bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Unleashing Innovation Under Sanctions: The Catalyst of National Culture
Authors: Phan Anh Dang Bao , Dao Daniel , Nguyen Loan Thi Quynh
Published: November 2024

This article explores how national culture moderates the impact of economic sanctions on a targeted country's innovation performance, using a dynamic difference‐in‐difference approach. Our empirical analysis utilises a panel dataset spanning 213 nations from 2013 to 2019. We discover that economic sanctions generally have a detrimental effect on the innovation performance of targeted countries. However, not all types of sanctions have the same negative impact on innovation. Specifically, financial, arms, and travel sanctions exhibit this negative influence. Furthermore, we reveal that under the sanction circumstances, countries characterised by high power distance and high uncertainty avoidance cultures tend to experience a higher level of innovation performance. Our findings remain robust after conducting various tests. In our subsequent analyses, we focus on different types of sanctions and find that the favourable impact of power distance and uncertainty avoidance culture on the relationship between sanctions and innovation applies primarily to financial sanctions.
Dual role of ramR mutation in enhancing immune activation and elevating eravacycline resistance in Klebsiella pneumoniae
Authors: Yu Wei , Jia Peiyao , Chu Xiaobing , Li Shengjie , Jia Xinmiao , Zhu Ying , Liu Xiaoyu , Xu Yingchun , Yang Qiwen
Published: November 2024

The rise of Klebsiella pneumoniae resistant to last‐resort antimicrobials poses an urgent threat to global health. The ramR‐ramA regulatory system critically influences drug resistance by regulating the AcrAB‐TolC efflux pump, which also plays a crucial role in the pathogenicity of K. pneumoniae. However, the mechanism of the ramR‐ramA system on bacteria‐host interaction remains unclear. To determine how specific mutations in ramR influence eravacycline (ERV) resistance and their impact on the immune activation capabilities of K. pneumoniae, thereby highlighting potential targets for therapeutic intervention, we performed genetic sequencing to identify mutations in ramR. Then, the CRISPR‐Cas9 technology was employed to construct specific ramR mutations into K. pneumoniae, which were then subjected to phenotypic and functional assays in both in vitro and in vivo (mouse models, macrophage, and blood‐killing experiment) settings. ramR L58P and F165L genetic alterations disrupt the binding affinity of RamR to the ramA promoter, thereby upregulating the efflux pump expression and increasing ERV minimum inhibitory concentration values up to 64‐fold compared to the wild‐type. Concurrently, these mutations modulate lipid A structure by increasing 2‐hydroxy fatty acid chain abundance. In mouse models, ramR L58P and F165L mutants showed lower bacterial burden in organs (spleen, lung, and kidney) 6 h post‐infection, and are fast cleared in 48 h. Furthermore, despite lower intracellular bacterial loads, ramR L58P and F165L mutants induce heightened pro‐inflammatory cytokine responses in macrophages and elevate systemic cytokine levels (interleukin [IL]2, IL4, IL6, IL12, interferon‐α, and interferon‐γ) in human blood co‐culture experiments. This study illuminates the critical role of ramR mutations in conferring ERV resistance and enhancing immune responses in K. pneumoniae. The dual impact of these mutations on both antimicrobial resistance and immune activation not only underscores the challenges in treating infections but also advocates for heightened surveillance and innovative strategies to counteract the emerging threat of antimicrobial‐resistant K. pneumoniae.
Covariation in the Craniocervical Junction of Carnivora
Authors: Böhmer Christine , Ocak Mara Destina
Published: November 2024

The craniocervical junction is the transition between the skull and the vertebral column that provides mobility while maintaining sufficient stability (i.e., protection of the brainstem and the spinal cord). The key elements involved are the occiput, the first cervical vertebra (CV1, atlas) and the second cervical vertebra (CV2, axis). The two vertebrae forming the atlas‐axis complex are distinct in their morphology and differences in form have been linked to differences in ecological function in mammals. Here, we quantified the morphological diversity of the cranium, CV1 and CV2 in a sample of Carnivora using 3D geometric morphometrics to reveal phylogenetic and ecological patterns. Our results indicate that the observed variation in CV2 is related to the taxonomic diversity (i.e., strong phylogenetic signal), whereas variation in CV1 appears to be decoupled from species diversity in Carnivora and, thus, is likely to reflect a functional signal. The phylogenetically informed correlation analyses showed an association between the CV1 morphology and diet. Taxa that primarily feed on large prey tend to have larger transverse processes on CV1 which provides larger muscle attachment areas and may correlate with stronger muscles. The latter needs to be verified by future quantitative covariation analyses between bone and muscle data. Morphological peculiarities within Pinnipedia and Mustelidae could be explained by differences in terrestrial locomotion between Phocidae and Otariidae and the exceptional defensive behavior (i.e., handstanding) in Mephitidae. Despite differences in the degree of morphological diversity, covariation between cranium, CV1 and CV2 morphology is consistently high (≥ 0.82) highlighting that overall, the craniocervical junction is an integrated structure, but there are traits that are not constrained.
Prognostic bone fracture healing simulations in an ovine tibia model validated with in vivo sensors
Authors: Schwarzenberg Peter , Schlatter Jérôme , Ernst Manuela , Windolf Markus , Dailey Hannah L. , Varga Peter
Published: November 2024

Bone fracture healing is a complex physiological process influenced by biomechanical and biomolecular factors. Mechanical stability is crucial for successful healing, and disruptions can lead to delayed healing or nonunion. Bone commonly heals itself through secondary fracture healing, which is governed by the mechanical strain at the fracture site. To investigate these phenomena, a validated methodology for capturing the mechanoregulatory process in specimen‐specific models of fracture healing could provide insight into the healing process. This study implemented a prognostic healing simulation framework to predict healing trajectories based on mechanical stimuli. Sixteen sheep were subjected to a 3 mm transverse tibial mid‐shaft osteotomy, stabilized with a custom plate, and equipped with displacement transducer sensors to measure interfragmentary motion over 8 weeks. Computed tomography scans were used to create specimen‐specific bone geometries for finite element analysis. Virtual mechanical testing was performed iteratively to calculate strains in the callus region, which guided tissue differentiation and consequently, healing. The predicted healing outcomes were compared to continuous in vivo sensor data, providing a unique validation data set. Healing times derived from the in vivo sensor and in silico sensor showed no significant differences, suggesting the potential for these predictive models to inform clinical assessments and improve nonunion risk evaluations. This study represents a crucial step towards establishing trustworthy computational models of bone healing and translating these to the preclinical and clinical setting, enhancing our understanding of fracture healing mechanisms.

Clinical significance: Prognostic bone fracture healing simulation could assist in non‐union diagnosis and prediction.
Association between segmental phase angles and functional independence measure scores in hospitalized adults following stroke: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Yoshimura Yoshihiro , Wakabayashi Hidetaka , Nagano Fumihiko , Matsumoto Ayaka , Shimazu Sayuri , Shiraishi Ai , Kido Yoshifumi , Bise Takahiro , Kuzuhara Aomi , Hamada Takenori , Yoneda Kouki
Published: November 2024

Background

This study investigated the association between segmental phase angles and functional outcomes in patients after stroke, hypothesizing that increased segmental phase angle correlates with improved functional status.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study of 1012 patients after stroke was conducted. Whole body and segmental phase angles were measured using bioelectrical impedance analysis within 3 days of admission. Our exposure of interest was segmental phase angle measured via a multifrequency bioelectrical impedance analyzer and calculated as phase angle = arctangent (Xc/R) × (180/π), where R is the resistance of the right half of the body and Xc is the reactance measured at 50 kHz. The primary outcomes were the motor subscale of the functional independence measure (FIM) at discharge and FIM change between admission and discharge. Secondary outcomes included FIM scores for specific activities. Multiple linear regression analysis was performed to assess associations.

Results

Phase angles of the healthy upper and lower limbs demonstrated stronger associations with discharge FIM motor scores (β = 0.175 and β = 0.105, respectively) and FIM motor gain (β = 0.242 and β = 0.092, respectively) compared with whole body or paretic limb phase angles. Upper limb phase angles were more closely related to grooming and toileting abilities, whereas lower limb phase angles were associated with both toileting and locomotion at discharge.

Conclusion

Segmental phase angles, particularly those of the nonparetic limbs, are promising predictors of functional outcomes in patients after stroke. Assessing segmental phase angles may guide targeted interventions and rehabilitation strategies for improving specific activities of daily living.
Chyme reinfusion therapy in adults with severe acute intestinal failure: A descriptive cohort study
Authors: Farrer Kirstine , Kopczynska Maja , Barrett Maria , Harrison Simon , Teubner Antje , Abraham Arun , McWhirter Derek , Epstein Jonathan , Lal Simon , Carlson Gordon L.
Published: November 2024

Background

Chyme reinfusion therapy treats patients with high‐output fistulas or stomas by returning chyme to the distal gut. The role of this treatment in severe acute intestinal failure is currently unclear. The primary outcome of this study was a successful establishment of chyme reinfusion therapy, defined by the ability to replace parenteral nutrition for nutrition support.

Methods

A descriptive cohort study of adult patients with severe acute intestinal failure due to a high‐output stoma and distal mucus fistula or a high‐output small intestinal fistula receiving chyme reinfusion therapy was undertaken. The effect of chyme reinfusion therapy on parenteral nutrition requirements, medication, nutrition status, liver function, and treatment cost were studied.

Results

Twenty‐four patients commenced treatment for a median of 44 (range, 3–571; total, 2263) days. Fifteen (62.5%) were successfully established for 1208 days, and nine continued treatment at home. Parenteral requirements, including volume, energy and nitrogen content, and frequency, were significantly reduced (P = 0.002), whereas anthropometric measurements remained stable. However, chyme therapy was not tolerated in nine patients (37.5%), and only two (8.3%) weaned fully from parenteral nutrition. Chyme reinfusion therapy was associated with a 47.6% reduction in parenteral energy requirements, 42.8% reduction in nitrogen, and 33.3% reduction in volume of parenteral nutrition requirements. Treatment was associated with a net cost of £30.05 ($40.27) per patient per day.

Conclusion

Chyme reinfusion therapy was associated with reductions in the need for parenteral therapy and medication but did not replace parenteral nutrition or result in a significant cost saving.
Synthetic circRNA therapeutics: innovations, strategies, and future horizons
Authors: Cai Jingsheng , Qiu Zonghao , Chi‐Shing Cho William , Liu Zheng , Chen Shaoyi , Li Haoran , Chen Kezhong , Li Yun , Zuo Chijian , Qiu Mantang
Published: November 2024

Small molecule drugs are increasingly emerging as innovative and effective treatments for various diseases, with mRNA therapeutics being a notable representative. The success of COVID‐19 vaccines has underscored the transformative potential of mRNA in RNA therapeutics. Within the RNA family, there is another unique type known as circRNA. This single‐stranded closed‐loop RNA molecule offers notable advantages over mRNA, including enhanced stability and prolonged protein expression, which may significantly impact therapeutic strategies. Furthermore, circRNA plays a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of various diseases, such as cancers, autoimmune disorders, and cardiovascular diseases, making it a promising clinical intervention target. Despite these benefits, the application of circRNA in clinical settings remains underexplored. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the current state of synthetic circRNA therapeutics, focusing on its synthesis, optimization, delivery, and diverse applications. It also addresses the challenges impeding the advancement of circRNA therapeutics from bench to bedside. By summarizing these aspects, the review aims to equip researchers with insights into the ongoing developments and future directions in circRNA therapeutics. Highlighting both the progress and the existing gaps in circRNA research, this review offers valuable perspectives for advancing the field and guiding future investigations.
Full‐active pharmaceutical ingredient nanosensitizer for augmented photoimmunotherapy by synergistic mitochondria targeting and immunogenic death inducing
Authors: Li Xianghui , Wang Haoran , Li Zhiyan , Liu Song , Chen Yuanyuan , Ruan Zhuren , Yao Zhijian , Wei Gao , Cao Cunwei , Zheng Wenjun , Guan Wenxian
Published: November 2024

The precise and effective activation of the immune response is crucial in promising therapy curing cancer. Photoimmunotherapy (PIT) is an emerging strategy for precise regulation and highly spatiotemporal selectivity. However, this approach faces a significant challenge due to the off‐target effect and the immunosuppressive microenvironment. To address this challenge, a nanoscale full‐active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) photo‐immune stimulator was developed. This formulation overcomes the limitations of PIT by strengthening the ability to penetrate tumors deeply and inducing precise and potent mitochondria‐targeted dual‐mode photodynamic therapy and photothermal therapy. Along with inhibiting overexpressed Hsp90, this nanosensitizer in turn improves the immunosuppressive microenvironment. Ultimately, this mitochondria‐targeted PIT demonstrated potent antitumor efficacy, achieving a remarkable inhibition rate of ≥95% for both established primary tumors and distant abscopal tumors. In conclusion, this novel self‐delivery full‐API nanosystem enhances the efficacy of phototherapy and reprograms the immunosuppressive microenvironment, thereby holding great promise in the development of precise and effective immunotherapy.
Beyond Tobacco: Bridging Gaps in Social History Records for Tobacco‐Free Nicotine Pouch Consumers
Authors: Stack Taylor J. , McCain Morgan N. , Benaim Ezer H. , Dickerson Theresa A. , Mohammad Ibtisam , Senior Brent A. , Kimple Adam J. , DeMason Christine
Published: November 2024

Objective

Nicotine‐containing products have historically been tobacco derivatives like cigarettes, cigars, and dip. Recently, tobacco‐free nicotine (TFN) products have been marketed as a healthy alternative. TFN pouches are small, discreet, flavored pouches containing nicotine designed to be placed between the gum and lip. This product does not fit a conventional tobacco category, leading to inaccurate reporting. This study aims to investigate discrepancies in physician documentation of TFN pouches.

Methods

A retrospective chart review was conducted on TFN users.

Setting

Single Health Care System.

Methods

Statistical analyses assessed TFN documentation concordance between social history templates and physician notes.

Results

There were 150 patients who used TFN and 841 patients who vaped. Concordance was higher for vape documentation than TFN pouch documentation (55.9%, 470/841 vs 25.3%, 38/150; P < .001). Of those who used TFN, 60% (90/150) were classified as “Smokeless Tobacco Users” in the social history; however, 35 were inaccurately classified as chew, and 17 did not specify TFN use. Only 38 specified TFN use; only 25% (38/150) of records demonstrated concordance.

Conclusion

Only 25% of records were concordant with physician notes, highlighting the need for a designated place for TFN use within social history templates. Nicotine use history is crucial in the setting of microvascular reconstruction and cosmetic surgeries. Thus, accurate reporting is crucial for future research on the long‐term effects of TFN. This study's findings underscore a deficit in current social history templates and the need to recognize TFN pouches as distinct entities.
Comparative Evaluation of Detection Rates for Clinically Significant Prostate Cancer Using MRI‐Targeted Biopsy Alone Versus in Combination With Systematic Biopsies: Development of a Risk‐Stratification Scoring System
Authors: Takahashi Toshifumi , Nakashima Masakazu , Maruno Kouhei , Hazama Tatsuya , Yamada Yuya , Kikkawa Kazuro , Umeoka Shigeaki , Tamaki Masahiro , Ito Noriyuki
Published: November 2024

Objectives

To compare the detection rates for clinically significant prostate cancer (csPCa; grade group 2 or higher disease) using MRI‐targeted biopsy (MRI‐TB) versus systematic biopsy (SB) or their combination, and identify risk factors for detecting csPCa in MRI‐TB with systematic transrectal (TR)/transperineal (TP) biopsies (sTR/TP‐bx) and MRI‐TB with sTP‐bx.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed 216 patients who underwent MRI‐TB with SB at our hospital between September 2020 and December 2023 and compared clinical characteristics for patients with and without prostate cancer.

Results

csPCa was detected in 132 (61.1%) patients by MRI‐TB with sTR/TP‐bx, in 121 (56.0%) patients using MRI‐TB with sTP‐bx, and in 101 (46.8%) patients using MRI‐TB. Older age, higher PSA density (PSAD), smaller prostate volume, region of interest in the peripheral zone, higher Prostate Imaging‐Reporting and Data System (PI‐RADS), and administration of dutasteride were more common in csPCa cases. A scoring system was constructed based on odds ratios for PSAD, PI‐RADS ≥ 4, and administration of dutasteride; accordingly, the detection rate of csPCa was 20.3% (14/69) in the low‐risk group (RG) and 95.5% (42/44) in high RG for MRI‐TB with sTR/TP‐bx, and 16.7% (12/72) in the low RG and 97.8% (45/46) in high RG for MRI‐TB with sTP‐Bx.

Conclusions

The addition of SB increased the detection rate of csPCa compared with MRI‐TB alone. PSAD, PI‐RADS ≥ 4, and administration of dutasteride significantly affect the detection of csPCa using MRI‐TB with SB and can be used for deciding whether to perform a biopsy or include sTR‐bx with MRI‐TB.
A novel operational reliability and state prediction method based on degradation hidden Markov model with random threshold
Authors: Jiang Chenyu , Chen Qiang , Lei Baimao
Published: November 2024

Bearings are widely used as a common mechanical component and significantly impacts the reliability and safety of various engineering equipment. In the field of large‐scale equipment such as wind turbines, statistical data for reliability and state prediction of bearings is usually limited, leading to the inapplicability of traditional statistical methods. Besides, individual differences commonly exist among bearings, and the appropriate failure threshold for a specific bearing is difficult to be determined due to the individual uncertainty, which may induce prediction errors. To address these issues, a novel operational reliability and state prediction method based on random threshold degradation hidden Markov model was proposed in the study. The traditional hidden Markov model was improved by considering the effect of performance degradation on state transition probability matrix. Moreover, random failure thresholds of performance degradation were employed to describe individual differences between bearings. The operational reliability and state of bearings was obtained by comprehensive analysis of prediction results under different failure thresholds. Verification of the proposed operational reliability and state prediction method were conducted using PHM2012 bearing operation data. The results underscored the effectiveness of the proposed method in achieving a comparatively high accuracy in operational reliability prediction without the prerequisite of an exact failure threshold, when contrasted with several established reliability and life prediction techniques.
A crisis of authenticity: Becoming entrepreneurial and the quest for “cultural appropriateness” among the Mapuche
Authors: Gálvez Marcelo González , Gallegos Fernanda , Turén Valentina , Quezada Constanza
Published: November 2024

Based on multisite ethnographic work between 2018 and 2020, this article examines entrepreneurship promotion policies developed by the Chilean state directed at Mapuche people. We direct attention to how the notion of authenticity works as a hinge between Mapuche people, historical heritage, nongovernmental organizations, and public policymakers in their promotion of microentrepreneurship as a form of overcoming poverty and achieving full inclusion of Indigenous people in Chilean society. The negotiation processes concerning authenticity bring together people's aspiration to become entrepreneurs as authentic Mapuche and those seeking to initiate a “proper Mapuche business.” Authenticity, its recognition and contestation, appears as a central tenet in the formation of a particular entrepreneurial self that combines entrepreneurs' aspirations for a better life with a simultaneous seeking of an appropriate sense of being Mapuche, with acknowledgment from others. In the process, the meaning of authenticity goes beyond a primordialist understanding of the term, acquiring polysemy and affecting the arena of Indigenous entrepreneurship, as other aspects of contemporary Mapuche lives.
Understanding Language Learning Motivation from a Dual Analytical Lens: Combining Activity Theory and Life Capital
Authors: Tajabadi Azar , Consoli Sal
Published: November 2024

Second language (L2) motivation has long been regarded as one of the requisites for and predictors of success in L2 learning. The scholarship on L2 motivation has grown steadily over the past 60 years, yielding several theories through a range of methods. Building upon this tradition, this paper proposes a methodological contribution to the thriving L2 motivation research arena. Specifically, we suggest a new analytical approach which combines Activity Theory with the methodological lens of ‘life capital'. We illustrate this approach through an L2 learner's narrative, taken from a larger study, with a focus on their experience of learning English over thirteen years. We argue that adopting life capital as an additional analytical layer alongside Activity Theory not only allows us to tackle methodological challenges previously associated with Activity Theory, but also offers a more nuanced understanding of motivational trajectories in L2 learning.
Complete atrioventricular septal defect with double orifice mitral valve in a calf with congestive heart failure
Authors: Atkins Christian , Strugnell Benjamin , Fingerhood Sai
Published: November 2024

A 3–4‐week‐old, suckler, bull calf from Durham County, United Kingdom died due to congestive heart failure. Postmortem examination identified a Type C complete atrioventricular septal defect with concurrent double orifice mitral valve as the cause of the heart failure. Both atrioventricular septal defects and double orifice mitral valves have only rarely been reported in cattle, and never concurrently, to the authors’ knowledge.
Hofstadter Butterflies and Metal/Insulator Transitions for Moiré Heterostructures
Authors: Becker Simon , Ge Lingrui , Wittsten Jens
Published: November 2024

We consider a tight-binding model recently introduced by Timmel and Mele (Phys Rev Lett 125:166803, 2020) for strained moiré heterostructures. We consider two honeycomb lattices to which layer antisymmetric shear strain is applied to periodically modulate the tunneling between the lattices in one distinguished direction. This effectively reduces the model to one spatial dimension and makes it amenable to the theory of matrix-valued quasi-periodic operators. We then study the charge transport and spectral properties of this system, explaining the appearance of a Hofstadter-type butterfly and the occurrence of metal/insulator transitions that have recently been experimentally verified for non-interacting moiré systems (Wang et al. in Nature 577:42–46, 2020). For sufficiently incommensurable moiré lengths, described by a diophantine condition, as well as strong coupling between the lattices, which can be tuned by applying physical pressure, this leads to the occurrence of localization phenomena.
Infinite combinatorics revisited in the absence of Axiom of choice
Authors: Csernák Tamás , Soukup Lajos
Published: November 2024

We investigate whether classical combinatorial theorems are provable in ZF. Some statements are not provable in ZF, but they are equivalent within ZF. For example, the following statements (i)–(iii) are equivalent:

$$cf({\omega }_1)={\omega }_1$$

c
f

(

ω
1

)

=

ω
1

,

$${\omega }_1\rightarrow ({\omega }_1,{\omega }+1)^2$$

ω
1

→

(

ω
1

,
ω
+
1
)

2

,

any family $$\mathcal {A}\subset [{On}]^{<{\omega }}$$

A
⊂

[

On

]

<
ω

of size $${\omega }_1$$

ω
1

contains a $$\Delta $$
Δ
-system of size $${\omega }_1$$

ω
1

.

Some classical results cannot be proven in ZF alone; however, we can establish weaker versions of these statements within the framework of ZF, such as

$${{\omega }_2}\rightarrow ({\omega }_1,{\omega }+1)$$

ω
2

→

(

ω
1

,
ω
+
1
)

,

any family $$\mathcal {A}\subset [{On}]^{<{\omega }}$$

A
⊂

[

On

]

<
ω

of size $${\omega }_2$$

ω
2

contains a $$\Delta $$
Δ
-system of size $${\omega }_1$$

ω
1

.

Some statements can be proven in ZF using purely combinatorial arguments, such as:

given a set mapping $$F:{\omega }_1\rightarrow {[{\omega }_1]}^{<{\omega }}$$

F
:

ω
1

→

[

ω
1

]

<
ω

, the set $${\omega }_1$$

ω
1

has a partition into $${\omega }$$
ω
-many F-free sets.

Other statements can be proven in ZF by employing certain methods of absoluteness, for example:

given a set mapping $$F:{\omega }_1\rightarrow {[{\omega }_1]}^{<{\omega }}$$

F
:

ω
1

→

[

ω
1

]

<
ω

, there is an F-free set of size $${\omega }_1$$

ω
1

,

for each $$n\in {\omega }$$

n
∈
ω

, every family $$\mathcal {A}\subset {[{\omega }_1]}^{{\omega }}$$

A
⊂

[

ω
1

]

ω

with $$|A\cap B|\le n$$

|
A
∩
B
|
≤
n

for $$\{A,B\}\in {[\mathcal {A}]}^{2}$$

{
A
,
B
}

∈

[
A
]

2

has property B.

In contrast to statement (5), we show that the following ZFC theorem of Komjáth is not provable from ZF + $$cf({\omega }_1)={\omega }_1$$

c
f

(

ω
1

)

=

ω
1

:

(6$$ ^*$$

∗

)

every family $$\mathcal {A}\subset {[{\omega }_1]}^{{\omega }}$$

A
⊂

[

ω
1

]

ω

with $$|A\cap B|\le 1$$

|
A
∩
B
|
≤
1

for $$\{A,B\}\in {[\mathcal {A}]}^{2}$$

{
A
,
B
}

∈

[
A
]

2

is essentially disjoint.

A function f is a uniform denumeration on$${\omega }_1$$

ω
1

iff $${\text {dom}}(f)={\omega }_1$$

dom

(
f
)

=

ω
1

, and for every $$1\le {\alpha }<{\omega }_1$$

1
≤
α
<

ω
1

, $$f({\alpha })$$

f
(
α
)

is a function from $${\omega }$$
ω
onto $${\alpha }$$
α
. It is easy to see that the existence of a uniform denumeration of $${\omega }_1$$

ω
1

implies $$cf({\omega }_1)={\omega }_1$$

c
f

(

ω
1

)

=

ω
1

. We prove that the failure of the reverse implication is equiconsistent with the existence of an inaccessible cardinal.
Dry spells trigger durian flowering in aseasonal tropics
Authors: Eguchi Aoi , Hassan Noordyana , Numata Shinya
Published: November 2024

The flowering period of durian is influenced by weather conditions such as prolonged drought and low temperatures. However, the specific criteria and durations of these conditions remain unclear. This study aimed to identify weather conditions that trigger durian flowering by monitoring its phenology and analyzing the relationship between minimum temperature and rainfall using two types of durian— grafting type and seed-grown type. Three flowering events were observed in 2022 and two in 2023. Considering there were no differences in the number or timing of flowering events among the two types, it suggests that genetic background differences do not influence flowering phenology. All flowering events were best explained using the 15-day moving average of rainfall, with the peak of the first flowering occurring approximately 50 days after the 15-day moving average of rainfall fell below 1 mm. These results suggest that drought accumulation over approximately 15 days may trigger the induction of durian flower buds. However, no correlation was determined between the minimum temperature and the first flowering date. These findings indicate that durian flowering is induced by milder drought conditions than those previously proposed. Differences in variety and climate may have led to results different from those reported in earlier studies. Long-term monitoring across multiple sites and varieties is required to discuss these differences further.
Primary hepatic alpha-fetoprotein-producing neuroendocrine neoplasm harboring FGFR2 and TP53 mutations: a case report and literature review
Authors: Watanabe Hirofumi , Enda Kodai , Fujishima Fumiyoshi , Shirota Hidekazu , Ninomiya Masashi , Yamazaki Tetsuro , Sasano Hironobu , Suzuki Takashi
Published: November 2024

This report presents a rare case of a 45-year-old man diagnosed with a primary hepatic alpha-fetoprotein-producing neuroendocrine neoplasm, a condition rarely reported in the literature. The patient presented with initial symptoms of back and epigastric pain, after which multiple liver lesions were discovered on contrast-enhanced computed tomography, suggesting intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma. Histopathological and immunohistochemical analyses confirmed the diagnosis of alpha-fetoprotein-producing neuroendocrine neoplasm that was further supported by genetic testing, which revealed FGFR2 and TP53 mutations commonly encountered in intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma. Despite receiving various chemotherapeutic regimens, the patient exhibited a progressive disease. This case underscores the importance of accurate differential diagnosis from hepatocellular carcinoma and intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma due to differences in treatment approaches and prognoses and highlights the necessity for increased awareness of AFP-producing primary hepatic neuroendocrine neoplasms among clinicians and pathologists. It emphasizes the significance of comprehensive histopathological evaluation, immunohistochemical profiling, and genetic analysis for precise diagnosis and tailored therapeutic strategies. Further research is warranted to elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying this rare liver tumor subtype and develop targeted treatments.
The protein transition—environmental footprints of farmed fish, microalgae and chicken for food, a case study in Kenya
Authors: Hu Xiaolu , Soma Katrine , Odinga Benson , Obwanga Benson , Agricola Herman , Kanyuguto Charles Mbauni
Published: November 2024

Challenges of land scarcity, climate change and water shortage are contributing to escalating the shortage of protein rich food in sub-Saharan Africa. In Kenya a total of 27.8% of the population was undernourished, and a total of 72.3% were categorised as moderately or severe food insecure in 2021–2022. The need to investigate alternative protein sources with less impacts on land, water and climate change, which potentially could replace, at least some of the current production of livestock as the main protein source, is getting increasingly urgent. The main aim of this study is therefore to conduct an environmental footprint analysis of favourable protein production systems in Kenya to evaluate environmental impacts on land, water, and climate. The methodological approach used in this study is referred to as environmental footprint analysis, which is applied to assess; (1) farmed fish in ponds, (2) farmed fish in solar based affordable recirculation aquaculture systems (A-RAS), (3) dried spirulina (Arthrospira Platensis), and (4) chicken from semi-intensive farms. The results show that the most promising alternatives to cattle production are dried spirulina produced in ponds, followed by fish produced in affordable recirculation systems (A-RAS) run on solar energy. Spirulina fully replacing beef production would reduce water usage with 34.7 billion m3/year, land/water surface area with 34.8 thousand km2/year, and GHG emission with 28.2 megaton CO2eq/year. For fish farmed in A-RAS, such replacement would reduce water, land and emissions with 30.7 billion m3/year, 32.0 thousand km2/ year and 23.0 megaton CO2eq/year, respectively. This study illustrates that it is possible to tackle urgent challenges of food and nutrition security for millions of people in sub-Saharan Africa and worldwide with a sustainable protein transition towards a more sustainable, inclusive production system of small-scale farmers, if making use of alternative protein sources, such as from solar based A-RAS and microalgae.
Urban informality in Nigeria: a midsized city perspective
Authors: Essien Etido , Jesse Ezekiel Elisha
Published: November 2024

Midsized cities are important links between rural and urban spaces, providing accessibility to both local and metropolitan resources. They face unique challenges, and present opportunities for smart growth and development. However, the context of housing information in these cities has been widely under-studied, especially in Nigeria, where informality has taken over the urban periphery. This study seeks to develop an empirical understanding of informal housing formation in midsized cities. The empirical data analysis extracted primary data from Uyo, Awka, and Bauchi, which solidified it into an extensive dataset representing the four regions in Nigeria. Emergent informal housing formations resulting from the quest for urban life, low income, long waiting times for urban job opportunities, and free education for schoolchildren influenced by economic hardship were identified. Simultaneously, the prevalence of informal squatting settlements has been identified and largely attributed to urban migrants. The squatting system provides cheap housing and accommodates more migrants. However, its dependence on vulnerable urban migrants raises questions about human rights negligence. This study contributes to the literature on informal settlements in midsized cities in Africa and globally by providing a unique perspective in the context of housing information on these settlements.
Cyproheptadine inhibits in vitro and in vivo lung metastasis and drives metabolic rewiring
Authors: Shannar Ahmad , Sarwar Md Shahid , Dave Parv Dushyant , Chou PoChung Jordan , Peter Rebecca Mary , Xu Jiawei , Pan Yuxin , Rossi Fabio , Kong Ah-Ng
Published: November 2024

Background

Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) accounts for 81% of lung cancer cases, among which over 47% presented with distant metastasis at the time of diagnosis. Despite the introduction of targeted therapy and immunotherapy, enhancing the survival rate and overcoming the development of resistance remain a big challenge. Thus, it is crucial to find potential new therapeutics and targets that can mitigate lung metastasis and investigate its effects on biomarkers, such as cellular metabolomics. In the current study, we investigated the role of cyproheptadine (CPH), an FDA-approved anti-histamine drug in lung metastasis in vitro and in vivo.

Methods and results

CPH showed potent cytotoxicity on different lung cancer cell lines in vitro. Moreover, CPH decreased invasion and migration of LLC1 and A549 cells in Matrigel invasion transwell and plate scratch assays. The in vivo LLC1 syngeneic lung cancer model found decreased number of metastatic nodules on the surface of lungs of Setd7 KO mice compared to SETD7 WT. CPH treatment resulted in decreased growth of LLC1 subcutaneous tumors compared to untreated SETD7 WT. Finally, metabolomic study of tumor tissues showed rewiring of metabolomic pathways and downregulation of amino acids, such as arginine, serine, and glycine) in Setd7 KO and WT treated with CPH compared to untreated Setd7 WT mice.

Conclusion

These findings identify CPH as a potential therapeutic agent to block metastasis in advanced NSCLC and suggest SETD7 as a potential target for the prevention of lung metastasis.
Disability, Affordances, and the Dogma of Harmony: Socializing the EE-Model of Disability
Authors: Kikkert Sophie , Segundo-Ortin Miguel
Published: November 2024

Recent years have seen increased interest among 4E cognition scholars in physical disability, leading to the development of the EE-model of disability. This paper contributes to the literature on disability and 4E cognition in three key ways. First, it examines the relationship between the EE-model and social constructivist views that address the bodily reality of disablement, highlighting commonalities and distinctions. Second, it critiques the EE-model’s focus on individual strategies for expanding disabled persons’ affordance landscapes, arguing that disability policy should integrate insights from both the EE-model and social constructivist approaches. Finally, it assesses the EE-model against the “dogma of harmony.” We argue that while the EE-model’s focus on active human-environment collaboration is valuable, it can inadvertently perpetuate this dogma. We contend that integrating certain social constructivist insights can help the EE-model avoid the dogma of harmony.
Stemness of Cancer: A Study of Triple-negative Breast Cancer From a Neuroscience Perspective
Authors: Djamgoz Mustafa B. A.
Published: November 2024

Stemness, giving cancer cells massive plasticity enabling them to survive in dynamic (e.g. hypoxic) environments and become resistant to treatment, especially chemotherapy, is an important property of aggressive tumours. Here, we review some essentials of cancer stemness focusing on triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC), the most aggressive form of all breast cancers. TNBC cells express a range of genes and mechanisms associated with stemness, including the fundamental four “Yamanaka factors”. Most of the evidence concerns the transcription factor / oncogene c-Myc and an interesting case is the expression of the neonatal splice variant of voltage-gated sodium channel subtype Nav1.5. On the whole, measures that reduce the stemness make cancer cells less aggressive, reducing their invasive/metastatic potential and increasing/restoring their chemosensitivity. Such measures include gene silencing techniques, epigenetic therapies as well as novel approaches like optogenetics aiming to modulate the plasma membrane voltage. Indeed, simply hyperpolarizing their membrane potential can make stem cells differentiate. Finally, we give an overview of the clinical aspects and exploitation of cancer/TNBC stemness, including diagnostics and therapeutics. In particular, personalised mRNA-based therapies and mechanistically meaningful combinations are promising and the emerging discipline of ‘cancer neuroscience’ is providing novel insights to both fundamental issues and clinical applications.

Graphical Abstract
Long-Run Behavior and Convergence of Dynamic Mean Field Equilibria
Authors: Knochenhauer Christoph , Neumann Berenice Anne
Published: November 2024

We study the behavior of dynamic equilibria in mean field games with large time horizons in a dynamic consumer choice model. We show that if the stationary equilibrium in the associated infinite horizon game is unique, the dynamic equilibria of the finite horizon games converge to the stationary equilibrium of the infinite horizon game as the time horizon tends to infinity. If the stationary equilibrium is not unique, however, the situation becomes more involved. In this case, we show that in addition to convergence to the stationary equilibria, in the long run, the dynamic equilibria circle around randomized stationary equilibria for certain choices of boundary data.
Simple closed curves in inverse limits with set-valued functions
Authors: Juárez-Villa Leonardo
Published: November 2024

The purpose of this paper is to show an example of an upper semicontinuous function $$f: [0,1]\rightarrow 2^{[0,1]}$$

f
:

[
0
,
1
]

→

2

[
0
,
1
]

with the following properties: (1) The graph of f is an arc, (2) the inverse limit $$\underleftarrow{\lim }\;f$$

lim
←

f

is a continuum, (3) the dimension of $$\underleftarrow{\lim }\;f$$

lim
←

f

is 1, and (4) for each $$n\ge 3$$

n
≥
3

, $$G' _{n}(f)$$

G
n
′

(
f
)

contains a simple closed curve and $$\underleftarrow{\lim }\;f$$

lim
←

f

contains a simple closed curve.
Who and how to screen for endogenous hypercortisolism in patients with mood disorders
Authors: Ferrante Emanuele , Simeoli Chiara , Mantovani Giovanna , Pivonello Rosario
Published: November 2024

A strict association exists between mood disorders and endogenous hypercortisolism, namely Cushing’s syndrome (CS). Indeed, CS is characterized by a wide range of mood disorders, such as major depression, generalized anxiety, panic disorders, bipolar disorders up to psychosis, with major depression being the most frequent, with a prevalence of 50–80%, and potentially representing the clinical onset of disease. Despite this observation, the exact prevalence of hypercortisolism in patients with mood disorders is unknown and who/how to screen for endogenous hypercortisolism among patients with mood disorders is still unclear. In this context, an accurate anamnestic and clinical examination are crucial in order to identify those patients who may benefit from CS screening. In particular, the presence of specific signs and symptoms of CS, comorbidities typically associated with CS, and lack of improvement of depressive symptoms with standard treatments can further guide the decision to screen for CS. Anyhow, it is noteworthy that mood disorders represent a cause of functional activation of hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, a condition formerly known as non-neoplastic hypercortisolism (NNH). The differential diagnosis between CS and NNH is challenging. Beyond anamnestic and clinical features, various tests, including measurement of daily urinary cortisol and late-night salivary cortisol, together with low dose-dexamethasone suppression test, are used for initial screening. However, considering their low accuracy, a definitive diagnosis may require a longitudinal follow-up along with second-line dynamic tests like combined dexamethasone-CRH test and desmopressin test. In conclusion, available data suggest the need for a comprehensive assessment and follow-up of individuals with mood disorders to detect possible underlying CS, considering the pitfalls in diagnosis and the overlap of symptoms with other conditions like NNH. Specialized centers with expertise in CS diagnosis and differential testing are recommended for accurate evaluation and management of these patients.
Adversarial imitation learning with deep attention network for swarm systems
Authors: Wu Yapei , Wang Tao , Liu Tong , Zheng Zhicheng , Xu Demin , Peng Xingguang
Published: November 2024

Swarm systems consist of a large number of interacting individuals, which exhibit complex behavior despite having simple interaction rules. However, crafting individual motion policies that can manifest desired collective behaviors poses a significant challenge due to the intricate relationship between individual policies and swarm dynamics. This paper addresses this issue by proposing an imitation learning method, which derives individual policies from collective behavior data. The approach leverages an adversarial imitation learning framework, with a deep attention network serving as the individual policy network. Our method successfully imitates three distinct collective behaviors. Utilizing the ease of analysis provided by the deep attention network, we have verified that the individual policies underlying a certain collective behavior are not unique. Additionally, we have analyzed the different individual policies discovered. Lastly, we validate the applicability of the proposed method in designing policies for swarm robots through practical implementation on swarm robots.
A Call for Resistance: Listening to and Acting on the Analyses of Martin Thrupp
Authors: Ritchie Jenny
Published: November 2024

This paper responds to the call to recognise the contributions of the late Martin Thrupp to the arena of education in Aotearoa (New Zealand). It draws on some of his analysis pertaining to middle-class capture of class privilege, and how this hinders socially just educational provision. Thrupp’s ideas are then considered in relation to the early childhood care and education sector with regard to issues of privatisation, curriculum and assessment.
The craft of rock climbing: exploring the implications of relational ontologies for learning to rock climb
Authors: Hubbard Peter , Wood Colin
Published: November 2024

This paper explores how relational ontologies challenge the conception of skill development in rock climbing. Using especially the concepts of Tim Ingold and Phil Mullins, the paper suggests that pro-environmental behaviours, and relationships to place, can be fostered by direct involvement in skills development. This ontology is at odds with dualistic approaches that see climbing and pro-environmental behaviours as tensioned concepts. It is also contrary to historic practice theories that see climbing development as deriving from mastering oneself and conquering the climb. The paper proposes that climbing can be better understood as a craft and that each climb can be seen as co-created by the correspondence between the climber and the rock. This approach challenges the anthropocentric concept of the climb as a challenge to be overcome by skill and human endeavour, and instead suggests that a perspective of climbing as a craft better recognises the shared agency of the assemblage of rock and climber. Consequently, the paper suggests that completed rock climbs can be seen as co-evolved expressions of knowledge and action, and thus that climbing skills and pro-environmental behaviours derive from a creative process of engagement with the solid reality of the rock.
Inhibitory effect of Eucalyptus globulus essential oil against Botryosphaeria dothidea and Fomitiporia mediterranea fungi causing wood diseases in viticulture
Authors: Ammad Faiza , Bentoumi Yacine , Gharnaout Mohammed Lotfi , Zebib Bachar , Merah Othmane
Published: November 2024

Dieback diseases are caused by Fomitiporia and Botryosphaeria two genus of fungi that colonize wood tissue in grapevine. After the prohibition of sodium arsenite in 2001, no chemical treatments are available to control these diseases. Curettage is a possible substitute solution. The results depend on many factors. The use of essential oils can be an alternative and/or complementary way. This study aims to investigate the essential oil (EO) composition of Eucalyptus globulus (E. globulus) from leaves and flowers and to evaluate its antifungal activity against Botryosphaeria dothidae and Fomitiporia mediterranea fungi. GC–MS results show that 97.79% of oil composition was identified, of which the Eucalyptol is the major compound (76.33%). Other compounds were identified such as α-Pinene (9.81%); Allo-Aromadendrene (3.07%) and Limonene (2.55%). EO had a detrimental effect in vito on both developed Botryosphaeria dothidae and Fomitiporia mediterranea fungi. The effect is dose-dependent and increases with the duration of the treatment. Essential oil concentrations of 0.25% and 0.75% of E. globulus were efficient against Botryosphaeria dothidae and Fomitiporia mediterranea, respectively. This is the first report investigate the purpose of E. globulus EO to control this both phytopathogenic fungi. The results from the antifungal assays reveal that EO of E. globulus has an excellent inhibitory effect against both tested fungi.