bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Transcriptome Analysis of Left Versus Right Intrinsic Laryngeal Muscles Associated with Innervation
Authors: Kemfack Angela M. , Hernandez‐Morato Ignacio , Moayedi Yalda , Pitman Michael J. 
Published: May 2024

Objectives/HypothesisRecurrent laryngeal nerve injury diagnosed as idiopathic or due to short‐term surgery‐related intubation exhibits a higher incidence of left‐sided paralysis. While this is often attributed to nerve length, it is hypothesized there are asymmetric differences in the expression of genes related to neuromuscular function that may impact reinnervation and contribute to this laterality phenomenon. To test this hypothesis, this study analyzes the transcriptome profiles of the intrinsic laryngeal muscles (ILMs), comparing gene expression in the left versus right, with particular attention to genetic pathways associated with neuromuscular function.Study DesignLaboratory experiment.MethodsRNA was extracted from the left and right sides of the rat posterior cricoarytenoid (PCA), lateral thyroarytenoid (LTA), and medial thyroarytenoid (MTA), respectively. After high‐throughput RNA‐Sequencing, 88 samples were organized into 12 datasets according to their age (P15/adult), sex (male/female), and muscle type (PCA/LTA/MTA). A comprehensive bioinformatics analysis was conducted to compare the left‐right ILMs across different conditions.ResultsA total of 774 differentially expressed genes were identified across the 12 experimental groups, revealing age, sex, and muscle‐specific differences between the left versus right ILMs. Enrichment analysis of Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathways implicated several genes with a left‐right laryngeal muscle asymmetry. These genes are associated with neuronal and muscular physiology, immune/inflammatory response, and hormone control.ConclusionBioinformatics analysis confirmed divergent transcriptome profiles between the left‐right ILMs. This preliminary study identifies putative gene targets that will characterize ILM laterality.Level of EvidenceN/A Laryngoscope, 134:3741–3753, 2024
SiN‐On‐SOI Optical Phased Array LiDAR for Ultra‐Wide Field of View and 4D Sensing
Authors: Chen Baisong , Li Yingzhi , Xie Qijie , Na Quanxin , Tao Min , Wang Ziming , Zhi Zihao , Hu Heming , Li Xuetong , Qu Huan , He Yafang , Hu Xiaolong , Lo Guoqiang , Song Junfeng 
Published: May 2024

Abstract3D imaging techniques are facilitating autonomous vehicles to build intelligent systems. Optical phased arrays (OPAs) featured by all solid‐state configurations are becoming a promising solution for 3D imaging. However, the majority of state‐of‐art OPAs commonly suffer from severe power degradation at the edge of the field of view (FoV), resulting in limited effective FoV and deteriorating 3D imaging quality. Here, the chained grating antenna and the vernier concept is synergized to design a novel OPA for realizing a record wide 160°‐FoV 3D imaging. By virtue of the chained antenna, the OPA exhibits less than 3‐dB beam power variation within the 160°FoV. In addition, two OPAs with different pitches are integrated monolithically to form a quasi‐coaxial Vernier OPA transceiver. With the aid of a flat beam power profile provided by the chained antennas, the OPA exhibits uniform beam quality at an arbitrary steering angle. The superior beam steering performance enables the OPA to accomplish 160° wide‐FoV 3D imaging based on the frequency‐modulated continuous‐wave (FMCW) LiDAR scheme. The ranging accuracy is 5.5‐mm. Moreover, the OPA is also applied to velocity measurement for 4D sensing. To the best of knowledge, it is the first experimental implementation of a Vernier OPA LiDAR on 3D imaging to achieve a remarkable FoV.
Patient‐ and caregiver‐reported impact of symptoms in Duchenne muscular dystrophy
Authors: Rosero Spencer , Weinstein Jennifer , Seabury Jamison , Varma Anika , Dilek Nuran , Zizzi Christine , Coffey Madeleine , Greco Brittany , Heatwole John , Alexandrou Danae , Guntrum Debra , Ciafaloni Emma , Heatwole Chad 
Published: May 2024

AbstractIntroduction/AimsTo better understand the disease burden faced by individuals with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) of all ages and elucidate potential targets for therapeutics, this study determined the prevalence and relative importance of symptoms experienced by individuals with DMD and identified factors associated with a higher disease burden.MethodsWe conducted qualitative interviews with individuals with DMD and caregivers of individuals with DMD to identify potential symptoms of importance to those living with DMD. We subsequently performed a cross‐sectional study to assess which symptoms have the highest prevalence and importance in DMD and to determine which factors are associated with a higher disease burden.ResultsThirty‐nine individuals, aged 11 years and above, provided 3262 quotes regarding the symptomatic burden of DMD. Two hundred participants (87 individuals with DMD and 113 caregivers) participated in a subsequent cross‐sectional study. Individuals with DMD identified limitations with mobility or walking (100%), inability to do activities (98.9%), trouble getting around (97.6%), and leg weakness (97.6%) as the most prevalent and life altering symptomatic themes in DMD. The symptomatic themes with the highest prevalence, as reported by caregivers on behalf of those with DMD for whom they care, were limitations with mobility or walking (90.3%), leg weakness (89.2%), and emotional issues (79.6%). Steroid/glucocorticoid use (e.g., prednisone or deflazacort) was associated with a lower level of disease burden in DMD.DiscussionThere are many symptomatic themes that contribute to disease burden in individuals with DMD. These symptoms are identified by both individuals with DMD and their caregivers and have a variable level of importance and prevalence in the DMD population.
Fully bio‐based flax/furan versus carbon/glass epoxy composites: Scope and limitations in terms of fire and physico‐mechanical performances
Authors: Kandola Baljinder K. , Pornwannachai Wiwat , Weclawski Bartosz , Ebdon John R. 
Published: May 2024

AbstractFire and mechanical performances of a bio‐based flax/furan resin composite are evaluated and, in order to assess their commercial potential, compared with those of conventional carbon/glass fiber‐reinforced composites. Fire retardant (FR) variants of flax/furan were obtained by adding FRs to the resin and using (i) flax or (ii) FR‐treated flax fabrics. With (i), the fire hazard of the composite could be reduced to minimum, without detrimental effect on the mechanical properties. However, use of FR‐flax fabric (ii) led to impairment of mechanical properties. This indicated that for optimized fire and mechanical properties, use of a FR in the resin matrix suffices; there is no advantage in using a FR‐treated flax fabric. Natural aging of the samples for 10 years followed by water aging indicated that water absorption in flax/furan composites was much higher than in comparable carbon/epoxy composites. While there was evidence of released acidic components such as acetic acid, oxalic acid, and so forth, in flax/furan composites, mainly from oxidative degradation of furan resin, there was no evidence of leaching of FR additives from the matrix. However, FR treatment of flax fabric affected the fiber–matrix interfacial adhesion, leading to considerable water absorption during aging and disintegration of the reinforcement.Highlights
Furan resins are naturally fire retardant, burn only under forced combustion.
FR flax/furan composites obtained by adding FRs to the resin or the flax fabric.
FR treatment of the flax impairs mechanical properties and water tolerance.
FRs in the resin neither affect mechanical properties nor leach out in water.
Application of multiple validated algorithms for identifying incident breast cancer among individuals with atopic dermatitis
Authors: Campos Adriana , Ramasubramanian Ramya , Wong Cherise , Marcus Andrea Fleisch 
Published: May 2024

AbstractPurposeValidated algorithms (VAs) in insurance claims databases are often used to estimate the prevalence and incidence of comorbidities and evaluate safety signals. However, although they are then used in different data sources or subpopulations from those in which they were developed the replicability of these VAs are rarely tested, making their application and performance in these settings potentially unknown. This paper describes testing multiple VAs used to identify incident breast cancer cases in a general population and in an indication‐specific population, patients with atopic dermatitis (AD).MethodsTwo algorithms were tested in multiple insurance claims databases and four cohorts were created. Modifications were made to account for the US insurance setting. The resulting incidence rates (IRs) were then compared across algorithms and against surveillance, epidemiology, and end results (SEER) estimates to assess reliability.ResultsAlgorithm 1 produced low IRs compared to Algorithm 2. Algorithm 2 provided similar estimates to those of SEER. Individuals in the AD cohorts experienced lower incident breast cancer cases than those in the general population cohorts.ConclusionRegardless of an algorithm's reported accuracy, the original study setting and targeted population for the VAs may matter when attempting to replicate the algorithm in an indication‐specific subpopulation or varying data sources. Investigators should use caution and conduct sensitivity analyses or use multiple algorithms when attempting to calculate incidence or prevalence estimates using VAs.
Do efficacy results obtained from randomized controlled trials translate to effectiveness data from observational studies for relapsing–remitting multiple sclerosis?
Authors: Verweij Stefan , Ahmed Wouter , Zhou Guiling , Mavridis Dimitris , Nikolakopoulos Stavros , Elferink Andre J. , Rengerink Katrien Oude , Bijlsma Maarten J. , Mol Peter G. M. , Hak Eelko 
Published: May 2024

AbstractBackgroundRandomized controlled trials are considered the gold standard in regulatory decision making, as observational studies are known to have important methodological limitations. However, real‐world evidence may be helpful in specific situations. This review investigates how the effect estimates obtained from randomized controlled trials compare to those obtained from observational studies, using drug therapy for relapsing–remitting multiple sclerosis as an example.Study Design and SettingA systematic review of randomized controlled trials and observational studies was conducted. The primary outcome was the annualized relapse rate. Using (network) meta‐analysis together with posterior predictive distributions, the drug‐specific rate ratios from the network of randomized controlled trials were compared with those from the network of observational studies.ResultsEffect estimates from 26 observational studies showed greater magnitudes and were less precise compared to estimates obtained from 21 randomized controlled trials. Twenty of the 28 treatment comparisons between designs had similar rate ratios. Seven inconsistencies in observed rate ratios could be attributed to two specific disease‐modifying therapies.ConclusionIn this case study, estimates from observational studies predominantly agreed with estimates from randomized controlled trials given their posterior predictive distributions. Multiple observational studies together may therefore supplement additional pivotal randomized controlled trials in relapsing–remitting multiple sclerosis, for instance facilitating the extrapolation of trial results to the broader patient population.
Numerical simulation on cellular structure and mechanical properties of tungsten particles/polymethyl methacrylate microcellular composites
Authors: Zhu Yuxuan , Liu Zhicheng , Liu Ziran , Zhou Danfeng , Luo Guoqiang , Sun Jiuxiao , Cao Peng , Shen Qiang 
Published: May 2024

AbstractMicrocellular composites combine the advantages of composite material and microcellular material. Introducing the inclusion phase into the polymer matrix can optimize the cellular structure and improve the mechanical properties of microcellular materials. This paper focuses on rigid W particles reinforced PMMA microcellular materials, combining compression experiments and meso FE simulations to investigate the structure–property relationship of cellular structure and compressive properties for W/PMMA microcellular composites. The results indicate that W particles promote heterogeneous nucleation, reducing the cell size to 3 μm, and reinforce the PMMA matrix. W particles (10 → 60 wt%) are linearly and exponentially related to compressive modulus and compressive strength of W/PMMA microcellular composites, increased by 49.3% and 19.8%. Void porosity (71% → 48%) is quadratic related to compressive properties of W/PMMA microcellular composites, increased by 109%. Cell sizes (5 → 1 μm, especially smaller than the W particle sizes) are exponentially related to compressive properties of W/PMMA microcellular composites, increased by 38.5%. This work provides theoretical support for the regulation of cellular structure and optimization of mechanical properties of microcellular materials.
Analysis of the homodimeric structure of a D‐Ala‐D‐Ala metallopeptidase, VanX, from vancomycin‐resistant bacteria
Authors: Konuma Tsuyoshi , Takai Tomoyo , Tsuchiya Chieko , Nishida Masayuki , Hashiba Miyu , Yamada Yudai , Shirai Haruka , Motoda Yoko , Nagadoi Aritaka , Chikaishi Eriko , Akagi Ken‐ichi , Akashi Satoko , Yamazaki Toshio , Akutsu Hideo , Ikegami Takahisa 
Published: May 2024

AbstractBacteria that have acquired resistance to most antibiotics, particularly those causing nosocomial infections, create serious problems. Among these, the emergence of vancomycin‐resistant enterococci was a tremendous shock, considering that vancomycin is the last resort for controlling methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus. Therefore, there is an urgent need to develop an inhibitor of VanX, a protein involved in vancomycin resistance. Although the crystal structure of VanX has been resolved, its asymmetric unit contains six molecules aligned in a row. We have developed a structural model of VanX as a stable dimer in solution, primarily utilizing nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) residual dipolar coupling. Despite the 46 kDa molecular mass of the dimer, the analyses, which are typically not as straightforward as those of small proteins around 10 kDa, were successfully conducted. We assigned the main chain using an amino acid‐selective unlabeling method. Because we found that the zinc ion‐coordinating active sites in the dimer structure were situated in the opposite direction to the dimer interface, we generated an active monomer by replacing an amino acid at the dimer interface. The monomer consists of only 202 amino acids and is expected to be used in future studies to screen and improve inhibitors using NMR.
Structural and functional insights into transcription activation of the essential LysR‐type transcriptional regulators
Authors: Shi Jing , Feng Zhenzhen , Song Qian , Wang Fulin , Zhang Zhipeng , Liu Jian , Li Fangfang , Wen Aijia , Liu Tianyu , Ye Zonghang , Zhang Chao , Das Kalyan , Wang Shuang , Feng Yu , Lin Wei 
Published: May 2024

AbstractThe enormous LysR‐type transcriptional regulators (LTTRs), which are diversely distributed amongst prokaryotes, play crucial roles in transcription regulation of genes involved in basic metabolic pathways, virulence and stress resistance. However, the precise transcription activation mechanism of these genes by LTTRs remains to be explored. Here, we determine the cryo‐EM structure of a LTTR‐dependent transcription activation complex comprising of Escherichia coli RNA polymerase (RNAP), an essential LTTR protein GcvA and its cognate promoter DNA. Structural analysis shows two N‐terminal DNA binding domains of GcvA (GcvA_DBD) dimerize and engage the GcvA activation binding sites, presenting the −35 element for specific recognition with the conserved σ70R4. In particular, the versatile C‐terminal domain of α subunit of RNAP directly interconnects with GcvA_DBD, σ70R4 and promoter DNA, providing more interfaces for stabilizing the complex. Moreover, molecular docking supports glycine as one potential inducer of GcvA, and single molecule photobleaching experiments kinetically visualize the occurrence of tetrameric GcvA‐engaged transcription activation complex as suggested for the other LTTR homologs. Thus, a general model for tetrameric LTTR‐dependent transcription activation is proposed. These findings will provide new structural and functional insights into transcription activation of the essential LTTRs.
On‐line machine‐learning forecast uncertainty estimation for sequential data assimilation
Authors: Sacco Maximiliano A. , Pulido Manuel , Ruiz Juan J. , Tandeo Pierre 
Published: May 2024

AbstractQuantifying forecast uncertainty is a key aspect of state‐of‐the‐art numerical weather prediction and data assimilation systems. Ensemble‐based data assimilation systems incorporate state‐dependent uncertainty quantification based on multiple model integrations. However, this approach is demanding in terms of computations and development. In this work, a machine‐learning method is presented based on convolutional neural networks that estimates the state‐dependent forecast uncertainty represented by the forecast error covariance matrix using a single dynamical model integration. This is achieved by the use of a loss function that takes into account the fact that the forecast errors are heteroscedastic. The performance of this approach is examined within a hybrid data assimilation method that combines a Kalman‐like analysis update and the machine‐learning‐based estimation of a state‐dependent forecast error covariance matrix. Observing system simulation experiments are conducted using the Lorenz'96 model as a proof‐of‐concept. The promising results show that the machine‐learning method is able to predict precise values of the forecast covariance matrix in relatively high‐dimensional states. Moreover, the hybrid data assimilation method shows similar performance to the ensemble Kalman filter, outperforming it when the ensembles are relatively small.
SLAMF8 as a potential biomarker for rheumatoid arthritis identified by comparing peripheral blood mononuclear cells, fibroblast‐like synoviocytes, and synovial tissue using bioinformatics analysis
Authors: Zhang Cheng , Huang Huina , Zhang Jie , Huang Yifan , Qin Yuanhua , Li Xia , Wang Guan 
Published: May 2024

AbstractBackgroundRheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune inflammatory disease. Its pathogenesis is not fully understood, and early diagnosis is challenging owing to the lack of effective biomarkers. This study aimed to analyze different samples to identify potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets.MethodsMicroarray datasets of RA, osteoarthritis (OA), and healthy control (HC) were downloaded from the Gene Expression Omnibus database. R software was used to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs), which were visualized using volcano and heat maps. Venn diagrams, principal component analysis, gene set enrichment analysis, gene ontology, and Kyoto Encyclopedia of genes and genomes were used to analyze the data. A protein–protein interaction network was constructed, and synovial tissues from patients with RA and OA were collected for verification using the collagen‐induced arthritis mouse model.ResultsMore DEGs were found in synovial tissues than in peripheral blood mononuclear cells or fibroblast‐like synoviocytes. Principal component analysis revealed significant differences between the RA and OA samples, highlighting the unique advantages of synovial tissue. Enrichment analysis revealed that metabolic and cytokine signaling pathways play crucial roles in the development of RA. Further analysis of the four synovial datasets identified 54 DEGs, of which signaling lymphocytic activation molecule family (SLAMF) 8 was identified as the key molecule. SLAMF8 levels were increased in the synovial tissue of patients with RA compared to those of patients with OA (0.38 ± 0.19 vs. 12.40 ± 1.66), and SLAMF8 levels were similarly elevated in collagen‐induced arthritis model mice compared with those in the healthy mice (1.13 ± 0.47 vs. 9.05 ± 2.52).ConclusionsThis study established the unique advantages of synovial tissue for RA research and identified metabolic and cytokine signaling pathways as important for RA development. Thus, SLAMF8 may be a potential therapeutic target for RA.
Long‐term dynamics of large wood in old‐growth and second‐growth stream reaches in the Cascade Range of Oregon
Authors: Gregory Stanley , Ashkenas Linda , Wildman Randall , Lienkaemper George , Arismendi Ivan , Lamberti Gary A. , Meleason Mark , Penaluna Brooke E. , Sobota Daniel 
Published: May 2024

AbstractWe quantified temporal dynamics of wood storage, input, and transport over a 24‐year period in adjacent old‐growth and second‐growth forested reaches in Mack Creek, a third‐order stream in the Cascade Range of Oregon. The standing stocks of large wood in the old‐growth reach exceeded those at the second‐growth reach by more than double the number of wood pieces and triple the wood volume. Annual inputs of large wood were highly variable. Wood numbers delivered into the old‐growth reach were 3× higher and wood volume 10× greater than in the second‐growth reach. The movement of number and volume of logs did not differ significantly between the two reaches over time. Less than 2% of the logs moved in most years, and the highest proportion moved in the year of the 1996 flood (9% in old growth and 22% in second growth). Most of the large wood aggregated as jams in both reaches. The second‐growth reach lacked major jams, but 29% of the logs in the old growth were in full‐channel spanning jams. Long‐term observations of annual storage, input, and movement reveal the temporal dynamics of wood rather than static representations of the characteristics of wood. Input events and transport of wood in Mack Creek were episodic and varied greatly over the 24‐year study, which illustrates one of the major challenges and opportunities for understanding the cumulative dynamics of wood in streams.
Women's leadership communication patterns in the political areas in Lampung province Indonesia
Authors: Yanti Fitri , Amaliah Eni 
Published: May 2024

AbstractPatriarchal culture still dominates among women in Indonesia and several other countries, often resulting in discrimination. Although almost every country has laws regulating women's positions in the public sector, developing women's roles and positions is still slow, especially in government institutions. This research highlights the importance of women's leadership roles as potential resources for nation‐building. This research uses a holistic approach with an orientation toward natural descriptive data and a qualitative approach through a case study method. In Lampung Province, only two districts have female regional heads, namely the mayor of Bandar Lampung and the regent of Tanggamus. The study found that both leaders used communication patterns that were appropriate to local conditions: the mayor of Bandar Lampung adopted persuasive and participatory patterns, while the regent of Tanggamus used democratic and collaborative communication approaches with a focus on MSME actors and the community. These communication patterns are key to building strong relationships with constituents and achieving better development goals for the region.