bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Trust‐Aware Sybil Attack Detection for Resilient Vehicular Communication
Authors: Morton Thomas L. , Borah Abinash , Paranjothi Anirudh 
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACTConnected autonomous vehicles, or Vehicular Ad hoc Networks (VANETs), hold great promise, but concerns persist regarding safety, privacy, and security, particularly in the face of Sybil attacks, where malicious entities falsify neighboring traffic information. Despite advancements in detection techniques, many approaches suffer from processing delays and reliance on broad architecture, posing significant risks in mitigating attack damages. To address these concerns, our research proposes a Trust Aware Sybil Event Recognition (TASER) framework for assessing the integrity of vehicle data in VANETs. This framework evaluates information exchanged within local vehicle clusters, maintaining a cumulative trust metric for each vehicle based on reported data integrity. Suspicious entities failing to meet trust metric thresholds are statistically evaluated, and their legitimacy is challenged using directional antennas to verify their reported GPS locations. We evaluate our framework using the OMNeT++ discrete event simulator, SUMO traffic simulator, and VEINS interface with TraCI API. Our approach reduces attack detection times by up to 66% in urban scenarios, with accuracy varying by no more than 3% across simulations containing up to 30% Sybil nodes and operates without reliance on roadside infrastructure.
Shape Memory Polymer Scaffolds—Utility for In Vitro Osteogenesis of Canine Multipotent Stromal Cells
Authors: Gasson Shelby B. , Dobson Lauren K. , Pfau‐Cloud Michaela R. , Beltran Felipe O. , Gregory Carl A. , Grunlan Melissa A. , Saunders W. Brian 
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACTA biodegradable, shape memory polymer (SMP) scaffold based on poly(ε‐caprolactone) (PCL) represents an attractive alternative therapy for the repair of critically sized bone defects given its ability to press‐fit within irregular defects. Clinical translation of SMP scaffolds requires successful movement beyond proof‐of‐concept rodent studies through a relevant large‐animal model and into the clinical setting. In addition to representing a clinical veterinary population, the canine species is a strong translational model for humans due to similarities in orthopedic disorders, biomechanics, and bone healing. The present study was performed to assess in vitro cytocompatibility and osteogenic differentiation of canine multipotent stromal cells (cMSCs) cultured on SMP scaffolds in preparation for future canine in vivo studies. Two different SMP scaffold compositions were utilized: a “PCL‐only” scaffold prepared from PCL‐diacrylate (PCL‐DA) and a semi‐interpenetrating network (semi‐IPN) formed from PCL‐DA and poly(L‐lactic acid) (PCL:PLLA). The PCL:PLLA scaffolds degrade faster and are more mechanically rigid versus the PCL scaffolds. Canine bone marrow–derived MSCs (cMSCs) were evaluated in terms of attachment, proliferation, and osteogenic differentiation. cMSCs exhibited excellent cytocompatibility, attachment, and proliferation on both SMP scaffold compositions. PCL scaffolds were more conducive to both early‐ and late‐stage in vitro osteogenesis of cMSCs versus PCL:PLLA scaffolds. However, cMSCs deposited mineralized extracellular matrix over 21 days when cultured on both SMP scaffold compositions. These results demonstrate that the SMP scaffolds are suitable for in vitro cMSC attachment, proliferation, and osteogenic differentiation, representing a significant step toward canine in vivo studies and potential translation to human patients.
Autophagy in the Cellular Consequences of Tobacco Smoking: Insights into Senescence
Authors: Akhtari Maryam , Jalalvand Mobina , Sadr Makan , Sharifi Hooman 
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACTSmoking is a significant contributing factor to the development of many complex diseases. One of the most important stimuli for aging in the human body is constant exposure to environmental factors such as cigarette smoke. Free radicals in cigarette smoke cause reactive oxygen species production at the cellular level and induce inflammatory responses. The respiratory system of smokers exhibits age‐related characteristics, such as enhanced oxidative stress, accumulated damaged proteins, and increased inflammation. Autophagy is triggered by tobacco smoke as a protective mechanism to prevent and reduce molecular stress. However, smoking can interfere with the normal functioning of autophagy in various ways. Smoking‐induced impairment of autophagy leads to irreversible cellular damage accumulation, causing cells to undergo cellular aging or senescence. Senescent cells lose their ability to divide and display a distinct secretory phenotype called the senescence‐associated secretory phenotype (SASP) and produce numerous growth factors, immune modulators, and inflammatory cytokines. This review discusses the effects of tobacco smoke exposure on autophagy alteration, cellular aging, and senescence induction in exposed animal models, as well as in exposed epithelial and immune cells in the body.
Circ‐ECH1 May Compete With miR‐708‐5p to Regulate Ntrk2 in Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia
Authors: Cheng Hanrong , Li Dongcai , Tang Yuming , Hu Tianyong , Wu Benqing 
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACTBronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) affects patients' quality of life. Circular RNAs participated in BPD. However, circ‐ECH1's role in BPD has not been reported yet. This study aimed to explore the role and mechanism of circ‐ECH1 in BPD. Hyperoxia‐treated type II alveolar epithelial cells (L2 cells) were used as the in vitro BPD model. CCK‐8, flow cytometry, and reactive oxygen species (ROS) were used to evaluate cell viability. Fluorescence in situ hybridization confirmed the subcellular localization. Circ‐ECH1 overexpression (or inhibited) and miR‐708‐5p mimics were used to investigate the roles of circ‐ECH1 and miR‐708‐5p in BPD. Quantitative reverse‐transcription polymerase reaction (qRT‐PCR) detected the expressions of circ‐ECH1, miR‐708‐5p, and neurotrophic receptor tyrosine kinase 2 (Ntrk2). Ntrk2 expression was evaluated by Western blot analysis. Changes in lung tissues were evaluated by hematoxylin and eosin staining. Pulmonary fibrosis was examined by Mason staining. TUNEL staining was performed to evaluate cell apoptosis in lung tissues. RNA sequencing was performed in the lung tissues of BPD rats. The binding between circ‐ECH1 and miR‐708‐5p was confirmed through dual luciferase activity. Hyperoxia reduced cell viability and increased cell apoptosis and ROS accumulation. In addition, hyperoxia decreased the expression levels of circ‐ECH1, which is mainly located in the cytoplasm. Circ‐ECH1 overexpression increased cell viability but reduced cell apoptosis and ROS accumulation. On the contrary, interference with circ‐ECH1 further promoted cell apoptosis and reduced cell activity. Furthermore, circ‐ECH1 overexpression reduced the incidence of pulmonary fibrosis and lung cell apoptosis. RNA sequencing, followed by qRT‐PCR, confirmed that the expressions of Ntrk2 and miR‐708‐5p were affected by circ‐ECH1. miR‐708‐5p mimics reversed the role of circ‐ECH1 in the BPD. Mechanistically, circ‐ECH1 may bind with miR‐708‐5p to regulate Ntrk2 expression. Circ‐ECH1 may compet with miR‐708‐5p to regulate Ntrk2 expression in BPD. The findings provided a new target for BPD treatment.
Recent infection testing to inform HIV prevention responses and surveillance in a programme context: lessons from implementation within a nationally scaled female sex worker programme in Zimbabwe
Authors: Jones Harriet S. , Machingura Fortunate , Gaihai Leah , Makamba Memory , Chanyowedza Thomas , Masvikeni Panganai , Matsikire Edward , Matambanadzo Primrose , Musemburi Sithembile , Chida Phillip N. , Dirawo Jeffery , Mugurungi Owen , Bourdin Sarah , Hensen Bernadette , Platt Lucy , Murphy Gary , Hargreaves James R. , Cowan Frances M. , Rice Brian 
Published: November 2024

AbstractIntroductionIn the context of key population HIV testing programmes, identifying new HIV acquisitions, tracking incidence, and responding with prevention and treatment interventions will be critical for achieving HIV epidemic control. Laboratory tests for recently acquired HIV used as part of a “recent infection testing algorithm” (RITA), offer a potential tool to support this work. We implemented a RITA for female sex workers (FSWs) in Zimbabwe to explore opportunities and programmatic benefits.MethodsBetween October 2021 and January 2023, recency testing was offered to FSWs attending the Centre for Sexual Health and HIV/AIDS Research (CeSHHAR) Zimbabwe's key populations programme. Dried blood spot (DBS) samples were taken at 86 clinic sites across 10 provinces and Laboratory LAg Avidity and viral load testing conducted. RITA results were analysed and linked to programme data to explore geographical differences and calculate HIV incidence. We describe concurrent efforts in HIV testing for social (social network testing [SNT]) and sexual (index case testing [ICT]) contacts of those testing HIV positive.ResultsAmong 24,976 FSWs tested at programme sites, 9.5% (2363/24,976) were confirmed HIV positive. We enrolled 55.5% (1311/2363) of eligible HIV‐positive FSWs to our study, of whom 11.7% (153/1311) were identified as having recently acquired HIV. It took a median of 37 days (IQR 20–67) for samples to be processed. Enrolment rates varied between provinces but the proportion of recently acquired HIV was similar (range: 18.4% to 4.0%). Overall HIV incidence was 3.4 (95% CI 2.7−4.0) per 100py. Where results could be linked to routinely collected data, we found no evidence of a difference in test‐positivity between the ICT and SNT contacts of those with recently acquired compared to those with long‐term HIV.ConclusionsImplementation of a RITA was possible within a nationally scaled sex worker programme, and while challenging to implement, can provide an understanding of transmission dynamics and HIV incidence in this context. Sub‐optimal recruitment and data linkage limited the interpretation of our findings and opportunities for strategic gains though focusing on HIV prevention efforts.
Authenticity Perceptions of Informational and Transformational Advertising: Decoding the Role of Construal Level Mindset
Authors: Papadopoulou Christina , Hultman Magnus , Oghazi Pejvak 
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACTFemvertising, a progressive advertising approach, combines product promotion with empowering messages for women. Recent trends, especially in feminine hygiene, have shifted towards such empowering narratives, moving away from traditional stigmatized portrayals of women. This research investigates how femvertising impacts consumer perceptions in feminine hygiene advertising. Focusing on transformational versus informational advertising, we examine femvertising's effects on purchase behavior together with the role of perceived authenticity, and the impact of consumers’ construal level mindset. The findings from four experimental studies reveal that transformational messages significantly boost purchase behavior more than informational ones. Key to this effect is the alignment of message framing with the consumer's construal level and the mediating role of perceived authenticity. These results provide critical insights for brands using femvertising strategies, emphasizing the importance of authentic, resonant messages aligned with the target audience's mindset.
Performance of Dysmorphology‐Based Screening for Genetic Disorders in Pediatric Congenital Heart Disease Supports Wider Genetic Testing
Authors: Helm Benjamin M. , Helvaty Lindsey R. , Conboy Erin , Geddes Gabrielle C. , Graham Brett H. , Lah Melissa , Wetherill Leah , Landis Benjamin J. , Ware Stephanie M. 
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACTBackgroundDysmorphology evaluation is important for congenital heart disease (CHD) assessment, but there are no prior investigations quantifying the screening performance compared to standardized genetics evaluations. We investigated this through systematic dysmorphology assessment in CHD patients with standardized genetic testing in primarily pediatric patients with CHD.MethodsDysmorphology evaluations preceding genetic testing results allowed us to test for associations between dysmorphic status and genetic diagnoses while adjusting for extracardiac anomalies (ECAs). We use a test‐negative case–control design on a pediatric inpatient CHD cohort for our study.ResultsOf 568 patients, nearly 96% of patients completed genetic testing, primarily chromosome microarray (CMA) ± exome sequencing‐based genetic testing (493/568, 86.8%). Overall, 115 patients (20.2%) were found to have genetic diagnoses, and dysmorphic patients had doubled risk of genetic diagnoses, after ECA adjustment (OR = 2.10, p = 0.0030). We found that 7.9% (14/178) of ECA−/nondysmorphic patients had genetic diagnoses, which increased to 13.5% (26/192) in the ECA−/dysmorphic patients. Nearly 43% of ECA+/dysmorphic patients had genetic diagnoses (63/147). The positive predictive value of dysmorphic status was only 26.3%, and the negative predictive value of nondysmorphic status was 88.7%.ConclusionsDysmorphology‐based prediction of genetic disorders is limited because of diagnoses found in apparently isolated CHD. Our findings represent one of the only assessments of phenotype‐based screening for genetic disorders in CHD and should inform clinical genetics evaluation practices for pediatric CHD.
Variability in Disease Severity in Siblings With Homozygous Missense Variant of ADSSL1: Clinical Genetic Study and Review of Literatures
Authors: Wang Hui , Zhang Ting , Xu Yanming , Fan Wenhui 
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACTBackgroundDistal myopathies are genetic muscle disorders caused by mutations in various genes. A study found that mutations in adenylosuccinate synthetase‐like 1 (ADSSL1) are associated with distal myopathy in nine patients from six unrelated families in South Korea. Previous research showed that affected individuals experienced distal muscle weakness starting in adolescence, along with mild facial muscle weakness, slightly elevated or normal serum creatine kinase (CK) levels, and the presence of a few rimmed vacuoles in muscle fibers or minimal chronic myopathic damage. Previously reported patients in this category exhibited an early age of symptom onset and severe muscle weakness. In this study, we present a case of two sisters who share the same mutation locus but display distinct disease phenotypes.MethodsA literature review was conducted on distal myopathies in patients with ADSSL1 mutations, alongside a retrospective analysis of disease severity variability among siblings with a homozygous missense variant of ADSSL1.ResultsThe study focuses on two sisters with differing disease manifestations despite carrying the same genetic mutation. The older sister showed lower ability in running and jumping compared to her peers at age 7 and experienced notable muscle weakness and atrophy by age 27, whereas the younger sister remained free of symptoms at age 30.ConclusionThese findings suggest that mutations at the same locus can result in varying disease outcomes, emphasizing the complexity of predicting disease progression based solely on genetic mutations.
Systematic Review of Studies Investigating Hospital Readmissions in Pediatric Oncology
Authors: Hassan Hadeel , Chen Yujie , Lu Amy Duoli , Arciniegas Santiago Eduardo , Yan Adam Paul , Guo Lin Lawrence , Sung Lillian 
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACTPurposeThis systematic review aimed to identify and synthesize evidence on hospital readmissions among pediatric oncology patients, focusing on the indications, risk factors, and proposed strategies to prevent readmissions.MethodThe review followed PRISMA 2020 guidelines. Databases including Embase, Medline, Scopus, Mendeley, and Google Scholar were searched. Studies examining hospital readmission as a main outcome in pediatric cancer patients, including those undergoing surgical oncology procedures or receiving hematopoietic cell transplantation, were included. Quality assessment was undertaken using the Newcastle–Ottawa Scale and PROBAST tool.ResultsA total of 18 studies met the inclusion criteria. The studies spanned from 2008 to 2023, with an increase in publications from 2020 onward (61%). Fever and infection were the most common readmission indications. Statistically significant risk factors reported included younger age, specific cancer types (e.g., acute lymphoblastic leukemia), and socioeconomic factors. Prevention strategies proposed included early follow‐up, tailored anticipatory guidance, discharge education, and specialized care at pediatric oncology centers.ConclusionsThis systematic review highlights the multifaceted nature of hospital readmissions in pediatric oncology patients and the need for standardized definitions, additional studies, and comprehensive interventions. Future research should focus on high‐quality prospective studies, integration of predictive analytics, and addressing socioeconomic disparities to improve patient outcomes.
Distinct substrate specificities of the three catalytic subunits of the Trichomonas vaginalis proteasome
Authors: Fajtova Pavla , Hurysz Brianna M. , Miyamoto Yukiko , Serafim Mateus Sá M. , Jiang Zhenze , Vazquez Julia M. , Trujillo Diego F. , Liu Lawrence J. , Somani Urvashi , Almaliti Jehad , Myers Samuel A. , Caffrey Conor R. , Gerwick William H. , McMinn Dustin L. , Kirk Christopher J. , Boura Evzen , Eckmann Lars , O'Donoghue Anthony J. 
Published: November 2024

AbstractThe protozoan parasite Trichomonas vaginalis (Tv) causes trichomoniasis, the most common non‐viral sexually transmitted infection in the world. Although Tv has been linked to significant health complications, only two closely related 5‐nitroimidazole drugs are approved for its treatment. The emergence of resistance to these drugs and lack of alternative treatment options poses an increasing threat to public health, making development of novel anti‐Trichomonas compounds an urgent need. The proteasome, a critical enzyme complex found in all eukaryotes has three catalytic subunits, β1, β2, and β5 and has been validated as a drug target to treat trichomoniasis. With the goal of developing tools to study the Tv proteasome, we isolated the enzyme complex and identified inhibitors that preferentially inactivate either one or two of the three catalytic subunits. Using a mass spectrometry‐based peptide digestion assay, these inhibitors were used to define the substrate preferences of the β1, β2 and β5 subunits. Subsequently, three model fluorogenic substrates were designed, each specific for one of the catalytic subunits. This novel substrate profiling methodology will allow for individual subunit characterization of other proteasomes of interest. Using the new substrates, we screened a library of 284 peptide epoxyketone inhibitors against Tv and determined the subunits targeted by the most active compounds. The data show that inhibition of the Tv β5 subunit alone is toxic to the parasite. Taken together, the optimized proteasome subunit substrates will be instrumental for understanding the molecular determinants of proteasome specificity and for accelerating drug development against trichomoniasis.
Evolutionary model of repeat insertions in Ataxin‐3 traces the origin of the polyglutamine stretch to an ancestral ubiquitin binding module
Authors: Felício Daniela , Martins Sandra , Alves Guilherme Pimenta , Amorim António , Macedo‐Ribeiro Sandra , Merski Matthew 
Published: November 2024

AbstractThe human ataxin‐3 protein contains an N‐terminal Josephin domain, composed of a papain‐like cysteine protease with a helical hairpin insertion, and a C‐terminal region with two or three ubiquitin interacting motifs and a polyglutamine tract. Expansion of the polyglutamine tract leading to protein aggregation and neuronal degradation has been linked to Machado‐Joseph disease/spinocerebellar ataxia type 3, the most common form of dominantly inherited ataxia. In this study, we performed sequence self‐homology dot plot analysis and compared orthologous proteins to analyze the architecture of ataxin‐3 during the evolution of Filozoa. This analysis uncovered up to three additional repetitions of the ubiquitin binding motif in ataxin‐3, including the helical hairpin insertion in the Josephin domain, and revealed a highly conserved multimodular architecture that is broadly preserved throughout the Filozoa. Overall, a set of 78 putative ubiquitin binding repeats from 18 exemplar proteins were identified. Apparent neofunctionalization events could also be recognized, including modification of repeat 5 which gave rise to the disease‐linked polyglutamine tract, just before the Sarcopterygian divergence. This model provides a unifying principle for the ataxin‐3 protein architecture and can potentially provide new insights into the role of molecular interactions in ataxin‐3 function and Machado‐Joseph disease/spinocerebellar ataxia type 3 disease mechanisms.
An Efficient Tri‐Conductive Electrode for Ethane Direct Electrochemical Dehydrogenation on Proton Ceramic Electrolysis Cells
Authors: Zhang Shixian , Sun Wang , Xu Chunming , Ren Rongzheng , Qiao Jinshuo , Wang Zhenhua , Sun Kening 
Published: November 2024

AbstractThe preparation of ethylene from ethane, a main component of shale gas, has become an important process of the petrochemical industry, using ethane steam cracking at high temperatures (>900 °C), which is a highly energy intensive industry. Here, direct dehydrogenation of ethane is engineered electrochemically to produce ethylene and hydrogen in a proton‐conducting electrolysis cell, achieving over 50% ethane conversion and 90.42% ethylene selectivity at 700 °C. On the basis of constructing NiCu bimetallic alloy nano‐catalyst on the surface of perovskite Sr3Fe2O7, Hafnium (Hf) element is doped in the bulk phase to improve proton conductivity, establish triple conductivity, and achieve efficient directional conversion of ethane. The carbon dioxide reduction reaction at the cathode is further coupled, resulting in a higher conversion of ethane on the anode side and the production of syngas on the cathode side. This electrochemical reaction process provides a choice for the clean production of high value‐added small molecule chemical products.
Accommodation and critique: A necessary tension
Authors: Smith Alistair J. , Midgley Gerald 
Published: November 2024

AbstractA dilemma in critical systems thinking is how to balance a desire for critique to inspire far‐reaching transformations in society with the requirement for people to reach accommodations to enable on‐the‐ground change. Both critique and accommodation are necessary to realise transformations, yet they are often in tension. If critique is undertaken by lone researchers and prioritised over accommodation, then the lack of stakeholder buy‐in can lead to a failure of implementation. Conversely, if accommodation is prioritised over critique, then implementation is more likely, but it may be less than transformative due to the need to keep more conservative stakeholders engaged. A strategy to address this problem is offered by Gillian Rose. This paper discusses how her strategy can inform critical systems thinking. It then ends with more general reflections on the value of the work of Gillian Rose for systemic intervention.