bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Managing Legislative Drafting Projects by Applying Project Management Techniques
Authors: Alshebl Ramy Abdulaziz
Published: April 2024

One of the most utilized methodologies in achieving goals out of projects is through project management methodology offered by Project Management Institute. It has shown tremendous positive outcomes and high control in planning, executing, and closing of projects, which made it a mandatory in operating many projects and monitoring large teams within a specific period. In the legal sphere, project management has been introduced to support law firms and in-house legal department in organizations, however, the legislative field in legislative bodies of many states in the world has not yet introduced this mean of management in their projects. The legislative drafting project goes through many stages and interacts with several stakeholders, which requires a high sophisticated management and control of deliverables on a timely manner within allocated budget. This paper will explore how project management could apply to the process of managing the legislative drafting work, starting from the planning stage until the appraisal of the legislative draft for Royal approval. It has been applied as per the Saudi government procedure for drafting legislative proposals in a way that introduces this technique of management in detailed stages to enhance the efficiency of such intellectual projects. Although it has been applied to the Saudi governmental structure, it could be utilized to fit different states that want to better manage legislative drafting projects. Aiming to show the usefulness of project management methodologies in legislative drafting projects by introducing project management (PM) way of administration to the field of legislative drafting.
Defining Medical AI Competencies for Medical School Graduates: Outcomes of a Delphi Survey and Medical Student/Educator Questionnaire of South Korean Medical Schools
Authors: Lee Young-Mee , Kim Suyoun , Lee Young-Hee , Kim Hun-Sung , Seo Sung Wook , Kim Hwiyoung , Kim Kwang Joon
Published: April 2024

Purpose

Given the increasing significance and potential impact of artificial intelligence (AI) technology on health care delivery, there is an increasing demand to integrate AI into medical school curricula. This study aimed to define medical AI competencies and identify the essential competencies for medical graduates in South Korea.

Method

An initial Delphi survey conducted in 2022 involving 4 groups of medical AI experts (n = 28) yielded 42 competency items. Subsequently, an online questionnaire survey was carried out with 1,955 participants (1,174 students and 781 professors) from medical schools across South Korea, utilizing the list of 42 competencies developed from the first Delphi round. A subsequent Delphi survey was conducted with 33 medical educators from 21 medical schools to differentiate the essential AI competencies from the optional ones.

Results

The study identified 6 domains encompassing 36 AI competencies essential for medical graduates: (1) understanding digital health and changes driven by AI; (2) fundamental knowledge and skills in medical AI; (3) ethics and legal aspects in the use of medical AI; (4) medical AI application in clinical practice; (5) processing, analyzing, and evaluating medical data; and (6) research and development of medical AI, as well as subcompetencies within each domain. While numerous competencies within the first 4 domains were deemed essential, a higher percentage of experts indicated responses in the last 2 domains, data science and medical AI research and development, were optional.

Conclusions

This medical AI framework of 6 competencies and their subcompetencies for medical graduates exhibits promising potential for guiding the integration of AI into medical curricula. Further studies conducted in diverse contexts and countries are necessary to validate and confirm the applicability of these findings. Additional research is imperative for developing specific and feasible educational models to integrate these proposed competencies into pre-existing curricula.
Merkel Cell Carcinoma Metastases to Caruncle With Orbital Extension: Report and Literature Review
Authors: Herrera Josefina , Tumuluri Krishna
Published: April 2024

Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is an uncommon and aggressive skin cancer of neuroendocrine origin. The tumor usually presents with a locoregional spread and most frequently metastasizes to the skin, liver, bone, lung, and brain. Despite the orbit being a relatively common site of metastases, it has rarely been reported in patients with MCC. The authors present a case of biopsy-proven orbital metastatic MCC in an 86-year-old male who presented with a rapidly enlarging right caruncle/subconjunctival mass with orbital extension and a history of forearm MCC excision 3 years prior. There are only 3 reported cases of distant metastatic MCC to the orbit, all presenting as a mass originating from extraocular muscles; and no cases of caruncle involvement.
Recent advances in fibroblast growth factor 23-related hypophosphatemic disorders
Authors: Takashi Yuichi , Kawanami Daiji , Fukumoto Seiji
Published: April 2024

Purpose of review

Fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23) is a hormone to reduce blood phosphate concentration. Excessive actions of FGF23 induce FGF23-related hypophosphatemic disorders, such as X-linked hypophosphatemic rickets (XLH) and tumor-induced osteomalacia (TIO). We will summarize recent advances in the diagnosis and treatment of FGF23-related hypophosphatemic disorders.

Recent findings

The measurement of blood FGF23 is useful to make a diagnosis of FGF23-related hypophosphatemic disorders. It was reported that many patients with FGF23-related hypophosphatemic disorders, especially TIO, were misdiagnosed, therefore, it is necessary to enhance the awareness of these diseases. A novel method to inhibit excessive actions of FGF23 by a human monoclonal antibody for FGF23, burosumab, has been approved in several countries. In more long-term observation than clinical trials, burosumab has also been shown to improve biochemical abnormalities and symptoms of rickets/osteomalacia. Following these advances, several registries and consensus recommendations on FGF23-related hypophosphatemic disorders, especially XLH, have been established in each country or region.

Further long-term effects of burosumab and the precise mechanism of FGF23 overproduction in patients with FGF23-related hypophosphatemic disorders need to be clarified in the future studies.
Comparison of 68Ga-FAPI-04 PET/CT with 18F-FDG PET/CT for diagnosis and staging of gastric and colorectal cancer
Authors: Wang Bin , Zhao Xinming , Liu Yunuan , Zhang Zhaoqi , Chen Xiaoshan , Jing Fenglian , Chen Xiaolin , Hua Yu , Zhao Jianqiang
Published: April 2024

Objective

The objective of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of 68Ga-FAPI-04 PET/computed tomography (CT) for the diagnosis of primary and metastatic gastric cancer and colorectal cancer lesions as compared with 18F-FDG PET/CT.

Materials and methods

Fifty-nine patients who underwent both 18F-FDG and 68Ga-FAPI-04 for initial staging or restaging were enrolled. Histopathological findings and clinical imaging follow-up were used as the reference standard. The diagnostic performance and TNM staging of the two tracers were calculated and compared. The maximum standardized uptake value (SUVmax), tumour-to-mediastinal blood pool ratio (TBR) (lesions SUVmax/ascending aorta SUVmean), and tumour-to-normal liver parenchyma ratio (TLR) (lesions SUVmax/liver SUVmean) of primary and metastatic lesions between two imaging modalities were measured and compared using the Wilcoxon signed-rank test and paired t-test.

Results

The two imaging agents are comparable for the detection of primary tumors. The sensitivity of 68Ga-FAPI-04 PET/CT was higher than that of 18F-FDG PET/CT for detecting lymph node metastases, peritoneal metastases, liver metastases, and bone metastases. In the patient-based analysis, the TLR for all lesions was significantly higher with 68Ga-FAPI-04 PET/CT than with 18F-FDG PET/CT (all P < 0.05). The accuracy (92.2 vs. 70.3%, P = 0.002) and sensitivity of 68Ga-FAPI-04 were significantly higher than that of 18F-FDG (78.6 vs. 71.4%, P = 0.011) in determining the lymph node status. 68Ga-FAPI-04 has a higher accuracy in staging (P = 0.041), which is mainly due to the ability of distant metastases detection.

Conclusion

68Ga-FAPI-04 PET/CT may be superior in evaluating the diagnostic efficiency and staging accuracy of gastric and colorectal cancer.
Overweight and Obesity in 10-Year-Old Children in Danang City, Vietnam
Authors: Vu Thi Quynh Chi , Tran Thi Van Anh , Tran Quang Duc , Le Viet Nho
Published: April 2024

Aims

This study aimed to determine the prevalence and associated factors of childhood overweight and obesity among 10-year-old schoolchildren in Hoavang, Danang City.

Methods

From January to May 2023, a cross-sectional study was carried out utilizing a structured self-administered questionnaire to collect data. The height and weight measurements of 518 children were recorded. Body mass index for age Z scores (BAZs) were employed to classify children’s nutritional status following the World Health Organization criteria. Subsequently, the data were analyzed using SPSS version 25.

Results

The study encompassed a cohort of 518 students, 110 (21.2%) classified as overweight and 64 (12.4%) as obese. Significantly, the adjusted odds ratio (aOR) demonstrated that male subjects exhibited a 3-fold higher risk of overweight and obesity than female subjects (aOR = 2.9, P < .0001). Skipping breakfast and confectionery/sweet food consumption were defined, demonstrating significant associations with elevated odds of being overweight and obese.

Conclusion

The findings revealed that approximately one-third of primary schoolchildren in Hoavang, Danang City, were affected by overweight and obesity. This alarming prevalence underscores the urgent need for interventions.
Performance of an Electronic Medical Record–Based “Syphilis Flag” in Identifying At-Risk Patients in an Emergency Department
Authors: Hayslip Margaret , Heath Sonya , Booth James , Lee Anthony , Walter Lauren A.
Published: April 2024

Background

The United States has seen a > 40% increase in syphilis cases since 2017. Early disease identification and treatment are crucial. This review sought to identify emergency department (ED) patients at risk for syphilis.

Methods

A 30-day retrospective review was conducted of visits to a single ED. Patient visits were assessed for predetermined syphilis “flags” to include a history of sexually transmitted infection (STI), current chief complaint or reason for visit (RFV) keyword(s) suggestive of potential STI or a positive pregnancy test result. Flagged charts were assessed for STI testing results within 6 months of ED visit. Data were analyzed usingχ2.

Results

There were 5537 total patient encounters, resulting in 455 flagged visits from 408 (8.4%) unique individuals, majority of whom were female (282, 69.1%;P< 0.001), Black (251, 61.5%;P< 0.001), aged 15 to 44 years (308, 75.5%;P< 0.001). Chief complaint was the most frequent flag (65.3%), followed by RFV (37.4%), prior STI (31.0%), and pregnancy (12.3%). Syphilis testing data were available for 120 flagged patients; 29 (24.2%) screened positive, including 11 (2.7% of total flagged cohort) with evidence for active infection. Among those, most were Black (90.9%), male (72.7%), aged 25 to 34 years (63.6%), and 9 (81.8%) had concomitant HIV. In active infection, prior STI flag was most common (72.7%), followed by chief complaint (54.5%) and RFV (45.5%).

Conclusions

This review demonstrates the performance of an electronic medical record–based “syphilis risk flag” screener applied to ED patients. Sex- and race-based discrepancies exist in flag rates, which may be reflective of sex- and race-based epidemiologic discrepancies in STI incidence.
Reconstruction of Multiple Lip and Facial Defects With Bipaddle and Sensate Radial Forearm Free Flap
Authors: Evin Nuh , Selimoglu Muhammed Nebil
Published: April 2024

Free flaps and their modifications are used to reconstruct multiple large defects in the lip and face. In this study, we present our results on the reconstruction of these defects using bipaddle and sensate free radial forearm-palmaris longus flaps and subsequent revision surgeries. Patient medical records of 11 patients with a mean age of 63.9 ± 12.8 years were retrospectively reviewed. Functional oral competence, lip cosmetics, lip sensation, and donor forearm scars were evaluated using the drooling rating scale, visual analog scale, Semmes Weinstein Monofilament test, and patient and observer scar assessment scale, respectively. The mean dimensions of distal and proximal skin paddles of bipaddle free radial forearm-palmaris longus flaps were 12.7 ± 9.9 and 20.5 ± 3.8 cm2. Mean lengths of the bridge and proximal pedicles were 4.7 ± 1.6 and 5.5 ± 0.7 cm. All the flaps survived. No drooling was observed in the 2 patients without lower lip defects. The mean drooling scores of the 9 patients with lower lip defects were statistically different (Analysis of Variance, pANOVA < 0.00001) at 3, 6, 9, and 12 months postoperatively. The differences between 3 and 12 months were the most significant (pANOVA < 0.00001, pTUKEY < 0.000001). The lip sensation and drooling scores showed a strong positive correlation (r = 0.8504). All patients were able to speak fluently, drink fluid without leakage, and blow a balloon easily. All patients and observers were satisfied with the lip cosmetics, with no significant difference between satisfaction scores (P = 0.087615).

There was a statistically significant difference (P < 0.00001) between mean sensation scores of surrounding healthy lip (2.94 ± 0.27) and free flaps (4.15 ± 0.4). All the donor scars healed uneventfully.
A Scoping Review of Innervated Breast Reconstruction
Authors: Raman Shreya , Daniele Edward , Daniele Karla Annette , Choudhary Akriti , Purnell Chad A. , Ranzer Matthew
Published: April 2024

Background

After breast surgery, patients experience significant alterations to breast sensation, which can diminish quality of life. Nerve coaptation technique, introduced in the 1990s, has gained traction in recent years. We performed a scoping review of the literature to determine the available outcomes in sensate breast reconstruction.

Methods

The review was conducted using Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Extension for Scoping Reviews statement guidelines. EMBASE and PubMed databases were queried using standardized terminology. Studies were included if they reported original sensory outcomes following innervation techniques during breast reconstruction and were published from January 1, 1990, to April 18, 2022. Data extraction and analyses were performed on Microsoft Excel.

Results

From 602 screened articles, 27 studies met the inclusion criteria. Innervated autologous reconstructive procedures were described in 24, whereas the remaining 3 (all published after 2019) described direct reinnervation of the nipple-areola complex. Most (88.9%) of the studies comparing innervated versus noninnervated reconstruction reported improved sensory outcomes in at least 1 modality. Two studies investigated patient-reported outcomes using validated questionnaires, both of which reported improvement with innervated reconstruction.

Conclusions

Sensate breast reconstruction has the potential to improve outcomes for patients. There is a recent progressive increase in studies involving direct nipple-areolar reinnervation. Larger, prospective studies are needed to better characterize the quality-of-life outcome using validated scales, as well as evaluate sensory and patient-reported outcomes with implant and autologous reconstruction.
Whole blood versus balanced resuscitation in massive hemorrhage: Six of one or half dozen of the other?
Authors: Barton Cassie A. , Oetken Heath J. , Hall Nicolas L. , Kolesnikov Michael , Levins Elizabeth S. , Sutton Thomas , Schreiber Martin
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND

Whole blood (WB) resuscitation is increasingly used at trauma centers. Prior studies investigating outcomes in WB versus component-only (CO) resuscitation have been limited by small cohorts, low volumes of WB resuscitation, and unbalanced CO resuscitation. This study aimed to address these limitations using data from a high-volume Level I trauma center, which adopted a WB-first resuscitation paradigm in 2018. We hypothesized that the resuscitation method, WB or balanced CO, would have no impact on patient mortality.

METHODS

A single-center, retrospective cohort study of adults presenting as a trauma activation from July 2016 through July 2021 was performed. Receipt of three or more units of WB or packed red blood cells (RBC) within the first hour of resuscitation was required for inclusion. Patients were grouped into WB versus CO resuscitation and important clinical outcomes were compared. Mortality was evaluated with Kaplan-Meier analysis, log-rank testing, and multivariable Cox proportional hazards modeling.

RESULTS

There were 180 patients in the WB group and 170 patients in the CO group. Of the 180 WB patients, 110 (61%) received only WB during the first 24 hours. The WB group received a median of 5.0 units (interquartile range, 4.0–8.0) of WB and CO group received a median of 6.0 units (interquartile range, 4.0–11.8) of RBCs during the first 24 hours of resuscitation. In the CO group, median RBC/plasma and RBC/platelet ratios approximated 1:1:1. Groups were similar in clinicopathologic characteristics including age, Injury Severity Score, mechanism of injury, and requirement for hemorrhage control interventions (WB 55% vs. CO 59%, p = 0.60). Unadjusted survival was equivalent at 24 hours (p = 0.52) and 30 days (p = 0.70) between both groups on Kaplan-Meier analysis with log-rank testing. On multivariable Cox regression, WB resuscitation was not independently associated with improved survival after accounting for age, Injury Severity Score, mechanism of injury, and receipt of hemorrhage control procedure (hazard ratio, 0.85; 95% confidence interval, 0.61–1.19, p = 0.34).

CONCLUSION

Balanced CO resuscitation is associated with similar mortality outcomes to that of WB based resuscitation.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Therapeutic/Care Management; Level IV.
HCMV US2 co-opts TRC8 to degrade the endoplasmic reticulum-resident protein LMAN2L
Authors: Hunter Leah M. , Kite Joanne , Fletcher-Etherington Alice , Nightingale Katie , Nobre Luis , Antrobus Robin , Fielding Ceri A. , Stanton Richard J. , Weekes Michael P.
Published: April 2024

The human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) pUS2 glycoprotein exploits the host’s endoplasmic reticulum (ER)-associated degradation (ERAD) pathway to degrade major histocompatibility complex class I (MHC-I) and prevent antigen presentation. Beyond MHC-I, pUS2 has been shown to target a range of cellular proteins for degradation, preventing their cell surface expression. Here we have identified a novel pUS2 target, ER-resident protein lectin mannose binding 2 like (LMAN2L). pUS2 expression was both necessary and sufficient for the downregulation of LMAN2L, which was dependent on the cellular E3 ligase TRC8. Given the hypothesized role of LMAN2L in the trafficking of glycoproteins, we employed proteomic plasma membrane profiling to measure LMAN2L-dependent changes at the cell surface. A known pUS2 target, integrin alpha-6 (ITGA6), was downregulated from the surface of LMAN2L-deficient cells, but not other integrins. Overall, these results suggest a novel strategy of pUS2-mediated protein degradation whereby pUS2 targets LMAN2L to impair trafficking of ITGA6. Given that pUS2 can directly target other integrins, we propose that this single viral protein may exhibit both direct and indirect mechanisms to downregulate key cell surface molecules.
A machine-learning Approach for Stress Detection Using Wearable Sensors in Free-living Environments
Authors: Al-Alim Mohamed Abd , Mubarak Roaa , Salem Nancy M. , Sadek Ibrahim
Published: April 2024

Stress is a psychological condition due to the body’s response to a challenging situation. If a person is exposed to prolonged periods and various forms of stress, their physical and mental health can be negatively affected, leading to chronic health problems. It is important to detect stress in its initial stages to prevent psychological and physical stress-related issues. Thus, there must be alternative and effective solutions for spontaneous stress monitoring. Wearable sensors are one of the most prominent solutions, given their capacity to collect data continuously in real-time. Wearable sensors, among others, have been widely used to bridge existing gaps in stress monitoring thanks to their non-intrusive nature. Besides, they can continuously monitor vital signs, e.g., heart rate and activity. Yet, most existing works have focused on data acquired in controlled settings. To this end, our study aims to propose a machine learning-based approach for detecting the onsets of stress in a free-living environment using wearable sensors. The authors utilized the SWEET dataset collected from 240 subjects via electrocardiography (ECG), skin temperature (ST), and skin conductance (SC). In this work, four machine learning models were tested on this data set consisting of 240 subjects, namely K-Nearest Neighbors (KNN), Support vector classification (SVC), Decision Tree (DT), and Random Forest (RF). These models were trained and tested on four data scenarios. The K-Nearest Neighbor (KNN) model had the highest accuracy of 98%, while the other models also performed satisfactorily.
The Association between Afghan Women’s Autonomy and Experience of Domestic Violence, Moderated by Education Status
Authors: Ibrahimi Sahra , Thoma Marie E.
Published: April 2024

This study examines the association between Afghan women’s autonomy (WA) and experience of domestic violence (physical, sexual, and emotional) in the previous 12 months, and whether this association is moderated by education status. We used data from 19,098 married women aged 15-49, who completed the 2015 Afghanistan Demographic and Health Survey- the first and only national survey administered in the country. WA was measured across 5 domains (healthcare, visiting family, household purchases, spending, and contraceptive use). Adjusted odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals for the association between domestic violence in the past 12 months (any vs. none) and WA were estimated using multiple logistic regression and adjusted for covariates. Interaction terms between education status and WA were also assessed. We found that the experience of physical, emotional, and sexual violence was 45% 30%, and 7%, and at least 1 in 2 had no autonomy. After adjustment, compared to women without autonomy, WA in healthcare decisions, spending, visiting families, and household purchases significantly decreased the odds of physical violence. Similarly, WA in healthcare decisions and spending significantly decreased the odds of sexual violence. Lastly, WA in spending and not using contraception was associated with reduced odds of emotional violence. We also found a greater protective effect of WA in visiting family among women with any education across each domestic violence outcome. These findings provide insights into areas for intervention to address gender inequalities (Sustainable Development Goal 3) and mitigate adverse health outcomes for mothers and their children (Goal 5).
Providing HIV Treatment during community-wide flooding: experiences of clients and Health Care Workers in Malawi
Authors: Mphande M , Paneno R. , Robson I , Phiri K , Cornell M , van Oosterhout JJ. , Njala J , Phiri S , Dovel K
Published: April 2024

Background

In Malawi, community wide flooding, especially in high HIV burdened districts, continues to affect continuity of care and access to facilities. We explored the lived experiences of clients and healthcare workers (HCWs) to gain understanding of challenges and to propose interventions for improved ART care delivery.

Methods

Participants came six health facilities and surrounding communities impacted by flooding between Dec 2021-Apr 2022 in Chikwawa, Nsanje and Mulanje districts in Malawi. Facilities are supported by Partners in Hope, a local NGO and PEPFAR/USAID partner.

We conducted In-depth interviews with (IDIs) ART clients identified through medical chart reviews and focus group discussions (FGDs) with HCWs. IDIs and FGDs were coded using inductive and deductive methods in Atlas.ti.

Results

We conducted IDIs with 23 respondents, of which, ten were women, ten experienced treatment interruption (>28 days without medication) and 17 relocated from their homes. The Six FGDs involved 37 HCWs. (21 ART providers; 16 lay cadre).

In IDIs, most clients who relocated and lost livestock, possessions and ART medications. They travelling for income generation. Barriers to care included dangerous travel conditions, competing needs for time and fear of ill treatment at facilities. Some outreach clinics did not provide ART. Respondents were motivated to remain on care and motivators included fear of developing illnesses and HIV-status acceptance.

All providers said that lack of standardized guidelines affected preparedness and response and they advocated for guidelines, stakeholder coordination and adequate resources. Most also reported personal physical exhaustion, damage to their own houses and property, and drug stock-outs. Documentation due to loss of registers was also mostly mentioned.

Discussion

Clients motivated to remain in care but face barriers and challenges. National flooding protocols, adequate resource planning and seasonal 6-month ART dispensing may improve ART outcomes.
Hyaluronidase inhibitor delphinidin inhibits cancer metastasis
Authors: McGuire Jeremy , Taguchi Taketo , Tombline Gregory , Paige Victoria , Janelsins Michelle , Gilmore Nikesha , Seluanov Andrei , Gorbunova Vera
Published: April 2024

Cancer remains a formidable global health challenge, with metastasis being a key contributor to its lethality. Abundant high molecular mass hyaluronic acid, a major non-protein component of extracellular matrix, protects naked mole rats from cancer and reduces cancer incidence in mice. Hyaluronidase plays a critical role in degrading hyaluronic acid and is frequently overexpressed in metastatic cancer. Here we investigated the potential of targeting hyaluronidases to reduce metastasis. High throughput screen identified delphinidin, a natural plant compound found in fruits and vegetables, as a potent hyaluronidase inhibitor. Delphinidin-mediated inhibition of hyaluronidase activity led to an increase in high molecular weight hyaluronic acid in cell culture and in mouse tissues, and reduced migration and invasion behavior of breast, prostate, and melanoma cancer cells. Moreover, delphinidin treatment suppressed melanoma metastasis in mice. Our study provides a proof of principle that inhibition of hyaluronidase activity suppresses cancer cell migration, invasion and metastasis. Furthermore, we identify a natural compound delphinidin as a potential anticancer therapeutic. Thus, we have identified a path for clinical translation of the cancer resistance mechanism identified in the naked mole rat.
Minimized Sample Consumption for Time-Resolved Serial Crystallography Applied to the Redox Cycle of Human NQO1
Authors: Doppler Diandra , Grieco Alice , Koh Domin , Manna Abhik , Ansari Adil , Alvarez Roberto , Karpos Konstantinos , Le Hung , Sonker Mukul , Ketawala Gihan K. , Mahmud Samira , Moraleda Isabel Quereda , Pey Angel L. , Letrun Romain , Dörner Katerina , Koliyadu Jayanath C. P. , de Wijn Raphael , Bielecki Johan , Han Huijong , Kim Chan , Koua Faisal H. M. , Round Adam , Sarma Abhisakh , Sato Tokushi , Schmidt Christina , Vakili Mohammad , Zabelskii Dmitrii , Bean Richard , Mancuso Adrian P. , Schulz Joachim , Fromme Raimund , Medina Milagros , Grant Thomas D. , Fromme Petra , Kirian Richard A. , Botha Sabine , Martin-Garcia Jose Manuel , Ros Alexandra
Published: April 2024

Sample consumption for serial femtosecond crystallography (SFX) with X-ray free electron lasers (XFELs) remains a major limitation preventing broader use of this powerful technology in macromolecular crystallography. This drawback is exacerbated in the case of time-resolved (TR)-SFX experiments, where the amount of sample required per reaction time point is multiplied by the number of time points investigated. Thus, in order to reduce the limitation of sample consumption, here we demonstrate the implementation of segmented droplet generation in conjunction with a mix-and-inject approach for TR studies on NAD(P)H:quinone oxidoreductase 1 (NQO1). We present the design and application of mix-and-inject segmented droplet injectors for the Single Particles, Clusters, and Biomolecules & Serial Femtosecond Crystallography (SPB/SFX) instrument at the European XFEL (EuXFEL) with a synchronized droplet injection approach that allows liquid phase protein crystal injection. We carried out TR-crystallography experiments with this approach for a 305 ms and a 1190 ms time point in the reaction of NQO1 with its coenzyme NADH. With this successful TR-SFX approach, up to 97% of the sample has been conserved compared to continuous crystal suspension injection with a gas dynamic virtual nozzle. Furthermore, the obtained structural information for the reaction of NQO1 with NADH is an important part of the future elucidation of the reaction mechanism of this crucial therapeutic enzyme.
Multi-omic analyses reveal a differential contribution of chromatin-associated PP1 holoenzymes to mitotic exit and G1 re-establishment
Authors: Stamatiou Konstantinos , Huguet Florentin , Budzinska Marta , deCastro Ines J , Spanos Christos , Rappsilber Juri , Vagnarelli Paola
Published: April 2024

Mitotic exit is an important part of the cell cycle that requires coordination of many chromatin and cytoskeleton remodelling events to successfully complete cell division and maintain cell identity. Protein de-phosphorylation is a key step in directing mitotic exit and Protein phosphatase (PP1) is essential to this process, however the specific contribution of its numerous targeting subunits is still unknown. Here we have investigated the function of three chromatin-associated PP1 targeting subunits in exiting mitosis Repo-Man, Ki-67 and PNUTS. We have generated endogenously tagged, auxin-degradable alleles for each subunit and used a multi-omic approach to address their specific contribution towards transcription resumption, chromatin accessibility and protein phosphorylation at the transition from mitosis to G1. This approach has identified their distinct role in mitotic exit, provided unique datasets for the cell cycle community, and highlighted novel functions for Ki-67 and Repo-Man in genome stability and organisation.
Diurnal.plant.tools in 2024: expanding toMarchantia polymorphaand four angiosperms
Authors: Tan Qiao Wen , Tan Emmanuel , Mutwil Marek
Published: April 2024

Diurnal gene expression is a pervasive phenomenon occurring across all kingdoms of life, orchestrating adaptive responses to daily environmental fluctuations and thus enhancing organismal fitness. Our understanding of the plant circadian clock is primarily derived from studies in Arabidopsis and direct comparisons are difficult due to differences in gene family sizes. To this end, the identification of functional orthologs based on diurnal and tissue expression is necessary. The diurnal.plant.tools database constitutes a repository of gene expression profiles from 17 members of the Archaeplastida lineage, with built-in tools facilitating cross-species comparisons. In this database update, we expand the dataset with diurnal gene expression from 4 agriculturally significant crop species and Marchantia, a plant of evolutionary significance. Notably, the inclusion of diurnal gene expression data for Marchantia enables researchers to glean insights into the evolutionary trajectories of the circadian clock and other biological processes spanning from algae to angiosperms. Moreover, by integrating data from tissue, and perturbation gene expression datasets for Marchantia from other databases, the diurnal dataset complements it to offer a comprehensive overview of gene functions across varied biological contexts. This expanded database serves as a valuable resource for elucidating the intricacies of diurnal gene regulation and its evolutionary underpinnings in plant biology.
Role of
ρ−ω
interference in semileptonic
B→π+π−ℓν¯ℓ
decays
Authors: Bernlochner Florian U. , Wallner Stefan
Published: April 2024

It is long known that interference effects play an important role in understanding the shape of the π+π− spectrum of resonances near the threshold. In this manuscript, we investigate the role of the ρ−ω interference in the study of semileptonic B→π+π−ℓν¯ℓ decays. We determine for the first time the strong phase difference between B→ρ0ℓν¯ℓ and B→ωℓν¯ℓ from a recent Belle measurement of the mππ spectrum of B→π+π−ℓν¯ℓ. We find ϕρ−ω=(−46−67+155)° and extract the branching fraction of B(B→ρ0ℓν¯ℓ)=(1.41−0.38+0.49)×10−4. In addition, we set a limit on the S-wave component within an mππ window ranging from 2mπ to 1.02 GeV of ΔB(B→[π+π−]Sℓν¯ℓ)<0.51×10−4 at 90% CL. We also determine the absolute value of the Cabibbo-Kobayashi-Maskawa matrix element of |Vub|ρ−ω=(3.03−0.44+0.49)×10−3, which takes into account the ρ−ω interference.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Pion axioproduction revisited
Authors: Li Cheng-Cheng , Hu Tao-Ran , Guo Feng-Kun , Meißner Ulf-G.
Published: April 2024

In this work, we extend the analysis of the pion axioproduction, aN→πN, to include the impact of the Roper resonance N*(1440) together with the previously studied Δ(1232) resonance. Our theoretical framework is a chiral Lagrangian approach with explicit resonance fields to account for their respective impacts. We find that the N*(1440) also leads to an enhancement of the cross section within its energy range for various axion models. This enhancement given by the N*(1440) maintains stability even when the parameter sin2β of the Dine-Fischler-Srednicki-Zhitnitsky (DFSZ) model undergoes variations. In contrast, the enhancement given by the Δ(1232) gradually diminishes and finally disappears as sin2β approaches 1. Furthermore, the resonance peaks given by the Δ(1232) are approximately the same in both the Kim-Shifman-Vainstein-Zakharov (KSVZ) model and the DFSZ model with sin2β=12, while the resonance peak given by the N*(1440) in the former model is much more pronounced.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Galaxy clustering analysis with SimBIG and the wavelet scattering transform
Authors: Régaldo-Saint Blancard Bruno , Hahn ChangHoon , Ho Shirley , Hou Jiamin , Lemos Pablo , Massara Elena , Modi Chirag , Dizgah Azadeh Moradinezhad , Parker Liam , Yao Yuling , Eickenberg Michael ,   SimBIG Collaboration
Published: April 2024

The non-Gaussian spatial distribution of galaxies traces the large-scale structure of the Universe and therefore constitutes a prime observable to constrain cosmological parameters. We conduct Bayesian inference of the ΛCDM parameters Ωm, Ωb, h, ns, and σ8 from the Baryon Oscillation Spectroscopic Survey CMASS galaxy sample by combining the wavelet scattering transform (WST) with a simulation-based inference approach enabled by the SimBIG forward model. We design a set of reduced WST statistics that leverage symmetries of redshift-space data. Posterior distributions are estimated with a conditional normalizing flow trained on 20,000 simulated SimBIG galaxy catalogs with survey realism. We assess the accuracy of the posterior estimates using simulation-based calibration and quantify generalization and robustness to the change of forward model using a suite of 2000 test simulations. When probing scales down to

k

max

=

0.5

 

 

h

/

Mpc

, we are able to derive accurate posterior estimates that are robust to the change of forward model for all parameters, except σ8. We mitigate the robustness issues with σ8 by removing the WST coefficients that probe scales smaller than k∼0.3  h/Mpc. Applied to the Baryon Oscillation Spectroscopic Survey CMASS sample, our WST analysis yields seemingly improved constraints obtained from a standard perturbation-theory-based power spectrum analysis with kmax=0.25  h/Mpc for all parameters except h. However, we still raise concerns on these results. The observational predictions significantly vary across different normalizing flow architectures, which we interpret as a form of model misspecification. This highlights a key challenge for forward modeling approaches when using summary statistics that are sensitive to detailed model-specific or observational imprints on galaxy clustering.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Numerical results on quantum energy inequalities in integrable models at the two-particle level
Authors: Mandrysch Jan
Published: April 2024

In this article, we study the impact of self-interaction and multiparticle states on sustaining negative energies in relativistic quantum systems. For physically reasonable models, one usually requires bounds on both magnitude and duration of the accumulation of negative energy, typically given in form of a quantum energy inequality (QEI). Such bounds have applications in semiclassical gravity where they exclude exotic spacetime geometries and imply the formation of singularities. The essence of this article is a novel numerical method for determining optimal QEI bounds at the one- or two-particle level, extending previous work focused on the one-particle case and overcoming a new type of technical challenge associated with the two-particle scenario. Our method is tailored for integrable models in quantum field theory constructed via the S-matrix boostrap. Applying the method to a representative model, the sinh-Gordon model, we confirm self-interaction as the source of negative energy, with stronger interactions leading to more pronounced negativities. Moreover, we establish the validity of QEIs and the averaged weak energy condition (AWEC) at the one- and two-particle level. Lastly, we identify a constrained one-parameter class of nonminimal stress tensor expressions satisfying QEIs at both levels, with more stringent constraints emerging from the QEI bounds at the two-particle level.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Effects of nano-SiO2 particle addition on the structure and properties of micro-arc oxidation ceramic coatings on 7075 aluminum alloy
Authors: Tang Song , Chen Xiaowen , Zhang Defen , Xie Wanlin , Ran Qingzheng , Luo Bin , Luo Han , Yang Junwei
Published: April 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to investigate the influence of varying concentrations of nano-SiO2 particle doping on the structure and properties of the micro-arc oxidation (MAO) coating of 7075 aluminum alloy. This research aims to provide novel insights and methodologies for the surface treatment and protection of 7075 aluminum alloy.

Design/methodology/approach

The surface morphology of the MAO coating was characterized using scanning electron microscope. Energy spectrometer was used to characterize the elemental content and distribution on the surface and cross section of the MAO coating. The phase composition of the MAO coating was characterized using X-ray diffractometer. The corrosion resistance of the MAO coating was characterized using an electrochemical workstation.

Findings

The results showed that when the addition of nano-SiO2 particles is 3 g/L, the corrosion resistance is optimal.

Originality/value

This study investigated the influence of different concentrations of nano-SiO2 particles on the structure and properties of the MAO coating of 7075 aluminum alloy.
Spur of the moment: the unintended consequences of excessive food purchases and food waste during Ramadan
Authors: Hassan Siti Hasnah , Low Eve Chee
Published: April 2024

Purpose

Food waste, a global conundrum with adverse socioeconomic and environmental implications, occurs when more money is spent on food during occasions akin to Ramadan. This study examines the moderating role of antecedents (festive experience, nostalgic food memory, perceived scarcity, and religiosity) to understand the impacts of excessive food buying on Ramadan food waste.

Design/methodology/approach

A cross-sectional survey was performed with a self-administered questionnaire using Google Forms to gather data on social media. Notably, 349 valid responses were analysed via Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM) with SmartPLS 4 for model development and hypothesis testing.

Findings

Festive experience, nostalgic memory, and perceived food scarcity could explain excessive buying behaviour. In this vein, excessive food buying contributed to Ramadan food waste. Meanwhile, religiosity was found to moderate excessive food-buying behaviour.

Practical implications

The empirical findings offered useful insights for practitioners and policymakers to implement optimal marketing strategies and interventions that improve responsible consumption and minimise food waste.

Originality/value

This study provided a sound understanding of consumer buying behaviour during Ramadan regarding food waste and overconsumption. The current work delineated the role of descriptive, injunctive norms and cognitive dissonance in shaping buying behaviour during Ramadan.
A new efficient two-step iterative method for solving absolute value equations
Authors: Khan Alamgir , Iqbal Javed , Shah Rasool
Published: April 2024

Purpose

This study presents a two-step numerical iteration method specifically designed to solve absolute value equations. The proposed method is valuable and efficient for solving absolute value equations. Several numerical examples were taken to demonstrate the accuracy and efficiency of the proposed method.

Design/methodology/approach

We present a two-step numerical iteration method for solving absolute value equations. Our two-step method consists of a predictor-corrector technique. The new method uses the generalized Newton method as the predictor step. The four-point open Newton-Cotes formula is considered the corrector step. The convergence of the proposed method is discussed in detail. This new method is highly effective for solving large systems due to its simplicity and effectiveness. We consider the beam equation, using the finite difference method to transform it into a system of absolute value equations, and then solve it using the proposed method.

Findings

The paper provides empirical insights into how to solve a system of absolute value equations.

Originality/value

This paper fulfills an identified need to study absolute value equations.
Whisper network knowledge of BAME women in academia: a critical realist, critical race feminist theory model of theorising inequality regimes
Authors: Martinez Dy Angela
Published: April 2024

Purpose

This paper introduces a new approach to theorising and learning from Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (BAME) women’s experiences of inequality in academia. It offers a versatile model with which the structure of a particular racist-sexist inequality regime can be theorised from empirical evidence.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper presents composite, fictionalised accounts of intersectional discrimination which are then analysed through critical realist frameworks, employing critical race feminist theory insights. This novel “whisper network” method centres the knowledge of BAME women in academia, and is translatable to other marginalised actors, offering a more protective means by which to access their knowledge as a foundation for organisational change.

Findings

Through theorising the ontological arrangement of key causal mechanisms responsible for the reproduction of inequality regimes, the paper illuminates links between micro-level intersectional discrimination and meso-level institutional inequality.

Research limitations/implications

In order to preserve anonymity and reduce potential backlash, the vignettes in this paper are not intended to precisely capture specific empirical realities, but instead reflect wider patterns from the author's own whisper network knowledge. Nonetheless, the analytical method developed here could be applied to rigorously collected empirical data, with clear implications for improving organisational practice.

Practical implications

The paper offers a structured and systematic process by which qualitative data on institutional inequality can be analysed and stakeholders engaged to develop and propose solutions, even by individuals new to the field.

Social implications

A methodical basis for strategic action addressing the issues revealed through such an analysis can be developed in order to galvanise and steer organisational change.

Originality/value

The novelty of the paper is twofold: in its original synthesis of critical realist depth ontology and ontological insights from critical race feminist theory about social structures of oppression, and in the development of the innovative “whisper network” method based upon a critical race theory counter-storytelling epistemology, in conversation with the emergent stream of literature within feminist organisation studies regarding the importance of “writing differently”.
Does the conflict between work and family hinder thriving? Role of depersonalization and intrinsic motivation
Authors: Iqbal Juman , Alam Mohammad Nurul , Khan Hamia
Published: April 2024

Purpose

Elucidating on the concrete outline of conservation of resource theory, this study aims to explore the links between work-family conflict and workplace thriving. In particular, this study has integrated depersonalization as a mediator and tested the moderated mediation effects of intrinsic motivation in work-family conflict and depersonalization relationships.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected using a sample of 357 doctors working across various public hospitals in India over two waves (T1 and T2) and was tested using AMOS and Process Macros.

Findings

Exploration reveals that work-family conflict is negatively associated with workplace thriving. The mediating role of depersonalization in between work-family conflict and workplace thriving was established. Moreover, the moderating role of intrinsic motivation in work-family conflict and workplace thriving via depersonalization was also established.

Originality/value

The present study makes a theoretical addition to the literature by investigating nuances through which work-family conflict relationships and thriving at the workplace can be affected. To date, such a relationship has not been established. The study also extends the role of depersonalization as an underlying mechanism between work-family conflict and workplace thriving, making an imperative contribution. This study also tested the moderating role of intrinsic motivation. Overall, these relationships are novel and have been seldom reported.