bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Titration of Sedentary Behavior With Varying Physical Activity Levels Reduces Mortality in Patients With Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Liu Jieyi , Ai Chenzhi , Li Zhihong , Huang Xiaoxia , Shen Mengjia , Zheng Cankun , Liao Wangjun , Bin Jianping , Li Jinghua , Lin Hairuo , Guan Ziyun , Liao Yulin
Published: May 2024

Context

Both physical activity (PA) and sedentary behavior (SB) exert an important impact on type 2 diabetes, but it remains unclear regarding how the maximum impact on improving mortality by an optimized proportion of the two lifestyles can be achieved.

Objective

To explore the impacts of PA/SB combinations on mortality in patients with diabetes.

Methods

Patients with type 2 diabetes samplings were collected from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey dataset. Their lifestyles were categorized into 8 groups based on combinations of the PA and SB levels. Cox proportional hazards models were used to calculate hazard ratios and 95% confidence intervals.

Results

During the follow-up period, 1148 deaths (18.94%) were recorded. High SB (sedentary time ≥6 hours/day) was significantly associated with higher all-cause mortality [hazards ratio (HR) 1.65]. In participants with low SB (<6 hours/day), low PA was associated with lower all-cause mortality (HR 0.43), while a further increase of PA level did not show further reductions in either all-cause or cardiovascular mortality. In contrast, in participants with high SB, all levels of PA were associated with lower all-cause mortality (P < .05), but only moderate PA was associated with lower cardiovascular mortality (HR 0.30).

Conclusion

In patients with type 2 diabetes, different combinations of various levels of PA and SB are associated with different degrees of risk for all-cause or cardiovascular mortality.
Topological analysis of 3D digital ovules identifies cellular patterns associated with ovule shape diversity
Authors: Mody Tejasvinee Atul , Rolle Alexander , Stucki Nico , Roll Fabian , Bauer Ulrich , Schneitz Kay
Published: May 2024

Tissue morphogenesis remains poorly understood. In plants, a central problem is how the 3D cellular architecture of a developing organ contributes to its final shape. We address this question through a comparative analysis of ovule morphogenesis, taking advantage of the diversity in ovule shape across angiosperms. Here, we provide a 3D digital atlas of Cardamine hirsuta ovule development at single cell resolution and compare it with an equivalent atlas of Arabidopsis thaliana. We introduce nerve-based topological analysis as a tool for unbiased detection of differences in cellular architectures and corroborate identified topological differences between two homologous tissues by comparative morphometrics and visual inspection. We find that differences in topology, cell volume variation and tissue growth patterns in the sheet-like integuments and the bulbous chalaza are associated with differences in ovule curvature. In contrast, the radialized conical ovule primordia and nucelli exhibit similar shapes, despite differences in internal cellular topology and tissue growth patterns. Our results support the notion that the structural organization of a tissue is associated with its susceptibility to shape changes during evolutionary shifts in 3D cellular architecture.
Determinants of Disease Progression in Bangladeshi COVID-19 Patients: A Cross-sectional Survey
Authors: Manna Ridwana Maher , Hasan Shahriar , Hannan Rifat , Akter Tahamina , Mrida Md. Masum , Delwer Hossain Hawlader Mohammad
Published: May 2024

Background Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) shows a wide range of clinical manifestations, including asymptomatic presentation to severe pneumonia, acute respiratory distress syndrome, and respiratory failure. Although COVID-19 disease progression was studied elsewhere, it is largely unknown in Bangladesh. Methods We conducted this cross-sectional study in November 2020 to January 2021 on patients diagnosed with COVID-19 confirmed by Reverse Transcription-Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR). Pearson chi-square tests were used to assess the disease progressions across selected variables. A logistic regression model was used to assess the associated factors of COVID-19 infection for explanatory variables. All statistics were performed using the Stata software version 14.0 (Stata corporation, college station, Texas, USA). Results A total of 384 of respondents were involved in the survey. Of participants, most males (73%), unmarried (69%), aged 18 to 35 years during survey, and lived in urban community (73%). Overall, 41% of patients were in asymptotic condition, 44% were in mild condition, while 17% were moderate to severe conditions. Male patients and patients over 50 years had severe symptoms, accounting for 52% and 50%, respectively. Nearly half of business persons and office employees had severe symptoms. Almost all married patients (98%) had severe symptoms. The severity of symptoms was also higher for patients living in urban areas (79%), smoking (95%), and not physically active (52%). Patients with diabetes, asthma/COPD, and cancer were significantly associated with severe stage of COVID-19 (p≤0.05). Patient’s age, gender, smoking status, diabetics, working conditions significantly affect Covid-19 disease progression. Conclusion The study found that 7.03% of patients had severe, 9.11% had moderate and 40.36% had asymptomatic conditions. The heterogenic association between the disease progressions with age, sex, residence, marital status, smoking habits, diabetes, physical exercise, working conditions, sedentary lifestyles. Findings highlight the idea of using vulnerability ratings for each risk factor related to disease progression.
Financial Aspects of Modeling Sustainable Growth in Development Projects of Energy Companies
Authors: Zditovetskaya O.
Published: May 2024

The goal of this study is to elaborate the recommendations of managing the energy companies’ financial results for maintaining their sustainable growth. According to determined criteria various models of sustainable growth were chosen and tested. Some of them which showed the best prediction power were taken for the further study. Financial analysis of companies’ reports was done and the evidence about the existence of a pattern in forming their financial results was given. The factor analysis was carried out in order to find the impact of changes in external environment on the net income. The main factors that influence the amount of net profit and the sustainable growth ratio and the quantitative extent of their impact are determined. Final recommendations are the set of financial tools, using ones will increase the effectiveness of business of energy companies.
Una propuesta de marco teórico para los ‘escritores mediáticos’
Authors: Duró Toni
Published: May 2024

El término binomio ‘escritor mediático’ cuenta con numerosa hemerografía (y escasa bibliografía) en diferentes lenguas, en especial en español, en catalán (escriptor mediàtic), en portugués (escritor midiático), en francés (écrivain médiatique), en italiano (scrittore mediatico) o en inglés (mediagenic writer). Sin embargo, el concepto no cuenta con un marco teórico propio, ya que se suele enmarcar en el ámbito de las celebridades literarias, un objeto de estudio que tradicionalmente bascula entre dos disciplinas: los estudios literarios (que suelen poner el foco en el texto y en la alta cultura) y los celebrity studies (que se focalizan en el autor desde una perspectiva más cercana a la cultura de masas o popular). Tratándose de un concepto complejo que abarca diferentes territorios, en este ensayo se propone un marco teórico específico para los ‘escritores mediáticos’ que analice la interrelación entre los campos cultural, económico y mediático desde la sociología, los estudios culturales y las ciencias de la comunicación, entendiendo que cualquier fenómeno cultural debe abordarse tomando en consideración las condiciones sociales (en un sentido amplio) que lo hacen posible.
Using Machine Learning to Measure Conservatism
Authors: Bertomeu Jeremy , Cheynel Edwige , Liao Yifei , Milone Mario
Published: May 2024

This study proposes an approach to measure conservatism using machine learning techniques that are not constrained by functional form restrictions. We extend the differential timeliness model to allow for observable characteristics related to conservatism to follow nonlinear relationships. By developing machine learning measures of conservatism, we draw attention to potential benefits and drawbacks and show how its insights complement conventional measures. Our broader goal is to investigate the effectiveness of machine learning algorithms for filtering noise in traditional archival studies and uncovering more complex empirical patterns.

This paper was accepted by Suraj Srinivasan, accounting.

Supplemental Material: The online appendix and data files are available at https://doi.org/10.1287/mnsc.2024.4983 .
Enhancing Electrical Conductance in Acene-Based Molecular Junctions: A Hybrid Approach
Authors: Ibrahim Kassim L. , Babaji G. , Galadanchi G.S.M.
Published: May 2024

In an attempt to enhance electrical conductance and improve the formation probability of a molecular junction, a hybrid method was established. Charge transport and conductance-length dependence (exponential decay) in hybrid acene-based molecular junctions was investigated using Density Functional Theorem (DFT) in combination with Non-equilibrium Green’s Function (NEGF) formalism. To diversify the electrical characteristics and device architectures of molecular junctions using heterogeneous structures, to achieve desirable electronic functionalities the low level acene were used to investigate such functionalities. The transmission coefficients T(E), the Frontier Molecular Orbitals (FMO) in consideration of their gap (HOMO-LUMO gap) and the electrical conductance-length dependency were investigated. The results show that hybrid molecular junctions enhanced electrical conductance and is recommended for anthracene and pentacene molecules. It also show that the anchoring materials have a significant effects on the HOMO-LUMO gap of the junction. It is also observed that the hybrid molecular junctions show a non-exponential conductance decay. Lastly, we recommend that the practical implementation of these hybrid molecular junction will bring about a lot discoveries of functionalities and applications in nano electrical circuits.
Outcomes of ilium and iliosacral Ewing’s sarcoma resection reconstructed with tibial strut allograft
Authors: Jamshidi Khodamorad , Toloue Ghamari Babak , Ammar Wael , Mirzaei Alireza
Published: May 2024

Aims

Ilium is the most common site of pelvic Ewing’s sarcoma (ES). Resection of the ilium and iliosacral joint causes pelvic disruption. However, the outcomes of resection and reconstruction are not well described. In this study, we report patients’ outcomes after resection of the ilium and iliosacral ES and reconstruction with a tibial strut allograft.

Methods

Medical files of 43 patients with ilium and iliosacral ES who underwent surgical resection and reconstruction with a tibial strut allograft between January 2010 and October 2021 were reviewed. The lesions were classified into four resection zones: I1, I2, I3, and I4, based on the extent of resection. Functional outcomes, oncological outcomes, and surgical complications for each resection zone were of interest. Functional outcomes were assessed using a Musculoskeletal Tumor Society (MSTS) score and Toronto Extremity Salvage Score (TESS).

Results

The mean age of the patients was 17 years (SD 9.1). At a mean follow-up of 70.8 months (SD 50), the mean functional outcomes were 24.2 points (SD 6.3) for MSTS and 81 points (SD 11) for TESS. The mean MSTS and TESS scores were associated with the iliac resection zone (< 0.001). Nine patients (20.9%) had local recurrence. The recurrence was not associated with the zone of iliac resection (p = 0.324). The two-year disease-free survival of the patients was 69.4%. The mean time to graft union was longer in patients with the I4 resection zone (p < 0.001). The complication rate was 34.9%, and nerve palsy (11.6%) was the most common. The rate of surgical complications was not associated with the resection zone.

Conclusion

Reconstruction using tibial strut allograft is an efficient procedure after the resection of the ilium and iliosacral ES. Functional outcomes and complications of iliac ES depend on the resection zone, and inferior outcomes could be generally expected when more segments of the pelvic ring are resected, even if it is reconstructed.

Cite this article: Bone Jt Open 2024;5(5):385–393.
METODOLOGIAS ATIVAS NA FORMAÇÃO INTERPROFISSIONAL: relato de experiência do PET-Saúde interprofissionalidade
Authors: Oliveira Anne Araujo de Jesus , Santos Jailton Silva dos , Duarte Lorena dos Santos , Pinheiro Paloma Andrade
Published: May 2024

Introdução: O modelo biomédico de atenção à saúde tem sido substituído pelo biopsicossocial, que apresenta como um dos seus pilares a Educação Interprofissional, cuja proposta está voltada para a potencialização das ações e dos serviços de saúde, através da reorientação das bases conceituais metodológicas presentes no processo de formação do profissional. Objetivo: Apresentar metodologias ativas interprofissionais vivenciadas por discentes participantes do Programa de Educação pelo Trabalho para a Saúde (PET-Saúde)/Interprofissionalidade. Métodos: Trata-se de um relato de experiência de atividades desenvolvidas com ações de integração ensino-serviço-comunidade com carga horária de oito horas semanais, em um período de dois anos, entre março de 2019 a março de 2021. As equipes eram compostas por tutores (docentes), preceptores (profissionais em exercício) e estudantes (graduandos da área da saúde. Resultados: Foram explanadas quatro vivências obtidas através das atividades desenvolvidas no PET-SAÚDE/Interprofissionalidade, sendo elas: Compartilhando saberes, Oficina do portfólio coletivo, Oficina do diagnóstico situacional e planejamento estratégico e Role-play. Conclusão: As vivências contribuíram para o aprendizado da atenção ao paciente de forma integral e do trabalho cooperativo entre diferentes áreas do saber, com interprofissionalidade, tanto no ambiente acadêmico como no cenário de assistência à saúde.
PERFIL MÓRBIDO E DESFECHO CLÍNICO DOS IDOSOS INTERNADOS POR COVID-19
Authors: De Azevedo Ferreira Maria Izabel , Colares Maia Luciana , De Azevedo Daniela
Published: May 2024

Introdução: Os idosos tem papel importante na cadeia de transmissão e contaminação do coronavírus, sendo a parcela com maior probabilidade de desenvolvimento de doença grave e, consequentemente, morte. Objetivo: Investigar a relação entre o perfil mórbido e desfecho clínico dos idosos infectados pelo coronavírus, a fim de compreender a relação entre esses elementos e suas repercussões epidemiológicas em saúde. Materiais e métodos: Trata-se de uma pesquisa transversal, quantitativa e descritiva realizada em um hospital público brasileiro. Participaram da pesquisa 194 idosos, com idade igual ou superior a 60 anos, de qualquer gênero, raça e procedência, que foram internados devido infecção pelo COVID-19. O objeto do estudo foram os prontuários médicos eletrônicos. Para análise das informações coletados, foi executada tabulação em planilha, seguida de análise descritiva. Os dados foram aplicados em condição de regressão logística, por meio do programa STATA. Resultados: Dos pacientes, 51,0% eram homens. A maioria apresentava idade entre 70-74 anos (22,68%). Os sintomas admissionais predominantes foram dispneia e tosse, totalizando quase 100% das queixas. A comorbidade mais relatada foi a hipertensão arterial sistêmica, diagnóstico presente em 65,46% dos prontuários analisados. As variáveis idade e presença de comorbidade mostraram significância positiva quando relacionadas ao desfecho de óbito. Conclusões: A população estudada possui particularidades que devem ser contempladas no cuidado à saúde, adequando as estratégias de assistência, recuperação e reabilitação da funcionalidade, a fim de manter a qualidade de vida na velhice.
FATORES CONTEXTUAIS E COMPORTAMENTAIS ASSOCIADOS À EXPERIÊNCIA DE CÁRIE DENTÀRIA EM ESCOLARES DO SUL DO BRASIL
Authors: Petry Milena Leiria , Rissotto Menegazzo Gabriele , Baldo Marques Beatriz , De Sousa Reis Magda , Henriqson Denise , Baldo Moraes Renita
Published: May 2024

Introdução: Além de fatores determinantes para o desenvolvimento da doença cárie dentária, como a dieta e a higiene bucal, o contexto em que os indivíduos vivem também tem mostrado reflexos no comportamento e nas condições de saúde bucal. Objetivo: O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar a associação de fatores contextuais e comportamentais com a experiência de cárie dentária em escolares de 12 anos em um município do sul do Brasil. Materiais e métodos: A pesquisa foi transversal e quantitativa, e os participantes eram estudantes de escolas públicas. Os dados foram coletados através de questionário e exame bucal, utilizando o índice CPOD para detecção de lesões de cárie dentária. O questionário avaliou aspectos relacionados à saúde bucal, como hábitos de higiene bucal e dieta. Cirurgiões-dentistas da rede municipal da atenção básica, previamente calibrados, realizaram o exame bucal dos estudantes, nas escolas. Resultados: Participaram do levantamento 712 estudantes, destes, 656 realizaram o exame clínico. Os escolares que estudavam em escolas da área rural apresentaram 2,08 vezes maior prevalência de CPOD (95% intervalo de confiança [IC]: 1,43-3,03), bem como aqueles que não usavam escova de dentes, que tiveram 2,14 vezes maior prevalência (95% IC: 1,13-4,06) quando comparados às suas contrapartes. Ainda, quem possuía placa bacteriana visível em seus dentes apresentava 46% maior prevalência de CPOD (95% IC: 1,16-1,83) do que quem não possuía. Conclusão: Além dos fatores determinantes relacionados à cárie dentária, fatores contextuais apresentaram associação com experiência de cárie dentária, estimulando estratégias com potencial para minimizar as iniquidades em saúde bucal.
Evolution of the polarization singularities in partially coherent beams on propagation through turbulence
Authors: Raburn W. Scott , Gbur Greg
Published: May 2024

In recent years, topological singularities of wavefields have been considered as structures that can improve a variety of optical technologies, including remote sensing and free-space optical communications. However, atmospheric turbulence can distort the features of singularities over long propagation distances, limiting their use in many cases. One solution being considered is the reduction of spatial coherence of light, as partially coherent beams have shown increased resistance to turbulence under a broad range of situations. In this paper, we look at the evolution of polarization singularities that arise in a particular projection of a partially coherent vector beam, and how the position and number of singularities are affected by atmospheric turbulence. We find that there are projections where the singularities persist on propagation, suggesting their possible use in applications.
Estimating the irradiance of a perturbed surface under an extended source
Authors: Kim Wooyoun , Cassarly William J. , Pomerantz Michael , Rolland Jannick P.
Published: May 2024

This paper presents a method for evaluating the irradiance of a single freeform surface deviation under extended source illumination. The method takes advantage of a well-known concept, the pinhole image. First, the irradiance of the perturbed freeform surface under point source illumination is computed. Second, a pinhole image of the extended source is obtained by placing a small aperture (pinhole) on the freeform surface. Then, the extended source irradiance pattern change can be quickly calculated by convolving the pinhole image with the perturbed point source irradiance change. The method was experimentally verified, demonstrating the efficacy of the underlying concept. The proposed method alleviates the computational demands during extended source tolerancing, expediting the process.
Pre-distortion adaptive optics for optical feeder links: simulations and performance analyses
Authors: Hristovski Ilija R. , Osborn James , Farley Ollie J. D. , Townson Matthew J. , Calvo Ramon Mata , Femenía-Castella Bruno , Torres Joana S. , Holzman Jonathan F. , Reeves Andrew P.
Published: May 2024

Optical feeder links offer immense utility in meeting future communication demands—however, atmospheric turbulence limits their performance. This work targets this challenge through analyses of a bidirectional free-space optical communication (FSOC) link that incorporates pre-distortion adaptive optics (AO) between the next-generation optical ground station at the German Aerospace Center (DLR) Oberpfaffenhofen and the laser communications terminal on Alphasat—a satellite in geostationary orbit (GEO). The analyses are performed via end-to-end Monte Carlo simulations that provide realistic performance estimates of the bidirectional FSOC link for a GEO feeder link scenario. We find that applying pre-distortion AO reduces the total uplink losses of the bidirectional FSOC link by up to 10 dB and lessens the scintillation at the GEO satellite by an order of magnitude. Moreover, applying pre-distortion AO eases the link budget requirements needed for maintaining 99.9% link uptime by as much as 20-40 dB, while its use with a laser guide star shows an additional performance improvement of up to 8 dB. These findings demonstrate the desirability and feasibility of utilizing pre-distortion AO for the realization of optical feeder links.
Wideband and low-spurious optical waveform generator for optically addressable quantum systems manipulation and control
Authors: Welinski Sacha , Beattie Eduardo , Ulrich Lothaire , Wengerowsky Soeren , de Riedmatten Hugues , Morvan Loic , Berger Perrine
Published: May 2024

Optical manipulation of quantum systems requires stable laser sources able to produce complex waveforms over a large frequency range. In the visible region, such waveforms can be generated using an acousto-optic modulator driven by an arbitrary waveform generator, but these suffer from a limited tuning range typically of a few tens of MHz. Visible-range electro-optic modulators are an alternative option offering a larger modulation bandwidth, however they have limited output power which drastically restricts the scalability of quantum applications. There is currently no architecture able to perform phase-stabilized waveforms over several GHz in the visible or near infrared region while providing sufficient optical power for quantum applications. Here we propose and develop a modulation and frequency conversion set-up able to deliver optical waveforms over a large frequency range, with a high spurious extinction ratio, scalable to the entire visible/near infrared region with high optical power. The optical waveforms are first generated at telecom wavelength and then converted to the emitter wavelength through a sum frequency generation process. By adapting the pump laser frequency, the optical waveforms can be tuned to interact with a broad range of optical quantum emitters or qubits such as alkali atoms, trapped ions, rare earth ions, or fluorescent defects in solid-state matrices. Using this architecture, we were able to detect and study a single erbium ion in a nanoparticle. We also generated high bandwidth signals at 606 nm, which would enable frequency multiplexing of on-demand read-out Pr3+:Y2SiO5 quantum memories.
Single wavelength MDM-PDM 800-Gb/s net data rate transmission over a standard multimode fiber employing a Kramers–Kronig receiver
Authors: Yu Xinkuo , Li Jianping , He Jianqing , Qin Yuwen , Zhang Jianbo , Zhou Gai , Xiang Meng , Fu Songnian , Zhong Kangping , Bai Chenglin
Published: May 2024

We propose a high-speed multimode fiber short-reach optical interconnect system based on a Kramers–Kronig (KK) field reconstruction with the mode division multiplexing (MDM) and polarization division multiplexing (PDM) technology. In this work, the LP01, LP21a, LP21b, and LP02 modes are selected as independent channels to carry information. The demonstration achieved the 800 Gb/s net data rate per wavelength with a bit-rate–distance-product (BDP) of 8 Tb/s·km. To the best of our knowledge, this is the highest experimental record of a single wavelength BDP over the SMMF with KK detection. In addition, we discuss the system performance after all multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) and partial MIMO processing and give guidance on the trade-off between system performance and computational resource.
Low-noise short-wavelength pumped frequency downconversion for quantum frequency converters
Authors: Geus Jan Fabian , Elsen Florian , Nyga Sebastian , Stolk Arian J. , van der Enden Kian L. , van Zwet Erwin J. , Haefner Constantin , Hanson Ronald , Jungbluth Bernd
Published: May 2024

We present a highly efficient low-noise quantum frequency converter
from the visible range to telecom wavelengths, combining a pump laser
at intermediate frequency resonantly enhanced in an actively
stabilized cavity with a monocrystalline bulk crystal. A demonstrator
for photons emitted by nitrogen-vacancy-center qubits achieves
43% external efficiency with a noise photon rate per wavelength
(frequency) band of 2 s−1/pm(17
s−1/GHz) – reducing the noise by two orders
of magnitude compared with current devices based on periodically poled
crystals with waveguides. With its tunable output wavelength, this
device enables the generation of indistinguishable telecom photons
from different network nodes and is, as such, a crucial component for
a future quantum internet based on optical fiber.
Agent-based modeling of nuclear chromosome ensembles identifies determinants of homolog pairing during meiosis
Authors: Chriss Ariana , Börner G. Valentin , Ryan Shawn D.
Published: May 2024

During meiosis, pairing of homologous chromosomes (homologs) ensures the formation of haploid gametes from diploid precursor cells, a prerequisite for sexual reproduction. Pairing during meiotic prophase I facilitates crossover recombination and homolog segregation during the ensuing reductional cell division. Mechanisms that ensure stable homolog alignment in the presence of an excess of non-homologous chromosomes have remained elusive, but rapid chromosome movements appear to play a role in the process. Apart from homolog attraction, provided by early intermediates of homologous recombination, dissociation of non-homologous associations also appears to contribute to homolog pairing, as suggested by the detection of stable non-homologous chromosome associations in pairing-defective mutants. Here, we have developed an agent-based model for homolog pairing derived from the dynamics of a naturally occurring chromosome ensemble. The model simulates unidirectional chromosome movements, as well as collision dynamics determined by attractive and repulsive forces arising from close-range physical interactions. Chromosome number and size as well as movement velocity and repulsive forces are identified as key factors in the kinetics and efficiency of homologous pairing in addition to homolog attraction. Dissociation of interactions between non-homologous chromosomes may contribute to pairing by crowding homologs into a limited nuclear area thus creating preconditions for close-range homolog attraction. Incorporating natural chromosome lengths, the model accurately recapitulates efficiency and kinetics of homolog pairing observed for wild-type and mutant meiosis in budding yeast, and can be adapted to nuclear dimensions and chromosome sets of other organisms.
Biodiversity is enhanced by sequential resource utilization and environmental fluctuations via emergent temporal niches
Authors: Bloxham Blox , Lee Hyunseok , Gore Jeff
Published: May 2024

How natural communities maintain their remarkable biodiversity and which species survive in complex communities are central questions in ecology. Resource competition models successfully explain many phenomena but typically predict only as many species as resources can coexist. Here, we demonstrate that sequential resource utilization, or diauxie, with periodic growth cycles can support many more species than resources. We explore how communities modify their own environments by sequentially depleting resources to form sequences of temporal niches, or intermediately depleted environments. Biodiversity is enhanced when community-driven or environmental fluctuations modulate the resource depletion order and produce different temporal niches on each growth cycle. Community-driven fluctuations under constant environmental conditions are rare, but exploring them illuminates the temporal niche structure that emerges from sequential resource utilization. With environmental fluctuations, we find most communities have more stably coexisting species than resources with survivors accurately predicted by the same temporal niche structure and each following a distinct optimal strategy. Our results thus present a new niche-based approach to understanding highly diverse fluctuating communities.
Steppe lemmings and Chinese hamsters as new potential animal models for the study of the Leishmania subgenus Mundinia (Kinetoplastida: Trypanosomatidae)
Authors: Becvar Tomas , Vojtkova Barbora , Pacakova Lenka , Vomackova Kykalova Barbora , Ticha Lucie , Volf Petr , Sadlova Jovana
Published: May 2024

Leishmania, the dixenous trypanosomatid parasites, are the causative agents of leishmaniasis currently divided into four subgenera:Leishmania,Viannia,Sauroleishmania, and the recently describedMundinia, consisting of six species distributed sporadically all over the world infecting humans and/or animals. These parasites infect various mammalian species and also cause serious human diseases, but their reservoirs are unknown. Thus, adequate laboratory models are needed to enable proper research ofMundiniaparasites. In this complex study, we compared experimental infections of fiveMundiniaspecies (L.enriettii,L.macropodum,L.chancei,L.orientalis, and four strains ofL.martiniquensis) in three rodent species: BALB/c mouse, Chinese hamster (Cricetulus griseus)and steppe lemming (Lagurus lagurus). Culture-derived parasites were inoculated intradermally into the ear pinnae and progress of infection was monitored for 20 weeks, when the tissues and organs of animals were screened for the presence and quantity ofLeishmania. Xenodiagnoses withPhlebotomus duboscqiwere performed at weeks 5, 10, 15 and 20 post-infection to test the infectiousness of the animals throughout the experiment. BALB/c mice showed no signs of infection and were not infectious to sand flies, while Chinese hamsters and steppe lemmings proved susceptible to all five species ofMundiniatested, showing a wide spectrum of disease signs ranging from asymptomatic to visceral.Mundiniainduced significantly higher infection rates in steppe lemmings compared to Chinese hamsters, and consequently steppe lemmings were more infectious to sand flies: In all groups tested, they were infectious from the 5th to the 20th week post infection. In conclusion, we identified two rodent species, Chinese hamster (Cricetulus griseus)and steppe lemming (Lagurus lagurus), as candidates for laboratory models forMundiniaallowing detailed studies of these enigmatic parasites. Furthermore, the long-term survival of allMundiniaspecies in steppe lemmings and their infectiousness to vectors support the hypothesis that some rodents have the potential to serve as reservoir hosts forMundinia.
Systematic review and meta-analysis of Tuberculosis and COVID-19 Co-infection: Prevalence, fatality, and treatment considerations
Authors: Wang Quan , Cao Yanmin , Liu Xinyu , Fu Yaqun , Zhang Jiawei , Zhang Yeqing , Zhang Lanyue , Wei Xiaolin , Yang Li
Published: May 2024

Background

Tuberculosis (TB) and COVID-19 co-infection poses a significant global health challenge with increased fatality rates and adverse outcomes. However, the existing evidence on the epidemiology and treatment of TB-COVID co-infection remains limited.

Methods

This updated systematic review aimed to investigate the prevalence, fatality rates, and treatment outcomes of TB-COVID co-infection. A comprehensive search across six electronic databases spanning November 1, 2019, to January 24, 2023, was conducted. The Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal Checklist assessed risk of bias of included studies, and meta-analysis estimated co-infection fatality rates and relative risk.

Results

From 5,095 studies screened, 17 were included. TB-COVID co-infection prevalence was reported in 38 countries or regions, spanning both high and low TB prevalence areas. Prevalence estimates were approximately 0.06% in West Cape Province, South Africa, and 0.02% in California, USA. Treatment approaches for TB-COVID co-infection displayed minimal evolution since 2021. Converging findings from diverse studies underscored increased hospitalization risks, extended recovery periods, and accelerated mortality compared to single COVID-19 cases. The pooled fatality rate among co-infected patients was 7.1% (95%CI: 4.0% ~ 10.8%), slightly lower than previous estimates. In-hospital co-infected patients faced a mean fatality rate of 11.4% (95%CI: 5.6% ~ 18.8%). The pooled relative risk of in-hospital fatality was 0.8 (95% CI, 0.18–3.68) for TB-COVID patients versus single COVID patients.

Conclusion

TB-COVID co-infection is increasingly prevalent worldwide, with fatality rates gradually declining but remaining higher than COVID-19 alone. This underscores the urgency of continued research to understand and address the challenges posed by TB-COVID co-infection.
Validation of physical activity levels from shank-placed Axivity AX6 accelerometers in older adults
Authors: Gafoor Fatima , Ruder Matthew , Kobsar Dylan
Published: May 2024

This cross-sectional study aimed to identify and validate cut-points for measuring physical activity using Axivity AX6 accelerometers positioned at the shank in older adults. Free-living physical activity was assessed in 35 adults aged 55 and older, where each participant wore a shank-mounted Axivity and a waist-mounted ActiGraph simultaneously for 72 hours. Optimized cut-points for each participant’s Axivity data were determined using an optimization algorithm to align with ActiGraph results. To assess the validity between the physical activity assessments from the optimized Axivity cut-points, a leave-one-out cross-validation was conducted. Bland-Altman plots with 95% limits of agreement, intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC), and mean differences were used for comparing the systems. The results indicated good agreement between the two accelerometers when classifying sedentary behaviour (ICC = 0.85) and light physical activity (ICC = 0.80), and moderate agreement when classifying moderate physical activity (ICC = 0.67) and vigorous physical activity (ICC = 0.70). Upon removal of a significant outlier, the agreement was slightly improved for sedentary behaviour (ICC = 0.86) and light physical activity (ICC = 0.82), but substantially improved for moderate physical activity (ICC = 0.81) and vigorous physical activity (ICC = 0.96). Overall, the study successfully demonstrated the capability of the resultant cut-point model to accurately classify physical activity using Axivity AX6 sensors placed at the shank.
CYB561 supports the neuroendocrine phenotype in castration-resistant prostate cancer
Authors: Azur Romie Angelo G. , Olarte Kevin Christian V. , Ybañez Weand S. , Ocampo Alessandria Maeve M. , Bagamasbad Pia D.
Published: May 2024

Castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC) is associated with resistance to androgen deprivation therapy, and an increase in the population of neuroendocrine (NE) differentiated cells. It is hypothesized that NE differentiated cells secrete neuropeptides that support androgen-independent tumor growth and induce aggressiveness of adjacent proliferating tumor cells through a paracrine mechanism. The cytochrome b561 (CYB561) gene, which codes for a secretory vesicle transmembrane protein, is constitutively expressed in NE cells and highly expressed in CRPC. CYB561 is involved in the α-amidation-dependent activation of neuropeptides, and contributes to regulating iron metabolism which is often dysregulated in cancer. These findings led us to hypothesize that CYB561 may be a key player in the NE differentiation process that drives the progression and maintenance of the highly aggressive NE phenotype in CRPC. In our study, we found that CYB561 expression is upregulated in metastatic and NE prostate cancer (NEPC) tumors and cell lines compared to normal prostate epithelia, and that its expression is independent of androgen regulation. Knockdown of CYB561 in androgen-deprived LNCaP cells dampened NE differentiation potential and transdifferentiation-induced increase in iron levels. In NEPC PC-3 cells, depletion of CYB561 reduced the secretion of growth-promoting factors, lowered intracellular ferrous iron concentration, and mitigated the highly aggressive nature of these cells in complementary assays for cancer hallmarks. These findings demonstrate the role of CYB561 in facilitating transdifferentiation and maintenance of NE phenotype in CRPC through its involvement in neuropeptide biosynthesis and iron metabolism pathways.
Imaging performance of portable and conventional ultrasound imaging technologies for ophthalmic applications
Authors: Thomas Jack O. , To Josiah K. , Vu Anderson N. , Horton David , Dzihic Ermin , Browne Andrew W.
Published: May 2024

Purpose

The aim of this study was to evaluate the imaging capabilities of Butterfly iQ with conventional ophthalmic (piezoelectric) ultrasound (COU) for ophthalmic imaging.

Methods

Custom phantom molds were designed and imaged with Butterfly iQ and COU to compare spatial resolution capabilities. To evaluate the clinical imaging performance of Butterfly iQ and COU, a survey containing pathological conditions from human subjects, imaged with both Butterfly iQ and COU probes, was given to three retina specialists and graded on image detail, resolution, quality, and diagnostic confidence on a ten-point Likert scale. Kruskal-Wallis analysis was performed for survey responses.

Results

Butterfly iQ and COU had comparable capabilities for imaging small axial and lateral phantom features (down to 0.1 mm) of high and low acoustic reflectivity. One of three retina specialists demonstrated a statistically significant preference for COU related to resolution, detail, and diagnostic confidence, but the remaining graders showed no significant preference for Butterfly iQ or COU across all sample images presented.

Conclusion

The emergence of portable ultrasound probes offers an affordable alternative to COU technologies with comparable qualitative imaging resolution down to 0.1 mm. These findings suggest the value to further study the use of portable ultrasound systems and their utility in routine eye care.
Evidence of reassortment of avian influenza A (H2) viruses in Brazilian shorebirds
Authors: Thomazelli Luciano M. , Pinho João Renato Rebello , Dorlass Erick G. , Ometto Tatiana , Meneguin Carla , Paludo Danielle , Frias Rodolfo Teixeira , Mancini Patricia Luciano , Monteiro Cairo , Aicher Sophie Marie , Walker David , Scagion Guilherme P. , Krauss Scott , Fabrizio Thomas , Petry Maria Virgínia , Scherer Angelo L. , Scherer Janete , Serafini Patricia P. , Neto Isaac S. , Amgarten Deyvid Emanuel , Malta Fernanda de Mello , Borges Ana Laura Boechat , Webster Robert G. , Webby Richard J. , Durigon Edison L. , de Araujo Jansen
Published: May 2024

Influenza A viruses of the H2 subtype represent a zoonotic and pandemic threat to humans due to a lack of widespread specific immunity. Although A(H2) viruses that circulate in wild bird reservoirs are distinct from the 1957 pandemic A(H2N2) viruses, there is concern that they could impact animal and public health. There is limited information on AIVs in Latin America, and next to nothing about H2 subtypes in Brazil. In the present study, we report the occurrence and genomic sequences of two influenza A viruses isolated from wild-caught white-rumped sandpipers (Calidris fuscicollis). One virus, identified as A(H2N1), was isolated from a bird captured in Restinga de Jurubatiba National Park (PNRJ, Rio de Janeiro), while the other, identified as A(H2N2), was isolated from a bird captured in Lagoa do Peixe National Park (PNLP, Rio Grande do Sul). DNA sequencing and phylogenetic analysis of the obtained sequences revealed that each virus belonged to distinct subtypes. Furthermore, the phylogenetic analysis indicated that the genomic sequence of the A(H2N1) virus isolated from PNRJ was most closely related to other A(H2N1) viruses isolated from North American birds. On the other hand, the A(H2N2) virus genome recovered from the PNLP-captured bird exhibited a more diverse origin, with some sequences closely related to viruses from Iceland and North America, and others showing similarity to virus sequences recovered from birds in South America. Viral genes of diverse origins were identified in one of the viruses, indicating local reassortment. This suggests that the extreme South of Brazil may serve as an environment conducive to reassortment between avian influenza virus lineages from North and South America, potentially contributing to an increase in overall viral diversity.
Lung cancer clustering by identification of similarities and discrepancies of DNA copy numbers using maximal information coefficient
Authors: N. Kachouie Nezamoddin , Deebani Wejdan , Shutaywi Meshal , Christiani David C.
Published: May 2024

Lung cancer is the second most diagnosed cancer and the first cause of cancer related death for men and women in the United States. Early detection is essential as patient survival is not optimal and recurrence rate is high. Copy number (CN) changes in cancer populations have been broadly investigated to identify CN gains and deletions associated with the cancer. In this research, the similarities between cancer and paired peripheral blood samples are identified using maximal information coefficient (MIC) and the spatial locations with substantially high MIC scores in each chromosome are used for clustering analysis. The results showed that a sizable reduction of feature set can be obtained using only a subset of locations with high MIC values. The clustering performance was evaluated using both true rate and normalized mutual information (NMI). Clustering results using the reduced feature set outperformed the performance of clustering using entire feature set in several chromosomes that are highly associated with lung cancer with several identified oncogenes.
Fungal diversity in sediments of the eastern tropical Pacific oxygen minimum zone revealed by metabarcoding
Authors: Posadas Judith , Velez Patricia , Pajares Silvia , Gasca-Pineda Jaime , Espinosa-Asuar Laura
Published: May 2024

Oxygen minimum zones (OMZ) represent ~8% of the ocean, with the Pacific as the largest and top expanding area. These regions influence marine ecosystems, promoting anaerobic microbial communities. Nevertheless, only a fraction of microbial diversity has been studied, with fungi being the less explored component. So, herein we analyzed fungal diversity patterns in surface and subsurface sediments along a bathymetric transect using metabarcoding of the ITS1 region in the OMZ of the Mexican Pacific off Mazatlán. We identified 353 amplicon sequence variants (ASV), within the Ascomycota, Basidiomycota, and Rozellomycota. Spatial patterns evidenced higher alpha diversity in nearshore and subsurface subsamples, probably due to temporal fluctuations in organic matter inputs. Small-scale heterogeneity characterized the community with the majority of ASV (269 ASV) occurring in a single subsample, hinting at the influence of local biogeochemical conditions. This baseline data evidenced a remarkable fungal diversity presenting high variation along a bathymetric and vertical transects.
The resolution of face perception varies systematically across the visual field
Authors: Morsi Anisa Y. , Goffaux Valérie , Greenwood John A.
Published: May 2024

Visual abilities tend to vary predictably across the visual field–for simple low-level stimuli, visibility is better along the horizontal vs. vertical meridian and in the lower vs. upper visual field. In contrast, face perception abilities have been reported to show either distinct or entirely idiosyncratic patterns of variation in peripheral vision, suggesting a dissociation between the spatial properties of low- and higher-level vision. To assess this link more clearly, we extended methods used in low-level vision to develop an acuity test for face perception, measuring the smallest size at which facial gender can be reliably judged in peripheral vision. In 3 experiments, we show the characteristic inversion effect, with better acuity for upright faces than inverted, demonstrating the engagement of high-level face-selective processes in peripheral vision. We also observe a clear advantage for gender acuity on the horizontal vs. vertical meridian and a smaller-but-consistent lower- vs. upper-field advantage. These visual field variations match those of low-level vision, indicating that higher-level face processing abilities either inherit or actively maintain the characteristic patterns of spatial selectivity found in early vision. The commonality of these spatial variations throughout the visual hierarchy means that the location of faces in our visual field systematically influences our perception of them.
Zebrafish mylipb attenuates antiviral innate immunity through two synergistic mechanisms targeting transcription factor irf3
Authors: Li Zhi , Li Jun , Li Ziyi , Song Yanan , Wang Yanyi , Wang Chunling , Yuan Le , Xiao Wuhan , Wang Jing
Published: May 2024

IFN regulatory factor 3 (IRF3) is the transcription factor crucial for the production of type I IFN in viral defence and inflammatory responses. The activity of IRF3 is strictly modulated by post-translational modifications (PTMs) to effectively protect the host from infection while avoiding excessive immunopathology. Here, we report that zebrafish myosin-regulated light chain interacting protein b (mylipb) inhibits virus-induced type I IFN production via two synergistic mechanisms: induction of autophagic degradation of irf3 and reduction of irf3 phosphorylation. In vivo, mylipb-null zebrafish exhibit reduced lethality and viral mRNA levels compared to controls. At the cellular level, overexpression of mylipb significantly reduces cellular antiviral capacity, and promotes viral proliferation. Mechanistically, mylipb associates with irf3 and targets Lys 352 to increase K6-linked polyubiquitination, dependent on its E3 ubiquitin ligase activity, leading to autophagic degradation of irf3. Meanwhile, mylipb acts as a decoy substrate for the phosphokinase tbk1 to attenuate irf3 phosphorylation and cellular antiviral responses independent of its enzymatic activity. These findings support a critical role for zebrafish mylipb in the limitation of antiviral innate immunity through two synergistic mechanisms targeting irf3.
Second-order observation of art in two films about Colombian violence: Carne de tu carne and Memoria
Authors: Jurado David
Published: May 2024

Using dialogism and second-order observation, I interrogate how art is mobilized through the lenses of specific film codes and how this encounter frames the interpretation of past violence in two films: Carne de tu carne (Mayolo 1983) and Memoria (Weerasethakul 2020). At the same time, I examine how this encounter disrupts the systemic identity of the two medias, exposed to a complex exchange of meanings. I conclude that both films interrogate the communication of violence through an appropriation of art references. But, while Carne de tu carne develops a political horror genre marked by tremendismo, Memoria explores slow cinema and an imperceptible indexicality language relied to the context of a Global South memorial discourse.