bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The African swine fever virus MGF360-16R protein functions as a mitochondrial-dependent apoptosis inducer by competing with BAX to bind to the HSP60 protein
Authors: Xiang Zhiyong , Xu Zhen , Weng Wenlian , Wang Hua , Wu Jiajun , Jiang Fei , Qu Yajin , Li Quanlin , Gao Peng , Zhou Lei , Ge Xinna , Guo Xin , Han Jun , Zhang Yongning , Yang Hanchun
Published: February 2025

Induction of cell apoptosis is a critical pathogenic feature of the African swine fever virus (ASFV), a devastating threat to the world pig industry, but the underlying mechanisms have remained unclear. Here, we report the genome-wide screening and identification of 27 ASFV-encoded apoptosis inducers. Of them, the viral protein MGF360-16R was found to be a mitochondria-targeting protein and exhibits strong activity to induce mitochondrial-dependent apoptosis. Interestingly, this protein exhibits a dynamic distribution pattern during viral infection of porcine macrophages; it is mainly localized to the viral factory in the early stage and then shifts a portion to mitochondria in the late stage, a timing that coincides with virus-induced apoptosis. Mechanistically, MGF360-16R interacts with and competes for the cellular heat shock protein 60 (HSP60), and this results in the release of BAX from the HSP60-BAX complex, leading to the activation of BAX and induction of apoptosis. The ASFV mutant lacking MGF360-16R showed a reduced ability to induce cellular apoptosis, highlighting the complex nature of ASFV-induced cell apoptosis. Overall, our study adds a new function to MGF360-16R and reveals a novel mechanism of ASFV-mediated cell apoptosis.

IMPORTANCE

ASFV is a complex virus with a huge genome and numerous encoded proteins. Induction of cell apoptosis is associated with pathological damage in pigs caused by ASFV, but its inducers and underlying mechanisms remain unclear. Through genome-wide screening, the viral protein MGF360-16R was identified as a potent apoptosis inducer with a unique localization transfer from the viral factory to mitochondria during ASFV infection of porcine macrophages. MGF360-16R induces apoptosis by interacting with the cellular HSP60 protein to release BAX from the HSP60-BAX complex in a competitive binding manner. Our research findings not only reveal a novel function of MGF360-16R but also provide clues for understanding the pathogenesis of ASFV and potentially developing new therapeutic strategies.
Virus-like particle vaccine with authentic quaternary epitopes protects against Zika virus-induced viremia and testicular damage
Authors: Abbo Sandra R. , Yan Kexin , Geertsema Corinne , Hick Tessy A. H. , Altenburg Jort J. , Nowee Gwen , van Toor Chris , van Lent Jan W. , Nakayama Eri , Tang Bing , Metz Stefan W. , Bhowmik Ryan , de Silva Aravinda M. , Prow Natalie A. , Correia Ricardo , Alves Paula M. , Roldão António , Martens Dirk E. , van Oers Monique M. , Suhrbier Andreas , Pijlman Gorben P.
Published: February 2025

Zika virus (ZIKV) caused unprecedented outbreaks in South America and the Caribbean in 2015–2016, leading primarily to a series of abnormalities in neonates termed congenital Zika syndrome. The threat of ZIKV reemergence has seen the development of multiple ZIKV vaccines that are at the preclinical stage or in early-stage clinical trials. Herein, we describe a pathway to the development of ZIKV vaccines generated using a baculovirus-insect cell expression system, which is widely applied for the manufacture of biologics for human use. Virus-like particle (VLP) vaccines comprising CprME and subviral particle (SVP) vaccines comprising prME were evaluated for their ability to mediate protection against ZIKV challenge in
Ifnar1
−/−
mice. Initial attempts resulted in VLP and SVP vaccines that failed to present quaternary epitopes and did not provide effective protection. To improve the SVP vaccine, two modifications were introduced: firstly, an alanine to cysteine substitution (A264C) in the E domain II region to promote the formation of stabilized E homodimers and, secondly, the use of
Spodoptera frugiperda
Sf9 insect cells that had been adapted to grow and produce vaccine at a neutral pH of 7. E homodimers largely retain their pre-fusion conformation at pH 7, which is a requirement for the induction of effective neutralizing antibody responses. The stabilized SVP-A26C vaccine induced high levels of neutralizing antibodies and protected male
Ifnar1
−/−
mice against viremia and testicular damage. Our study reiterates the need to present the immune system with E dimers arranged in authentic quaternary conformations and provides a scalable production method for this novel ZIKV vaccine.

IMPORTANCE

We describe the generation of a subviral particle (SVP) vaccine comprising prME proteins of ZIKV, with an envelope protein substitution, A264C, that stabilizes E dimer formation. The SVP vaccine was produced in a novel Sf9 insect cell line adapted to grow in suspension at pH 7. The study highlights the importance of challenge experiments to ascertain whether the responses induced by an experimental vaccine actually mediate protection against virus infection and disease. The study also reiterates the contention that effective flavivirus vaccines need to present the immunogen in an authentic tertiary and quaternary structure with a pre-fusion conformation.
Association of tumor microbiome with survival in resected early-stage PDAC
Authors: Meng Yixuan , Wang Chan , Usyk Mykhaylo , Kwak Soyoung , Peng Chengwei , Hu Kenneth S. , Oberstein Paul E. , Krogsgaard Michelle , Li Huilin , Hayes Richard B. , Ahn Jiyoung
Published: February 2025

The pancreas tumor microbiota may influence tumor microenvironment and influence survival in early-stage pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC); however, current studies are limited and small. We investigated the relationship of tumor microbiota to survival in 201 surgically resected patients with localized PDAC (Stages I–II), from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and International Cancer Genome Consortium (ICGC) cohorts. We characterized the tumor microbiome using RNA-sequencing data. We examined the association of the tumor microbiome with overall survival (OS), via meta-analysis with the Cox PH model. A microbial risk score (MRS) was calculated from the OS-associated microbiota. We further explored whether the OS-associated microbiota is related to host tumor immune infiltration. PDAC tumor microbiome α- and β-diversities were not associated with OS; however, 11 bacterial species, including species of
Gammaproteobacteria
, confirmed by extensive resampling, were significantly associated with OS (all
Q
< 0.05). The MRS summarizing these bacteria was related to a threefold change in OS (hazard ratio = 2.96 per standard deviation change in the MRS, 95% confidence interval = 2.26–3.86). This result was consistent across the two cohorts and in stratified analyses by adjuvant therapy (chemotherapy/radiation). Identified microbiota and the MRS also exhibited association with memory B cells and naïve CD4
+
T cells, which may be related to the immune landscape through BCR and TCR signaling pathways. Our study shows that a unique tumor microbiome structure, potentially affecting the tumor immune microenvironment, is associated with poorer survival in resected early-stage PDAC. These findings suggest that microbial mechanisms may be involved in PDAC survival, potentially informing PDAC prognosis and guiding personalized treatment strategies.

IMPORTANCE

Much of the available data on the PDAC tumor microbiome and survival are derived from relatively small and heterogeneous studies, including those involving patients with advanced stages of pancreatic cancer. There is a critical knowledge gap in terms of the tumor microbiome and survival in early-stage patients treated by surgical resection; we expect that advancements in survival may initially be best achieved in these patients who are treated with curative intent.
Comparative metagenome-associated analysis of gut microbiota and antibiotic resistance genes in acute gastrointestinal injury patients with the risk of in-hospital mortality
Authors: Bai Yunpeng , Hu Yali , Chen Xiangyin , Hu Linhui , Wu Kunyong , Liang Silin , Zheng Jinshui , Gänzle Michael G. , Chen Chunbo
Published: February 2025

Acute gastrointestinal injury (AGI) is known for its poor long-term prognosis and the associated increase in mortality among intensive care unit (ICU) patients. As the role of the gut microbiome and resistome in AGI remains unclear, the present study aimed to explore the possible associations between dysbacteriosis and in-hospital mortality in ICU patients with gastrointestinal dysfunction. Fecal samples were collected from a prospective cohort of 210 ICU patients with AGI, and shotgun metagenomic sequencing was used to determine the taxonomic composition of gut microbiota and the differences of antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) between the Death and Survival groups. Compared to the Survival group, patients in the Death group shifted from strict anaerobes to facultative anaerobes in the fecal microbial community, with more
Klebsiella
but less
Prevotella
. The co-occurrence patterns revealed that more ARG subtypes were enriched in microbial taxa in the Death group, especially for
Clostridium
and
Methanobrevibacter
. Furthermore, the ARG type had large area under the curve (AUCs) in receiver operating characteristic for predicting the disease severity, and a combined gut microbiota-ARG subtype classifiers showed better performance than either of them. Thus, comparative metagenome-associated analysis can help to obtain valuable information about gut microbiota and gene coding for antibiotic resistance in AGI patients.

IMPORTANCE

A metagenomic-related strategy was conducted to obtain a highly valuable resource to improve understanding of intestinal microbiota dysbiosis and antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) profiles. The results indicate that intestinal microbiota, including
Klebsiella
and
Prevotella
, changed dramatically in intensive care unit (ICU) patients with acute gastrointestinal injury (AGI). Due to longer ICU stays and receiving more antibiotic treatment, the types and correlations of ARGs in the Death group were significantly higher than those in the Survival group. The findings of this study are expected to expand our knowledge of gut microbiota and resistome profiles reflecting gastrointestinal status, accelerate the identification of disease biomarkers, and provide new insights into the prevention and treatment of AGI-related diseases.
Exploring oral microbiome in oral squamous cell carcinoma across environment-associated sample types
Authors: Wang Zizheng , Chen Yilong , Li Haoning , Yue Yuan , Yu Haopeng
Published: February 2025

The relationship between the oral microbiome and oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) has been extensively investigated. Nonetheless, most previous studies were single-center, resulting in the absence of systematic evaluations. To address this gap, we performed a comprehensive meta-analysis on 1,255 samples from OSCC-related 16S rRNA gene data sets, representing a diverse range of OSCC phenotypes. It is recognized that the progression of cancer is related to the alterations in the microbiome among different phenotypes. Our findings revealed distinct microbiome characteristics among different sample types, with Biopsy (Bios) and Swab samples exhibiting significant differences between phenotypes. In Bios samples, the microbiomes of the Cancer group and the normal tissue adjacent to the tumor (NAT) group display a higher similarity, while both differ from the microbiome of the Fibroepithelial polyp (FEP) group. Moreover, the identified differential genera and pathways corresponded with these observations. We developed a diagnostic model using the random forest algorithm on Swab samples, achieving an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) of 0.918. Importantly, this model exhibited considerable effectiveness (AUC = 0.849) when applied to another sequencing platform. Taken together, our study provides a comprehensive overview of the oral microbiome during various OSCC progression stages, potentially enhancing early detection and treatment.

IMPORTANCE

This study answers key questions regarding the universal microbial characteristics and comprehensive oral microbiome dynamics during oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) progression. By integrating multiple data sets, we examine the following critical aspects: (1) Do different sample types harbor distinct microbial communities within the oral cavity? (2) Which sample types offer greater potential for investigating OSCC progression? (3) How are the oral microbiomes of the Cancer group, normal tissue adjacent to the tumor group, and Fibroepithelial polyp group related, and what is their potential association with OSCC development? (4) Can a diagnostic model based on microbial signatures effectively distinguish between Cancer and Health groups using Swab samples?
Novel application of ribonucleoprotein-mediated CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing in plant pathogenic oomycete species
Authors: Dort Erika N. , Feau Nicolas , Hamelin Richard C.
Published: February 2025

CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing has become an important tool for the study of plant pathogens, allowing researchers to functionally characterize specific genes involved in phytopathogenicity, virulence, and fungicide resistance. Protocols for CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing have already been developed for Phytophthoras, an important group of oomycete plant pathogens; however, these efforts have exclusively focused on agricultural pathosystems, with research lacking for forest pathosystems. We sought to develop CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing in two forest pathogenic Phytophthoras,
Phytophthora cactorum
and
P. ramorum
, using a plasmid-ribonucleoprotein (RNP) co-transformation approach. Our gene target in both species was the ortholog of
PcORP1
, which encodes an oxysterol-binding protein that is the target of the fungicide oxathiapiprolin in the agricultural pathogen
P. capsici
. We delivered liposome complexes, each containing plasmid DNA and CRISPR-Cas9 RNPs, to
Phytophthora
protoplasts using a polyethylene glycol-mediated transformation protocol. We obtained two
ORP1
mutants in
P. cactorum
but were unable to obtain any mutants in
P. ramorum
. The two
P. cactorum
mutants exhibited decreased resistance to oxathiapiprolin, as measured by their radial growth relative to wild-type cultures on oxathiapiprolin-supplemented medium. Our results demonstrate the potential for RNP-mediated CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing in
P. cactorum
and provide a foundation for future optimization of our protocol in other forest pathogenic
Phytophthora
species.

IMPORTANCE

CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing has become a valuable tool for characterizing the genetics driving virulence and pathogenicity in plant pathogens. CRISPR-Cas9 protocols are now well-established in several
Phytophthora
species, an oomycete genus with significant economic and ecological impact globally. These protocols, however, have been developed for agricultural
Phytophthora
pathogens only; CRISPR-Cas9 systems have not yet been developed for any forest pathogenic Phytophthoras. In this study, we sought to establish CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing in two forest
Phytophthora
pathogens that cause widespread tree mortality:
P. cactorum
and
P. ramorum
. We successfully obtained gene mutations in
P. cactorum
and demonstrated a decrease in fungicide resistance, a trait that could impact the pathogen’s ability to cause disease. However, the same protocol did not yield any mutants in
P. ramorum
. The results of our study will serve as a baseline for the development of CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing in forest Phytophthoras and other oomycetes.
Supplemental Material: Is drainage reorganization a plausible explanation for late Cenozoic incision of Yosemite Valley and within the Kings and Kaweah watersheds (Sierra Nevada, California)?
Authors: Gabet Emmanuel
Published: February 2025

Figure S1: Bedrock valley meander wavelength vs. drainage area.
Concept analysis of health research translation nomenclature
Authors: Lizarondo Lucylynn , Jordan Zoe , Linedale Ecushla , Lockwood Craig
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Translating health research into clinical practice is a complex process aimed at enhancing healthcare quality and patient outcomes. The terminology surrounding this process is varied and often used interchangeably, leading to minimal consensus on the activities encompassed by each term.

Objectives

This study aims to examine existing taxonomies and websites for operational definitions related to health research translation, culminating in a comprehensive synopsis of terms specific to this field.

Design

In 2019, a literature search was conducted using databases such as PubMed and CINAHL, along with relevant government and non-governmental organisation (NGO) websites, including grey literature. The search focused on English-language publications defining health research translation from 2000 onward and was updated in 2023. One author conducted the search, employing a mix of free-text and database-specific terms. Two authors independently evaluated the results for inclusion. Relevant data were extracted to aid in sorting and prioritising terminology based on frequency. A concept analysis approach, developed by Foley and Davis and informed by Rodgers’ seven phases, was used to map the nomenclature.

Results

A total of 51 papers were analysed, revealing that the most frequently used terms for health research translation were knowledge translation (KT), implementation and translational research. Both evidence-based healthcare and KT describe the process of integrating evidence into practice, positioning them as analogous. Two major domains were identified: practice and science, with practice-related language further categorised into people-focused, process-focused and outcome-focused.

Conclusions

This paper presents a conceptual nomenclature map that serves as a foundation for developing a consensus-driven ontology for health research translation. The framework highlights how language can be categorised into common domains, fostering meaningful communication across diverse groups and entities.
Admission temperature in very preterm infants 2012–2021: a Nationwide Quality Registry Study, Norway
Authors: Solvang Thale Amalie Westre , Herstad Vilde Bråten , Størdal Ketil , Tveiten Lars , Lang Astri , Eriksen Beate Horsberg , Rønnestad Arild , Stensvold Hans Jørgen
Published: February 2025

Objective

To examine the distribution and time trends of admission temperature in very preterm infants, effects of temperature-preserving interventions and associations between hypothermia and outcomes.

Methods

Population-based cohort study of infants <32 gestational weeks without lethal malformations admitted to a neonatal intensive care unit within 2 hours of birth between 1 January 2012 and 31 December 2021. Hypothermia was defined as mild (36.0°C–36.4°C), moderate (34.5°C–35.9°C) or severe (<34.5°C). Associations between admission temperature and outcomes were investigated using multivariate logistic regression, adjusting for sex, weight Z-score, gestational age, antenatal steroids, surfactant and hospital.

Results

In total, 2457/4879 (50.4%) had normal admission temperatures between 36.5°C and 37.5℃, 1314 (26.9%) had mild hypothermia and 886 (18.2%) had moderate to severe hypothermia, with a significant interhospital variance of 7%–40%. Moderate to severe hypothermia decreased from 24% in 2012 to 16% in 2021 (ptrend<0.001). Measuring temperature before leaving the delivery unit correlated with lower incidence of moderate to severe hypothermia (42% vs 58%, p<0.001). Admission temperature was inversely associated with mortality (adjusted OR 1.5, 95% CI 1.1 to 2.0 for moderate and 2.4, 95% CI 1.1 to 4.9 for severe hypothermia) and with surgical necrotising enterocolitis or intestinal perforation (adjusted OR 1.7, 95% CI 1.1 to 2.7 for moderate and 3.1, 95% CI 1.3 to 7.7 for severe hypothermia).

Conclusions

Although the incidence of hypothermia decreased during the study period, it remains a concern due to significant associations with adverse outcomes. Areas for further improvement include addressing interhospital variance and enhancing temperature monitoring in the delivery unit.
Efficacy of oral tetra-arsenic tetra-sulfide maintenance therapy for ovarian cancer: a single-center observational study
Authors: Yang Yingchao , Li Xiaoping , Song Xuelian , Zhao Lijun , Wang Yue , Wu Yan , Wei Lihui
Published: February 2025

Objective

To investigate firstly Chinese patent medicine Realgar-Indigo Naturalis Formula (RIF), which mainly contains tetra-arsenic tetra-sulfide formula for the maintenance therapy of ovarian cancer.

Methods

We recruited all patients with ovarian epithelial cancer who were diagnosed at Peking University People’s Hospital between January 2018 and January 2021. All these patients received standard chemotherapy and achieved complete remission. The patients took RIF (60 mg/kg daily in an oral divided dose) in a 4-week-on and 4-week-off regimen. The main efficacy indicators, including progression-free interval (PFI) and overall survival (OS), were measured and evaluated regularly. Additionally, the safety and side effects were closely monitored.

Results

A total of 20 patients were included in this study. Regarding the treatment, patients received oral arsenic for 3–18 courses (the longest treatment interval was equivalent to 3 years). The median follow-up time was 43 months. Subsequently, data analysis was conducted, revealing that the median PFI was 23 months.P53mutations were worse thanP53wild-type PFI, and the median PFI was 19.2 months (p=0.03). RegardingP53wt status, the HR for disease progression or death was 0.25 (95% CI 0.07 to 0.91). The 3-year OS was 89%, and the 5-year OS was 77%. The common side effects were abdominal pain and diarrhoea.

Conclusions

RIF compound proved to be an effective Chinese patent medicine maintenance therapy for ovarian cancer, thus prolonging the PFI of patients and controllable side effects, in particular simple and convenient for the method of administration and better potency ratio. These findings need to be validated in multicentre research studies with large sample sizes.

Trial registration number

ChiCTR2400090349.
Research on Slurry Mix Ratio of Sleeve Valve Pipe Grouting for Subway and its Engineering Application
Authors: Chen Fan , Sun Xiaokun , Guo Jiaqi , Chen Xiaoyang , Feng Xiaojiang
Published: February 2025

Sleeve valve pipe grouting plugging is the most commonly and effective method to control water leakage of subway station. The success of plugging grouting depends largely on performance indicators of grouting materials such as fluidity, setting time and slurry stone strength. In this paper, a series of experiments were carried out to study the regulation of initial setting time, final setting time, viscosity, bleeding rate, compressive strength of cement-water glass slurry under different mix ratios. Based on the analysis of the results, combined with hydrogeologic condition of Furong East Road Station of Xi 'an Metro, the optimal slurry mix ratio is 0.6 water-cement ratio and 1% water glass content. The field grouting test and numerical simulation show that the cement-water glass slurry grouting with this ratio has good grouting and waterproofing effect. The research results have great guiding significance for the water leakage treatment in subway stations.
Comparative Metagenomics Reveals Limited Differences in Antimicrobial Resistance Gene Abundance Across Conventional and Natural Livestock Production Systems
Authors: Lee Catrione , Zaheer Rahat , Thomas Krysty , Poulin-Laprade Dominic , Talbot Guylaine , Diarra Moussa , Van Domselaar Gary , Zovoilis Athanasios , McAllister Tim A.
Published: February 2025

The livestock industry has been a source of concern in terms of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) development and spread, especially from a One Health perspective. Raising livestock without antimicrobials, so called natural (NAT) production is an increasingly popular practice. This study used metagenomics to compare this practice to conventional (CONV) antimicrobial use (AMU) on the microbiome and resistome in the feces of beef cattle and swine and the cecal contents of broiler chickens. In cattle, Bacteroidetes, Euryarchaeota, and Spirochaetes were more abundant (q < 0.01) in CONV than NAT systems, with no differences (q > 0.05) in bacterial profiles in either swine or chickens. Classes of antimicrobial resistant genes (ARG) were not impacted regardless of AMU in any of the livestock species. However, many tetracycline resistance genes were more abundant in CONV as compared to NAT swine (q < 0.05), but this difference was not observed in cattle or chickens. This study confirmed that elimination of AMU does not necessarily result in an immediate decline in the abundance or diversity of ARGs within a single livestock production cycle.
Teleparallel gravity and conformal invariance
Authors: BENSOUILAH ABDELWAHAB
Published: February 2025

We revisit Maluf and Faria construction of a Lagrangian density that is invariant under a conformal transformation. We give a rather simplified expression for it. On the other hand, Maluf and Faria considered only one Maxwell-type Lagrangian density that is invariant under conformal transformation. We prove that this density is the only conformally invariant one that can be constructed from the covariant derivative of the torsion.
Falsification of Cyber-physical Systems Using Bayesian Optimization
Authors: Ramezani Zahra , Sehi'c Kenan , Nardi Luigi , Åkesson Knut
Published: February 2025

Cyber-physical systems (CPSs) are often complex and safety-critical, making it both challenging and crucial to ensure that the system’s specifications are met. Simulation-based falsification is a practical testing technique for increasing confidence in a CPS’s correctness, as it only requires that the system be simulated. Reducing the number of computationally intensive simulations needed for falsification is a key concern. In this study, we investigate Bayesian optimization (BO), a sample-efficient approach that learns a surrogate model to capture the relationship between input signal parameterization and specification evaluation. We propose two enhancements to the basic BO for improving falsification: (1) leveraging local surrogate models, and (2) utilizing the user’s prior knowledge. Additionally, we address the formulation of acquisition functions for falsification by proposing and evaluating various alternatives. Our benchmark evaluation demonstrates significant improvements when using local surrogate models in BO for falsifying challenging benchmark examples. Incorporating prior knowledge is found to be especially beneficial when the simulation budget is constrained. For some benchmark problems, the choice of acquisition function noticeably impacts the number of simulations required for successful falsification.
Modeling Consumer GenAI for Enterprise L&D Applications: Demonstration of typical use cases
Authors: Attri Raman K.
Published: February 2025

This article explores the application of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) in learning and development (L&D) processes, specifically for enterprise training. The author discusses how L&D practitioners can use GenAI tools to drive a complete instructional design process, including training content development and the creation of typical L&D deliverables such as training documentation development, training need analysis, course outline, and lesson plan generation as well as training material development such as presentation slides, case scenarios, assessments, and self-learning content. The article also details how to leverage the power of GenAI tools as a trainer, assessor, and expert mentor. The author also shares a nine-step approach for L&D practitioners to achieve potential time-saving benefits using GenAI to create diverse training content. However, he cautions L&D leaders to consider broader implications, such as technology evolution, security and intellectual property risks, job impacts, and the need for careful implementation to ensure information and IP security.
Virtual Reality in Dark Tourism: Multisensory Virtual Tourism Experiences with Thermal Stimuli
Authors: Wang Jyun-cheng , Santoso Halim Budi , Changkaew Laphasrada , Tamtama Gabriel Indra Widi , Windasari Nila Armelia
Published: February 2025

One emerging tourism experience is dark tourism, an emotionally laden experience of visiting a site of death, disaster, and sorrow, and simultaneously learning about historical dark incidents in the past. The emergence of virtual reality can shape virtual dark tourism experiences in virtual realism, which require sensory-themed experiences to enhance the experiences of visitors. This study aims to understand the effect of thermal stimuli on virtual dark tourism experiences by employing cross-modal correspondence and the sensation transference theory. Using a laboratory experiment with 107 participants with three thermal stimuli treatment groups, we deduce that thermal stimuli significantly influence individual emotions, as indicated by two measurements: self-reported and psychophysiological data from wearable devices. This study extends the understanding of cross-modal correspondence in sensory marketing and sensory design experiences in virtual dimensions through sensing, feelings, thinking, and relationships
Enhancing Android Malware Detection: The Influence of ChatGPT on Decision-centric Task
Authors: Li Yao , Fang Sen , Zhang Tao , Cai Haipeng
Published: February 2025

With the rise of large language models, such as ChatGPT, non-decisional models have been applied to various tasks. Moreover, ChatGPT has drawn attention to the traditional decision-centric task of Android malware detection. Despite effective detection methods proposed by scholars, they face low interpretability issues. Specifically, while these methods excel in classifying applications as benign or malicious and can detect malicious behavior, they often fail to provide detailed explanations for the decisions they make. This challenge raises concerns about the reliability of existing detection schemes and questions their true ability to understand complex data. In this study, we investigate the influence of the non-decisional model, ChatGPT, on the traditional decision-centric task of Android malware detection. We choose three state-of-the-art solutions,

\(Drebin\)

,

\(XM_{AL}\)

, and

\(MaMaDroid\)

, conduct a series of experiments on publicly available datasets, and carry out a comprehensive comparison and analysis. Our findings indicate that these decision-driven solutions primarily rely on statistical patterns within datasets to make decisions, rather than genuinely understanding the underlying data. In contrast, ChatGPT, as a non-decisional model, excels in providing comprehensive analysis reports, substantially enhancing interpretability. Furthermore, we conduct surveys among experienced developers. The result highlights developers’ preference for ChatGPT, as it offers in-depth insights and enhances efficiency and understanding of challenges. Meanwhile, these studies and analyses offer profound insights, presenting developers with a novel perspective on Android malware detection—enhancing the reliability of detection results from a non-decisional perspective.
Temporal Structural Preserving with Subtree Attention in Dynamic Graph Transformers
Authors: Nguyen Minh Duc , Ta Viet Cuong
Published: February 2025

Dynamic graph learning is a rapidly developing area of research due to its widespread application in various real-world networks. Most existing works combine graph neural networks and sequential models to exploit the graph topology and the temporal information of dynamic graphs. However, these methods exhibit certain limitations in extracting local and global information and capturing fine-grained temporal structure in dynamic graphs. In this paper, we present our novel framework, Dynamic Graph Subtree Attention, which is centralized by a learnable temporal edge sampling module and a lightweight attention operator to address the aforementioned issues. Our approach first constructs a temporal union graph for each time step using an adaptive edge sampling module, which preserves relevant interactions for our graph encoder to directly exploit fine-gained interactions across different times. Based on the temporal union graph, we further propose a subtree attention module that leverages the multi-hop representation and the self-attention mechanism to properly extract the local and global information from first- to high-order neighborhoods. To further reduce the computation complexity, the subtree module is equipped with a kernelized attention operation, which scales linearly with respect to the number of edges. By performing extensive experiments, we demonstrate the superiority of our proposed model in dynamic graph representation learning, as it consistently outperforms existing methods in future link prediction tasks. The code is publicly available at:
https://github.com/minhduc1122002/DySubTree
.
Layout Decomposition and Printing Time Optimization for Inkjet-Printed Electronics
Authors: Lin Yi-Ting , Lian Meng , Peng Hu , Wolfrum Bernhard , Tseng Tsun-Ming , Jiang Iris Hui-Ru
Published: February 2025

Inkjet-printed electronics is a low-cost option for large-scale production. To avoid manufacturing defects, recent research has considered design constraints, such as Laplace and proximity conflicts, decomposed the layouts into different layers, and printed them sequentially. The state-of-the-art work reduced the manufacturing time by optimizing the number of layers and drying time. In this work, we aim to enhance manufacturing efficiency from a new angle, concurrently optimizing the printing time and the layout decomposition of inkjet-printed electronics. We propose an integer linear programming formulation and a dynamic programming algorithm to determine layout decomposition and layer assignment and to estimate the total printing time by carefully considering printing characteristics and design constraints. Experimental results demonstrate significant reductions in overall printing time, leading to improved fabrication efficiency.
Imaging of Bronchoscopic Lung Volume Reduction Using Endobronchial Valves
Authors: Gupta Yogesh S. , Simpson Scott , Graham Ryan , Kumaran Maruti , Dako Farouk , Hota Partha , Dass Chandra
Published: February 2025

In patients who meet clinical criteria for endobronchial valve placement, imaging is essential for preprocedural characterization of emphysema, target lobe selection, and identification of contraindications, as well as postprocedural detection of complications and treatment efficacy.
Oral contraceptive pill phase does not influence muscle protein synthesis or myofibrillar proteolysis at rest or in response to resistance exercise
Authors: Colenso-Semple Lauren M. , McKendry James , Lim Changhyun , Atherton Philip J. , Wilkinson Daniel J. , Smith K. , Phillips Stuart M.
Published: February 2025

There is speculation that oral contraceptive pill (OCP) use affects skeletal muscle biology and protein turnover in response to resistance exercise; however, research in this area is scarce. We aimed to assess, using stable isotope tracers and skeletal muscle biopsies, how second-generation OCP phase affected muscle protein synthesis and whole-body proteolysis. Participants (n=12) completed two 6-day study phases in a randomized order: an active pill phase (Active; week two of a monthly active OCP cycle) and an inactive pill phase (Inactive; final week of a monthly OCP cycle). Participants performed unilateral resistance exercise in each study phase, exercising the contralateral leg in the opposite phase in a randomized, counterbalanced order. The Active phase myofibrillar protein synthesis (MPS) rates were 1.44 ± 0.14 %•d-1 in the control leg and 1.64 ± 0.15 %•d-1 in the exercise leg (p < 0.001). The Inactive phase MPS rates were 1.49 ± 0.12 %•d-1 %/d in the control leg and 1.71 ± 0.16 %•d-1 in the exercise leg (p < 0.001), with no interaction between phases (p = 0.63). There was no significant effect of OCP phase on whole-body myofibrillar proteolytic rate (active phase k = 0.018 ± 0.01; inactive phase k = 0.018 ± 0.006; p = 0.55). Skeletal muscle remains equally as responsive, in terms of stimulation of MPS, during Active and Inactive OCP phases; hence, our data does not support a pro-anabolic or catabolic, based on myofibrillar proteolysis, effect of OCP phase on skeletal muscle in females.
Fake Fingerprint Classification Using Hybrid Features Learning With Gradient Boosting
Authors: Ali Muhammad Salman , Akram Arslan , Rashid Javed , Jaffar Muhammad Arfan , Shah Dilawar , Ali Shujaat , Tahir Muhammad
Published: February 2025

Biometric security systems must be able to detect phony fingerprints to provide reliable authentication. The findings of this study suggest a hybrid approach to the detection of fake fingerprints that uses information on the texture and shape of the fingerprint. The novelty of this approach lies in integrating both traditional fingerprint information and geometric features obtained through wavelet transformation, which has not been extensively explored in previous studies. The proposed procedure uses the traditional fingerprint information and the geometric features that may be collected by wavelet modification. This allows it to take advantage of the complementary capabilities that these two types of capabilities offer. In addition, the hybrid feature set improves the system’s robustness and accuracy by leveraging each feature type’s unique strengths. To achieve this goal, the standard fingerprint information and the geometric aspects of the fingerprint are combined. It is possible to efficiently identify authentic and forged fingerprints by using these hybrid features and training a gradient boosting classifier. The findings of the studies demonstrate that the suggested technique achieves an accuracy of 96% on medium spoofing photos from the SOCOFing dataset, 97% on hard spoofing images, and 98% on mixed spoofing images. This high level of accuracy, especially on mixed spoofing images, showcases the effectiveness of the novel hybrid approach in diverse and challenging scenarios. This places it in the position of being the most accurate way currently accessible among the existing state‐of‐the‐art methods. Furthermore, the proposed method’s scalability and adaptability make it suitable for real‐world applications, potentially setting a new standard in biometric security. There is a great deal of optimism that the technique that has been described can increase the reliability and safety of biometric systems when used in situations representative of the actual world.
Revolutionizing Patient Reported Outcomes Analysis for Oncology Drug Development Using Population Models
Authors: Zhou Jiawei , Muluneh Benyam , Li Quefeng , Hughes Jim H.
Published: February 2025

Patient reported outcome (PRO) plays a crucial role as clinical endpoint in oncology trials. Traditional statistical methods, such as hypothesis testing, have been commonly used by pharmaceutical industry and regulators to evaluate treatment efficacy on PRO endpoints. However, the analysis of PRO data remains challenging due to high variability and missing data issues. Here, we will present examples where inappropriate statistical analyses of PRO data can confound treatment efficacy analyses. To overcome these challenges, we propose the application of individual participant data and population models. Population models have been extensively used in pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics analyses and are well accepted by regulators. However, their potential in PRO data analyses, particularly in the field of oncology, remains largely untapped. This perspective paper aims to highlight the value of population modeling approaches in PRO data analyses for oncology clinicians and researchers. Population models integrate individual participant data and can effectively handle the substantial variability in PRO measurements by incorporating covariates, between-subject variability, and accounting for measurement noise. By leveraging information from the population, this approach also provides accurate estimations for participants with missing data or sparse sampling. Moreover, these models could be applied to predict long-term PRO dynamics. If used appropriately, population modeling approaches could revolutionize the analysis of PRO data in oncology drug development, enabling a more comprehensive understanding of the impact of treatment on patients' lives. Our aim is to encourage stakeholders to consider population modeling as a standard and effective tool to enhance decision-making and ultimately improve patient care.
Neutrophils Display Novel Partners of Cytosolic Proliferating Cell Nuclear Antigen Involved in Interferon Response in COVID-19 Patients
Authors: Pesenti Lucie , de Oliveira Formiga Rodrigo , Tamassia Nicola , Gardiman Elisa , Chable de La Héronnière François , Gasperini Sara , Chicher Johana , Kuhn Lauriane , Hammann Philippe , Le Gall Morgane , Saraceni-Tasso Giovanni , Martin Clémence , Hosmalin Anne , Breckler Magali , Hervé Roxane , Decker Patrice , Ladjemi Maha Zohra , Pène Frédéric , Burgel Pierre-Régis , Cassatella Marco A. , Witko-Sarsat Véronique
Published: February 2025

Introduction: Neutrophils are key players in the hyperinflammatory response during SARS-CoV-2 infection. The cytosolic proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) is a scaffolding protein highly dependent on the microenvironment status and known to interact with numerous proteins that regulate neutrophil functions. This study aimed to examine the cytosolic protein content and PCNA interactome in neutrophils from COVID-19 patients. Methods: Proteomic analyses were performed on neutrophil cytosols from healthy donors and patients with severe or critical COVID-19. In vitro approaches were used to explore the biological significance of the COVID-19-specific PCNA interactome. Results: Neutrophil cytosol analysis revealed a strong interferon (IFN) protein signature, with variations according to disease severity. Interactome analysis identified associations of PCNA with proteins involved in interferon signaling, cytoskeletal organization, and neutrophil extracellular trap (NET) formation, such as protein arginine deiminase type-4 (PADI4) and histone H3, particularly in critical patients. Functional studies of interferon signaling showed that T2AA, a PCNA scaffold inhibitor, downregulated IFN-related genes, including STAT1, MX1, IFIT1, and IFIT2 in neutrophils. Additionally, T2AA specifically inhibited the secretion of CXCL10, an IFN-dependent cytokine. PCNA was also found to interact with key effector proteins implicated in NET formation, such as histone H3, especially in critical COVID-19 cases. Conclusion: The analysis of the PCNA interactome has unveiled new protein partners that enhance the interferon pathway, thereby modulating immune responses and contributing to hyperinflammation in COVID-19. These findings provide valuable insights into interferon dysregulation in other immune-related conditions.
Aseptic Abscess Syndrome: A Case Report of a Rare Extraintestinal Manifestation of Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Authors: Miranda Clive Jude , Hossein-Javaheri Nariman , Sparacino Gina Marie , Soofi Yousef , Azad Farhan , Duong Nikki
Published: February 2025

Introduction: Aseptic hepatic abscesses are a highly uncommon phenomenon and even more rare in the spectrum of extraintestinal manifestations of inflammatory bowel disease. Part of the spectrum of “neutrophilic disease,” both the pathogenesis and the optimal management of these aseptic abscesses remain unclear. In the context of inflammatory bowel disease, sometimes these abscesses appear despite normal endoscopic findings. Case Presentation: We describe a highly uncommon case of aseptic hepatic abscess formation in a patient with inflammatory bowel disease. Conclusion: In doing so, we investigated the concept of “aseptic abscess syndrome” as it relates to similar autoimmune conditions.
A Rare Case Report of Colonic Pseudolipomatosis with Distinct Endoscopic and Histological Features
Authors: Zhao Qi , Yu Hai-Tao , Wang Qun-Ying , Zhang Wei , Dong Wen-Zhu
Published: February 2025

Introduction: Colonic pseudolipomatosis is a rare benign lesion with distinct endoscopic and histological features. The etiology and pathogenesis of colonic pseudolipomatosis have not been fully clarified and are still controversial to some extent. It is particularly noteworthy that this lesion must be differentiated from real pathological entities to avoid further unnecessary auxiliary examinations and overtreatments. Case Presentation: We report a case of a 61-year-old woman who underwent regular postoperative follow-ups of rectal cancer. The colonoscopy showed multiple slightly elevated whitish plaques with irregular shapes in almost all of the colon. The plaques were biopsied to further define the focal nature. Further histopathological examination revealed numerous scattered or clustered adipocyte-like vacuoles in lamina propria. Immunohistochemistry results were negative for anti-CD34 and anti-protein S-100, supporting the diagnosis of pseudolipomatosis. Conclusion: Colonic pseudolipomatosis is a rare and benign self-limiting condition that should not be mistaken for a pathological entity, especially active inflammation or malignant tumor. Endoscopic lesions commonly regress spontaneously without complications and appropriate management is necessary because it requires no further investigations or treatments.
Prolonged Pubertal Suppression due to Retained Histrelin Implant in Three Children with Central Precocious Puberty
Authors: Marpuri Ian , Geffner Mitchell E. , Chao Lily C.
Published: February 2025

Introduction Histrelin acetate implant (HI) is an approved treatment option for children with central precocious puberty. Implant duration has been reported to surpass the recommended replacement interval of 1 to 2 years. Implant breakage is a known potential adverse effect during the extraction procedure. However, the bioactivity of the retained fragment has not been reported previously. Case Presentation We present three cases of females with central precocious puberty, who received HI for pubertal suppression and experienced implant breakage during extraction. In two cases, the retained fragment suppressed pubertal hormone for five years. In the third case, the HI was left in place due to loss of follow-up and the patient was amenorrheic for the next six years. In all three cases, menstruation occurred after the HI fragments were surgically removed. Conclusion Our case series demonstrate that retained HI fragment can be bioactive for up to five years. If HI breakage occurs during removal, ultrasound localization and surgical extraction of the fragment should be performed.