bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
O TRABALHO DESENVOLVIDO PELO CENTRO DE REFERENCIA ESPECIALIZADO DE ASSISTENCIA SOCIAL (CREAS) DE COLINAS-TO: ATUAÇÃO FRENTE À VIOLAÇÃO DE DIREITOS
Authors: Pereira Rosa Vanessa
Published: December 2024

De acordo com a Política Nacional de Assistência Social – PNAS /2004, a Proteção Social Especial de Média Complexidade tem por objetivo: proteger as vítimas de violências e/ou agressões e as pessoas em contingências pessoais e sociais desfavoráveis, de modo a que amplie a sua capacidade para enfrentar com autonomia os problemas da vida pessoal e social oriundas do sistema capitalista, tendo como princípio monitorar e reduzir os problemas sociais. O CREAS é o Centro de Referência Especializado de Assistência Social. É uma unidade estatal responsável pela oferta de orientação e apoio especializados e continuados a indivíduos e famílias com seus direitos violados. Para isso, envolve um conjunto de profissionais e processos de trabalho que devem ofertar apoio e acompanhamento especializado. O principal objetivo é o resgate da família, potencializando sua capacidade de proteção aos seus membros. A metodologia utilizada foi um estudo exploratório-descritivo documental, com abordagem quantitativa, que busca analisar o trabalho desenvolvido no Centro de Referência Especializado de Assistência Social de Colinas no Estado do Tocantins. A coleta de dados referente a 2007 a 2021. O estudo mostra a importância do trabalho desenvolvido pelo CREAS e seus desafios diante do desmonte das políticas sociais.
Traditional Banten Dance Learning to Improve the Skills of Class VII Students at SMP Negeri 04 Serang City
Authors: Jao Siti Jaoharotul Kholishoh
Published: December 2024

The aim of learning dance is to develop sensory perception through various creative artistic experiences according to the character and stage of development of students' abilities at each level of education. The method used in this research is descriptive qualitative research, namely with the aim of explaining and providing an overview of events in the field, using the approach used in the research, namely the art education approach and Art in Education (AiE). Learning the art of traditional dance for class VII C students at State Junior High School 04, Serang City, is able to provide a meaningful and holistic experience in accordance with the competency demands in the 2013 (K-13) curriculum because the dance contains many meanings, starting from how to appreciate someone, and proves that people can still live in harmony, despite the diversity and differences that exist in Banten.
PENANAMAN NILAI-NILAI PENDIDIKAN KARAKTER DALAM PROSES PELATIHAN TARI NGEREMO DI PUSDIKLAT TARI ANJUNGAN JAWA TIMUR TAMAN MINI INDONESIA INDAH
Authors: Ndaru Dwi Rahayu  , Romi Nusyam  , Deden Haerudin
Published: December 2024

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengkaji proses pelatihan tari Ngeremo di Pusat Pendidikan dan Latihan (Pusdiklat) Tari Anjungan Jawa Timur, Taman Mini Indonesia Indah, termasuk metode penanaman nilai karakter pada siswa serta peran Pusdiklat dalam pelatihan tersebut. Menggunakan pendekatan deskriptif kualitatif, data dikumpulkan melalui observasi, wawancara, studi dokumentasi, dan studi pustaka, dengan teknik triangulasi untuk uji keabsahan data. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa tari Ngremo merupakan materi wajib di Pusdiklat, yang terbagi menjadi beberapa tingkatan: Ngeremo Muda untuk kelas Indria, Ngeremo Madya untuk kelas A1, Ngeremo Sanggit untuk kelas A2, dan Ngeremo Jombangan atau Bolet untuk kelas B. Nilai karakter seperti religiusitas, kejujuran, disiplin, kekeluargaan, dan kepercayaan diri ditanamkan melalui metode ceramah dan latihan praktik. Temuan ini memperlihatkan bahwa Pusdiklat berperan penting dalam pengembangan karakter melalui seni tari, terutama dengan pendekatan yang terstruktur dan berjenjang. Hasil nilai pendidikan karakter yang ditanamkan muncul pada siswa di Pusdiklat Tari Anjungan Jawa Timur sebagai berikut: (a) religius, (b) jujur, (c) disiplin, (d) kekeluargaan, dan (e) percaya diri. Kesimpulan penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menghasilkan data mengenai proses pelatihan tari Ngeremo, cara penanaman nilai karakter yang diterima oleh siswa dan peran Pusat Pendidikan dan Latihan (Pusdiklat) Tari Anjungan Jawa Timur Taman Mini Indonesia Indah dalam Proses Pelatihan.
Nivel de reconocimiento de los signos clínicos del síndrome de obstrucción de las vías aéreas braquicefálicos por parte de los propietarios de canes de las razas bulldog y pug en Lima metropolitana
Authors:   , Gomero Vilchez Andrea Natalie
Published: December 2024

El objetivo del estudio fue describir el reconocimiento de los signos clínicos del Síndrome de Obstrucción de las Vías Aéreas Braquicefálicas (BOAS) en propietarios de canes de las razas Bulldog inglés, Bulldog francés y Pug en Lima Metropolitana en el año 2020. Para este fin, se elaboró un cuestionario validado por profesionales expertos sobre BOAS. De los propietarios encuestados el 46% presentó un nivel de reconocimiento medio, 28% un reconocimiento alto y 26% un reconocimiento bajo. Los signos clínicos más reconocidos fueron estertores (93 %), jadeo y ronquidos (91 %) y estenosis de las narinas (89 %). Los propietarios de la raza bulldog ingles manifestaron un nivel de reconocimiento alto y las razas Pug y Bulldog francés un nivel de reconocimiento medio. La información obtenida puede contribuir a instaurar medios de educación a los propietarios de perros braquicéfalos, lo cual ayudará a diagnosticar y tratar este síndrome de manera temprana.
Synergistic effect of AP/KP composite oxidizers prepared by electrostatic spraying and promotion of aluminum combustion performance
Authors: Sun Sen , Li Shengwei , Wang Yuanjing , Zhou Jinqiang , Pan Qi , Wu Chengcheng , Guo Xueyong
Published: December 2024

In order to solve the problems of low effective oxygen content, low density and high mechanical sensibility of ammonium perchlorate (AP) for propellant, potassium perchlorate (KP), which has a higher density and greater effective oxygen content, was introduced. An AP/KP composite oxidizer was prepared using electrostatic spraying. The morphology, structure, thermal properties, safety, and combustion performance of the samples were characterized using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and a quadruple coupling technique (TG-DSC-FTIR-MS). Comparative studies were performed with raw materials and physically mixed samples. The results indicate that the crystal structures of AP and KP remained unchanged in the composite oxidizers prepared using different methods. The electrostatic spray samples exhibited significantly improved safety compared to raw AP and physically mixed samples, with friction sensitivity reduced by 36% and 16%, respectively. Thermal analysis revealed that the electrostatic spray samples significantly enhanced the high-temperature decomposition of AP and KP, with decomposition peaks reduced by 49.15°C and 9.67°C, respectively. Additionally, the electrostatic spray method significantly reduced the activation energy of KP's thermal decomposition from 444.34–436.84 kJ·mol− 1 to 225.07–228.28 kJ·mol− 1. Compared to raw and physically mixed samples, the electrostatic spraying method reduced the ignition delay time of the composite oxidizer, increased the aluminum powder combustion rate, and enabled complete combustion of the Al powder. The electrostatic spraying method, with its adjustable process parameters and controllable sample morphology, enhances the overall performance of the composite oxidizer.
Enhanced rGO/ZnO/Chitosan Nanozyme Photocatalytic Technology for Efficient Degradation of Diazinon Pesticide Contaminated Water
Authors: Hamid Fitri Handayani , Rasyid Fathur Rizqa , Mashuni Mashuni , Ahmad La Ode , Jahiding M
Published: December 2024

The increasing presence of pesticide contaminants in water bodies poses significant environmental and health challenges. This study introduces a novel enzyme-based photocatalytic technology composed of reduced graphene oxide (rGO), zinc oxide (ZnO), and chitosan (CS) designed to enhance the degradation efficiency of diazinon pesticides in polluted water. The nanozymes were characterized by XRD, SEM-EDX, and FTIR to ensure homogeneous structure and distribution of the materials, and the adsorbed pesticide content was measured using a UV-Vis spectrophotometer. Adsorption studies showed that the diazinon removal efficiency increased with higher pH, longer contact time, and initial concentration, reaching maximum adsorption efficiency at neutral pH. Isotherm analysis showed that diazinon adsorption on rGO/ZnO/CS nanozymes followed the Freundlich model, exhibiting heterogeneous adsorption characteristics with moderate adsorption capacity. These findings highlight the potential of rGO/ZnO/CS nanozymes as effective adsorbents for removing diazinon pesticides from contaminated water, offering promising applications in environmental remediation.
Altered spike dynamics drives immune evasion of SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Saksela Kalle , Ugurlu Hasan , Salminen Petja , Yuan Meng , Fagerlund Riku , Mäkelä Anna , Zusinaite Eva , Kesti Tapio , Rissanen Ilona , Merits Andres , Wilson Ian
Published: December 2024

Rapid viral escape from protective immunity has been an unwanted hallmark of the COVID-19 pandemic. This escape has been attributed to mutations in critical neutralizing antibody epitopes mainly in the receptor binding domain (RBD) of the viral spike glycoprotein. Here we show that this notion is incomplete. We found that several broadly neutralizing human antibodies isolated over the past years retain an almost undiminished capacity for inhibitory targeting of RBDs of recent highly immunoevasive SARS-CoV-2 strains. Likewise, human sera collected during the pre-Omicron era from persons immunized with original Wuhan-based vaccines were found to contain abundant neutralizing activity targeted against the RBDs of modern Omicron variants. However, this unexpected neutralization sensitivity was observed only when these RBDs were incorporated into a mismatched spike protein backbone, whereas the corresponding native Omicron spike proteins were highly resistant against the same panel of antibodies and human sera. We conclude that changes occurring outside of the RBD and leading to altered conformational dynamics of the spike protein have played a key part in the viral evolution enabling SARS-CoV-2 to escape from neutralizing antibodies that target highly conserved cryptic RBD epitopes.
Effect of intravenous oxycodone hydrochloride versus flurbiprofen axetil on analgesia in patients with respiratory failure requiring mechanical ventilation: a multicenter randomized controlled study Running title: The effect of intravenous oxycodone hydrochloride versus flurbiprofen axetil on analgesia
Authors: Yuan Zhennan , Xue Yujuan , Li Dawei , Ji Hongsheng , Wang Haijun , Cao Fang , Qu Shining , Huang Chulin , Wang Hao , Zhang Hao , Xing Xue-zhong
Published: December 2024

Trial design
The design of this study is to compare the effectiveness of two
analgesic drugs in the intervention of pain events for patients on
mechanical ventilation.

Methods
414 patients from three hospitals with respiratory failure
requiring mechanical ventilation were randomly assigned to
oxycodone hydrochloride or flurbiprofen axetil. The primary
endpoints is the difference in the proportion of patients with a
Behavioral Pain Scale (BPS) score > 5 within 48 hours. The
secondary endpoints is to compare the dosage of sedative drugs
(midazolam, propofol, dexmedetomidine) and to assess the clinical
outcomes such as duration of mechanical ventilation.

Results T
here was no significant difference in BPS scores between the two
groups at enrollment, and BPS scores in oxycodone group were
significantly lower than those in flurbiprofen axetil group at 24
and 48 hours of enrollment. The proportion of patients with BPS
less than 5 points in the Oxycodone hydrochloride group was also
significantly lower than that in the flurbiprofen axetil group. For
patients with Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation II
(APACHE II )score greater than 10, subgroup analysis showed that
the mechanical ventilation time of oxycodone hydrochloride group
was significantly lower than that of flurbiprofen axetil group with
statistical significance, and the dosage of midazolam was
significantly lower than that of flurbiprofen axetil group. The
length of ICU stay was significantly lower than that of
flurbiprofen axetil group.

Conclusion
Oxycodone hydrochloride was more potent than flurbiprofen axetil
for analgesia for patients with respiratory failure requiring
mechanical ventilation.
Crispr Cas9 fluorine-containing PEI nanomedicine inhibits the growth of hepatocellular carcinoma cells by knocking out NEDD8-E2 conjugase UBC12 (UBE2M)
Authors: Zhang Zhanxia , Li Hegen
Published: December 2024

Knocking out the oncogene UBC12 with Crispr Cas9 can inhibit the Neddylation pathway and lead to excellent anticancer effect. However, how to deliver Crispr Cas9 into tumor cells is an urgent scientific problem. Based on the application of polyethyleneimine and its derivative (GMP in vivo-jetPEI) in clinical trials, we constructed fluorine-containing PEI to deliver Crispr Cas9 plasmid. In order to reduce the off-target effect of Crispr Cas9 nanomedicine, the targeting molecule TLS11a aptamer was modified on the surface of genetic nanomedicine to improve the efficiency of initiative. The experimental results showed that the released plasmid of Crispr Cas9 inhibited Neddylation by knocking out UBC12, thus achieving the goal of inhibiting the growth of tumor cells. The design of this genetic nanomedicine provides a scientific basis for the construction of non-viral genetic nanomedicine.
Joint and Interactive Effects of Follicle-Stimulating Hormone and Luteinizing Hormone on 10-Year Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease Risk: The Mediating Role of the Triglyceride-Glucose Index in Women Undergoing Menopausal Transition
Authors: Cui Shihua , Cui Luqian , Zheng Xu
Published: December 2024

Background
During the menopausal transition, the relationship between serum follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) levels and the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) is controversial. Furthermore, little was known on the interactive and joint effects of FSH and luteinizing hormone (LH) on CVD risk. This study aimed to assess the interactive and joint effect of FSH and LH on 10-year atherosclerotic CVD risk and investigate the mediating role of the triglyceride-glucose (TyG) index in women undergoing menopausal transition.
Methods
Data from 3,689 women aged 35–60 years from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) were analyzed. Serum FSH and LH levels were measured, and CVD risk scores were calculated using a sex-specific Framingham risk algorithm. Associations between hormone levels, CVD risk scores, and the TyG index were assessed using general and logistic regression models. The weighted quantile sum (WQS) regression was used to evaluate joint effects, while mediation analysis tested the mediating role of TyG.
Results
Higher serum FSH and LH levels can contribute to increased CVD risk across all menopausal stages. Notably, a positive interaction between FSH and LH was observed in perimenopausal and postmenopausal women, with higher joint levels linked to elevated CVD risk (β: 1.213, 2.127, and 1.046; 95% CI: 0.353, 2.072, 1.493, 2.761, and 0.300, 1.793; P = 0.006, < 0.001, and = 0.006, respectively). The WQS index of serum FSH and LH levels was positively associated with CVD risk (β: 0.578, 95% CI: 0.246, 0.911, P = 0.001 for premenopausal women; β: 1.356, 95% CI: 1.127, 1.586, P < 0.001 for perimenopausal women; and β: 0.696, 95% CI: 0.430, 0.961, P < 0.001 for postmenopausal women). The TyG index mediated the relationship between hormone levels and CVD risk in postmenopausal women, with a mediation proportion of 20.60% for FSH and 31.44% for LH.
Conclusions
Elevated levels of FSH and LH are separately and jointly associated with a higher 10-year CVD risk in women undergoing menopausal transition. The TyG index significantly mediates this relationship, particularly in postmenopausal women. These findings highlight that targeted interventions addressing FSH, LH, and metabolic health to mitigate CVD risk are necessary in menopausal women.
Comparative study for assessment of two different minimally invasive caries eradication techniques
Authors: Elmarakby Ahmed M. , Habib Shaimaa F.K. , Elsebaey Labib M.L.
Published: December 2024

Background: Conventional method of using carbide burs on high-speed handpiece for caries eradication has long been shown to be quite successful. Nevertheless, it has several disadvantages, including heat generation, harmful effects on the pulp, the requirement for local anesthetic, excessive dentin removal, and patient discomfort.
Objective: The aim of this study was to compare and assess time consumption and the caries removal effectiveness of two different minimally invasive caries eradication techniques using Smart prep bur II and Brix 3000.
Materials and Methodology: Forty newly extracted carious human permanent premolars were collected from patients between the ages of fourteen and twenty-four years. Teeth were extracted for orthodontic reasons in most cases. Caries should be deep but without pulp involvement and all teeth have only one surface caries (mesial or distal Class II carious lesions). Samples have been collected, cleaned from any remnants or debris and stored in formalin solution until starting the experiment. According to the type of minimally invasive procedure, teeth were divided into two groups (n=20). Infected carious dentin for each group was removed using Smart prep bur II (polymer bur) or Brix 3000 (caries dissolving enzymes). After caries removal, cavity was checked by caries detector dye to ensure complete removal of infected carious dentin otherwise procedures were repeated. Two parameters were assessed: time consumption and caries removal efficacy for each minimally invasive type. Cavities were inspected by stereomicroscopy and caries removal was categorized after application of caries detector dye. Data was collected, tabulated and results was compared statistically.
Results: Regarding the amount of time needed for soft caries eradication and the efficacy of total amount removed of infected dentine, there was no statistically significant difference found between the two techniques.
Conclusion: within the limitation of this in-vitro study, both Smart Prep bur II and BRIX 3000 are efficient methods for caries eradication by minimally invasive approach. However, both are time consuming methods and dentist need to check well the cavity using caries detector dyes to ensure complete eradication of infected dentin that -in most cases- are not removed completely from the first trial by those methods.
Acute effects of visual and olfactory nature stimuli on task performance
Authors: Chandramouli Sarayu , Katabattuni Suma , Palma Marco , Maddock Jay E.
Published: December 2024

Nature exposure enhances human experiences and supports overall wellbeing including physiological (stress), emotional (mood), and mental (focus) benefits. However, existing workplace design literature – typically indoors, and sensory-restricted, focuses mainly on nature views, despite nature being a multisensory experience. Rooted in Attention Restoration Theory (ART), Stress Reduction Theory (SRT), and "smellscape”, this study implemented a between-subjects controlled 2x2 experiment to explore how nature views and scents independently and in-combination influence workplace performance, measuring real-effort performance and physiological metrics including stress, attention, memory recall, reasoning skills, risk aversion, and cheating behaviors. Across 256 participants, results show that nature views enhance cognitive performance, boost positive emotions, and reduce anxiety. Introducing scents alongside visual stimuli further amplifies these benefits. Physiologically, both stimuli reduced blink rates, indicating lower anxiety levels compared to nature-absent settings. Our findings highlight the substantial benefits of incorporating nature passively and inexpensively into the workplace. By selecting cognitive tasks that mirror real-world office tasks, this study advances understanding of the connection between nature and cognition in offices, offering insights into creating environments that enhance productivity and well-being.
Contrastive Learning of Categories Features Representations for the Recognition of Underwater Target with Shot-few Annotations Samples
Authors: Lingzhi Xue , Dongdong Lu
Published: December 2024

Underwater acoustic target recognition based on deep learning is complex owing to the shot-few annotation samples, moreover, the imbalance between classes of annotation samples. In this study, a contrast-based semi-supervised network (CBSN) is proposed for accurately recognizing the underwater targets at near-sea areas where a limited number of annotations samples with imbalance are obtained. This algorithm first designs an unsupervised contrast learning network, which uses the features distinction between positive and negative unannotated samples to contrast learning. The significant recognition features of the unannotated samples are extracted adaptively. Secondly, the feature extraction network is chosen in unsupervised networks representing high-dimensional annotations samples' features. Thus, the practical features for recognition in the annotated samples are obtained. Thirdly, contrast learning loss for underwater acoustic signals is designed to improve recognition accuracy. Extensive experiments on multiple supervised networks and semi-supervised networks demonstrate the superiority of the proposed framework showing that it can extract helpful recognition features for shot-few samples using the mutual guidance between annotated and unannotated samples. Further validation of the feature extraction performance shows that the network has excellent recognition of unbalanced shot-few samples.
Global burden and trends of chronic kidney disease, and regional differences in its underlying etiologies: based on the Global Burden of Disease Study 2021
Authors: Deng Ling , Guo Shujin , Liu Yuping , Zhou Yaojia , Liu Youren , Zheng Xiaoxia , Yu Xijie , Shuai Ping
Published: December 2024

Background
We aimed to investigate the global burden and trends of chronic kidney disease, and regional differences in its attributable causes.
Methods
We summarized the results of the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) 2021 to derive the disease burden of CKD by considering four distinct types of epidemiological data, namely incidence, prevalence, mortality, and disability-adjusted life years (DALYs). The Joinpoint regression analysis was used to estimate the global trend for CKD from 1990 to 2021. This method facilitates the calculation of annual percentage change (APC) and average annual percentage change (AAPC).
Results
The age-standardized mortality rate (ASMR) and age-standardized DALYs rate of CKD were more prominent in regions with Low and Low-middle socio-demographic index (SDI) quintiles. Globally, the number one cause of death for CKD was type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Globally, the most common cause of prevalence, incidence, and DALYs for CKD was the other and unspecified causes. The main causes of death and DALYs from CKD vary in different parts of the world. The disease burden of CKD increases with age. In most age groups, the global prevalence and incidence of CKD were higher in females than males. At all ages, the global mortality and DALYs rate of CKD were higher in males compared to females. Joint point regression analysis found that from 1990 to 2021 the global ASPR revealed a downward trend, while ASIR, ASMR, and age-standardized DALYs rate showed an upward trend, with the most notable increase in ASMR during the 1997–2000 period and in age-standardized DALYs rate during the 1996–2003 period.
Conclusions
The global burden of CKD is significant. The study unveiled the uneven global distribution of the burden of CKD and its attributable causes. From 1990 to 2021, an increase in the burden of incidence, mortality, and DALYs due to CKD was observed. Population growth and aging will contribute to a further increase in the burden of CKD. Healthcare providers should develop health policies, and optimize the allocation of medical resources, based on age, sex, region, and disease type.
Retrospective evaluation of the efficacy of CDK4/6 inhibitors compared to ER and PR levels in hormone receptor positive HER2 negative metastatic breast cancer patient
Authors: Uguztemur Esma , Salim Derya Kivrak , Oztürk Banu
Published: December 2024

CDK4/6 inhibitors with aromatase inhibitors as the first-line standard-of-care in hormone receptor (HR) positive, human epidermal growth factor receptor-2 (HER2)- negative advanced breast cancer. Phase III studies examining CDK4/6 inhibitors have not identified significant predictive or prognostic markers.In this study, we aimed to restrospectively evaluate the efficacy of CDK4/6 inhibitors according to ER and PR levels in HR+, HER2 (-) metastatic breast cancer.
Methods
171 patients were evaluated retrospectively. Patients were divided into 2 groups as ER level ≥90 (n=119) and <90 (n=52). Demographic characteristics, histopathologic findings, menopausal status, presence of visceral metastases, treatment response and side effects were evaluated in both groups.
Results
The mean age was 55 years, 75% of the patients were postmenopausal and 67% were denova metastatic. Visceral metastases were present in 73% of the patients, 53% of the patients had received this treatment second line and beyond. 87% of the patients had clinical benefit, 12% were primary non-responders. Patients with ER<90 were younger, higher grade (p=0.018), had more liver metastases (p=0.009),reached CDK4/6 therapy later, and had shorter follow-up. Duration of response(DOR ) was statistically longer in those who received first-line treatment (21.3 months vs. 11 months, p=0.034).
In the ER≥90 group, OS was not reached independently of the treatment line, while in the <90 group, OS was not reached in the first-line group and 30 months in the second-line group. The longer time until CDK4/6 inhibitor therapy was associated with statistically significant shorter OS (NR-33.9 months p=0.019) and no significant impact of PR level or HER2 status on overall survival. Median PFS was 50 months, with no statistical differences based on ER and PR levels. Receiving second or later line therapy significantly shortened PFS.
Conclusions
In this study, it was observed that the levels of ER and PR were not predictive or prognostic in patients receiving CDK4/6 inhibitor. However, the time until the initiation of treatment impacted OS and PFS, with PR levels being associated with more aggressive disease.
An Analysis of Sexual Health Behaviors and Sociodemographic Characteristics Influencing HIV Knowledge and Current Status in Bexar County, Texas
Authors: Delgado Adolph J. , Cossman Jeralynn S. , BeLue Rhonda
Published: December 2024

Background: This study examines sexual health behaviors and sociodemographic factors influencing HIV knowledge and status among residents of Bexar County, Texas—a key region in South Texas with nearly 3 million residents, primarily of Hispanic/Latino descent. Identified as an End the HIV Epidemic (EHE) targeted county, Bexar County faces significant social determinants that restrict access to timely and regular health services.
A cross-sectional study (n = 389) was conducted under the EHE initiative to explore these factors, focusing particularly on sociodemographic factors and behaviors linked to individual-level HIV knowledge and status, in particular among men who have sex with men (MSM).
Results: The analysis revealed that MSM participants were significantly more likely to be sexually active (OR = 3.47; 95% CI: 0.78-15.50; p = .103) and engage in anal sex (OR = 8.40; 95% CI: 1.33-52.94; p = .023), which are behaviors associated with higher HIV knowledge. Employment status was another significant predictor, with employed MSM more likely to have HIV knowledge compared to those unemployed (OR = 10.59; 95% CI: 1.39-80.83; p = .023). Among non-MSM participants, those who were sexually active were significantly more likely to have HIV knowledge (OR = 3.33; 95% CI: 1.53-7.22; p = .002) and use condoms consistently (OR = 1.80; 95% CI: 1.28-2.54; p < .001). Conversely, higher income levels were associated with lower HIV knowledge among non-MSM participants (OR = 0.79; 95% CI: 0.68-0.91; p = .001). Regarding HIV positivity, MSM who were sexually active had significantly lower odds of being HIV positive (OR = 0.04; 95% CI: 0.002-0.62; p = .021), while higher education levels were linked to a reduced likelihood of HIV positivity (OR = 0.30; 95% CI: 0.13-0.69; p= .005).
Conclusions:
These findings underscore the need for targeted HIV testing and educational interventions that account for behavioral and sociodemographic differences between groups. By enhancing early detection and prevention strategies, the study aligns with the Diagnose pillar of the EHE initiative, contributing to more effective HIV management and control in regions similarly impacted by the epidemic.
Distance decay of plant and fungal communities depends on microtopography in the Arctic tundra
Authors: Masumoto Shota , Kitagawa Ryo , Kaneko Ryo , Nishizawa Keita , Matsuoka Shunsuke , Uchida Masaki , Mori Akira S.
Published: December 2024

Distance decay of biological community similarity exists at global and local scales. Although fine-scale environmental heterogeneity and stress-tolerant organisms of the Arctic likely promote distance decay at local scales in tundra ecosystems, these dynamics have not been fully tested. Here, we got community data of plant and fungi in 216 plots including along slope gradients, at the Pond Inlet on northern Baffin Island. Community similarity was calculated between plots sampled in random combinations, and variations in this similarity with geographic distance and environmental variables were assessed. Our results show that distance decay occurred at a habitat scale. However, the mechanisms underlying differences in distance decay varied between habitats and taxa. Specifically, distance decay in the middle of the slope was caused by increasing environmental heterogeneity with spatial extent. The predictive factors for distance decay in the top and bottom habitats differed among taxa. The distance decay tendency disappeared when a combination of plots that presented variations in topography were sampled, suggesting that distance decay was not a dominant effect across the study area. However, our results also suggest that the effect of topography on communities in the slope direction and the effect of distance decay on communities in the horizontal direction may interfere with each other, making the respective effects less observable. The spatial dependence of community similarity, even within a few meters to kilometers, should be considered when designing studies aimed at capturing the community structure in tundra ecosystems.
Solvent Engineering of SnO 2 ETL for Enhanced Performance of Carbon-Based CsPbIBr 2 PSCs
Authors: Du Tianheng , Jin Liguo
Published: December 2024

This study thoroughly investigates the effects of different solvent engineering strategies on the structure and properties of SnO2 electron transport layers (ETLs) and evaluates their performance-enhancing effects on carbon-based all-inorganic CsPbIBr2 perovskite solar cells (PSCs). By comparing the SnO2 ETLs prepared with ethanol (ET-SnO2) and isopropanol (IPA-SnO2) solvents and constructing corresponding CsPbIBr2 PSCs devices, we comprehensively analysed the structure, morphology, wettability, light transmittance and electronic transport properties of the SnO2 ETLs using characterisation methods such as XRD, SEM, contact angle measurement, transmission spectroscopy, steady-state fluorescence spectroscopy and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. Combined with the J-V characteristics of the device, we revealed the mechanism of the effect of solvent engineering on the performance of PSCs. The results showed that IPA-SnO2 exhibited better performance with lower contact angle and higher compactness, which is conducive to electron transport and reduces interfacial defects. IPA-SnO2 also promoted the growth of CsPbIBr2 crystals, forming larger and denser crystal structures and reducing pinhole defects. In addition, IPA-SnO2 improves the light transmittance of the FTO substrate and the light absorption of the CsPbIBr2 film, thereby increasing the light trapping efficiency. Finally, the IPA-SnO2-based PSCs achieved a PCE of 5.95%, an improvement of 25% compared to ET-SnO2, demonstrating good application prospects. This study provides an important theoretical and experimental basis for optimising the preparation process of SnO2 ETL and improving the performance of carbon-based CsPbIBr2 PSCs.
The temporal evolution of cancer hallmarks
Authors: Zapata Luis , Gourmet Lucie , Lam Jie Min , Ramazzotti Daniele , Pennycuick Adam , Mallick Parag , Walker-Samuel Simon
Published: December 2024

Cancer hallmarks describe key physiological characteristics that distinguish cancers from normal tissues. The temporal order in which these hallmarks appear during cancer pathogenesis is of interest from both evolutionary and clinical perspectives but has not been investigated before. Here, we order hallmarks based on the allele frequency and selective advantage of mutations in cancer hallmark genes across > 10K untreated primary tumors and > 8K healthy tissues. Using this novel approach, we identified a common evolutionary trajectory for 27 of 32 cancer types with genomic instability appearing first and immune evasion appearing last. We demonstrated widespread positive selection in cancer and strong negative selection in normal tissues for all hallmarks. Notable exceptions to the hallmark ordering in tumors were melanomas (uveal and skin) suggesting that strong environmental factors could disrupt common evolutionary paths. Clustering of hallmark trajectories across patients revealed 2 clusters defined by early or late genomic instability, with differential prognosis. We finally validated our results in about 3K primary tumors from the PCAWG consortium. Our study is the first to identify the temporal order of cancer hallmarks during tumorigenesis and demonstrate a prognostic value that could be exploited for early detection and risk stratification across multiple cancer types.
Middle cerebral artery embolism can be predicted by CT perfusion
Authors: Sun Hongyang , Luo Yun , Wu Jincheng , Zhao Zhenyu , Gong Jian , Han Hongxing , Wang Xianjun
Published: December 2024

Background
Identifying the etiology of acute middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) is important in endovascular treatment. This study aimed to explore the predictive value of computed tomography perfusion (CTP) for determining the etiology of acute MCAO.
Methods
Clinical data and CTP images of patients with acute M1 segment MCAO who had undergone endovascular treatment at Linyi People’s Hospital from January 2020 to December 2023 were retrospectively analyzed. Patients were categorized based on the location of core infarction on CTP as cortical, subcortical, or mixed infarction. The etiology of MCAO was determined as either intracranial atherosclerotic stenosis (ICAS) or embolism via digital subtraction angiography (DSA).
Results
A total of 360 patients were included (median age 66 years, 63.9% male), of whom 241 had experienced embolism and 119 ICAS. Compared with the embolism group, the ICAS group was younger (p = 0.009), had a higher percentage of hyperlipidemia (p < 0.001), lower rates of coronary heart disease (p = 0.007) and atrial fibrillation (p < 0.001), a longer duration of endovascular treatment (p< 0.001), lower NIHSS scores (p< 0.001), smaller core volumes (p< 0.001), and better collateral compensation (p < 0.001). The two groups also differed in infarction location, with the embolism group primarily showing cortical infarctions (88%) and the ICAS group primarily exhibiting subcortical infarctions (69.7%). Multivariate analysis revealed that atrial fibrillation and cortical infarction were independent predictors of middle cerebral artery embolism (odds ratio = 36.496, 95% confidence interval: 10.732–124.106). Cortical infarction predicted middle cerebral artery embolism with a sensitivity of 88%, specificity of 86.6%, and accuracy of 87.5%.
Conclusion
The location of core infarction on baseline CTP can aid in identifying the etiology of acute MCAO. Cortical infarction is an independent predictor for middle cerebral artery embolism.
Design of allosteric modulators that change GPCR G protein subtype selectivity
Authors: Slosky Lauren , Moore Madelyn , Person Kelsey , Alwin Abigail , Krusemark Campbell , Foster Noah , Ray Caroline , Inoue Asuka , Jackson Michael , Sheedlo Michael , Barak Lawrence , de Velasco Ezequiel Marron Fernandez , Olson Steven
Published: December 2024

G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs), the largest family of drug targets, can signal through 16 subtypes of Gα proteins. Biased compounds that selectively activate therapy-relevant pathways promise to be safer, more effective medications. The determinants of bias are poorly understood, however, and rationally-designed, G protein-subtype-selective compounds are lacking. Here, using the prototypical class A GPCR neurotensin receptor 1 (NTSR1), we find that small molecules binding the intracellular GPCR-transducer interface change G protein coupling by subtype-specific and predictable mechanisms, enabling rational drug design. We demonstrate that the compound SBI-553 switches NTSR1 G protein preference by acting both as a molecular bumper and a molecular glue. Structurally, SBI-553 occludes G protein binding determinants on NTSR1, promoting association with select G protein subtypes for which an alternative, shallow-binding conformation is energetically favorable. Minor modifications to the SBI-553 scaffold produce allosteric modulators with distinct G protein subtype selectivity profiles. Selectivity profiles are probe-independent, conserved across species, and translate to differences in in vivo activity. These studies demonstrate that G protein selectivity can be tailored with small changes to a single chemical scaffold targeting the receptor-transducer interface and, as this pocket is broadly conserved, present a strategy for pathway-selective drug discovery applicable to the diverse GPCR superfamily.
A Multi-Grained Symmetric Differential Equation Model for Learning Protein-Ligand Binding Dynamics
Authors: Liu Shengchao , Du Weitao , Xu Hannan , Li Yanjing , Li Zhuoxinran , Bhethanabotla Vignesh C. , Yan Divin , Borgs Christian , Anandkumar Anima , Guo Harry , Chayes Jennifer
Published: December 2024

In drug discovery, molecular dynamics (MD) simulation for protein-ligand binding provides a powerful tool for predicting binding affinities, estimating transport properties, and exploring pocket sites. There has been a long history of improving the efficiency of MD simulations through better numerical methods and, more recently, by utilizing machine learning (ML) methods. Yet, challenges remain, such as accurate modeling of extended-timescale simulations. To address this issue, we propose NeuralMD, the first ML surrogate that can facilitate numerical MD and provide accurate simulations in protein-ligand binding dynamics. We propose a principled approach that incorporates a novel physics-informed multi-grained group symmetric framework. Specifically, we propose (1) the BindingNet model that satisfies group symmetry using vector frames and captures the multi-level protein-ligand interactions, and (2) an augmented neural differential equation solver that learns the trajectory under Newtonian mechanics. For the experiment, we design ten single-trajectory and three multi-trajectory binding simulation tasks. We demonstrate the efficiency and effectiveness of NeuralMD, achieving over 1K$\times$ speedup compared to standard numerical MD simulations. NeuralMD also outperforms all other ML approaches, achieving up to 15$\times$ reduction in reconstruction error and 70% increase in validity. Additionally, we qualitatively illustrate that the oscillations in the predicted trajectories align more closely with ground-truth dynamics than those of other machine-learning methods. We believe NeuralMD paves the foundation for a new research paradigm in simulating protein-ligand dynamics.
Control of CO₂ in Closed Ecosystems Using Photosynthetic Organisms and Material Science Solution.
Authors: Castillo Iñaki Del Amo
Published: December 2024

The accumulation of CO₂ in closed ecological systems (CES) remains a critical challenge for sustainability and habitability, as exemplified by historical experiments like Biosphere 2. This study proposes an innovative approach integrating photosynthetic organisms—diatoms, cyanobacteria, and algae—with inert ceramic materials to address CO₂ accumulation while promoting system stability. A mathematical model was developed to simulate CO₂ dynamics and biomass growth, validated experimentally using a small-scale chamber.
Experimental results demonstrated a 45% reduction in CO₂ concentration, stabilizing at 440 ppm after 10 days, alongside a 15% increase in biomass. Ceramic materials showed no measurable interaction with CO₂, confirming their inert properties under humid conditions. These findings validate the theoretical predictions and underscore the system's potential for scalability and adaptability.
This work lays the foundation for applications in extraterrestrial habitats, urban sustainability projects, and advanced CES designs. Future research will focus on extending experimental durations, exploring variations in initial conditions, and optimizing light and nutrient availability to further enhance system performance.
Impact of integrated community-based HIV and sexual and reproductive health services for youth aged 16-24 years on population-level HIV outcomes in Zimbabwe: the CHIEDZA cluster randomized trial
Authors: Ferrand Rashida , Dauya Ethel , Chikwari Chido Dziva , Bandason Tsitsi
Published: December 2024

We conducted a cluster randomized trial of community-based services incorporating HIV testing, treatment and adherence support integrated with sexual and reproductive health services for youth (16-24years) in Zimbabwe. 24 clusters were randomized 1:1 to intervention or control (existing services only). Primary outcome was virological suppression (VS=viral load<1000copies/ml) among youth living with HIV (YLWH), ascertained through a population-level outcome survey of 17,682 youth (18-24years). Secondary outcomes corresponded to UNAIDS 90-90-90 targets. There was no difference by arm in primary outcome (mean cluster prevalence:41.3% (intervention) vs 38.3% (control); RR:1.07 (95%CI:0.88-1.30)), or in proportion of YLWH who were diagnosed. In the intervention arm, a lower proportion of diagnosed YLWH were taking treatment (RR=0.91 (95%CI:0.83-0.99)), but a higher proportion of those taking treatment had VS (RR=1.18 (95%CI:1.02-1.37)). The intervention did not impact proportion of youth with undiagnosed HIV, which explains the effect on primary outcome. Among those taking ART, the intervention improved VS.
Incident angle-dependent dynamic tuning of high-purity structural colors with an array of nanovoids on a dielectric surface
Authors: Radhakrishnan Hrudya , Basha Tummaluru Khadar , Laskar Junaid Masud , Dhara Sandip , Pandian Ramanathaswamy
Published: December 2024

We demonstrate incident angle-dependent dynamic tuning of visible structural colors with an array of nanovoids fabricated on the surface of silicon using focused ion beam nanolithography. Enhanced structural purity and resolution achieved by this method are manifested as sharp peaks in the experimental reflectance spectra. The linear correlation observed between reflected wavelength and changes in periodicity or incident angle demonstrates the potential for efficient tuning of structural color through manipulation of material or instrumental factors, or a combination of both. Two distinct physical phenomena, Mie resonance and light diffraction, were employed to elucidate the source of reflectance peaks and their shifts induced by incident angle or array periodicity. This analysis demonstrated that nanovoids, the fundamental components of the array, serve a dual purpose: they act as Mie-voids while simultaneously functioning as elements in a crossed-diffraction system. Our findings also show that for smaller angles of incidence (below 45°), the Mie resonance linked to individual nanovoids is the primary factor. However, when the angles exceed 45°, the structural color wavelength is predominantly influenced by the periodic arrangement of the void array and the diffraction of light, which depends on the grating constant.
Sentinel-2 enabled E. coli and Enterococcus faecal bacteria surveillance in coastal-recreational waters
Authors: Chowdhury Masuma , Laiz Irene , Calle Ignacio de la
Published: December 2024

Monitoring faecal indicator bacteria (FIB) such as Escherichia coli (E. coli) and Enterococcus in water bodies is critical for public health and environmental safety. While satellite data is widely used for water quality monitoring, its use to specifically map and monitor FIB represents a novel and valuable application. This study leverages Sentinel-2 satellite data to develop empirical statistical models to identify, map and monitor E. coli and Enterococcus across 13 beaches in Calvià, Mallorca, Spain. Through the integration of spectral features such as the Shortwave Infrared (SWIR1)/Coastal-Aerosol Ratio (Band11/Band1), SWIR1/SWIR2 Ratio (Band11/Band12), and the Normalized Difference SWIR1-Coastal Index (B11-B1/B11+B1), the models effectively identified and distinguished these bacteria from other key water quality indicators, including chlorophyll-a, turbidity, suspended matter, and coloured dissolved organic matter. The models achieved R2 values of 0.79 for E. coli and 0.74 for Enterococcus, with p-values of 5.37e-13 and 1.17e-11, respectively, demonstrating high accuracy and specificity. This study offers a new tool for monitoring faecal contamination, thus highlighting the potential of satellite technology to enhance environmental monitoring and ensure the safety of recreational waters.
Synthesis of Au nanoparticles by the reaction of HAuCl4·nH2O with organoaluminum compounds
Authors: Parfenova Lyudmila V. , Bikmeeva Almira Kh. , Kovyazin Pavel V. , Palatov Eldar R. , Khalilov Leonard M. , Ivanova Nina M. , Sergeev Semen N.
Published: December 2024

The reaction of HAuCl4.nH2O with organoaluminum compounds (HAlBui2 or AlR3, R=Me, Et, Bui) in organic solvents, followed by hydrolysis in the presence of a tertiary thiol (5-methylundecane-5-thiol), afforded gold nanoparticles (AuNPs). The proposed method enables the production of AuNPs with particle sizes ranging from 2 to 20 nm. The smallest particle sizes were observed when reducing HAuCl4 with HAlBui2. Nanoparticles have been characterized by the means of STEM, PCCS, XPS, and UV-Vis spectroscopy. The proposed method may be further utilized for the deposition of metal nanoparticles onto solid supports for applications in catalysis and other fields.