Systemic Signs Research Articles

Distinct PathophysiologicPathways Support Stratification of Sjögren's Disease Based on Symptoms, Clinical, and Routine Biological Data.

Recently, three distinct phenotypes of patients with Sjögren disease (SjD) have been described based on cluster analysis: B cell active with low symptoms (BALS), high systemic activity (HSA), and low systemic activity with high symptoms (LSAHS). We aimed to assess whether these clusters were associated with distinct biomarkers and the prognostic value of interferon (IFN) signature. The Assessment of Systemic Signs and Evolution in Sjögren's Syndrome cohort is a 20-year prospective cohort of patients with SjD. The following biomarkers were compared: IFN-α2, IFN-γ, CXCL10, CXCL13, BAFF, interleukin (IL)-7, fms-like tyrosine kinase 3 ligand, CCL19, and tumor necrosis factor receptor 2 (TNF-RII). IFN signature was assessed using transcriptomic analysis. We then compared systemic and symptomatic evolution, and the risk of new immunosuppressant prescription and of lymphoma, according to the IFN signature across the three clusters. A total of 395 patients (94% female, median age 53 [interquartile range 43-63] years) were included. Higher levels of CXCL13, IL-7, and TNF-RII were found in the BALS and HSA clusters compared with the LSAHS cluster. A high IFN signature was mainly found in the BALS cluster (57%, vs 48% and 38% in the HSA and LSAHS clusters, respectively). This IFN signature was mainly driven by type I IFN, with higher levels of IFN-α2. In the BALS cluster, a high IFN signature was associated with a higher risk of new immunosuppressant treatment (hazard ratio 9.38; 95% confidence interval 1.22-72.16). All lymphoma occurred in patients with high IFN signature. The three SjD clusters displayed distinct expressions of IFN signature and markers of T and B cell activation, confirming distinct pathophysiologic mechanisms. High IFN signature could predict systemic evolution in the BALS cluster.

Integrating Safety and Efficiency: Design and Evaluation of Dynamic Emergency Evacuation Sign System in Urban Rail Transit

Integrating Safety and Efficiency: Design and Evaluation of Dynamic Emergency Evacuation Sign System in Urban Rail Transit

Semiotics of law: essence and prospects of scientific research

The presented work is focused on the semiotics of law as a separate sphere of legal knowledge, which has a direct outlet to practice in the sense of relevant construction of signs in the form of terms, concepts, definitions, and scientific paradigms. The author refers to the evolution of the semiotics development, highlighting the main stages and key achievements that have become axioms to date. At the same time, the main components of semiosis are defined as a process, a way of the meaning cognition through a sign. Interpretation, which gives meaning to signs, which contributes to the cognition of the Other, is one of the main aspects in the process of cognition of signs. In the process of research, the author directly refers to legal semiotics, since law represents an endless system of signs and meanings that acquire sense through interpretation. The article attempts to substantiate the practical significance of semiotics for jurisprudence.

The cult of the Virgin, Icons and Relics in Early Christian and Medieval Rome. A Semiotic Approach and a Sixth Century Proposal

The article traces the development of the cult of the Virgin, relics, and icons in early medieval Rome and proposes a sixth-century dating for the emergence of these cult types as channels of communication with the invisible. In so doing, these cult types are looked at as constituents of a sign system according to Charles Sanders Peirce’s theory of signs.

Le langage des pagnes en Côte d’Ivoire : perspectives sémiotique et sociolinguistique

Abstract. Language has several facets of definitions, among which we postulate that of Vendryes (1923:9) who defines language as `` a system of signs [...]. By sign is meant any symbol capable of serving as means of communication among men. Language occurs whenever two individuals, having attributed by convention a certain meaning to a given act, perform this act with a view to communicating among themselves”. This paper attempts to study the language of wax fabrics, which, loaded with day- to- day experiences, transmit messages through the different names given to them to reflect the social realities of Ivorians. To achieve this objective, it should be noted that the conception of language as a sign system is not only linked to linguistics, it also calls for a semiotic approach which is the general study of verbal and non-verbal sign systems. Describing and understanding how these systems work will be part of our concern. We will then use the sociolinguistic approach of Labov (1976) to evaluate the various expressions of the wax fabric, its powers in its different uses and its different functions in the Ivoirian society. Mots-clés : Côte d’Ivoire, pagne, langage, sémiologie, sociolinguistique. Keywords: Ivory Coast, wax fabric, language, semiology, sociolinguistics.

The Arabic haiku: when two easts’ languages and literature meet

ABSTRACT Language is a system of signs and symbols that constitutes a tool for knowledge and communication because it is considered the most important means of understanding and contact between the members of the one society and other nations. The contact between nations and the exchange of literature and the borrowing of words happen through language contact. The present study aims at focusing on the linguistic and literature contact between the Japanese language and the Arabic language through investigating the impact of the Japanese haiku in the Arabic modern poetry. The study will include five Arabic haiku poems for six Arabic poets as a representative sample. The findings of the study show that the Arabic haiku poems follow the roles and the structures, the subjects that the Japanese haiku follows.

Clinical and prognostic relevance of Mycoplasma felis PCR detection in feline lower respiratory tract disease

Objectives The aim of this retrospective cohort study was to compare two groups of cats with lower respiratory tract disease, one with Mycoplasma felis detected by PCR in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) (M+) and the other without (M–), with regard to signalment, clinical signs, diagnostic results, treatment response and survival. Methods All cats for which M felis was investigated by PCR in BALF between 2016 and 2023 were included. Cats with evidence of oropharyngeal contamination, or for which PCR results were under the quantification level, or without follow-up information were excluded. Cats that had received antibiotics effective against M felis before BALF collection were excluded if PCR results were negative. Follow-up information was retrieved from the medical records and by contacting referring veterinarians and owners. Results A total of 55 cats were included (19 in the M+ group and 36 in the M– group). Significant differences were detected between the two groups in the prevalence of systemic signs (M+: 0%, M–: 28%; P = 0.01), bronchial collapse on bronchoscopy (M+: 28%, M–: 6%; P = 0.03), radiographic alveolar lesions (M+: 57%, M–: 24%; P = 0.04), and percentage of neutrophils (M+: 65%, M–: 35%; P = 0.002) and eosinophils (M+: 9%, M–: 25%; P = 0.03) in the BALF. Antibiotics were used more frequently in M+ cats (M+: 90%, M–: 42%; P = 0.001) than in M– cats. No significant difference was found in treatment response (short term: P = 0.94, long term: P = 0.28) and risk of death ( P = 0.42) between the two groups. Conclusions and relevance The presence of radiographic alveolar lesions and neutrophilia in BALF was significantly associated with the detection of M felis in BALF. This association might be causal, consequential or contextual (ie, sharing the same cause). The detection of M felis in BALF did not negatively impact prognosis but the necessity to treat M felis using targeted antibiotics remains to be determined.

Signify: An Enhancing ASL Communication Model with Deep Learning

Technology is now employed to solve practically all humanity's problems. The vast communication gap between the common people and the deaf community is one of the society's fundamental challenges. Computer-based American Sign Language (ASL) systems that translate gestures into text/speech are now being developed by researchers all over the world. This paper attempts to summarize the current state-of-the-art methodologies used by various researchers in the field of ASL systems, right from collecting the data, image processing and using it to translate the gestures. Moreover, the steps followed to develop a ASL system are discussed, and some of the existing ASL applications are reviewed.

Designing Sign System in Sirah Kencong Blitar as A Tourists Information Media

Blitar Regency, which is located in East Java Province, offers interesting natural and cultural riches. According to Detik Travel, as of April 2023, there are 35 tourist attractions that attract the attention of visitors, making Blitar a popular destination. One of them is Sirah Kencong, a tourist area with unique advantages. However, the current sign system is still traditional and less effective in providing clear guidance to visitors. By applying visual communication design and semiotic theory, this redesign is expected to improve navigation, provide more complete information, and increase a satisfying tourist experience. Significant visit data shows the need to improve information infrastructure to support sustainable tourism growth. It is hoped that the implementation of an innovative, consistent and inclusive sign system can optimize the natural tourism potential of Sirah Kencong by presenting clear information and supporting the overall visitor experience.

Research on Users’ Willingness to Use the Urban Subway Wayfinding Signage System Based on the DeLone & McLean Model Theory: A Case Study of Wuxi Subway

This study, which is grounded in the information systems success model (D&M model) proposed by Delone and Mclean, investigates user satisfaction and the intention to continue using the urban subway signage system; Wuxi subway is taken as a case study. Through a questionnaire survey, the research integrates elements from the D&M theory, such as information quality, system quality, service quality, user satisfaction, and intention to use. The data were collected using a combination of online and offline survey methods and were analyzed using IBM SPSS 23 and AMOS 23. The findings reveal that system quality serves as a crucial driver of user satisfaction, while service quality exerts the most significant influence on users’ intention to use. Additionally, information quality is equally important. The optimization suggestions encompass the need to ensure the relevance, completeness, timeliness, and accuracy of information; enhance the usability and reliability of the system; and bolster the responsiveness, empathy, and tangibles of the service. These discoveries provide a scientific basis and practical guidance for optimizing the signage systems of Wuxi subway and other urban public transportation systems, with the aim of elevating passengers’ intention to use and their satisfaction.

Operational considerations for approximating molecular assembly by Fourier transform mass spectrometry

Some of the most common life detection techniques for planetary exploration focus on organic molecule characterization, but life on other planets may not chemically resemble that found on Earth. Therefore, an agnostic detection system of signs of life (biosignatures) is essential. Assembly Theory (AT) is a conceptual tool for understanding evolution and object formation that has been useful in developing an approach to quantify molecular complexity via the Molecular Assembly index, which when combined with abundance, allows the total assembly number of a sample to be calculated. Because AT makes no assumptions about the chemistry of life, it is an agnostic tool that identifies molecular structures that are probabilistically more likely to have arisen via selection and therefore biological processes. AT uses graph theory to quantify molecular complexity by finding the shortest sequence of joining operations (e.g., chemical bonds) required to build a compound from a set of starting materials allowing recursive reuse of units or fragments. For molecules, this number of steps is the MA value. We explore the use of Fourier transform (i.e., Orbitrap) mass spectrometry for approximating MA by quantifying how a molecule breaks apart into fragments. We analyze amino acid and nucleoside standards individually and as mixtures, as well as amino acids from naturally occurring biological and meteoritic sources. Aside from sample type, we evaluate the effect of analyte concentration and fragmentation energies on the generated MA value. Additionally, an older Orbitrap model similar to flight prototype instrumentation, was tested. The raw mass spectrometry data was compared with two different MA processing algorithms - one that uses the parent molecule spectrum and molecular weight (recursive) and one that does not (non-recursive). Concentration, fragmentation energy, and sample type all influence the raw mass spectra. However, the recursive algorithm reports MA estimates that are more consistent across sample types, concentrations, and fragmentation energies. We discuss instrument requirements for approximating MA that can be applied to future flight and sample return missions.

Identification of potential key circular RNAs associated with Escherichia coli-infected bovine mastitis using RNA-sequencing: preliminary study results.

Escherichia coli (E. coli) is commonly found in dairy farms and can invade mammary gland tissue, often causing acute clinical mastitis. Mammary infections with E. coli have shown a wide range of clinical signs, causing abnormal appearance of the milk, udder inflammation and systemic signs of illness. Circular RNA is a class of endogenous non-coding RNA that plays an important role in the occurrence and development of various inflammatory diseases. However, there is little information on the circRNA associated with bovine mastitis. In this study investigated the involvement of circRNAs in bovine mastitis through the construction of an E. coli-infected bovine mastitis model by injecting of E. coli into the mammary gland of dairy cows, using healthy gland mammary tissue as a control (M_C). High-throughput RNA-seq was performed on the E. coli-infected mammary gland tissue (M_E) and differentially expressed circRNAs between theM_C and M_E groups, followed by an analysis of their potential functions using bioinformatics methods. A total of 164 differentially expressed circRNAs were identified, including 92 downregulated circRNAs and 72 upregulated circRNAs. As shown by Gene Ontology enrichment analysis these DE circRNAs were mostly enriched in ras protein signal transduction, cytoplasmic vesicle parts, and enzyme binding, and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and genome singal pathway enrichment analysis indicated significant associations with phagosome signal pathway. Additionally, the expression of bovine mastitis-related circRNAs, including novel_circRNA_0000128, novel_circRNA_0011103, novel_circRNA_0012656, novel_circRNA_0015099, novel_circRNA_005648, novel_circRNA_000074, and novel_circRNA_0011796 were verified via quantitative reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). These results provide a new direction for further investigation of the molecular mechanisms underlying bovine mastitis.

A study on the design of a universal signage system for the Ruijin Soviet cultural heritage site

Ruijin, the birthplace of China’s first red regime, has always been the core of the central revolutionary base. Integrating the design of cultural heritage sites with universal signage systems is an effective way to protect and pass on red cultural heritage while promoting the continued dissemination of the national image. In heritage site tourism, the signage system is crucial in guiding, indicating, and explaining, serving as a critical component of essential public infrastructure. Given Ruijin’s rich and historic red cultural resources, the design of the signage system must consider the diverse needs of visitors from different nationalities, cultural backgrounds, and age groups. This study adopts a universal design perspective, using the red cultural heritage of the Ruijin Soviet period as a case study. It constructs universal metadata from three key aspects: Cultural Type, Data Attribute, and Data Type. These elements are then visually represented through digital technology. The study also incorporates theoretical support from semiotics, Gestalt psychology, cognitive psychology, and semantics. Through surveys, in-depth interviews, and a “structure-humanity” composite evaluation method, we thoroughly explores the relationships between perception, comprehensibility, visual cognition, and the design of universal signage systems. Additionally, the study analyzes the key factors affecting the universality of the signage system. The results indicate that visual cognition positively impacts the design of universal signage systems. Key factors influencing the universality of signage systems include symbolic element modeling, the familiarity of graphics, the semantic distance of graphics, and the rationality of graphic usage. These findings offer a strategy for creating a universal signage system guided by the heritage routes and based on the dimensions of perception, comprehensibility, and visual cognition. It provides new methods and perspectives for cultural education and heritage preservation in Ruijin and other red cultural heritage sites.

“THERE IS NO NEW RUSSIA”: СЕМІОТИКА І ВІЙНА В БРИТАНСЬКІЙ ЛІТЕРАТУРІ І КУЛЬТУРІ ХХ – ПОЧАТКУ ХХІ СТОЛІТТЯ

In the context of semiotics as a metascience, it is legitimate to delineate the semiotics of war, which explores the genesis and progression of wars as sign systems and their impact on the global order. This paper aims to examine the signs of war and aggression produced by Russia through the lens of Western literary perspectives. In British literary history, the theme of war is predominant and encompasses a variety of interstate, civil, religious, colonial, regional, and global confl icts. The focus of this study is the portrayal of the Russian Empire/Soviet Union/Russian Federation as a source and bearer of imperialism and aggression, as shaped in British fi ction and non-fi ction from the 20th to the early 21st century. The research objects selected include works from diff erent genres and periods – Joseph Conrad’s essay “Autocracy and War” (1905), Winston Churchill’s Fulton Speech “The Sinews of Peace” (1946), and Richard Shirreff ’s documentary novel-warning “War with Russia” (2016). The essay “Autocracy and War” by Joseph Conrad provides a timeless and extensive analysis of the concept of Russia, whose semantic core includes characteristics such as autocracy, despotism, impenetrability, war, and aggression. Winston Churchill’s Fulton Speech is analyzed, in which the politician identifi es two dangers threatening the world – war and tyranny – and fi rst uses the term “iron curtain”, symbolizing the impermeable border between Western and Eastern Europe from 1946 to 1989 and the Soviet Union’s closedness to liberal ideas. The study also examines how Conrad’s image of Russia as a source of aggressive wars is revived in Richard Shirreff ’s “War with Russia”. The novel written by the British general is highlighted as a warning about Russia’s future aggression, which threatens the independence of countries and entire regions. In conclusion, the analyzed works predominantly associate Russia with negative connotations, centered around danger and war. Key words: semiotics of war, war, signs of war, V-sign, Russia, Russian Empire, Soviet Union, Russian Federation, Joseph Conrad, “Autocracy and War”, Winston Churchill, “The Sinews of Peace”, Richard Shirreff , “War with Russia”.

DIGITALIZATION AS A CHARACTERISTIC FEATURE OF THE SOCIAL SYSTEM AT THE PRESENT STAGE OF DEVELOPMENT OF SOCIETY AND THE STATE

The article explores the concept of “digitalization” and focuses on the chaotic study of the digital environment in the modern period. The author examines the concept of social system, taking into account the transition to an information society, and defines the concept of digitalization as the main feature of the social system. The features of the information society, the digital environment, new subjects of legal relations of electronic democracy, and the implementation of state information policy as signs of the social system caused by digitalization are highlighted.

SYMBOLISM IN THE ARCHITECTURAL ENVIRONMENT

Statement of the problem: symbolism in the architectural environment is used to express abstract ideas and create images that carry ideological meaning. The relevance of the study of symbolism in the architectural environment is justified by the need to deepen the understanding of its role and significance in the formation of the aesthetic and ideological content of architectural objects. The purpose of the work: to investigate the history of the emergence and features of the use of symbolism in the architectural environment. Tasks of the research: 1. To consider the essence and history of the emergence of symbolism as a direction of art. 2. Compare architectural objects of different cultures and eras from the point of view of their symbolic load. 3. To study the symbolism of iconic objects of the architectural heritage of Ukraine. Research methods: analysis of literary sources, historical-comparative, iconographic and semiotic analysis. Conclusions: 1. The architectural environment of the world is not only a part of the volume-planning solution created and organized by man, designed to ensure the vital activity of society, but also a complex system of signs and symbols that reveals the worldview of different cultures and eras. 2. Analysis and comparison of architectural objects from different parts of the world makes it possible to understand their symbolic meaning. 3. Symbols in the architectural environment: allow to convey ideas, concepts and concepts without a dictionary description; give architectural objects uniqueness and memorability; create a connection between architecture, history, national culture and traditions, as well as a special emotional atmosphere of the architectural environment. 4. Famous architectural objects and landmarks of Ukraine, such as: Sophia Cathedral, Khotyn Fortress, Lychakiv Cemetery, House of Chimeras and Independence Square, are not only monuments of history and culture, but also symbols that reveal the deep meaning of Ukrainian being. 5. The revival and implementation of traditional cultural images of the Ukrainian people in modern art opens up great prospects for the preservation of Ukrainian identity for future generations and gives symbolism to the architectural environment.

Evaluating path signage visibility for equitable design through BIM-enabled agent-based simulation

The visibility analysis of signage systems is critical for optimizing the built environment. Conventional methods often focus on modeling the signage's maximum coverage area, which can lead to uneven distribution of visible signage areas along different evacuation paths. Therefore, this research introduces a Path-based Signage Visibility Assessment (PSVA) Tool designed to simulate and evaluate the visibility duration of signage for individuals traversing various evacuation routes, thereby promoting a more equitable signage system design in complex environments. The proposed system incorporates a virtual eye function that simulates the human field of view (FOV), enabling virtual agents to detect signage during navigation. A FOV-based detection algorithm is integrated into the virtual agent, enhancing signage detection accuracy during wayfinding. Additionally, the system supports multi-source data input from Building Information Modeling (BIM) environments for comprehensive signage detection simulation. A case study utilizing BIM data demonstrates the system's effectiveness and applicability.

Innovative Approaches to Design Representation in Civil Engineering

In design and architecture, ‘reality’ exists through sign systems, the structured arrangements of signifying that which previously existed as ideas, beliefs, values, images and events. These representations conform to the philosophical and ideological dispositions that post the philosophical description of the Zeitgeist. An explicit emphasis on representations is characteristic of civil engineering design, which allows for the integration of technological, cultural, and esthetic values and information exchange across the temporal, spatial, and cultural divides. Consequently, it has been identified that, though representation is an important concept in civil engineering, there is no concrete and unambiguous definition of representation in modern civil engineering. This paper fills this gap by providing a theoretical analysis of representation and how it is used in contemporary design professions. From a theoretical viewpoint, the research defines the concept and builds a sound framework to deconstruct and implement representation to a real-life civil engineering model. Representation encompasses imitation and embodiment of prior elements through processes of abstraction or simulation, revealing two key dimensions: generative source (semiotic) and materialization (performed). Representation in civil engineering is present but in two primary dimensions. The first one, which is based on classical procedures, is semantic and realistic, and these works unambiguously express ideologies or technical concepts. The second, non-classical approach, relies on abstraction and subjectivity and here the designs look like an open question – not unique and predetermined by certain context and culture. These dualities place representation as a generative and communicative medium in civil engineering while providing conceptual solutions to structures, city planning and sustainability.

Safety and Efficacy of Atogepant for the Preventive Treatment of Migraines in Adults: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Background: Migraine is a common neurological condition marked by unilateral recurrent pulsating headaches, often associated with systemic signs and symptoms. Recently, calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) antagonists, including atogepant, an oral CGRP receptor antagonist, have emerged as effective and safe treatments. The current study sought to assess the efficacy and safety of atogepant for preventing episodic migraines in adults. Methods: A comprehensive search, following PRISMA guidelines, was conducted using PubMed, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library to identify randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials published up to June 2024. Results: The studies included adult participants with episodic migraine treated with atogepant. The primary outcomes assessed were changes in mean monthly migraine days (MMDs) and monthly headache days (MHDs) over 12 weeks. Secondary outcomes included reduction in acute medication use, 50% responder rates, and adverse events. A meta-analysis using a random-effects model was performed to evaluate efficacy and safety. Six trials with 4569 participants were included. Atogepant significantly reduced mean monthly migraine days (MMDs) and monthly headache days (MHDs) compared to placebo at all doses (10 mg, 30 mg, 60 mg), with the 60 mg dose showing the greatest reduction (mean difference: -1.48 days, p < 0.001). Significant reductions in acute medication use and improved 50% responder rates were also observed for all doses. The safety profile of atogepant was favorable, with common adverse events being mild to moderate, such as constipation and nausea. There were no significant differences in serious adverse events between the atogepant and placebo groups. Conclusions: Atogepant is an effective and well-tolerated option for preventing episodic migraines, showing significant reductions in migraine frequency and acute medication use. However, further studies are necessary to assess its long-term safety and efficacy, especially at higher doses, and to investigate its potential role in personalized treatment strategies for migraine prevention.

Older patients affected by COVID-19: investigating the existence of biological phenotypes

IntroductionCOVID-19 provides an opportunity to examine biological phenotypes (observable morphological, functional and biological characteristics) in individuals who experience the same acute condition, potentially revealing differences in response to acute external stressors. The aim our study was to investigate biological phenotypes in older patients hospitalized for COVID-19, exploiting a panel of aging biomarkers.MethodsData were gathered from the FRACOVID Project, an observational multicenter study, aimed to evaluate the impact of frailty on health-related outcomes in patients 60 + with COVID-19 in Northern Italy. A hierarchical cluster analysis was run using log-transformed and scaled values of TNF-a, IL-1 beta, IL-6, PAI-1, GDF-15, NT-proBNP, and Cystatin C evaluated at admission.ResultsEighty-one participants (mean age 75.3 years; 60.5% male) were evaluated. Frailty was identified in 42% of the sample and 27.2% were unable to ambulate outdoors. The mean hospital stay was 24.7 days, with an in-hospital mortality rate of 18.5%. Three biological phenotypes were found: (1) ‘inflammatory’, with high inflammatory biomarkers; (2) ‘organ dysfunction’, characterized by elevated cystatin C and NT-proBNP, and lower inflammatory markers; and (3) ‘unspecific’, with lower NT-proBNP and GDF-15 levels, and intermediate concentrations of other biomarkers. The ’organ dysfunction’ phenotype showed the highest mean age and prevalence of frailty, disability, and chronic diseases. The ‘inflammatory‘ phenotype showed the highest burden of respiratory and systemic signs and symptoms of infection.ConclusionBiological phenotypes might be used to identify different clinical and functional phenotypes in individuals affected by COVID-19.