bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Predicting Gene Expression Divergence between Single-Copy Orthologs in Two Species
Authors: Piya Antara Anika , DeGiorgio Michael , Assis Raquel
Published: May 2023

Predicting gene expression divergence is integral to understanding the emergence of new biological functions and associated traits. Whereas several sophisticated methods have been developed for this task, their applications are either limited to duplicate genes or require expression data from more than two species. Thus, here we present PredIcting eXpression dIvergence (PiXi), the first machine learning framework for predicting gene expression divergence between single-copy orthologs in two species. PiXi models gene expression evolution as an Ornstein-Uhlenbeck process, and overlays this model with multi-layer neural network (NN), random forest, and support vector machine architectures for making predictions. It outputs the predicted class “conserved” or “diverged” for each pair of orthologs, as well as their predicted expression optima in the two species. We show that PiXi has high power and accuracy in predicting gene expression divergence between single-copy orthologs, as well as high accuracy and precision in estimating their expression optima in the two species, across a wide range of evolutionary scenarios, with the globally best performance achieved by a multi-layer NN. Moreover, application of our best-performing PiXi predictor to empirical gene expression data from single-copy orthologs residing at different loci in two species of Drosophila reveals that approximately 23% underwent expression divergence after positional relocation. Further analysis shows that several of these “diverged” genes are involved in the electron transport chain of the mitochondrial membrane, suggesting that new chromatin environments may impact energy production in Drosophila. Thus, by providing a toolkit for predicting gene expression divergence between single-copy orthologs in two species, PiXi can shed light on the origins of novel phenotypes across diverse biological processes and study systems.
A Chromosome-Level Genome Assembly and Evolution Analysis of Andrena camellia (Hymenoptera: Andrenidae)
Authors: Zhao Kaixuan , Luo Arong , Zhou Qingsong , Wei Wei , Liu Wenping , Zhu Chaodong , Niu Zeqing , Zhou Zeyang , Huang Dunyuan
Published: May 2023

Andrena camellia, an effective pollinator of the economically significant crop Camellia oleifera, can withstand the toxic pollen of C. oleifera, making An. camellia crucial for resource conservation and cultivation of C. oleifera. In this study, the whole genome of An. camellia was sequenced on the Oxford Nanopore platform. The assembled genome size was 340.73 Mb including 50 scaffolds (N50 = 47.435 Mb) and 131 contigs (N50 = 17.2 Mb). A total of 11,258 protein-coding genes were annotated; in addition, 1,104 noncoding RNAs were identified. Further analysis shows that some chromosomes of An. camellia have a high level of synteny with those of Apis mellifera, Osmia bicornis, and Andrena minutula. Thus, our reported genome of An. camellia serves as a valuable resource for studying species evolution, behavioral biology, and adaption to toxic pollen of C. oleifera.
The Impact of Learning Multiple Real-World Skills on Cognitive Abilities and Functional Independence in Healthy Older Adults
Authors: Leanos Shirley , Kürüm Esra , Strickland-Hughes Carla M , Ditta Annie S , Nguyen Gianhu , Felix Miranda , Yum Hara , Rebok George W , Wu Rachel
Published: May 2023

Objectives

The natural learning experience from infancy to emerging adulthood, when considerable cognitive and functional growth is observed, mandates learning multiple real-world skills simultaneously. The present studies investigated whether learning multiple real-world skills simultaneously is possible in older adults and also whether it improves both their cognitive abilities (working memory, episodic memory, and cognitive control) and functional independence.

Methods

Over two studies (15 and 27 participants), older adults learned at least three new skills (e.g., Spanish, drawing, music composition) simultaneously for 3 months. Participants completed cognitive and functional assessments before, during, and after the intervention in both studies. Participants were recruited sequentially for an intervention or no-contact control group in Study 1, and Study 2 included only an intervention group, who also completed assessments 4–6 weeks prior to the start of the intervention (i.e., they served as their own control group).

Results

Results from both studies show that simultaneously learning multiple skills is feasible and potentially beneficial for healthy older adults. Learning multiple skills simultaneously increased cognitive abilities in older adults by midpoint of the intervention, to levels similar to performance in a separate sample of middle-aged adults.

Discussion

Our findings demonstrate the feasibility and potential of conducting a real-world skill-learning intervention involving learning three novel skills with older adults. Our multiskill intervention may provide broad cognitive gains, akin to the benefits experienced earlier in the life span.
“Sometimers, Alzheimer’s? I love that! That’s definitely me”: Readers’ Responses to Fictional Dementia Narratives
Authors: Carney Gemma M , Lugea Jane , Fernandez-Quintanilla Carolina , Devine Paula
Published: May 2023

This article presents findings from an interdisciplinary project which invited readers to experience the impact of dementia via fictional characters’ narratives. Combining methods from critical gerontology and literary linguistics—a field that examines the language of literature—we undertook an empirical reader response study of dementia fiction. We constructed a large corpus of dementia fiction; selecting 12 extracts, each containing first-hand, focalized accounts of fictional characters’ experiences of living with dementia. Readers (31) were purposively sampled for 4 separate reading groups—student social workers (9); general public (9); family carers (6); and people with dementia (7). Over 6 weeks they engaged in separate, facilitated, on-line group discussions of extracts. Discussions were independently coded using ATLAS.ti.

Although readers from all 4 groups reported that fictional characters drew them into the internal life of someone with dementia, some carers questioned whether fictional characters’ experiences were plausible. Readers with dementia recognized themselves in the extracts; viewing fictional characters as eloquent envoys of their lived experiences of diagnosis, social isolation, loss of language, and use of humor.

Fictional characters offer an entry point for understanding contrasts in caregiver and care-receiver experiences of dementia. Fictional characters are potentially useful for moving dementia narratives beyond monstrous cultural metaphors and onto a disability-based rights agenda.
Literary, Found and Research Poetry: New Approaches to Representations of Aging and Aged Care
Authors: Holland-Batt Sarah , Miller Evonne
Published: May 2023

At a time when rapid population aging is producing an emphasis on questions of healthy aging in the public discourse, conditions such as dementia, physical, and other disabilities still too often remain taboo, and this is particularly true in relation to the confronting subjects of aged care, neglect, and failures of care provision. This article considers the transformative potential of 2 different but complementary forms of poetry—research poetry and lyric poetry—to break these silences and represent experiences across the physical and emotional spectrum of aging, including the perspectives of older people and their families whose experiences are neutral, negative, or even distressing, as well as challenge and counter existing negative stereotypes of aging in the public and literary realms. Neither research poetry nor lyric poetry is common in gerontological research; however, they offer the radical potential to offer insight into the lived realities of older people and their loved ones. Research poetry uses the direct words of older people, drawing on transcripts and found texts, and giving voice to people who otherwise would not be heard. Lyric poetry, by contrast, draws more heavily on literary techniques such as metaphor and direct address to evoke sensory and intimate experiences of aging and aged care. This paper presents 2 poems comparing and contrasting the respective processes and techniques of these different poetic forms to represent the imaginary, feared, and hoped-for futures of older people, including those in aged care.
Trauma and female reproductive health across the lifecourse: motivating a research agenda for the future of women’s health
Authors: Hillcoat Alexandra , Prakash Jaya , Martin Leah , Zhang Yu , Rosa Gabriela , Tiemeier Henning , Torres Nicole , Mustieles Vicente , Adams Charleen D , Messerlian Carmen
Published: May 2023

The aetiology behind many female reproductive disorders is poorly studied and incompletely understood despite the prevalence of such conditions and substantial burden they impose on women’s lives. In light of evidence demonstrating a higher incidence of trauma exposure in women with many such disorders, we present a set of interlinked working hypotheses proposing relationships between traumatic events and reproductive and mental health that can define a research agenda to better understand reproductive outcomes from a trauma-informed perspective across the lifecourse. Additionally, we note the potential for racism to act as a traumatic experience, highlight the importance of considering the interaction between mental and reproductive health concerns, and propose several neuroendocrinological mechanisms by which traumatic experiences might increase the risk of adverse health outcomes in these domains. Finally, we emphasize the need for future primary research investigating the proposed pathways between traumatic experiences and adverse female reproductive outcomes.
Deployment of machine learning algorithms to predict sepsis: systematic review and application of the SALIENT clinical AI implementation framework
Authors: van der Vegt Anton H , Scott Ian A , Dermawan Krishna , Schnetler Rudolf J , Kalke Vikrant R , Lane Paul J
Published: May 2023

Objective

To retrieve and appraise studies of deployed artificial intelligence (AI)-based sepsis prediction algorithms using systematic methods, identify implementation barriers, enablers, and key decisions and then map these to a novel end-to-end clinical AI implementation framework.

Materials and Methods

Systematically review studies of clinically applied AI-based sepsis prediction algorithms in regard to methodological quality, deployment and evaluation methods, and outcomes. Identify contextual factors that influence implementation and map these factors to the SALIENT implementation framework.

Results

The review identified 30 articles of algorithms applied in adult hospital settings, with 5 studies reporting significantly decreased mortality post-implementation. Eight groups of algorithms were identified, each sharing a common algorithm. We identified 14 barriers, 26 enablers, and 22 decision points which were able to be mapped to the 5 stages of the SALIENT implementation framework.

Discussion

Empirical studies of deployed sepsis prediction algorithms demonstrate their potential for improving care and reducing mortality but reveal persisting gaps in existing implementation guidance. In the examined publications, key decision points reflecting real-word implementation experience could be mapped to the SALIENT framework and, as these decision points appear to be AI-task agnostic, this framework may also be applicable to non-sepsis algorithms. The mapping clarified where and when barriers, enablers, and key decisions arise within the end-to-end AI implementation process.

Conclusions

A systematic review of real-world implementation studies of sepsis prediction algorithms was used to validate an end-to-end staged implementation framework that has the ability to account for key factors that warrant attention in ensuring successful deployment, and which extends on previous AI implementation frameworks.
Height relative to body weight in nursery pigs
Authors: Kaiser Marianne , Foldager Leslie , Herskin Mette S
Published: May 2023

Among the physical dimensions of the pig body, the height has received limited scientific focus. During transport, however, where multideck trucks and trailers typically are used, detailed knowledge about the height of pigs is relevant. The body weight of pigs is often known, whereas height is more difficult to quantify as part of the pre-transport management of the pigs. Nursery pigs are one category of European pig production often subjected to long distance transport for further fattening some weeks after weaning. The present study aimed to determine the height of pigs from 5 to 40 kg of body weight, as well as the relation between height and body weight. The height and weight were measured for 1,614 randomly selected pigs (castrates and females) from 10 Danish pig herds balanced between the two large breeding systems, DanBred (DB) and Danish Genetics (DG). From 9 herds, data from 1,435 pigs with 2.8 to 40.6 kg body weight were used for establishing prediction equations, while pigs from the tenth herd were set aside for validation.

The study considered using 1) polynomial regressions of various order; 2) power functions; or 3) nonlinear growth curve models. Overall, the third-order polynomial with sex-specific intercept and the power function with sex-specific log-intercept were optimal for prediction. Nevertheless, for feasibility and due to only marginal sex differences, we suggest using common intercepts for prediction of height from weight. Taken together, the results of the present study present data for pig height in the interval from 5 to 40 kg body weight. Further, we suggest that a third-order polynomial or a power function can be used for pigs from at least the genetic systems DB and DG, if the pig height is to be predicted based on body weight.
Come Together: Firm Boundaries and Delegation
Authors: Alfaro Laura , Bloom Nick , Conconi Paola , Fadinger Harald , Legros Patrick , Newman Andrew F , Sadun Raffaella , Van Reenen John
Published: May 2023

We jointly study firm boundaries and the allocation of decision rights within them by confronting an incomplete-contracts model with data on vertical integration and delegation for thousands of firms around the world. Integration has an option value: it confers authority to delegate or centralize decision rights, depending on who can best solve problems that arise in the course of an uncertain production process. In line with the model’s predictions, we find that firms are more likely to integrate suppliers that produce more valuable inputs and operate in industries with more dispersed productivity, and that firms delegate more decisions to integrated suppliers that produce more valuable inputs and operate in more productive industries.
A Sufi conception of order: Ibn ʿArabī’s discourse on governance
Authors: Hemida Doha Tazi
Published: May 2023

This article outlines, through a reading of Muḥyī al-Dīn Ibn ʿArabī’s Tadbīrāt al-ilāhiyya fī iṣlāḥ al-mamlaka al-insāniyya (Divine governance in the improvement of the kingdom of the self), a Sufi conception of order that encompasses a discourse on political governance and cuts across the realms of the cosmos, the self, and the polity. It explores the isomorphic relation and mutual ‘folding’ linking the governance of the worldly realm with that of the soul. In contrast to Montesquieu’s scheme of the ‘countervailing passions’, governance at both levels is built on the Sufi notion of ‘struggle against the self (jihād al-nafs)’ and on a theory of the human being as a microcosm. Within Ibn ʿArabī’s system, the political order is not an autonomous domain with its own rationality as developed by early modern European theorists of reason of state. A single rationality guides the governance of the microcosm and the macrocosm.
Molecular and geographic evaluations of the Heteromys pictus–spectabilis species complex indicate multiple cryptic species
Authors: Bateman Joanna , Vance Victoria A , Rogers Duke S
Published: May 2023

The Heteromys pictus–spectabilis species complex currently consists of two species: H. pictus, which is distributed across western, central, and southern Mexico; and H. spectabilis, an endangered species which is restricted to a small region of southeastern Jalisco. Previous phylogenetic studies have indicated that H. spectabilis renders H. pictus as paraphyletic, and therefore revisions are needed to resolve this paraphyly. Phylogenetic trees based on mitochondrial DNA and nuclear DNA genes were constructed using maximum likelihood and Bayesian methods, grouping individuals into previously established Cytochrome b (Cytb) haplogroups across the geography. Phylogenetic trees were run through bPTP and GMYC analyses to estimate the number of predicted species that may be present, and when these lineages likely diverged based on the genes tested. To assist with species delimitation predictions (based on the Genetic Species Concept), intra- and interspecific Kimura two-parameter (K2P) values were calculated to predict species-level lineages within the species complex. We found evidence to support the hypothesis that there are multiple cryptic species present within H. pictus, with some K2P values between the Cytb haplogroups being on par with what is expected between different species and genera within Rodentia. This is further supported by the phylogenetic trees (individual and concatenated) constructed from Cytb and three nuclear genes (Bfib, IRBP, and PRKCI), which consistently group certain Cytb haplogroups together in ways that correspond to geographic filter barriers in Mexico.
Coculturing rice with aquatic animals promotes ecological intensification of paddy ecosystem
Authors: Ji Zi-Jun , Zhao Lu-Feng , Zhang Tao-Jie , Dai Ran-Xin , Tang Jian-Jun , Hu Liang-Liang , Chen Xin
Published: May 2023

Species coculture can increase agro-biodiversity and therefore constitutes an ecological intensification measure for agriculture. Rice–aquatic animal coculture, one type of species coculture, has been practiced and researched widely. Here, we review recent studies and present results of a quantitative analysis of literature on rice–aquatic animal coculture systems. We address three questions: (i) can rice yield and soil fertility be maintained or increased with less chemical input through rice–aquatic animal coculture? (ii) how do aquatic animals benefit the paddy ecosystem? (iii) how can coculture be implemented for ecological intensification? Meta-analysis based on published papers showed that rice–aquatic animal cocultures increased rice yield, soil organic carbon and total nitrogen and decreased insect pests and weeds compared with rice monocultures. Studies also showed that rice–aquatic animal cocultures reduced pesticide and fertilizer application compared with rice monocultures. Rice plants provide a beneficial environment for aquatic animals, leading to high animal activities in the field. Aquatic animals, in turn, help remove rice pests and act as ecological engineers that affect soil conditions, which favor the growth of rice plants. Aquatic animals promote nutrient cycling and the complementary use of nutrients between rice and aquatic animals, which enhances nutrient-use efficiency in the coculture. To generate beneficial outcomes, how to develop compatible partnerships between rice and aquatic animals, and compatible culturing strategies for coculture systems are the key points. Investigating which traits of aquatic animals and rice varieties could best match to create productive and sustainable coculture systems could be one of the future focuses.
Dioscorides and Galen in the Syriac Tradition: A Reconsideration of Three Passages About Herbs in an Anonymous Syriac Pharmacological Book
Authors: Lin Lijuan
Published: May 2023

This article centres on three passages about herbs and herb remedies (§91, §92 and §97) selected from the anonymous Syriac pharmacological book which Philippe Gignoux recently edited. It argues that all three passages have parallels in Galen’s On Simple Drugs, while the last section of §91 finds a parallel in Dioscorides’ De materia medica 1.107. The parallels not only help us to decipher several terms which remain unresolved in earlier research, but also facilitate a better understanding of some passages which are occasionally misleading due to the highly abbreviated character of the Syriac text. Furthermore, a comparison between the anonymous Syriac pharmacological text and earlier Syriac translations of Galen shows that our text is a multiple-layered pharmacopoeia which combines both earlier elements from Sergius of Rēš ͑ainā in the sixth century and new terminologies from Ḥunayn ibn Isḥāq in the ʿAbbāsid translation movement.
Multidisciplinary approach to the treatment of sexual dysfunction in couples using a biopsychosocial model
Authors: Lynn Mary , Iftekhar Noama , Adams William , Mumby Patricia
Published: May 2023

Background

Given the complexity of the psychological and biological pathologies associated with sexual dysfunction, which affects at least a third of adult women and men worldwide, a multidisciplinary approach has been advocated.

Aim

To assess sexual functioning, relationship satisfaction, and mood stability pre- and post- treatment at the Loyola University Sexual Wellness Program.

Methods

Couples attending the 6-week multidisciplinary Sexual Wellness Program provided consent and completed pre- and post- intervention assessments. Linear mixed effects models were used to estimate the mean change from baseline to first follow-up. A covariance matrix was used to account for dependency.

Outcomes

All patients completed self-reported surveys: Dyadic Adjustment Scale, PROMIS Sexual Function and Satisfaction Measures Brief Profile (Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information), and International Index of Erectile Function.

Results

There were 85 respondents: 42 men and 43 women. The mean age was 49.82 years (range, 25-77). The largest improvement was on the total Dyadic Adjustment Scale score, which increased by approximately 5.18 points (95% CI, 2.55-7.81). PROMIS scores for global satisfaction with sex life, erectile function, and interest in sexual activity significantly increased from baseline, while the vaginal discomfort score significantly declined. Overall the score for global satisfaction with sex life increased from baseline by approximately 5.57 points (95% CI, 3.03-8.10). On average, men reported a 4.33-point increase (95% CI, 0.04-8.62) in their International Index of Erectile Function score from baseline.

Clinical Implications

A multidisciplinary treatment approach focused on the couple positively affects a couple’s relationship, including global satisfaction with sex life, relationship satisfaction, interest in sexual activity, and erectile function.

Strengths and Limitations

This study is one of the few to document the effects of a multidisciplinary treatment approach for both members of a heterosexual couple—male and female. Limitations include the narrow demographics and lack of a control group in our population. Furthermore, this was completed at 1 academic center.

Conclusion

These findings emphasize that multidisciplinary sexual therapy programs aimed at the couple can help address multiple aspects of sexual well-being.
Plant biochemical genetics in the multiomics era
Authors: Alseekh Saleh , Karakas Esra , Zhu Feng , Wijesingha Ahchige Micha , Fernie Alisdair R
Published: May 2023

Our understanding of plant biology has been revolutionized by modern genetics and biochemistry. However, biochemical genetics can be traced back to the foundation of Mendelian genetics; indeed, one of Mendel’s milestone discoveries of seven characteristics of pea plants later came to be ascribed to a mutation in a starch branching enzyme. Here, we review both current and historical strategies for the elucidation of plant metabolic pathways and the genes that encode their component enzymes and regulators. We use this historical review to discuss a range of classical genetic phenomena including epistasis, canalization, and heterosis as viewed through the lens of contemporary high-throughput data obtained via the array of approaches currently adopted in multiomics studies.
Deciphering transcriptional mechanisms of maize internodal elongation by regulatory network analysis
Authors: Ren Zhaobin , Liu Yingru , Li Lu , Wang Xing , Zhou Yuyi , Zhang Mingcai , Li Zhaohu , Yi Fei , Duan Liusheng
Published: May 2023

The lengths of the basal internodes is an important factor for lodging resistance of maize (Zea mays). In this study, foliar application of coronatine (COR) to 10 cultivars at the V8 growth stage had different suppression effects on the length of the eighth internode, with three being categorized as strong-inhibition cultivars (SC), five as moderate (MC), and two as weak (WC). RNA-sequencing of the eighth internode of the cultivars revealed a total of 7895 internode elongation-regulating genes, including 777 transcription factors (TFs). Genes related to the hormones cytokinin, gibberellin, auxin, and ethylene in the SC group were significantly down-regulated compared to WC, and more cell-cycle regulatory factors and cell wall-related genes showed significant changes, which severely inhibited internode elongation. In addition, we used EMSAs to explore the direct regulatory relationship between two important TFs, ZmABI7 and ZmMYB117, which regulate the cell cycle and cell wall modification by directly binding to the promoters of their target genes ZmCYC1, ZmCYC3, ZmCYC7, and ZmCPP1. The transcriptome reported in this study will provide a useful resource for studying maize internode development, with potential use for targeted genetic control of internode length to improve the lodging resistance of maize.
From specific-source feature-based to common-source score-based likelihood-ratio systems: ranking the stars
Authors: Vergeer Peter
Published: May 2023

This article studies expected performance and practical feasibility of the most commonly used classes of source-level likelihood-ratio (LR) systems when applied to a trace–reference comparison problem. The article compares performance of these classes of LR systems (used to update prior odds) to each other and to the use of prior odds only, using strictly proper scoring rules as performance measures. It also explores practical feasibility of the classes of LR systems. The present analysis allows for a ranking of these classes of LR systems: from specific-source feature-based to common-source anchored or non-anchored score-based. A trade-off between performance and practical feasibility is observed, meaning that the best performing class of LR systems is the hardest to realize in practice, while the least performing class is the easiest to realize in practice. The other classes of LR systems are in between the two extremes. The one positive exception is a common-source feature-based LR system, with good performance and relatively low experimental demands. This article also argues against the claim that some classes of LR systems should not be used, by showing that all systems have merit (when updating prior odds) over just using the prior odds (i.e. not using the LR system).
Boundless baryons: how diffuse gas contributes to anisotropic tSZ signal around simulated Three Hundred clusters
Authors: Lokken Martine , Cui Weiguang , Bond J Richard , Hložek Renée , Murray Norman , Davé Romeel , van Engelen Alexander
Published: May 2023

Upcoming advances in galaxy surveys and cosmic microwave background data will enable measurements of the anisotropic distribution of diffuse gas in filaments and superclusters at redshift z = 1 and beyond, observed through the thermal Sunyaev–Zel’dovich (tSZ) effect. These measurements will help distinguish between different astrophysical feedback models, account for baryons that appear to be ‘missing’ from the cosmic census, and present opportunities for using locally anisotropic tSZ statistics as cosmological probes. This study seeks to guide such future measurements by analysing whether diffuse intergalactic gas is a major contributor to anisotropic tSZ signal in The Three Hundred  Gizmo-Simba  hydrodynamic simulations. We apply multiple different halo boundary and temperature criteria to divide concentrated from diffuse gas at z = 1, then create mock Compton- y maps for the separated components. The maps from 98 simulation snapshots are centred on massive galaxy clusters, oriented by the most prominent filament axis in the galaxy distribution, and stacked. Results vary significantly depending on the definition used for diffuse gas, indicating that assumptions should be clearly defined when claiming observations of the warm-hot intergalactic medium. In all cases, the diffuse gas is important, contributing 25–60  per cent of the tSZ signal in the far field (>4 h−1 comoving Mpc) from the stacked clusters. The gas 1–2 virial radii from halo centres is especially key. Oriented stacking and environmental selections help to amplify the signal from the warm-hot intergalactic medium, which is aligned but less concentrated along the filament axis than the hot halo gas.
SDSS-IV MaNGA: The incidence of major mergers in type I and II AGN host galaxies in the DR15 sample
Authors: Hernández-Toledo H M , Cortes-Suárez E , Vázquez-Mata J A , Nevin R , Ávila-Reese V , Ibarra-Medel H , Negrete C A
Published: May 2023

We present a study on the incidence of major mergers and their impact on the triggering of nuclear activity in 47 type I and 236 type II optically selected AGN from the MaNGA DR15 sample. From an estimate of non-parametric image predictors (Gini, M20, concentration (C), asymmetry (A), clumpiness (S), Sérsic index (n), and shape asymmetry (AS)) using the SDSS images, in combination with a Linear Discriminant Analysis Method, we identified major mergers and merger stages. We reinforced our results by looking for bright tidal features in our post-processed SDSS and DESI legacy images. We find a statistically significant higher incidence of major mergers of 29 per cent ± 3 per cent in our type I+II AGN sample compared to 22 per cent ± 0.8 per cent for a non-AGN sample matched in redshift, stellar mass, colour, and morphological type, finding also a prevalence of post-coalescence (51 per cent ± 5 per cent) over pre-coalescence (23 per cent ± 6 per cent) merger stages. The levels of AGN activity among our massive major mergers are similar to those reported in other works using [O iii] tracers. However, similar levels are produced by our AGN-galaxies hosting stellar bars, suggesting that major mergers are important promoters of nuclear activity but are not the main nor the only mechanism behind the AGN triggering. The tidal strength parameter Q was considered at various scales looking for environmental differences that could affect our results on the merger incidence, finding non-significant differences. Finally, the H-H β diagram could be used as an empirical predictor for the flux coming from an AGN source, useful to correct photometric quantities in large AGN samples emerging from surveys.
Androgen signalling in the ovaries and endometrium
Authors: Lissaman Abbey C , Girling Jane E , Cree Lynsey M , Campbell Rebecca E , Ponnampalam Anna P
Published: May 2023

Currently, our understanding of hormonal regulation within the female reproductive system is largely based on our knowledge of estrogen and progesterone signalling. However, while the important functions of androgens in male physiology are well known, it is also recognized that androgens play critical roles in the female reproductive system. Further, androgen signalling is altered in a variety of gynaecological conditions, including endometriosis and polycystic ovary syndrome, indicative of regulatory roles in endometrial and ovarian function. Co-regulatory mechanisms exist between different androgens, estrogens, and progesterone, resulting in a complex network of steroid hormone interactions. Evidence from animal knockout studies, in vitro experiments, and human data indicate that androgen receptor expression is cell-specific and menstrual cycle stage-dependent, with important regulatory roles in the menstrual cycle, endometrial biology, and follicular development in the ovaries. This review will discuss the expression and co-regulatory interactions of androgen receptors, highlighting the complexity of the androgen signalling pathway in the endometrium and ovaries, and the synthesis of androgens from additional alternative pathways previously disregarded as male-specific. Moreover, it will illustrate the challenges faced when studying androgens in female biology, and the need for a more in-depth, integrative view of androgen metabolism and signalling in the female reproductive system.
Treatment of unmethylated MGMT-promoter recurrent glioblastoma with cancer stem cell assay-guided chemotherapy and the impact on patients’ healthcare costs
Authors: Ranjan Tulika , Yu Alexander , Elhamdani Shaed , Howard Candace M , Lirette Seth T , Denning Krista L , Valluri Jagan , Claudio Pier Paolo
Published: May 2023

Background

Glioblastoma (GBM) is a lethal disease. At least in part, the recurrence of GBM is caused by cancer stem cells (CSCs), which are resistant to chemotherapy. Personalized anticancer therapy against CSCs can improve treatment outcomes. We present a prospective cohort study of 40 real-world unmethylated Methyl-guanine-methyl-transferase-promoter GBM patients treated utilizing a CSC chemotherapeutics assay-guided report (ChemoID).

Methods

Eligible patients who underwent surgical resection for recurrent GBM were included in the study. Most effective chemotherapy treatments were chosen based on the ChemoID assay report from a panel of FDA-approved chemotherapies. A retrospective chart review was conducted to determine OS, progression-free survival, and the cost of healthcare costs. The median age of our patient cohort was 53 years (24–76).

Results

Patients treated prospectively with high-response ChemoID-directed therapy, had a median overall survival (OS) of 22.4 months (12.0–38.4) with a log-rank P = .011, compared to patients who could be treated with low-response drugs who had instead an OS of 12.5 months (3.0–27.4 months). Patients with recurrent poor-prognosis GBM treated with high-response therapy had a 63% probability to survive at 12 months, compared to 27% of patients who were treated with low-response CSC drugs. We also found that patients treated with high-response drugs on average had an incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) of $48,893 per life-year saved compared to $53,109 of patients who were treated with low-response CSC drugs.

Conclusions

The results presented here suggest that the ChemoID Assay can be used to individualize chemotherapy choices to improve poor-prognosis recurrent GBM patient survival and to decrease the healthcare cost that impacts these patients.
A multi-institutional retrospective pooled outcome analysis of molecularly annotated pediatric supratentorialZFTA-fused ependymoma
Authors: Ng Chia Huan , Obrecht Denise , Wells Olivia , Zapotocky Michal , Sumerauer David , Coltin Hallie , Khuong-Quang Dong-Anh , Eisenstat David D , Kinross Kathryn M , White Christine L , Algar Elizabeth M , Luck Amanda , Witt Hendrik , Schüller Ulrich , Mynarek Martin , Pietsch Torsten , Gerber Nicolas U , Benesch Martin , Warmuth-Metz Monika , Kortmann Rolf , Bison Brigitte , Taylor Michael D , Rutkowski Stefan , Pfister Stefan M , Jones David TW , Gottardo Nicholas G , von Hoff Katja , Pajtler Kristian W , Ramaswamy Vijay , Hansford Jordan R
Published: May 2023

Background

ZFTA-RELA (formerly known as c11orf-RELA) fused supratentorial ependymoma (ZFTAfus ST-EPN) has been recognized as a novel entity in the 2016 WHO classification of CNS tumors and further defined in the recent 2021 edition. ZFTAfus ST-EPN was reported to portend poorer prognosis when compared to its counterpart, YAP1 ST-EPN in some previously published series. The aim of this study was to determine the treatment outcome of molecularly confirmed and conventionally treated ZFTAfus ST-EPN patients treated in multiple institutions.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective analysis of all pediatric patients with molecularly confirmed ZFTAfus ST-EPN patients treated in multiple institutions in 5 different countries (Australia, Canada, Germany, Switzerland, and Czechia). Survival outcomes were analyzed and correlated with clinical characteristics and treatment approaches.

Results

A total of 108 patients were collated from multiple institutions in 5 different countries across three continents. We found across the entire cohort that the 5- and 10-year PFS were 65% and 63%, respectively. The 5- and 10-year OS of this cohort of patients were 87% and 73%. The rates of gross total resection (GTR) were high with 84 out of 108 (77.8%) patients achieving GTR. The vast majority of patients also received post-operative radiotherapy, 98 out of 108 (90.7%). Chemotherapy did not appear to provide any survival benefit in our patient cohort.

Conclusion

This is the largest study to date of contemporaneously treated molecularly confirmed ZFTAfus ST-EPN patients which identified markedly improved survival outcomes compared to previously published series. This study also re-emphasizes the importance of maximal surgical resection in achieving optimal outcomes in pediatric patients with supratentorial ependymoma.
Significance of molecular diagnostics for therapeutic decision-making in recurrent glioma
Authors: Blobner Jens , Dengler Laura , Blobner Sven , Eberle Constantin , Weller Jonathan , Teske Nico , Karschnia Philipp , Rühlmann Katharina , Heinrich Kathrin , Ziemann Frank , Greif Philipp A , Jeremias Irmela , Wuerstlein Rachel , Hasselmann Korbinian , Dorostkar Mario , Harter Patrick N , Quach Stefanie , Stoecklein Veit , Albert Nathalie L , Niyazi Maximilian , Tonn Joerg-Christian , Thon Niklas , Christoph Westphalen Benedikt , von Baumgarten Louisa
Published: May 2023

Background

Targeted therapies have substantially improved survival in cancer patients with malignancies outside the brain. Whether in-depth analysis for molecular alterations may also offer therapeutic avenues in primary brain tumors remains unclear. We herein present our institutional experience for glioma patients discussed in our interdisciplinary molecular tumor board (MTB) implemented at the Comprehensive Cancer Center Munich (LMU).

Methods

We retrospectively searched the database of the MTB for all recurrent glioma patients after previous therapy. Recommendations were based on next-generation sequencing results of individual patient’s tumor tissue. Clinical and molecular information, previous therapy regimens, and outcome parameters were collected.

Results

Overall, 73 consecutive recurrent glioma patients were identified. In the median, advanced molecular testing was initiated with the third tumor recurrence. The median turnaround time between initiation of molecular profiling and MTB case discussion was 48 ± 75 days (range: 32–536 days). Targetable mutations were found for 50 recurrent glioma patients (68.5%). IDH1 mutation (27/73; 37%), epidermal growth factor receptor amplification (19/73; 26%), and NF1 mutation (8/73; 11%) were the most detected alterations and a molecular-based treatment recommendation could be made for all of them. Therapeutic recommendations were implemented in 12 cases (24%) and one-third of these heavily pretreated patients experienced clinical benefit with at least disease stabilization.

Conclusions

In-depth molecular analysis of tumor tissue may guide targeted therapy also in brain tumor patients and considerable antitumor effects might be observed in selected cases. However, future studies to corroborate our results are needed.
Paediatricians’ awareness of Canadian screen time guidelines, perception of screen time use, and counselling during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Amos Kiersten A , Ogilvie Jacqueline D , Ponti Michelle , Miller Michael R , Yang Fanyu , Ens Andrea R
Published: May 2023

Objectives

Paediatricians are essential in guiding families on screen time use as digital media becomes increasingly prevalent. While this has been highlighted through the COVID-19 pandemic there is no literature on paediatricians’ awareness of Canadian screen time guidelines, or perception of these guidelines during this time. The aim of this study was to assess pediatricians’ knowledge, attitudes, and comfort with the Canadian Paediatric Society’s (CPS) screen time guidelines, specifically during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods

Our survey was developed by a paediatric resident and paediatric endocrinologist, reviewed by local experts, and sent electronically to members of the CPS Community and Developmental Paediatrics sections.

Results

All 53 respondents were aware of current CPS screen time guidelines, and the majority self-reported fair to excellent knowledge of guidelines for both age groups (<5 years and school-aged children/adolescents). Over 80% noticed increased screen use during the pandemic, and 98% were somewhat or very concerned about screen use and their patients’ health and well-being. Pediatricians reported concerns about associations between increased screen time with worsening behaviour, mental health concerns, obesity, and sedentary lifestyle. The greatest barrier to reducing screen time was perceived insufficient motivation or support from caregivers/families.

Conclusions

Responding Canadian paediatricians are knowledgeable and comfortable with current screen time guidelines in Canada. Despite this, there is increasing concern with health outcomes associated with screen use. These results highlight paediatricians’ important role in counselling patients and may encourage further local advocacy and public education around screen use and associated health risks in children.
BLE beacon-based floor detection for mobile robots in a multi-floor automation laboratory
Authors: Wu Haiping , Liu Hui , Roddelkopf Thomas , Thurow Kerstin
Published: May 2023

As an important task of multi-floor localization, floor detection has elicited great attention. Wireless infrastructures like Wi-Fi and Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) play important roles in floor detection. However, most floor detection research tends to focus on data modelling but pays little attention to the data collection system, which is the basis of wireless infrastructure-based floor detection. In fact, the floor detection task can be greatly simplified with proper data collection system design. In this paper, a floor detection solution is developed in a multi-floor life science automation lab. A data collection system consisting of BLE beacons, a receiver node and an Internet of Things (IoT) cloud is provided. The features of the BLE beacon under different settings are evaluated in detail. A mean filter is designed to deal with the fluctuation of the received signal strength indicator data. A simple floor detection method without a training process was implemented and evaluated in more than 100 floor detection tests. The time delay and floor detection accuracy under different settings are discussed. Finally, floor detection is evaluated on the H20 multi-floor transportation robot. Two sensor nodes are installed on the robot at different heights. The floor detection performance with different installation heights is discussed. The experimental results indicate that the proposed floor detection method provides floor detection accuracy of 0.9877 to 1 with a time delay of 5 s.
Older Adults’ Perspectives on Screening for Cognitive Impairment Following Critical Illness: Pre-Implementation Qualitative Study
Authors: Keegan Alek , Strahley Ashley , Taylor Stephanie P. , Wilson Taniya M. , Shah Meehir D. , Williamson Jeff , Palakshappa Jessica A.
Published: May 2023

OBJECTIVES:

Screening for cognitive impairment following ICU discharge is recommended but not part of routine care. We sought to understand older adults’ perspectives on screening for cognitive impairment following an ICU admission to inform the design and delivery of a cognitive screening intervention.

DESIGN:

Qualitative study using semi-structured interviews.

SUBJECTS:

Adults 60 years and older within 3 months of discharge from an ICU in an academic health system.

INTERVENTIONS:

Interviews were conducted via telephone, audio recorded and transcribed verbatim. All transcripts were coded in duplicate. Discrepancies were resolved by consensus. Codes were organized into themes and subthemes inductively.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS:

We completed 22 interviews. The mean age of participants was 71 ± 6 years, 14 (63.6%) were men, 16 (72.7%) were White, and 6 (27.3%) were Black. Thematic analysis was organized around four themes: 1) receptivity to screening, 2) communication preferences, 3) information needs, and 4) provider involvement. Most participants were receptive to cognitive screening; this was influenced by trust in their providers and prior experience with cognitive screening and impairment. Participants preferred simple, direct, compassionate communication. They wanted to understand the screening procedure, the rationale for screening, and expectations for recovery. Participants desired input from their primary care provider to have their cognitive screening results placed in the context of their overall health, because they had a trusted relationship, and for convenience.

CONCLUSIONS:

Participants demonstrated limited understanding of and exposure to cognitive screening but see it as potentially beneficial following an ICU stay. Providers should use simple, straightforward language and place emphasis on expectations. Resources may be needed to assist primary care providers with capacity to provide cognitive screening and interpret results for ICU survivors. Implementation strategies can include educational materials for clinicians and patients on rationale for screening and recovery expectations.
Value of Coronary Sinus During Computed Tomography Pulmonary Angiography for Predicting Pulmonary Hypertension in Patients with Acute Pulmonary Embolism
Authors: Zhang Chuang , Xin Qian , Xu Hongling , Wang Xiangyu , Yan Zhiqiang , Sun Shengtao , Shi Xiangmin , Tian Mei
Published: May 2023

Objective:

Computed tomography pulmonary angiography (CTPA) parameters are valuable for predicting pulmonary hypertension (PH) in patients with pulmonary embolism (PE). However, few studies have used the coronary sinus ostium area (CSOA), derived from CTPA, to detect PH. This study aimed to compare the prognostic values of the CSOA, coronary sinus ostium diameter (CSOD), and right ventricular (RV)/left ventricular (LV) ratio for PH.

Methods:

This study retrospectively analyzed 78 patients (mean age, (51.94 ± 12.33) years; 53.8% male) with acute PE confirmed by CTPA at the Sixth and Eighth Medical Centers of the People’s Liberation Army General Hospital between June 2018 and June 2020. Patients were categorized into 2 groups using a pulmonary artery systolic pressure (PASP) cut-off of 30 mmHg. CTPA parameters were compared between these groups.

Results:

Patients with PASP >30 mmHg (n = 22) had a larger CSOA, CSOD, RV diameter, RV/LV ratio, and inferior vena cava diameter compared with patients with PASP ≤30 mmHg (n = 56). The CSOA had an area under the receiver-operating characteristic curve (AUC, 0.84; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.74–0.94; P < 0.001) similar to that of the RV/LV ratio (AUC, 0.85; 95%CI, 0.73–0.99; P < 0.001), while that of the CSOD was smaller (AUC, 0.66; 95%CI, 0.51–0.81; P < 0.05).

Conclusion:

Both CSOA and CSOD demonstrated a good ability to predict PH, while CSOA better predicted PASP >30 mmHg.