bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Copeptin Association with Theory of Mind, Cognitive Functions and Symptom Severity in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Polónyiová Katarína , Babková Jaroslava , Babinská Katarína , Ostatníková Daniela 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Arginine vasopressin (AVP) is a neuropeptide whose dysregulation has previously been associated with symptom severity in children with Autism spectrum disorder (ASD), theory of mind (ToM) deficits as well as problems with memory consolidation. However, AVP is rarely measured because of its short half-life and laborious method of detection. Copeptin is a more stable peptide derived from the same precursor molecule and considered a reliable surrogate marker of AVP. The goal of this study was to analyze copeptin levels in children with ASD and to investigate the relationships to their symptom severity, ToM and intellect. Our research sample consisted of 49 children with ASD, 40 boys and 9 girls, aged 6–12 years, in the IQ range of 70–132. Participants were diagnosed at the Academic Research Center for Autism at the Institute of Physiology on the Faculty of Medicine of Comenius University, using ADOS-2 and ADI-R. We used the comic strip task to measure ToM and Woodcock-Johnson International Editions II to assess cognitive abilities of participants. Plasma copeptin levels were evaluated by the ELISA method. Based on the results of Spearman’s correlation coefficient, we identified moderately strong correlations between copeptin concentrations and the restricted, repetitive, and stereotyped patterns of behavior, creativity, thinking ability, memory for names and to a ToM subscale Intentions, but not with overall ToM. Our findings provide evidence of relationships between plasmatic copeptin, a surrogate marker of AVP, and certain behavioral characteristics of children with ASD, in which the involvement of AVP has been assumed.
Conditionality Breeds Contempt: Donor and Multilateral Myopia in Sudan
Authors: Ali Muez , Alneel Muzan , Hassanain Mayada 
Published: January 2025

AbstractSudan’s political distortions under Bashir’s regime between 1989 and 2018 resulted in multiple economic crises and civil wars. After assuming office in 2019, the Transitional Government implemented economic reforms aiming to stabilize the economy. It sought support from donors and international financial institutions, who conditioned support on stringent conditions. Civil society publicly decried the economic reforms and warned of the implications of discounting Sudan’s political distortions. Ultimately, the military orchestrated a coup citing poor economic management. Sudan’s experience highlights the importance of contextual policymaking during political transitions and the limitations of the approach employed by donors and multilateral organizations.
Discovering sanctuaries for the Endangered thick-shelled river mussel Unio crassus in Kaliningradskaya Oblast, Russia
Authors: Popov Igor , Markovets Mikhail , Abakumov Evgeny 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
The thick-shelled river mussel Unio crassus is categorized as Endangered on the IUCN Red List, and searching for surviving populations is urgent. We surveyed for this species in Kaliningradskaya Oblast, a Russian territory lying between Poland and Lithuania, where empty shells of the species had been reported from two rivers. There are at least 125 rivers and numerous small streams in the region, and as a comprehensive survey of all of these watercourses is infeasible, we used a method developed for surveys of the freshwater pearl mussels Margaritifera margaritifera and Margaritifera laevis. This involved a remote assessment of the forests and lakes in the river basins to identify sites potentially suitable for U. crassus based on criteria used for pearl mussels, followed by site surveys. We surveyed six sites and discovered U. crassus in five of those, only two of which support healthy populations. The existence of other U. crassus populations in Kaliningradskaya Oblast is unlikely. This study underscores the critical role of riparian arboreal vegetation for freshwater mussels. The conservation of U. crassus in rivers surrounded by farmlands is challenging because of siltation, eutrophication and other processes that negatively impact the riverine environment. Even the abandonment of these farmlands does not necessarily lead to improvements in mussel survival. Any plans for the restoration of U. crassus will require concurrent restoration of riparian arboreal vegetation.
Coherence‐Based Characterization of a Long‐Period Monochromatic Seismic Signal
Authors: Takano Tomoya , Poli Piero 
Published: January 2025

AbstractContinuous seismic data analysis identifies signals related to physical processes within the Earth or on its surface. Characterizing seismic signals yields insights into source processes and Earth's structural features. Global seismic network analysis of long‐period (25–100 s) surface waves has detected seismic events not identified through high‐frequency body wave analysis. However, detecting long‐lasting monochromatic signals with narrow spectral peaks, which carry valuable information about geological and environmental processes, remains challenging on a global scale. We developed a coherence‐based approach to characterize long‐period monochromatic signals on a global scale. In addition to signals originating from the Gulf of Guinea, Vanuatu islands, and a submarine volcano, we observed a previously unidentified signal originating from the Canadian Arctic, likely associated with glacier dynamics. Our approach explores long‐period monochromatic seismic signals in continuous seismic data, providing a foundation for future studies to characterize the physical processes generating these signals on Earth's surface.
3D Viscoelastic Models of Slip‐Deficit Rate Along the Cascadia Subduction Zone
Authors: Pollitz Fred F. 
Published: January 2025

AbstractInterseismic deformation in the Pacific Northwest is constrained by the horizontal crustal velocity field derived from the Global Positioning System (GPS) in addition to vertical rates derived from GPS, leveling, and tide gauge measurements. Such measurements were folded in to deformation models of fault slip rates as part of the 2023 National Seismic Hazard Model update. Here I build upon one of the contributing models, the viscoelastic earthquake‐cycle model of Pollitz (2022, https://doi.org/10.1785/0220220137). This model permits inclusion of effects of time‐dependent viscoelastic relaxation within earthquake cycles (i.e., “ghost transients”) and laterally variable elastic and/or ductile material properties. I leverage these capabilities to incorporate the Cascadia megathrust into Western U.S.‐wide deformation models in which crustal fault slip rates are estimated simultaneously with slip deficit rates along the interplate boundary between the descending Juan de Fuca plate and North American plate. This effort includes construction of a margin‐wide model of viscoelastic structure founded on the Slab 2.0 model and probes different models of the ductile properties of the surrounding oceanic asthenosphere, continental lower crust, and mantle asthenosphere. This results in new estimates of the distribution of slip deficit rate along the km long margin, highlights the importance of correcting for glacial‐isostatic adjustment effects, and permits assessment of sensitivity of results to assumed ductile properties.
Targeting LMO2-induced autocrine FLT3 signaling to overcome chemoresistance in early T-cell precursor acute lymphoblastic leukemia
Authors: Tremblay Cedric S. , Saw Jesslyn , Yan Feng , Boyle Jacqueline A. , Amarasinghe Ovini , Abdollahi Shokoufeh , Vo Anh N. Q. , Shields Benjamin J. , Mayoh Chelsea , McCalmont Hannah , Evans Kathryn , Steiner Anna , Parsons Kevin , McCormack Matthew P. , Powell David R. , Wong Nicholas C. , Jane Stephen M. , Lock Richard B. , Curtis David J. 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Early T-cell Precursor Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ETP-ALL) is an immature subtype of T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T-ALL) commonly show deregulation of the LMO2-LYL1 stem cell transcription factors, activating mutations of cytokine receptor signaling, and poor early response to intensive chemotherapy. Previously, studies of the Lmo2 transgenic mouse model of ETP-ALL identified a population of stem-like T-cell progenitors with long-term self-renewal capacity and intrinsic chemotherapy resistance linked to cellular quiescence. Here, analyses of Lmo2 transgenic mice, patient-derived xenografts, and single-cell RNA-sequencing data from primary ETP-ALL identified a rare subpopulation of leukemic stem cells expressing high levels of the cytokine receptor FLT3. Despite a highly proliferative state, these FLT3-overexpressing cells had long-term self-renewal capacity and almost complete resistance to chemotherapy. Chromatin immunoprecipitation and assay for transposase-accessible chromatin sequencing demonstrated FLT3 and its ligand may be direct targets of the LMO2 stem-cell complex. Media conditioned by Lmo2 transgenic thymocytes revealed an autocrine FLT3-dependent signaling loop that could be targeted by the FLT3 inhibitor gilteritinib. Consequently, gilteritinib impaired in vivo growth of ETP-ALL and improved the sensitivity to chemotherapy. Furthermore, gilteritinib enhanced response to the BCL2 inhibitor venetoclax, which may enable “chemo-free” treatment of ETP-ALL. Together, these data provide a cellular and molecular explanation for enhanced cytokine signaling in LMO2-driven ETP-ALL beyond activating mutations and a rationale for clinical trials of FLT3 inhibitors in ETP-ALL.
Theoretical and experimental investigations of the CMOS compatible Pirani gauges with a temperature compensation model
Authors: Xu Shizhen , Yang Gai , Chen Junfu , Jiao Rui , Wang Ruoqin , Yu Hongyu , Xie Huikai , Wang Xiaoyi 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
In this article, a CMOS-compatible Pirani vacuum gauge was proposed featuring enhanced sensitivity, lower detection limit, and high-temperature stability, achieved through the implementation of a surface micromachining method coupled with a temperature compensation strategy. To improve performance, a T-type device with a 1 µm gap was fabricated resulting in an average sensitivity of 1.10 V/lgPa, which was 2.89 times larger than that (0.38 V/lgPa) of a L-type device with a 100 µm gap. Additionally, FEA simulations were conducted, analyzing the influence of heater temperature on sensitivity and the attenuation of sensitivity across varying ambient temperatures. A semi-empirical theoretical mode was derived for performance prediction, demonstrating strong alignment with experimental results, underscoring its effectiveness in compensating for sensitivity attenuation. Building on the foundation, the device’s performance under different ambient temperatures was characterized and effectively compensated in two distinct operational modes: constant temperature mode and constant temperature difference mode (the whole range temperature compensation error can be controlled within 2.5%). Finally, the short-time stability (variation level is approximately 1 mV), noise floor (Vrms=384 μV) and detection limit (0.07 Pa @1 Hz) of the device were characterized, confirming its suitability for practical implementation.
Isolated congenital diaphragmatic hernia and three-year neurodevelopmental outcomes
Authors: Toyoshima Katsuaki , Aoki Hirosato , Katsumata Kaoru , Sato Yoshiaki , Inoue Hirosuke , Ito Miharu , Amari Shoichiro , Maruyama Hidehiko , Arahori Hitomi , Kondo Takuya , Kim Kiyokazu , Yamoto Masaya , Saito Tomoko , Okuyama Hiroomi , Usui Noriaki , Terui Keita , Nagata Kouji ,   on behalf of the Japanese Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia Study Group
Published: January 2025

Abstract

Background
To retrospectively investigate the developmental outcomes at 3 years of age in patients with congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) using a multicenter collaborative research approach.

Methods
We evaluated patients with CDH and no other malformations born between 2010 and 2016 in seven facilities in the Japanese CDH Research Group. The developmental quotient (DQ) at 3 years of age was evaluated using the Kyoto Scale of Psychological Development 2001, the most standardized scale in Japan. Factors associated with a DQ score < 85 were also analyzed.

Results
Of 196 patients, developmental assessments at 3 years of age were performed in 132 patients (67%). Among these, 99 patients (75%) had a DQ score ≥ 85, 25 (19%) had a DQ score between 70 and 84, and 8 (6%) had a DQ score < 70. Multivariate analysis showed that the observed/expected lung area-to-head circumference ratio was an independent predictor of a DQ score < 85, with an adjusted odds ratio of 0.62 (95% confidence interval: 0.40–0.96; p = 0.03).

Conclusion
Generally, isolated CDH is associated with good developmental outcomes for survivors, even after intensive care. However, there is a risk of neurodevelopmental impairment if pulmonary hypoplasia is present.

Impact

This research highlights the observed/expected lung area-to-head circumference ratio (o/e LHR) as a crucial indicator to predict neurodevelopmental outcomes in 3-year-old children diagnosed with isolated congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH).

Our results provide robust evidence from a large multicenter cohort, emphasizing the importance of o/e LHR in early risk stratification and prolonged neurodevelopmental follow-up.

These findings highlight the need for comprehensive management and tailored follow-up care in CDH patients, potentially improving clinical protocols and enhancing the quality of life and outcomes for affected children.
Multi-locus inherited neoplasia alleles syndromes in cancer: implications for clinical practice
Authors: Yuen Jeanette , Zhou Siqin , Caeser Rebecca , Venkatramani Mallika , Bte Ishak Diana Nur , Li Shao-Tzu , Zhang Zewen , Chiang Jianbang , Chan Sock Hoai , Ngeow Joanne 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
The popularity of multi-gene testing has identified more families with two or more pathogenic variants (PV) in cancer predisposition genes, also known as ‘MINAS’ (multilocus inherited neoplasia alleles syndromes). They are at risk of suboptimal treatment and management as little on this topic is known. We conducted a systematic review of published MINAS cases within cancer predisposition genes to understand their association with more severe presentations. We analysed 413 MINAS carriers, which included 33 novel cases from the Cancer Genetics Service, National Cancer Centre Singapore. Statistical tests were conducted to assess association between carrier characteristics and the number PV identified. Results suggest that MINAS carriers have more malignancies (31.7% vs 21.5% vs 10.3% %; p < 0.001), a younger median age of first cancer diagnosis (40.0 vs. 44.0 vs. 49.0 years; p < 0.001) and an early onset of cancer (defined as <5% PV-associated cancer risk at age of diagnosis) (24.9% vs 7.7% vs 4.7%; p < 0.001) compared to monoallelic and non-carriers. We also studied the association of clinical characteristics by the dominant or recessive nature of PV harboured, where more dominant-dominant (D-D) carriers reported multiple malignancies (34.0%), compared to dominant-recessive (D-R) (23.9%) and recessive-recessive (R-R) carriers (20%;) (p = 0.051). Our findings suggest that MINAS carriers are prone to more and younger malignancies and the dominant or recessive nature of PV within double carriers can affect clinical presentation. We suggest a framework to guide management based on the dominant or recessive nature of PV within double PV carriers.
3D numerical modeling of the deformation and failure mechanisms of batter pile groups subjected to fault ruptures
Authors: Soomro Mukhtiar Ali , Zhu ZiQing , Aslam Muhammad Shamrooz , Bilal Hazrat , Yahya Abid , Badruddin Irfan Anjum 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Fault ruptures induced by earthquakes pose a significant threat to constructions, particularly underground structures such as pile foundations. Among various foundation types, batter pile foundations are widely used due to their ability to resist inclined forces. To gain new insights into the response of batter pile groups to fault ruptures caused by earthquakes, this study investigates the deformation and failure mechanisms of batter pile groups due to the propagation of normal and reverse fault ruptures using 3D numerical modeling. An advanced hypoplastic constitutive model for clay, which accounts for small-strain stiffness, and a concrete damage plasticity (CDP) model are employed to simulate the soil and the batter pile foundation, respectively. Results show that following fault propagation, nearly 10% tilting and significant displacement occurred at the pile cap, indicating a total failure of the batter pile foundation. It was also observed that the piles bent towards the slipping direction of the hanging wall. Tensile damage to the pile foundation was notably more severe than compression damage. The most severely damaged regions were not only located at the joints between the piles and the pile caps but were also found along the pile shafts.
Relationships between structural stigma, societal stigma, and minority stress among gender minority people
Authors: Clark Kristen D. , Lunn Mitchell R. , Sevelius Jae M. , Dawson-Rose Carol , Weiss Sandra J. , Neilands Torsten B. , Lubensky Micah E. , Obedin-Maliver Juno , Flentje Annesa 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Structural stigma towards gender minority (GM; people whose current gender does not align with sex assigned at birth) people is an important contributor to minority stress (i.e., stress experienced due to one’s marginalized GM identity), although existing variables are unclear in their inclusion of social norms, or societal stigma, as a key component of the construct. We examined potential variables representing structural stigma, including variables that are inclusive of societal stigma, to identify those that most strongly relate to minority stress outcomes. We tested variables identified in the literature as measures of structural stigma inclusive of societal stigma (LGBT + Business Climate Index, state voting behaviors, and Google Trends search data), the most commonly used structural stigma variable (State Policy Environment Tally), and proxy variables (region, population density) for comparison. The relationships between structural stigma and minority stress model outcomes were tested in a sample of GM participants from The Population Research in Identity and Disparities for Equality (PRIDE) Study (N = 2,094) 2019 Annual Questionnaire using a structural equation model (SEM). Lower structural stigma (i.e., higher LGBT Business Climate Index) was associated with lower experienced stigma (β= -0.260, p < .01) and lower anticipated stigma (β= -0.433, p < .001). Greater conservative voting behavior was associated with less experienced stigma (β= -0.103, p < .01). Living in a more densely populated county was also associated with lower anticipated stigma (β=-0.108, p < .001) and greater identity outness (β = 0.053, p < .05). Two of the identified structural stigma variables that were inclusive of societal stigma (i.e., LGBT + Business Climate Index, conservative voting behaviors) and one proxy variable (population density) were associated with minority stress outcomes. However, the most commonly used variable for structural stigma (State Policy Environment Tally) was not associated with any outcomes. The State LGBT + Business Climate Index showed the most promise for use as a structural stigma variable in future research. The application of this variable should be investigated further to explore its association with health outcomes and to inform efforts to reduce health equity barriers experienced by GM people through addressing structural stigma in a manner inclusive of societal stigma.
Novel inhibitors of the (VIBVN) NAT protein identified through pharmacophore modeling
Authors: Wei Wei , Li Xionghao , Hou Ning , Xie Aowei , Liang Huicong , Gao Ting , Jing Xiaoli , Li Liqin , Hao Jiejie , Xu Ximing 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Arylamine N-acetyltransferases (NATs, E.C. 2.3.1.5) constitute a family of phase II drug metabolizing enzymes. These enzymes catalyze the transfer of acetyl groups from acetyl-CoA to a variety of substrates including arylamines, arylhydrazines, and N-hydroxyarylamines. By facilitating these reactions, NATs play a pivotal role in the detoxification and metabolic processing of a wide range of drugs and carcinogens. NAT in marine V. vulnificus plays a role in the metabolism of drugs, leading to the development of drug resistance in marine V. vulnificus. However, inhibitors targeted marine V. vulnificus NAT [(VIBVN)NAT] remain unclear. Therefore, our research aimed to identify potential hit compounds that target (VIBVN)NAT. We integrated multiple computational approaches to screen for effective inhibitors. From this process, we identified two hit compounds, AK-968-11563024 and AG-205-36710025, with IC50 values of 18.86 µM and 33.27 µM, respectively. Molecular dynamics simulations further elucidated the binding mechanism between (VIBVN)NAT and AK-968-11563024. Our study revealed that AK-968-11563024 forms stable interactions with PHE124, HIS167, and TRP230, which may contribute to its biological activity. Our findings provide a valuable foundation for the future development of drugs targeted therapeutics against (VIBVN)NAT.
Determining interaction directionality in complex biochemical networks from stationary measurements
Authors: Leibovich N. 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Revealing interactions in complex systems from observed collective dynamics constitutes a fundamental inverse problem in science. Some methods may reveal undirected network topology, e.g., using node-node correlation. Yet, the direction of the interaction, thus a causal inference, remains to be determined - especially in steady-state observations. We introduce a method to infer the directionality within this network only from a “snapshot” of the abundances of the relevant molecules. We examine the validity of the approach for different properties of the system and the data recorded, such as the molecule’s level variability, the effect of sampling and measurement errors. Simulations suggest that the given approach successfully infer the reaction rates in various cases.