bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hubungan Dukungan Suami Dengan Kepatuhan Antenatal Care (ANC) Primigravida
Authors: Efendi Norfan Ani
Published: December 2024

Antenatal Care (ANC) merupakan pelayanan kesehatan ibu hamil untuk menurunkan angka kematian ibu serta bayi di indonesia. Tujuan penelitian untuk mengetahui hubungan dukungan suami dengan kepatuhan Antenatal Care (ANC) primigravida di Rumah Sakit Bhayangkara Bondowoso tahun 2021, Metode penelitian analitik korelasional. Jumlah responden 49 ibu hamil primigravida di KIA Rumah Sakit Bhayangkara Bondowoso. Pengambilan responden menggunakan Total Sampling. Penelitian ini  menggunakan uji Spearman. Hasil penelitian yang sudah dilakukan  Dari 49 responden dukungan suami dalam kategori kurang terdapat 0 %, dukungan suami cukup 7 responden (14,3 %), dukungan suami baik 42 responden (85,7 %). Untuk kepatuhan ANC, 6 responden (12,2 %) tidak patuh pemeriksaan atau melakukan kunjungan ANC, 43 (87,8 %) responden patuh melakukan atau pemeriksaan ANC. Hasil uji Statistik didapatkan hasil nilai signifikan 0,007 lebih kecil dari 0,05 atau 0,01 sehingga dapat ditarik kesimpulan bahwa ada hubungan yang signifikan antara dukungan suami dengan kepatuhan pemeriksan ANC di Rumah Sakit Bhayangkara Bondowoso. Berdasarkan hasil penelitian bahwa sebagian besar suami mendukungan istrinya melakukan kunjungan Antenatal Care (ANC), dan banyak istri sudah patuh melakukan pemeriksaan ANC
Karakteristik Demografi Balita Stunting di Wilayah Lahan Basah Kecamatan Lima Puluh
Authors: Pramudita Pingkan Deni , Tampubolon Nurhannifah Rizky , Indriati Ganis
Published: December 2024

Stunting merupakan suatu kondisi malnutrisi yang disebabkan oleh masalah gizi kronis dan infeksi yang berkelanjutan sejak 1000 hari pertama kehidupan. Stunting dapat menyebabkan seorang anak mengalami keterlambatan pertumbuhan. Tujuan penelitian ini untuk mengidentifikasi karakteristik demografi balita stunting di wilayah lahan basah. Metode: Penelitian ini merupakan penelitian kuantitatif yang bersifat deskripstif dengan pendekatan cross sectional. Jumlah sampel pada penelitian ini adalah 42 responden. Teknik pengambilan sampel pada penelitian ini adalah total sampling.  Pengumpulan data menggunakan kuesioner yang dilakukan di Puskesmas Limapuluh. Analisis yang digunakan adalah analisis univariat. Hasil: Hasil penelitian yang dilakukan pada responden menunjukkan hasil bahwa karakteristik responden sebagian besar adalah orantua yang berusia < 20 tahun dan  > 35 tahun, balita stunting sebagian besar tergolong pendek dengan jumlah anggota diatas 4 orang dalam satu keluarga, tingkat pendidikan rendah, pendapatan dibawah Upah Minimum Regional (UMR), responden sebagian besar bekerja, sanitasi terstandar dan keadaan lingkungan memenuhi syarat. Kesimpulan: Sebagian besar masalah stunting di pengaruhi oleh usia orangtua yang beresiko, jumlah anggota keluarga yang terlalu banyak dan pengasilan yang rendah.
Cumhuriyet Senatosu’nda Elazığ: Rasim Giray Örneği
Authors: Demir Abdullah
Published: November 2024

Türkiye Cumhuriyeti’nin yönetim sisteminde 1961 Anayasasıyla yapılan değişiklikle Millet Meclisi ve Cumhuriyet Senatosu’ndan oluşan iki meclisli bir yapıya geçilmiştir. Cumhuriyet Senatosu 1980 yılına kadar faaliyet göstermiştir. Senato, yaşanan askeri müdahale sonrası ülkenin demokratik yapıya geçiş sürecinde rol alan önemli bir siyasi ve idari mekanizma görevi üstlenmiştir. Cumhuriyet Senatosu, meclisin denetlenebilirliğini artırmak, anayasaya ve temel insan haklarına aykırı yasaların çıkmasını engellemek, hükümetin yapmış olduğu faaliyetleri kontrol etmek ve toplumu ilgilendiren sorunların çözümüne katkıda bulunmak amacıyla kurulmuştur. Cumhuriyet Senatosu’nda Elâzığ ili de temsil edilmiştir. 1961-1980 yılları arasında yapılan genel seçimlerle Elâzığ ilinden toplamda beş senatör seçilmiştir. Bu senatörlerden biri olan Rasim Giray, 1961-1966 yılları arasında Senatör olarak Elazığ’ı temsil etmiştir. Bu çalışmanın amacı senatör olduğu süre boyunca eğitimci olmasının da etkisiyle ülkenin ve seçildiği bölgenin özellikle eğitim ve öğretim alanındaki sorunların çözümü için çaba sarf eden, Elazığ siyaset hayatı ve eğitim tarihi önemli bir şahsiyet olan Rasim Giray'ın hayatını ve Senatodaki faaliyetlerini ele alarak bir dönem analizi yapmaktır.
Motion Concept of the Evolution of the Psyche
Authors: Khudiakov Alexander
Published: November 2024

The problem of evolution and the nature of the psyche is one of the greatest scientific mysteries. It is impossible to understand the nature of the psyche without tracing its development from simple initial forms to complex and highly organized systems. I propose a holistic concept of the evolution of the psyche based on the development of the ability of animals to perceive three main types of motion inherent in nature, motions of the environment, objects, and animate subjects. I propose a hypothesis about the information structure of perception formed during evolution, which divides the incoming information flow into four elements, conditions of the environment, phenomena of the environment, properties of objects, and behavior of subjects. I show that Jung's psychic functions are manifestations of the elements of the information structure of perception, and individual differences at the basic level are due to differences in the processes of attention, memory, and consciousness within this structure. I claim that the presented information structure of perception is the “skeleton” of the psyche, on which it is built. Together with understanding the mechanisms of evolution of the psyche, it provides a solid theoretical basis for the psychology of perception and makes a breakthrough in the psychology of individual differences.
Rancang Bangun Non-Playable Character dalam Game Berbasis 3D Menggunakan Metode Algoritma A*
Authors: Zulkarnain Ismail Abdurrozzaq , Astuti Indah Puji , Turuzi Ridho Fadhullah Lava
Published: November 2024

Game adalah sebuah permainan yang dimainkan dengan tujuan untuk bersenang-senang atau refreshing dengan memiliki beberapa aturan dalam melakukan permainan di dalamnya. Ada 2 jenis game yang dilihat dari sudut pandang pemain, yaitu NPC (Non-Playable Character) dan MC (Main Character). Dalam game, terdapat karakter Non-Playable Character yang berfugnsi untuk dapat membantu atau meramaikan suasana dalam permainan. Tidak dikendalikan oleh pemain, melainkan oleh program komputer yang disebut Artificial Intelligence. Dimana sistem ini memungkinkan Non-Playable Character melakukan tindakan atau pergerakan tertentu dalam suatu permainan. Navmesh merupakan sebuah komponen yang dapat mendukung dalam menentukan pencarian jalur untuk menuju ke target atau titik tujuannya. Algoritma A* merupakan sebuah algoritma yang digunakan untuk menentukan jalur terpendek dari suatu titik menuju titik lainnya dengan mengkalkulasikan seluruh jalur yang memungkinkan untuk dilalui kemudian mengambil nilai jalur terpendek dari salah satu jalur tersebut sebagai jalur yang akan di lalui oleh Non-Playable Character. Peforma Non-Playable Character akan sangat dipengaruhi oleh metode atau algoritma yang digunakan. Pemilihan metode atau algoritma yang kurang tepat didalam mengimplementasikan pada Navmesh akan mengakibatkan beberapa kegagalan atau keterlambatan dalam melakukan tindakan. Maka dari itu dibuatlah perbandingan Algoritma A* dengan metode lain pada Navmesh pada game 3D untuk menemukan metode atau algoritma terbaik.
O papel da terapia ocupacional e da musicoterapia no contexto escolar
Authors: Magalhães Rosário Verônica , Cunha de Oliveira Rebeca , Rios Pimenta Fernandes João Guilhermo
Published: November 2024

O presente estudo busca investigar o cenário da atuação da Terapia Ocupacional e da Musicoterapia no contexto escolar da cidade de Belo Horizonte através de uma pesquisa exploratória realizada por meio de entrevistas. Para tanto, foi desenvolvido um formulário online, a ser respondido por professores do ensino infantil e fundamental. Foram selecionadas aleatoriamente 134 escolas, de ensino público e particular, contactadas através de ligação por telefone. A comunicação com os professores e divulgação da pesquisa ficou a cargo das escolas interessadas. Ao todo, foram obtidas e analisadas 56 entrevistas de 18 escolas diferentes. A partir dos resultados foi observado interesse dos professores sobre a participação destes profissionais na escola, bem como sua visão sobre as contribuições dessa atuação. No entanto, poucas instituições contam com esses profissionais no seu quadro de funcionários. As respostas foram analisadas e discutidas, apontando a necessidade de reforço da importância destas áreas para um ensino mais inclusivo e com melhores condições para os alunos.
Musicoterapia e Dependência Química
Authors: Moriá Ivan , Pedrosa Frederico , Ramos Pâmela
Published: November 2024

Os estágios realizados por estudantes do curso de Musicoterapia da Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais em parceria com os Centros de Referência em Saúde Mental - CERSAM ocorrem desde o ano de 2017 e, após a sua implantação, houve aumento de unidades atendidas e número de alunos e professores participantes relacionados a estes locais. O presente estudo se trata de um relato de experiência de onze atendimentos realizados em 2023 no CERSAM AD, aparelho voltado ao atendimento a pessoas com dependência química, similar aos Centros de Atenção Psicossocial (CAPS), apresentando, além do relato da experiência clínica, uma discussão sobre a formação do musicoterapeuta de maneira crítica, atenta e apontando, também, dificuldades relacionadas aos atendimentos abertos e rotativos em saúde mental.
VALIDATION OF THE SELF-ADMINISTERED VERSION OF THE BATUTA MUSIC PERCEPTION TEST
Authors: Simões Pierangela Nota , Lüders Débora , De Araújo Cristiano Miranda , Romanelli Guilherme Ballande
Published: November 2024

Purpose: To assess the reliability of the self-administered version of the BATUTA music perception test, designed to test musical perception in people with hearing impairment. Method: Participants with normal hearing who completed the BATUTA test in person, accompanied by a speech therapist, formed the in-person group (IPG). Participants who self-reported hearing and completed the online version of the test formed the self-administered group (SAG). The Kruskal-Wallis ANOVA test was applied, followed by the Dwass-Steel-Critchlow-Fligner (DSCF) pairwise comparison, to analyze the results for both groups across the rhythm, pitch, and timbre modules. Results: Comparing the IPG (n=51) and SAG (n=91) results showed a significant difference when the BATUTA’s timbre module was performed in its self-administered version using a mobile phone and no difference for the rhythm module in any test set. The pairwise comparison among headphones, speakers, computer’s integrated speakers, mobile phone speakers, and in-person (controlled conditions) yields a significant difference in the pitch and timbre modules when performed through mobile phone speakers. Conclusion: The use of computer sound ensures the reliable assessment of the rhythm, pitch, and timbre modules of the BATUTA, comparable to its in-person administration in a controlled test environment. The self-administered version of BATUTA is a reliable instrument for assessing the musical perception of individuals with hearing impairment.
Enhancement of biocompatibility of anodic nanotube structures on biomedical Ti–6Al–4V alloy via ultrathin TiO2 coatings
Authors: Sepúlveda Marcela , Capek Jan , Baishya Kaushik , Rodriguez-Pereira Jhonatan , Bacova Jana , Jelinkova Stepanka , Zazpe Raul , Sopha Hanna , Rousar Tomas , Macak Jan M.
Published: December 2024

This work aims to describe the effect of the surface modification of TiO2 nanotube (TNT) layers on Ti-6Al-4V (TiAlV) alloy by ultrathin TiO2 coatings prepared via Atomic Layer Deposition (ALD) on the growth of MG-63 osteoblastic cells. The TNT layers with two distinctly different inner diameters, namely ∼15 nm and ∼50 nm, were prepared via anodic oxidation of the TiAlV alloy. Flat, i.e., non-anodized, TiAlV alloy foils were used as reference substrates. Additionally, a part of the TNT layers and alloy foils was coated with ultrathin coatings of TiO2 by ALD. The number of TiO2 ALD cycles used was 1 and 5 leading to a nominal TiO2 thickness of ∼0.055 and ∼0.3 nm, respectively. The ultrathin TiO2 coating by ALD enabled to optimize the surface hydrophilicity for optimal cell growth. In addition, coatings shaded impurities of V- and F-based species (stemming from the alloy and the anodization electrolyte) that affect the biocompatibility of the tested materials while preserving the original structure and morphology. The evaluation of the biocompatibility before and after TiO2 ALD coating on TiAlV flat surfaces and TNT layers was carried out using MG-63 osteoblastic cells and compared after incubation for up to 96 h. The cell growth, adhesion, and proliferation of the MG-63 on TiAlV foils and TNT layers showed significant enhancement after the surface modification by TiO2 ALD.
The pathogenesis and targeted therapies of intervertebral disc degeneration induced by cartilage endplate inflammation
Authors: Yang Hantao , Chen Xuandu , Chen Jun , Dong Yansong , Huang Yafang , Qin Lei , Tan Jie , Yi Weihong
Published: December 2024

Intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD) is the leading cause of low back pain, where degeneration and death of nucleus pulposus cells within the intervertebral disc (IVD) can be obviously revealed. This degeneration can result in an imbalance in the extracellular matrix due to the loss of proteoglycans and water content, which can further lead to catabolic and anabolic dysfunction of the IVD. Recently, the dysfunction of cartilage endplate (CEP) during aging has drawn large attention due to its essential functions in contributing nutrient exchange and maintaining IVD homeostasis. Furthermore, the inflammation and disturbed homeostasis of CEP not only accelerate the degradation of nucleus pulposus extracellular matrix, but also exacerbate IVDD by causing nucleus pulposus cell death through other pathological factors. Here in this review, we summarized the possible pathological factors and the underlying mechanisms of the CEP inflammation-induced IVDD, including exosomes degeneration, CEP calcification, ferroptosis, mechanical changes, and cell senescence. Besides, changes of miRNAs, pain-related neural reflex arc and pathways associated with CEP inflammation-induced IVDD are also reviewed. In addition, new strategies specifically designed for CEP inflammation-induced IVDD are also discussed in the last section. We hope this paper can not only offer some new insights for advancing novel strategies for treating IVDD, but also serve as a valuable reference for researchers in this field.
Intravenous immunoglobulin therapy: usage patterns and response to treatment in Qatar over ten years
Authors: Taha Salma A. , Thalappil Sherin , Ali Ramzy M. , Fatima Haajra , Imameldin Asaad Omer A. , Aqel Sami , Abdelaal Ahmed M. , Siepmann Timo , Barlinn Jessica , Al-Nesf Maryam A.
Published: December 2024

Background

IVIg is a blood-derived antibody product initially designed as a replacement therapy in inborn errors of immunity (IEIs). However, over the last 50 years, IVIg has been used to treat a growing range of autoimmune, autoinflammatory, and secondary immunodeficiency disorders. The US FDA has licensed IVIg for use in the treatment of nine clinical indications; although, IVIg global usage extends to off-label indications with variable treatment responses. Data from Qatar on the use of IVIg is scarce; thus, hampering the formulation of local policies. This study aimed to examine the utilization patterns, clinical indications, and safety profile of IVIg usage in Qatar; a nation with a predominantly young population, and to investigate the response rates to short- and long-term IVIg treatment, as well as explore associations between age at first IVIg dose, clinical indication, and treatment response.

Methods

A retrospective chart review was conducted of patients who received IVIg between March 2009, and March 2019, in Hamad General Hospital, Qatar. Demographics, immediate adverse effects of IVIg, and treatment response were collected. IVIg clinical indications were categorized into FDA- and/or EMA-approved, those supported by international guidelines; those approved as second-line therapy, and those with low or no supportive evidence.

Results

IVIg was used for 63 indications during the 10-years. The age of patients skewed towards a younger demographic (median (IQR) 24 (44-6) years); however, no significant differences in response to short- and long-term treatment between age groups were observed. Of the 841 patients, 62% received IVIg in concordance with international recommendations, while 14% bestowed the treatment for indications with low or no supportive evidence. Immediate IVIg adverse effects were documented in 4% of patients in all of the infusions received, with headaches being the most prevalent (1.8%). Variable treatment responses were observed, with the highest recovery reported in immune thrombocytopenic purpura (35%), followed by transverse myelitis (28%).

Conclusion

This study provided crucial insights into IVIg utilization, safety, and treatment outcomes in Qatar’s young population. Despite variability in treatment responses and off-label use, adherence to international recommendations remained eminent. Further research is warranted to inform local guidelines and optimize IVIg therapy outcomes.
PD-L2 act as an independent immune checkpoint in colorectal cancer beyond PD-L1
Authors: Zhu Lvyun , Qu Ying , Yang Junru , Shao Tong , Kuang Jingyu , Liu Chuanyang , Qi Yanhua , Li Ming , Li Yingying , Zhang Sujuan , Wang Jingyang , Liu Yu , Liu Jiali , Hu Yanming , Zhu Lingyun , Hou Tao
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Immunotherapy, especially immune checkpoint blockade (ICB), holds promise as a therapeutic strategy in colorectal cancer (CRC) by harnessing the patient’s immune system to target malignant cells. Particularly, the PD-1/PD-L1 axis is widely recognized for its critical role in tumor microenvironment immunosuppression. Antibodies targeting PD-1 or PD-L1 have shown sustained efficacy against various cancers, including CRC. Nonetheless, many CRC patients exhibit limited responses to such immunotherapy, and the resistance mechanisms remain incompletely understood.

Methods

We conducted experiments with C57BL/6 mice, and used the MC38 cell line for ICB treatment studies in syngeneic mouse models. Gene and protein analyses were performed using qPCR, Western Blot, and flow cytometry, with bioinformatics for clinical data survival analysis.

Results

In this study, we reveal that targeting PD-L2 emerges as a complementary therapeutic strategy to PD-1/PD-L1 blockade in CRC. Although PD-L2 is also inducible by IFNγ, like PD-L1, it displays a unique spatial distribution within the tumor microenvironment, implying discrete roles in immune evasion. Additionally, we uncovered a significant correlation between PD-L1 and PD-L2 expression levels and the infiltration of various immune cells, encompassing multiple dendritic cell (DC) subtypes. This correlation implies an enhanced antigen presentation process that may be unleashed by blocking these two immune checkpoints.

Discussion

Our results highlight the significance of PD-L2 as an essential immune checkpoint alongside PD-L1 and emphasize its potential as a target for bolstering antitumor immunity in colorectal cancer.
Kir6.1, a component of an ATP-sensitive potassium channel, regulates natural killer cell development
Authors: Samper Natalie , Hardardottir Lilja , Depierreux Delphine M. , Song Soomin C. , Nakazawa Ayano , Gando Ivan , Nakamura Tomoe Y. , Sharkey Andrew M. , Nowosad Carla R. , Feske Stefan , Colucci Francesco , Coetzee William A.
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Involved in immunity and reproduction, natural killer (NK) cells offer opportunities to develop new immunotherapies to treat infections and cancer or to alleviate pregnancy complications. Most current strategies use cytokines or antibodies to enhance NK-cell function, but none use ion channel modulators, which are widely used in clinical practice to treat hypertension, diabetes, epilepsy, and other conditions. Little is known about ion channels in NK cells.

Results

We show that Kcnj8, which codes for the Kir6.1 subunit of a certain type of ATP-sensitive potassium (KATP) channel, is highly expressed in murine splenic and uterine NK cells compared to other K+ channels previously identified in NK cells. Kcnj8 expression is highest in the most mature subset of splenic NK cells (CD27-/CD11b+) and in NKG2A+ or Ly49C/I+ educated uterine NK cells. Using patch clamping, we show that a subset of NK cells expresses a current sensitive to the Kir6.1 blocker PNU-37883A. Kcnj8 does not participate in NK cell degranulation in response to tumor cells in vitro or rejection of tumor cells in vivo, or IFN-γ release. Transcriptomics show that genes previously implicated in NK cell development are amongst those differentially expressed in CD27-/CD11b+ NK cells deficient for Kcnj8. Indeed, we found that mice with NK-cell specific Kcnj8 gene ablation have fewer CD27-/CD11b+ and KLRG-1+ NK cells in the bone barrow and spleen.

Discussion

These results show that the KATP subunit Kir6.1 has a key role in NK-cell development.
Cryoablation of primary breast cancer tumors induces a systemic abscopal effect altering TIME (Tumor Immune Microenvironment) in distant tumors
Authors: Sardela de Miranda Flávia , Martinez-Marin Dalia , Babcock Rachel L. , Castro Maribel , Boligala Geetha P. , Khan Sonia Y. , Furr Kathryn L. , Castro-Piedras Isabel , Wagner Nicholas , Robison Dakota E. , Daniele Karla , Singh Sharda P. , Pruitt Kevin , Melkus Michael W. , Layeequr Rahman Rakhshanda
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Despite recent advances, triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) patients remain at high risk for recurrence and metastasis, which creates the need for innovative therapeutic approaches to improve patient outcomes. Cryoablation is a promising, less invasive alternative to surgical resection, capable of inducing tumor necrosis via freeze/thaw cycles. Necrotic cell death results in increased inflammatory signals and release of preserved tumor antigens, which have the potential to boost the local and systemic anti-tumor immune response. Thus, compared to surgery, cryoablation enhances the activation of T cells leading to an improved abscopal effect, defined as the occurrence of a systemic response after local treatment. We previously showed with a bilateral-tumor mouse model of TNBC that cryoablation of the primary tumor leads to increased infiltration of distant (abscopal) tumors by tumor infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) and decreased rates of recurrence and metastasis. However, the early drivers of the cryoablation generated abscopal effect are still unknown and knowledge of the mechanism could provide insight into improving the anti-tumor immune response through pharmacologic immune modulation in addition to cryoablation.

Methods

One million 4T1-12B-luciferase expressing cells were transplanted into the mammary fat pad of BALB/c mice. Two weeks later, left (primary) tumors were either resected or cryoablated. A week after the procedure, right (abscopal) and left tumors, along with spleen, tumor-draining lymph node and blood were collected and processed for flow cytometry and/or RNA-sequencing and immunofluorescence.

Results

Here we show that cryoablation of mouse mammary carcinomas results in smaller abscopal tumors that harbor increased frequencies of anti-tumor cells [such as natural killer (NK) cells], accompanied by a systemic increase in the frequency of migratory conventional type 1 dendritic cells (cDC1; CD103+ XCR1+), compared to resection. The changes in cell frequencies are mirrored by the immune gene signature of the abscopal tumors, with cryoablation inducing genes involved with NK cell activation and leukocyte-mediated toxicity, including IL11ra1 and Pfr1.

Conclusions

These results better define the early mechanisms through which cryoablation improves tumor elimination, which is mediated by enhanced frequencies of anti-tumoral cells such as NK and cDC1s at the abscopal tumor and in the spleen of mice treated with cryoablation, respectively.
Applying phylogenetic methods for species delimitation to distinguish B-cell clonal families
Authors: Voss Katalin , Kaur Katrina M. , Banerjee Rituparna , Breden Felix , Pennell Matt
Published: December 2024

The adaptive immune system generates a diverse array of B-cell receptors through the processes of V(D)J recombination and somatic hypermutation. B-cell receptors that bind to an antigen will undergo clonal expansion, creating a Darwinian evolutionary dynamic within individuals. A key step in studying these dynamics is to identify sequences derived from the same ancestral V(D)J recombination event (i.e. a clonal family). There are a number of widely used methods for accomplishing this task but a major limitation of all of them is that they rely, at least in part, on the ability to map sequences to a germline reference set. This requirement is particularly problematic in non-model systems where we often know little about the germline allelic diversity in the study population. Recognizing that delimiting B-cell clonal families is analogous to delimiting species from single locus data, we propose a novel strategy of reconstructing the phylogenetic tree of all B-cell sequences in a sample and using a popular species delimitation method, multi-rate Poisson Tree Processes (mPTP), to delimit clonal families. Using extensive simulations, we show that not only does this phylogenetically explicit approach perform well for the purpose of delimiting clonal families when no reference allele set is available, it performs similarly to state-of-the-art techniques developed specifically for B-cell data even when we have a complete reference allele set. Additionally, our analysis of an empirical dataset shows that mPTP performs similarly to leading methods in the field. These findings demonstrate the utility of using off-the-shelf phylogenetic techniques for analyzing B-cell clonal dynamics in non-model systems, and suggests that phylogenetic inference techniques may be potentially combined with mapping based approaches for even more robust inferences, even in model systems.
Circulating immune landscape in melanoma patients undergoing anti-PD1 therapy reveals key immune features according to clinical response to treatment
Authors: Sosa Cuevas Eleonora , Mouret Stéphane , Vayssière Guillaume , Kerboua Siham , Girard Pauline , Molens Jean-Paul , Manceau Marc , Charles Julie , Saas Philippe , Aspord Caroline
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Immune checkpoint blockers (ICB) bring unprecedented clinical success, yet many patients endure immune mediated adverse effects and/or fail to respond. Predictive signatures of response to ICB and mechanisms of clinical efficacy or failure remain understudied. DC subsets, in network with conventional αβ T (Tconv), NK, γδ T and iNKT cells, harbor pivotal roles in tumor control, yet their involvement in response to ICB remained underexplored.

Methods

We performed an extensive longitudinal monitoring of circulating immune cells from melanoma patients treated with first-line anti-PD1, before (T0) and during treatment. We assessed the phenotypic and functional features of DC and effector cells’ subsets by multi-parametric flow cytometry and ProcartaPlex® dosages.

Results

We revealed differences according to response to treatment and modulations of patterns during treatment, highlighting a strong link between the immune landscape and the outcome of anti-PD1 therapy. Responders exhibited higher frequencies of circulating cDC1s, CD8+ T cells, and γδ2+ T cells in central memory (CM) stage. Notably, we observed a distinct remodeling of ICP expression profile, activation status and natural cytotoxicity receptor patterns of immune subsets during treatment. Anti-PD1 modulated DCs’ functionality and triggered deep changes in the functional orientation of Tconv and γδT cells.

Discussion

Overall, our work provides new insights into the immunological landscape sustaining favorable clinical responses or resistance to first-line anti-PD1 therapy in melanoma patients. Such exploration participates in uncovering the mechanism of action of anti-PD1, discovering innovative predictive signatures of response, and paves the way to design pertinent combination strategies to improve patient clinical benefits in the future.
Innovation ecosystems in health and care: the Andalusian Reference Site as an example
Authors: Carriazo A. M. , Alonso-Trujillo F. , Vázquez-Granado F. J. , Túnez I. , Del Moral-Leal M. L.
Published: December 2024

Innovation ecosystems foster collaboration between academia, industry, public bodies, and civil society to drive technological and social advancements. The European Innovation Partnership on Active and Healthy Aging (EIP on AHA), launched in 2012, aimed to extend healthy life years, improve healthcare efficiency, and stimulate economic growth. Reference sites (RSs) and action groups (AGs) were key components, with RSs adopting collaborative approaches to improve health outcomes. Andalusia, Spain, achieved top recognition across multiple EIP on AHA calls for its digital health strategies and strong Quadruple Helix collaboration. In 2022, Andalusia’s self-assessment using the SCIROCCO tool highlighted strengths in digital transformation and citizen empowerment. Andalusia’s innovative practices in health have contributed to regional improvements in healthcare efficiency, life expectancy, and research initiatives.
Applications of magnetic resonance-guided laser interstitial thermal therapy in disconnective epilepsy surgery
Authors: Gaba Fidelia , Hect Jasmine L. , Abel Taylor J.
Published: December 2024

Minimally invasive surgical techniques, such as MR-guided laser interstitial thermal therapy (LITT), have emerged as promising alternatives to open disconnective surgeries in drug-resistant epilepsy (DRE). This review synthesizes current literature on the application of LITT for corpus callosal disconnection and functional hemispheric disconnection. Studies highlight LITT's effectiveness for achieving seizure control and functional outcomes, often with reduced complications compared to traditional open procedures. Challenges include technical limitations to achieving total disconnection and adequate assessment of disconnection postoperatively. The literature is largely composed of observational studies and there is a need for rigorous, multi-center trials to establish robust guidelines and improve generalizability in clinical practice. There is also a need for a more robust exploration of how patient-specific factors contribute to response or nonresponse to intervention.
Endovascular thrombectomy: an effective and safe therapy for perioperative ischemic stroke
Authors: Wang Feng , Xu Xiaoping , Zheng Lin , Zhong Jiawei , Wang En , Liu Yang , Ke Shaofa
Published: December 2024

Background

Perioperative ischemic stroke is a rare but devastating complication. Mechanical thrombectomy is a promising therapeutic method, but very little data is available on its efficacy and safety. This study aims to answer this question by comparing the clinical outcomes of perioperative and community-onset stroke patients after endovascular therapy.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study was conducted on a total of 35 perioperative and 584 community-onset acute ischemic stroke patients who underwent endovascular thrombectomy at our hospital over the past 3.5 years. The recanalization rate, clinical recovery and cerebral hemorrhage within 90 days after therapy were compared between these two patient groups.

Results

Endovascular thrombectomy provided perioperative and community-onset ischemic stroke patients with comparable rates of successful reperfusion (mTICI ≥2b grade) (97.1% vs. 97.3%; p = 0. 967) and favorable functional recovery (mRS ≤ 2) (51.4% vs. 43.3%, p = 0.348), with no increase in severe intracranial hemorrhage (0% vs. 2.6 and 1.0%, for hematoma ≥30% of infarcted tissue and intraventricular hemorrhage, respectively) within 90 days. In addition, perioperative stroke patients had higher prevalence of atrial fibrillation (42.9% vs. 26.7%; p = 0.038) and intracranial cerebral artery stenosis without clear embolism (17.1% vs. 3.8%; p < 0.001) than community-onset stroke patients.

Conclusion

Endovascular thrombectomy is an effective and safe therapeutic approach for patients with perioperative ischemic stroke, although the results need to be validated by further studies with larger populations. Atrial fibrillation and large artery stenosis may contribute to the pathogenesis of perioperative ischemic stroke.
Protein quality evaluation: FAO perspective
Authors: Xipsiti Maria
Published: December 2024

United Nations agencies have a unique role in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and aligned global nutrition targets by 2030. According to the latest estimates the world is moving backward in its efforts to end hunger, food insecurity and malnutrition in the presence of a more challenging and uncertain context, including climate change, war conflicts and other challenges. Shifts to plant and novel foods such as insects have been suggested to have good nutritional quality, as well as less environmental impact compared to “traditional” animal source foods. In the context of changing food systems, considering the nutritional quality of foods is essential and accurately assessing protein quality of foods is particularly important, given the large variability in amino acid composition and digestibility between dietary proteins. Indeed, protein quality estimates have the potential to inform policies and programs for actions to improve nutrition throughout the world and have been discussed during past and recent expert consultations. Recently, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations has been working with the International Atomic Energy Agency and international experts to review and update evidence and related methods on protein quality assessment and to develop a Protein Digestibility Database to aid dialog on the evaluation of protein quality and protein sufficiency in different populations.
Genome-wide characterization of the sunflower kinome: classification, evolutionary analysis and expression patterns under different stresses
Authors: Yan Ningning , Yang Shuqing , Chao Haoyu , Zhang Wenbing , Zhang Jian , Chen Ming , Zhao Jun
Published: December 2024

Protein kinases play a significant role in plant responses to biotic and abiotic stresses, as well as in growth and development. While the kinome has been extensively investigated in crops such as Arabidopsis thaliana, soybean, common bean, and cotton, studies on protein kinases in sunflower remain limited. Our objective is to explore protein kinases in sunflower to bridge the research gap and enhance the understanding of their functions. We identified a total of 2,583 protein kinases from sunflower, which were classified into 22 families and 121 subfamilies. By comparing the subfamily members between sunflower and other species, we found that three subfamilies in sunflower—RLK-Pelle_CrRLK1L-1, RLK-Pelle_SD-2b, and RLK-Pelle_WAK—had undergone significant expansion. We then investigated the chromosomal distribution, molecular weight, isoelectric point, transmembrane domain, signal peptide, and structural and evolutionary diversity of the protein kinases. Through these studies, we have obtained a basic understanding of protein kinases in sunflower. To investigate the role of protein kinases in sunflower’s response to biotic and abiotic stresses, we obtained 534 transcriptome datasets from various research groups, covering eight types of abiotic stress and two types of biotic stress. For the first time, we overcame the batch effects in the data and utilized a gene scoring system developed by our lab to perform a comprehensive analysis of multiple transcriptome datasets from different research groups. Ultimately, 73 key protein kinases were identified from numerous candidates, and functional annotation revealed that they are key members of signaling pathways such as ABA, MAPK, and SOS, actively participating in sunflower’s response to biotic and abiotic stresses. In summary, through the exploration of protein kinases in sunflower, we have filled the gap in protein kinase research and provided a substantial amount of foundational data. By using the new scoring method to eliminate batch effects between transcriptome datasets, we achieved the first comprehensive analysis of large-scale transcriptome data. This method allows for a more thorough and detailed identification of key protein kinases that are widely regulated under various stress conditions, providing numerous candidate genes for sunflower stress resistance research.
Winter climate change mediates the sensitivity of vegetation leaf-out to spring warming in high latitudes in China
Authors: Chen Mingyang , Henderson Mark , Liu Binhui , Zhou Wanying , Ma Rong , Huang Weiwei , Dou Zeyu
Published: December 2024

Global warming has significantly altered plant phenology by advancing the timing of leaf emergence, impacting vegetation productivity and adaptability. Winter and spring temperatures have commonly been used to explain spring phenology shifts, but we still lack a solid understanding of the effects of interactions between conditions in different seasons. This study utilizes normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) and meteorological data to examine the effects of changes in winter and spring temperatures and precipitation on the start of the vegetation growing season (SOS) at high latitudes in China from 1982 to 2015. We found that SOS in Northeast China, as a whole, showed a weak advancing trend (moving earlier in the year), but with obvious regional differences. Even within the same vegetation type, changes in SOS were faster in the cold north (1.9 days/decade) and the cold and dry northwest (1.6 days/decade) than the regional averages for deciduous needleleaf forests (DNF; 1.2 days/decade) and grasslands (0.6 days/decade). Increases in spring temperatures dominate forest SOS advancement, while grassland SOS is mainly influenced by winter and spring precipitation. Decreases in winter minimum temperature (Tmin) enhance the spring temperature sensitivity of SOS. The way that winter precipitation regulates the spring temperature sensitivity of SOS differs among vegetation types: increasing sensitivity in grasslands but suppressing it in DNF. The moderating effects of winter conditions account for the greatest part of the regional differences in the magnitude of change in SOS. Our findings highlight that, although rising spring temperatures significantly affect SOS, winter Tmin and precipitation are crucial for understanding spatial SOS differences, particularly in cold, arid high-latitude regions. Winter conditions play an essential role in regulating the response of vegetation SOS to spring climate at high latitudes. These results suggest that considering the moderating effect of winter climate can facilitate more accurate predictions of temperature-driven phenological changes under future climate change.
SGSNet: a lightweight deep learning model for strawberry growth stage detection
Authors: Li Zhiyu , Wang Jianping , Gao Guohong , Lei Yufeng , Zhao Chenping , Wang Yan , Bai Haofan , Liu Yuqing , Guo Xiaojuan , Li Qian
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Detecting strawberry growth stages is crucial for optimizing production management. Precise monitoring enables farmers to adjust management strategies based on the specific growth needs of strawberries, thereby improving yield and quality. However, dense planting patterns and complex environments within greenhouses present challenges for accurately detecting growth stages. Traditional methods that rely on large-scale equipment are impractical in confined spaces. Thus, the development of lightweight detection technologies suitable for portable devices has become essential.

Methods

This paper presents SGSNet, a lightweight deep learning model designed for the fast and accurate detection of various strawberry growth stages. A comprehensive dataset covering the entire strawberry growth cycle is constructed to serve as the foundation for model training and testing. An innovative lightweight convolutional neural network, named GrowthNet, is designed as the backbone of SGSNet, facilitating efficient feature extraction while significantly reducing model parameters and computational complexity. The DySample adaptive upsampling structure is employed to dynamically adjust sampling point locations, thereby enhancing the detection capability for objects at different scales. The RepNCSPELAN4 module is optimized with the iRMB lightweight attention mechanism to achieve efficient multi-scale feature fusion, significantly improving the accuracy of detecting small targets from long-distance images. Finally, the Inner-IoU optimization loss function is applied to accelerate model convergence and enhance detection accuracy.

Results

Testing results indicate that SGSNet performs exceptionally well across key metrics, achieving 98.83% precision, 99.45% recall, 99.14% F1 score, 99.50% mAP@0.5, and a loss value of 0.3534. It surpasses popular models such as Faster R-CNN, YOLOv10, and RT-DETR. Furthermore, SGSNet has a computational cost of only 14.7 GFLOPs and a parameter count as low as 5.86 million, demonstrating an effective balance between high performance and resource efficiency.

Discussion

Lightweight deep learning model SGSNet not only exceeds the mainstream model in detection accuracy, but also greatly reduces the need for computing resources and is suitable for portable devices. In the future, the model can be extended to detect the growth stage of other crops, further advancing smart agricultural management.
Cognitive outcomes of the at-home brain balance program
Authors: Jackson Rebecca , Meng Yue
Published: December 2024

Accessibility to developmental interventions for children and adolescents could be increased through virtual, at-home delivery of training programs. Virtual childhood training programs and their effects on cognitive outcomes have not been well studied. To that end, this study examined the effects of the at-home Brain Balance® (BB) program on the cognitive task performance of children and adolescents with baseline developmental and attentional difficulties. The study included students with reported diagnosis of ADHD, autism, anxiety, sensory processing disorder, or dyslexia, and students with no reported diagnosis (aged 4–17 years). The at-home BB program is delivered through (1) a computer-based format utilizing multimodal program activities previously studied in-center (multisensory stimulation, gross motor, coordination, balance, and nutritional recommendations); and (2) the BB app (visual motor, auditory and visual processing, and rhythm and timing training) — creating a comprehensive program experience delivered remotely. Cognitive performance was measured by six cognitive tasks from Creyos Health before and after 3 months of participation in the at-home BB program (N = 316) or in-center BB program (N = 4,232), compared to controls. Results showed that overall cognitive assessment scores (including attention, response inhibition, and working memory) improved after participation in either the at-home or the in-center program, compared to controls. Importantly, significant improvements over the controls were observed for two tasks involving attention and inhibitory control, in both programs. Further, two analyses support that the effects on cognitive performance from either delivery format, in-center or at home, are comparable in magnitude. This research: (1) presents new findings demonstrating improved cognitive performance after completing the at-home BB program; (2) replicates previous findings of cognitive improvements after completing the BB program; and (3) suggests that the cognitive effects of virtual at-home BB training are similar to those observed for in-center BB training. Overall, the results demonstrate the effectiveness of the at-home BB program in improving cognitive functioning in pediatric populations with preexisting developmental and attentional difficulties. Virtual delivery and ease of use, provide at-home programs the potential to reduce barriers of access to much-needed developmental and cognitive support, for individuals who may otherwise lack access to high-quality, evidence-based developmental programs.
The role of the opponent's head in perception of kick target location in martial arts
Authors: Incognito M. R. , Watson T. , Weidemann G. , Steel K. A.
Published: December 2024

Athletes in Martial Arts must anticipate the target of their opponent's kick or strike to avoid contact. Findings suggest that features, e.g., head and face may play a greater role in predicting opponent action intent compared to global movement information, however little research has explored the role of the head in action anticipation. The aim of this study was to examine the role of the head in predicting the target of a kicking action in martial arts. N = 76 volunteer participants (n = 32 athletes > 5 years of experience, n = 36 non-athletes with no experience) were asked to watch a series of video clips depicting various kicking techniques with differing levels of spatial occlusion of the head. These clips were also temporally occluded compelling participants to predict the landing target of each kick (i.e., head or chest). The hypothesis of the current study is that athletes would be more accurate than non-athletes, but there was no significant effect of expertise on accuracy. Both athletes and non-athletes performed well above chance level performance. Head occlusion did not significantly influence performance and did not interact with expertise, suggesting head and face information did not play a role in predicting opponent action intent. Across participants the landing target of the roundhouse kick was identified with greater accuracy than the front or the back kick. Additionally, participants identified kicks from the rear leg with greater accuracy than the front leg. These findings have significant implications for combat sports where athletes are required to anticipate the action intent of their opponent to formulate an effective defensive response.
Adapting to Industry 4.0 in France: Essential Competencies for a Future-Ready Workforce
Authors: Turcato Cristina Rodrigues Piazer , Pedroso Bruno , Arnold Maik , Picinin Claudia Tania
Published: December 2024

This paper identifies skills required for workers in Industry 4.0 in France and provides insights to guide the development of a future research agenda. The research draws on a bibliometric analysis of 80 papers, mapping the technical and interpersonal skills needed for professionals to adapt and thrive in the evolving industrial landscape. The results highlight the importance of a multidisciplinary approach integrating competences in information technology, automation, robotics, artificial intelligence, data analysis, project management, interpersonal skills, adaptability, and collaboration. This holistic approach to skills development reveals six major domains: Technical, Flexibility, Inter-Agency, Soft Skills, Innovation, and Information Technology. The conclusions emphasize that the interconnection between these domains is essential to prepare a workforce capable of meeting the challenges and seizing the opportunities of Industry 4.0 in France. The research shows that there is a need for a multidisciplinary and integrated approach that combines technical and interpersonal skills in Industry 4.0 activities. It provides a solid foundation for formulating talent development strategies and educational curricula aligned with the demands of Industry 4.0. By proposing a future research agenda, this study not only highlights key areas for further exploration—economic impact, public innovation policies, and curriculum adaptation—but also contributes to the evolution of human resources in the digital transformation era.