leveraging dual illumination schemes–circular and annular apertures–MM-TIDT acquires two intensity stacks, facilitating accurate phase and absorption decoupling. Based on an alternating direction method of multipliers (ADMM) framework with total variation (TV) and non-negativity regularization, our method reconstructs multi-modal 3D distributions of fluorescence and complex RI with high accuracy and robustness. Experimental validation with fluorescent polystyrene microspheres, Spirulina specimens, and DAPI-labeled C166 cells demonstrates the multi-modal imaging capability of MM-TIDT to resolve fine structural details across diverse sample types, providing a versatile platform for exploring dynamic biological processes and intricate cellular interactions.
Deep neural network-based ultra-wideband to multi-narrowband switchable terahertz metamaterial absorber
Authors: Ren Jiali , Zhang Ting , Li Jing
Published: January 2025

This paper introduces a reconfigurable terahertz metamaterial (THz MM) perfect absorber supported by deep neural networks (DNNs). The device achieves both ultra-wideband (UWB) absorption and multi-narrowband perfect absorption by leveraging the phase-transition properties of vanadium dioxide (VO2). Specifically, when VO2 is in its metallic state, the device functions as a UWB absorber in the range of 3.77–9.5 THz, with an absorption rate exceeding 90% and a relative bandwidth (RBW) of 86.36%. Conversely, when VO2 is in its insulating state, the device switches to a quadruple narrowband absorber, with absorption peaks exceeding 90% at frequencies of 3.376, 4.4075, 4.455, and 4.53 THz. The absorption mechanisms are explained through impedance matching and electromagnetic field distribution theories. Additionally, both the quadruple narrowband and wideband absorption modes exhibit strong polarization insensitivity and wide-angle incidence tolerance. Overall, this device offers excellent absorption performance, enabling mode switching and dynamic adjustment of absorption characteristics across modes to meet diverse functional requirements. This research has broad applications in 6G communications, integrated photonics, optoelectronic sensors, optical polarization control devices, and biomedical diagnostics, providing an effective strategy for the design of multi-functional THz devices.
Thermalization dynamics of entanglement and non-locality of filtered two-mode squeezed states
Authors: Agasti Souvik
Published: January 2025

We explore how entanglement and non-locality evolve between specific spectral components of two-mode squeezed states in thermal environments. These spectral components are extracted from output modes using filters that are frequently utilized in optomechanical systems. We consider two distinct thermalization scenarios: one occurring in the vacuum state prior to entering the nonlinear crystal for squeezing and another after the generation of the two-mode squeezed vacuum but before passing through filters and detectors. Entanglement and non-locality generally remain at their peak when identical filters are applied throughout. In the first scenario, higher initial squeezing causes the entanglement dissipation to slow down at the beginning of the time evolution, followed by a progressive acceleration of entanglement dissipation over time. However, the dissipation rate of non-locality, even though it changes over time it moreover remains the same irrespective of the initial degree of squeezing. In the second scenario, greater squeezing results in a more rapid loss of both entanglement and non-locality. We identify the evolution of specific boundaries for entanglement and non-locality and the conditions for their optimization. Finally, for all the cases, increasing the thermal population of the environment enhances the rate of dissipation, whereas stronger interaction slows dissipation in a normalized dimensionless time scale.
Selective passive tuning of cavity resonance by mode index engineering of the partial length of a cavity
Authors: Khurana Mohit , Delfan Sahar , Yi Zhenhuan
Published: January 2025

Cavities in large-scale photonic integrated circuits (PICs) often suffer from a wider distribution of resonance frequencies due to fabrication errors. It is crucial to adjust the resonances of cavities using post-processing methods to minimize the frequency distribution. We have developed a concept of passive tuning by manipulating the mode index of a portion of a microring cavity, which we named mode index engineering (MIE). Through analytical studies and numerical experiments, we have found that depositing a thin film of dielectric material on top of the cavity or etching the material enables us to fine-tune the resonances and minimize the frequency distribution. This versatile method allows for the selective tuning of each cavity’s resonance in a large set of cavities in a post-fabrication step, providing robust passive tuning in large-scale PICs. We show that the proposed method achieves a tuning resolution below 1/Q and a range of up to 103/Q for visible to near-infrared wavelengths. Furthermore, this method can be applied and explored in various integrated photonic cavities and material configurations.
Bidirectional high-purity structured light beams transformation based on multi-plane light conversion
Authors: Lu Zehui , Xu Dongye , Li Changjin , Duan Shaoxiang , Zhang Hao , Lin Wei , Liu Haifeng , Liu Bo
Published: January 2025

Structured light beams are essential in optical communications, quantum information processing, and light-matter interactions. The generation and conversion of high-purity structured light beams are crucial for these applications. In this study, we propose a bidirectional high-purity structured light beam transformation approach based on the multi-plane light conversion (MPLC) method. This approach enables mutual conversion of arbitrary orthogonal modes and precise control of system loss and mode purity. Using the proposed method, we demonstrate the conversion of 7-modes Gaussian beams array (GBA) and perfect vortex beams (PVB), achieving a bidirectional output modes signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) exceeding 30 dB and a loss of 5.23 dB. For generation of 13-modes, an SNR above 25 dB and an insertion loss below 5.45 dB are obtained. Furthermore, the validity of methods is confirmed by generating multi-wavelength and structured light beams with more complex field distribution. The work paves the way toward structured-light-beam-based optical communications, high-dimensional quantum communications, and advancements in MPLC.
Efficient and wavelength Ho:Y2O3 ceramic laser intra-cavity pumped by diode-pumped thulium laser
Authors: Li Zihan , Huang Haitao , Wang Jun , Chen Wenjie , Shi Ming , Tang Dingyuan
Published: January 2025

A 2.1 µm Ho:Y2O3 ceramic laser with high cost-effectiveness and good spectral designability was constructed by using different thulium-doped materials as intra-cavity pump medium. When using 785 nm diode-pumped Tm:YAP as the pump source, the 2116 nm Ho:Y2O3 ceramic laser achieved 4.9 W output power with a slope efficiency of 39.7%, with the slope efficiency reached 70% of the free-running Tm:YAP laser at 1986 nm. When the Tm:YAG was used as pump source, the emission wavelength of Tm:YAG at 2012 nm overlapped with the short wavelength region in the absorption spectrum of Ho:Y2O3, which can reduce the absorption loss of Ho:Y2O3 at short wavelengths and increase the gain cross-sections accordingly. Then what we believe to be novel emitting wavelengths of 2043 nm, 2061 nm, and 2073 nm were further achieved in addition to the expected wavelength of 2116 nm. To our knowledge, this is the first report on the laser operation of holmium-doped sesquioxides below 2100 nm. The excellent designability of thulium laser intra-cavity pumping scheme provides a new solution for the effective utilization of broadband fluorescence spectra for holmium-doped sesquioxides.
Time-periodic (Floquet) systems in classical wave physics and engineering: opinion
Authors: Monticone Francesco , Sounas Dimitrios , Ciabattoni Matteo
Published: January 2025

The study of classical waves in time-periodic systems is experiencing a resurgence of interest, motivated by their rich physics and the new engineering opportunities they enable, with several analogies to parallel efforts in other branches of physics, e.g., Floquet-engineered quantum materials and time crystals. Here, we first briefly review some of the most prominent features enabled by time-periodic modulations, and we then focus on two specific areas, namely, time-varying systems to break reciprocity and to overcome various theoretical limitations and performance bounds, discussing their current status, challenges, and opportunities.
Nanofabrication and profile tailoring of high index Ta2O5 optical gratings for LiDAR using C4F8/SF6 plasma mixtures
Authors: Bernet Marc , Silvestre Chantal , Buchwald Kristian , Andkjaer Jacob , Hübner Jörg , Jansen Henri , Taboryski Rafael
Published: January 2025

Optical elements, such as dielectric meta-surfaces, photonic crystals, nanophotonic waveguide circuits, and diffractive grating couplers are all based on high refractive index materials. In this respect, a highly versatile material is tantalum pentoxide, which features a refractive index above 2 and low loss over a broad range of wavelengths from ultraviolet to near-infrared. However, the engineering of e.g. optical relief gratings requires tight control of the relief profiles to tailor the diffraction efficiency for the specified diffraction angles and polarizations. The current work presents a fabrication process offering high etch rate and uniformity across a 150 mm wafer, providing a tailored profile by means of gas flow control of etch- and passivation species during the inductively coupled plasma etching of tantalum pentoxide. The fabricated structures show good agreement between simulated and measured diffraction efficiency. Our findings enable highly efficient Ta2O5 platforms featuring over 85% diffraction efficiency for both transverse electric (TE) and transverse magnetic (TM) polarizations at a center wavelength of 808 nm, which is relevant for medium-range light detection and ranging (LiDAR) systems. It is observed that to achieve polarization-independent, high diffraction efficiency solutions it is necessary to tune the sidewall angle of the obtained structures, potentially boosting the efficiency of Ta2O5-based solutions. The findings constitute a scalable and flexible method for processing and designing meta- and diffractive optics for various trending applications requiring high diffraction efficiency such as LiDAR and augmented/virtual reality (AR/VR) modules.
Multi-tissue characterization of the constitutive heterochromatin proteome in Drosophila identifies a link between satellite DNA organization and transposon repression
Authors: Chavan Ankita , Skrutl Lena , Uliana Federico , Pfister Melanie , Brändle Franziska , Tirian Laszlo , Baptista Delora , Handler Dominik , Burke David , Sintsova Anna , Beltrao Pedro , Brennecke Julius , Jagannathan Madhav
Published: January 2025

Noncoding satellite DNA repeats are abundant at the pericentromeric heterochromatin of eukaryotic chromosomes. During interphase, sequence-specific DNA-binding proteins cluster these repeats from multiple chromosomes into nuclear foci known as chromocenters. Despite the pivotal role of chromocenters in cellular processes like genome encapsulation and gene repression, the associated proteins remain incompletely characterized. Here, we use 2 satellite DNA-binding proteins, D1 and Prod, as baits to characterize the chromocenter-associated proteome in Drosophila embryos, ovaries, and testes through quantitative mass spectrometry. We identify D1- and Prod-associated proteins, including known heterochromatin proteins as well as proteins previously unlinked to satellite DNA or chromocenters, thereby laying the foundation for a comprehensive understanding of cellular functions enabled by satellite DNA repeats and their associated proteins. Interestingly, we find that multiple components of the transposon-silencing piRNA pathway are associated with D1 and Prod in embryos. Using genetics, transcriptomics, and small RNA profiling, we show that flies lacking D1 during embryogenesis exhibit transposon expression and gonadal atrophy as adults. We further demonstrate that this gonadal atrophy can be rescued by mutating the checkpoint kinase, Chk2, which mediates germ cell arrest in response to transposon mobilization. Thus, we reveal that a satellite DNA-binding protein functions during embryogenesis to silence transposons, in a manner that is heritable across later stages of development.
Dynamics of SARS-CoV-2 infection over two epidemic waves in Manaus, Brazil: A serological study of seven thousand blood donors
Authors: Alexander Neal , Dye Christopher , Busch Michael P. , Buss Lewis , Prete Carlos A. , Brady Oliver J. , Mee Paul , Abrahim Claudia M. M. , Crispim Myuki A. E. , da Costa Allyson G. , Salomon Tassila , Mayaud Philippe , Oikawa Márcio K. , Faria Nuno R. , Sabino Ester C.
Published: January 2025

Background

Most longitudinal studies of COVID-19 incidence have used unlinked samples. The city of Manaus, Brazil, has a blood donation program which allows sample linkage, and was struck by two large COVID-19 epidemic waves between mid-2020 and early 2021.

Methods

We estimated the changing force of infection, i.e. incidence in susceptible individuals. Seroconversion was inferred by a mixture model for serial values from the Abbott Architect SARS-CoV-2 nucleocapsid (N) IgG assay. We estimated the number of suspected COVID-19 hospitalizations arising from each infection over calendar time.

Results

Whole blood donations between April 2020 and March 2021 were included from 6734 people, 2747 with two or more donations. The inferred criterion for seroconversion, and thus an incident infection, was a 6.07 fold increase in N IgG reactivity. The overall force of infection was 1.19 per person year (95% confidence interval 1.14–1.24) during the two main waves. The estimated number of suspected hospitalizations per infection, was approximately 4.1 times higher in the second wave than in the first.

Conclusions

Serial values from this assay can be used to infer seroconversion over time, and in Manaus show a higher number of suspected COVID-19 hospitalizations per infection in the second wave relative to the first.
The co-occurrence of multimorbidity and polypharmacy among middle-aged and older adults in Canada: A cross-sectional study using the Canadian Longitudinal Study on Aging (CLSA) and the Canadian Primary Care Sentinel Surveillance Network (CPCSSN)
Authors: Nicholson Kathryn , Salerno Jennifer , Borhan Sayem , Cossette Benoit , Guenter Dale , Vanstone Meredith , Queenan John , Greiver Michelle , Howard Michelle , Terry Amanda L. , Williamson Tyler , Griffith Lauren E. , Fortin Martin , Stranges Saverio , Mangin Dee
Published: January 2025

Background

There is an increasing prevalence of multiple conditions (multimorbidity) and multiple medications (polypharmacy) across many populations. Previous literature has focused on the prevalence and impact of these health states separately, but there is a need to better understand their co-occurrence.

Methods and findings

This study reported on multimorbidity and polypharmacy among middle-aged and older adults in two national datasets: the Canadian Longitudinal Study on Aging (CLSA) and the Canadian Primary Care Sentinel Surveillance Network (CPCSSN). Using consistent methodology, we conducted a cross-sectional analysis of CLSA participants and CPCSSN patients aged 45 to 85 years as of 2015. When multimorbidity was defined as two or more conditions, the prevalence was 66.7% and 52.0% in the CLSA and CPCSSN cohorts, respectively. The prevalence of polypharmacy was 14.9% in the CLSA cohort and 22.6% in the CPCSSN cohort when defined as five or more medications. Using the same cut-points, the co-occurrence of multimorbidity and polypharmacy was similar between the two cohorts (CLSA: 14.3%; CPCSSN: 13.5%). Approximately 20% of older adults (65 to 85 years) were living with both multimorbidity and polypharmacy (CLSA: 21.4%; CPCSSN: 18.3%), as compared to almost 10% of middle-aged adults (45 to 64 years) living with this co-occurrence (CLSA: 9.2%; CPCSSN: 9.9%). Across both cohorts and age groups, females had consistently higher estimates of multimorbidity, polypharmacy and the co-occurrence of multimorbidity and polypharmacy.

Conclusions

This study found that multimorbidity and polypharmacy are not interchangeable in understanding population health needs. Approximately one in five older adults in the CLSA and CPCSSN cohorts were living with both multimorbidity and polypharmacy, double the proportion in the younger cohorts. This has implications for future research, as well as health policy and clinical practice, that aim to reduce the occurrence and impact of multimorbidity and unnecessary polypharmacy to enhance the well-being of aging populations.
MESS to live with schizophrenic parental history: A systematic review of developmental checkpoints
Authors: Khan Maryam , Batool Rabia , Mushtaq Uzma , Iqbal Shakir , Shaheen Sana , Butt Aimen Zafar , Ahmed Anees
Published: January 2025

Parental history of schizophrenia, a complex and multifaceted psychological disorder, is recognized as a well-established risk factor in the development of the disorder among offspring. However, the developmental patterns of such children and adolescents before the onset of the problem have not yet been systematically documented. We present a comprehensive account of developmental checkpoints essential for preventing it from occurring. This review embarks on a detailed explanation of the domains requiring serious attention during the development of an individual with such a familial history. We examined a diversified set of studies comparing the developmental patterns of children with or without (a comparative) a parental history of schizophrenia and highlighted the areas of concern for the later development of the problem among the first group. We included the peer-reviewed articles, published in English based on children and adolescents, found in Web of Science, PubMed, and PsychInfo databases and separate citation searches. We summarized our findings under MESS typology covering motor development, emotional and behavioral issues, speech and hearing impairments, and socio-cognitive aspects as essential features of a child’s development serving as a guide to prevent the onset of psychological complications.
Hear it here: Built environments predict ratings and descriptions of ambiguous sounds
Authors: Forys Brandon J. , Qi Emily , Todd Rebecca M. , Kingstone Alan
Published: January 2025

The built environments we move through are a filter for the stimuli we experience. If we are in a darker or a lighter room or space, a neutrally valenced sound could be perceived as more unpleasant or more pleasant. Past research suggests a role for the layout and lighting of a space in impacting how stimuli are rated, especially on bipolar valence scales. However, we do not know how affective experiences and descriptions of everyday auditory stimuli are impacted by built environments. In this study, we examine whether listening to a series of ambiguously valenced sounds in an older, darker building leads these sounds to be rated as less pleasant—and described using more negatively valenced language—compared to listening to these sounds in a newer building with more natural light. In a between-subjects design, undergraduate participants at an older building or a newer building (nOld = 46, nNew = 46; nFemale = 71, nMale = 18, MAge = 21.18, RangeAge = 17-38) listened to ten sounds that had previously been rated as ambiguous in valence, then rated these sounds on a bipolar valence scale before being asked to describe, in writing, how they felt about each sound. Participants rated sounds as being more pleasant at the New site compared to the Old site, but the sentiment of their descriptions only differed between sites when controlling for collinearity. However, bipolar scale ratings and description sentiment were highly correlated. Our findings suggest a role for the features of built environments in impacting how we appraise the valence of everyday sounds.
Prevalence and features of allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis, United States, 2016–2022
Authors: Benedict Kaitlin , Gold Jeremy A. W. , Toda Mitsuru , Hsu Joy
Published: January 2025

The epidemiology of allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (ABPA) in the United States is not well-described. To estimate national ABPA prevalence among patients with asthma or cystic fibrosis, characterize ABPA testing practices, and describe ABPA clinical features, treatment, and 6-month outcomes. We used the 2016–2022 Merative™ MarketScan® Commercial/Medicare and Multi-State Medicaid Databases to identify cohorts of patients with 1) asthma, 2) cystic fibrosis (CF), and 3) ABPA. We calculated ABPA prevalence per 10,000 patients with asthma or CF, assessed diagnostic testing for ABPA among patients with severe asthma, and described features of patients with ABPA using diagnosis and procedure codes. The overall ABPA prevalence among patients with asthma was 2.8/10,000 (Commercial/Medicare) and 1.0/10,000 (Medicaid). ABPA prevalence increased with asthma severity (Commercial/Medicare: mild 1.3, moderate 9.3, severe 70.6, Medicaid: mild 0.3, moderate 2.4, severe 32.4). Among patients with CF, ABPA prevalence was 183.7/10,000 (Commercial/Medicare) and 134.6/10,000 (Medicaid). Among patients with severe asthma, 10.3% (Commercial/Medicare) and 7.4% (Medicaid) received total immunoglobulin E testing, which is recommended for ABPA diagnosis. Among all patients with ABPA (Commercial/Medicare: n = 1,564, Medicaid: n = 410), ABPA treatments included inhaled corticosteroids (>70%), systemic corticosteroids (>62%), and antifungals (>18%). Patients with ABPA and Medicaid were more likely to experience hospitalization (45.1% vs. 22.5% of patients with Commercial/Medicare insurance) and respiratory failure (18.5% vs. 10.9%). This analysis provides initial estimates of national ABPA prevalence. Further studies could identify potential barriers to ABPA testing and investigate potential factors affecting payer-related differences in ABPA burden.
Aligned membranes regulate wound healing via MMP12 secreted by macrophages
Authors: Ma Hongli , Gong Limin , Yang Xi , Fang Hui , He Jiacai , Wang Chenbing
Published: January 2025

Aligned electrospinning membranes (Align) have demonstrated the potential to enhance wound healing by establishing a regenerative microenvironment surrounding the wound; However, the precise mechanism underlying its facilitation of healing remains unclear. To elucidate aligned electrospun fiber membrane’s role in accelerating wound healing and improving its quality, we conducted a comprehensive analysis. Firstly, in vivo experiments confirmed that Align promotes wound healing. Through combined bulk RNA sequencing and single-cell RNA sequencing, we identified that MMP12+ macrophages exhibit high expression of MMP12 during the early stage of wound remodeling, thereby inhibiting fibroblast migration and reducing scar formation after wound closure. Finally, both in vitro and in vivo experiments further validated the role of MMP12 in promoting wound healing and suppressing fibroblast migration. Our findings reveal that Align effectively enhances skin wound healing by upregulating MMP12 expression while inhibiting fibroblast migration. These insights provide valuable knowledge on how Align promotes efficient scar-free wound healing and serve as a theoretical foundation for developing more effective biological dressings.
Nucleosome repositioning in cardiac reprogramming
Authors: Harris Sonalí , Baksh Syeda S. , Wang Xinghua , Anwar Iqra , Pratt Richard E. , Dzau Victor J. , Hodgkinson Conrad P.
Published: January 2025

Early events in the reprogramming of fibroblasts to cardiac muscle cells are unclear. While various histone undergo modification and re-positioning, and these correlate with the activity of certain genes, it is unknown if these events are causal or happen in response to reprogramming. Histone modification and re-positioning would be expected to open up chromatin on lineage-specific genes and this can be ascertained by studying nucleosome architecture. We have recently developed a set of tools to identify significant changes in nucleosome architecture which we used to study skeletal muscle differentiation. In this report, we have applied these tools to understand nucleosome architectural changes during fibroblast to cardiac muscle reprogramming. We found that nucleosomes surrounding the transcription start sites of cardiac muscle genes induced during reprogramming were insensitive to reprogramming factors as well as to agents which enhance reprogramming efficacy. In contrast, significant changes in nucleosome architecture were observed distal to the transcription start site. These regions were associated with nucleosome build-up. In summary, investigations into nucleosome structure do not support the notion that fibroblasts to cardiac muscle cell reprogramming involves chromatin opening and suggests instead long-range effects such as breaking closed-loop inhibition.
MmuPV1 infection of Tmc6/Ever1 or Tmc8/Ever2 deficient FVB mice as a model of βHPV in typical epidermodysplasia verruciformis
Authors: Wong Margaret , Tu Hsin-Fang , Tseng Ssu-Hsieh , Mellinger-Pilgrim Rebecca , Best Simon , Tsai Hua-Ling , Xing Deyin , Hung Chien-fu , Lambert Paul F. , Roden Richard B. S.
Published: January 2025

Typical epidermodysplasia verruciformis (EV) is a rare, autosomal recessive disorder characterized by an unusual susceptibility to infection with specific skin-trophic types of human papillomavirus, principally betapapillomaviruses, and a propensity for developing malignant skin tumors in sun exposed regions. Its etiology reflects biallelic loss-of-function mutations in TMC6 (EVER1), TMC8 (EVER2) or CIB1. A TMC6-TMC8-CIB1 protein complex in the endoplasmic reticulum is hypothesized to be a restriction factor in keratinocytes for βHPV infection. However, the complex is also present in lymphocytes and its loss may compromise cellular immune control of βHPV infection. Indeed, certain primary immunodeficiencies, iatrogenic immunosuppression and AIDS are associated with the atypical form of EV. While well controlled in immunocompetent mice, murine papillomavirus MmuPV1 was first isolated from immunodeficient mice with florid skin warts, modeling atypical EV. To examine their potential as a model of typical EV, Tmc6-/-, Tmc8-/- or wildtype FVB mice were challenged with MmuPV1. At day 16 post vaginal challenge with MmuPV1, the levels of viral transcripts were similar in Tmc6-/- and Tmc8-/- mice and wildtype FVB mice, arguing against Tmc6/8 acting as intracellular restriction factors. Thereafter, greater clearance of MmuPV1 by the wildtype that the Tmc6-/- and Tmc8-/- FVB mice was evident, supporting the hypothesis that typical EV reflects a subtle cellular immune deficit. Indeed, Tmc6-/- or Tmc8-/- mice exhibit partial CD8 T cell deficits and elevated Treg. While interferon-γ production and surface CD25 were similarly elevated in CD8 T cells upon in vitro stimulation with anti-CD3/CD28, the fraction of Tmc6-/- or Tmc8-/- CD8 T cells that were dividing was lower compared to wildtype. Typical EV patients exhibit normal control of most viral infections; Tmc6-/-, Tmc8-/- and wildtype FVB mice similarly controlled vaccinia virus after skin challenge and induced neutralizing antibodies.
Homoclinic solution to zero of a non-autonomous, nonlinear,
second order differential equation with quadratic growth on the
derivative
Authors: Faria Luiz Fernando , Corrêa Junior Pablo
Published: January 2025

This work aims to obtain a positive, smooth, even, and
homoclinic to zero (i.e. zero at infinity) solution to a
non-autonomous, second-order, nonlinear differential equation
involving quadratic growth on the derivative. We apply Galerkin's
method combined with Strauss' approximation on the term involving
the first derivative to obtain weak solutions. We also study the
regularity of the solutions and the dependence on their existence
with a parameter.
Quasilinear Schrödinger equations with general sublinear
conditions
Authors: Bridaa Safa , Hassine Abderrazek , Talbi Taib
Published: January 2025

In this paper, we study the quasilinear Schrödinger
equations

−

Δ

u
+
V
(
x
)
u
+

Δ

(

u
2

)
u
=
f
(
x
,
u
)
,

∀

x

∈

R

N

,

where

V

∈

C
(

R

N

;

R

)

may
change sign and

f

is only locally defined for

|

u

|

small. Under
some new assumptions on

V

and

f

, we show that the above
equation has a sequence of solutions
converging to zero. Some
recent results in the literature are
generalized and significantly
improved and some examples are also
given to illustrate our main
theoretical results.
Existence of solutions to Sturm–Liouville boundary value
problems
Authors: Mihaylova Gabriela , Kelevedjiev Petio
Published: January 2025

We study the solvability of Sturm–Liouville boundary value
problems for

x
″

=
f
(
t
,
x
,

x
′

)
,
t

∈

(
0
,
1
)

. The nonlinearity can be
defined on a bounded set and is required
to be continuous on its
subset. The results obtained are based on
combinations of
well-known conditions with barrier strip type
conditions.
Overview of national construction market in the Republic of Croatia
Authors: Sjekavica Klepo Mariela , Damić Mate , Milaković Goran , Radaković Siniša , Peroš Petar
Published: January 2025

A trend of strong construction works prices’ growth has been noticed from 2018. This is particularly challenging from a strategic perspective for the Republic of Croatia in the context of complex infrastructure projects co-financed by the European Union, given the rules for implementing EU co-financed projects - primarily the implementation period, eligibility of costs, and achievement of performance indicators. Increasing costs on these projects generally requires an increase in the amount of national co-financing, with implementation difficulties arising from the necessary approval procedures for such increases. To analyse this trend in detail and elaborate its possible antecedents, an overview of national construction market up to 2020 is given in this paper. Results of construction industry indicators’ analysis are shown, as well as their synthesis in accordance to the relationship between supply and demand. By exploring this market trend from technical and economical side, an unique overview for understanding it from perspective of historical trends is given; and possible factors that may contribute to a significant increase in the average offered prices of construction work in the Republic of Croatia are listed.