bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mesenchymal Stem Cells and Extracellular Vesicles: Therapeutic Potential in Organ Transplantation
Authors: Pan Wennuo , Li Shaohan , Li Kunsheng , Zhou Pengyu
Published: April 2024

At present, organ transplantation remains the most appropriate therapy for patients with end‐stage organ failure. However, the field of organ transplantation is still facing many challenges, including the shortage of organ donors, graft function damage caused by organ metastasis, and antibody‐mediated immune rejection. It is therefore urgently necessary to find new and effective treatment. Stem cell therapy has been regarded as a “regenerative medicine technology.” Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), as the most common source of cells for stem cell therapy, play an important role in regulating innate and adaptive immune responses and have been widely used in clinical trials for the treatment of autoimmune and inflammatory diseases. Increasing evidence has shown that MSCs mainly rely on paracrine pathways to exert immunomodulatory functions. In addition, mesenchymal stem cell‐derived extracellular vesicles (MSC‐EVs) are the main components of paracrine substances of MSCs. Herein, an overview of the application of the function of MSCs and MSC‐EVs in organ transplantation will focus on the progress reported in recent experimental and clinical findings and explore their uses for graft preconditioning and recipient immune tolerance regulation. Additionally, the limitations on the use of MSC and MSC‐EVs are also discussed, covering the isolation of exosomes and preservation techniques. Finally, the opportunities and challenges for translating MSCs and MSC‐EVs into clinical practice of organ transplantation are also evaluated.
A Biallelic Mutation in CCDC103 Impairs Sperm Motility due to the Absence of Dynein Arms
Authors: Yu Yi , Zhu Jin-De , Liu Peng-Fei , Zhan Ming-Wei , Zheng Bang-Xu , Lai Yu-Qi , Wu Ke-Rong , Shang Xue-Jun
Published: April 2024

Primary ciliary dyskinesia (PCD) is a rare genetic condition characterized by destructive respiratory disease and laterality abnormalities due to randomized left–right body asymmetry. In men, PCD is also often associated with infertility due to immotile sperm owing to a malfunction of the sperm flagella. Pathogenic mutations have been found in more than 50 genes. Nonetheless, not all patients with PCD experience infertility. Therefore, to better understand the impact of PCD‐associated mutations on male fertility, it is necessary to clarify the role of these genes in spermatogenesis. The CCDC103 p.His154Pro mutation has a high prevalence in PCD. Here, we present the identification and functional analysis of a biallelic mutation in CCDC103 identified in a familial case of PCD associated with male infertility. The biallelic CCDC103 mutations, NM_213607:c.161_162del(p.His55Serfs ∗9) and NM_213607:c.461A > C (p.His154Pro), were identified by whole‐exome sequencing. Sanger sequencing validation was performed on all available family members, and the mutation was recessively separated with an infertility phenotype. The c.161_162del mutation breaks the reading frame of the protein and, therefore, is predicted to produce a nonfunctional protein. The tertiary structure of CCDC103‐mutated protein indicated a significant conformational change that likely affected protein function. Transmission electron microscopy of spermatozoa showed that both the mid and principal regions of the flagellum lacked dynein arms, which was confirmed via immunofluorescence staining. Using the method of laser‐assisted immotile sperm selection combined with intracytoplasmic sperm injection, the patient’s wife has a successful clinical pregnancy. These results extend the phenotype spectrum of the CCDC103 mutation in PCD.
Stool Protein Mass Spectrometry Identifies Biomarkers for Early Detection of Diffuse-type Gastric Cancer
Authors: Ho Chi-Lee C. , Gilbert Michael B. , Urtecho Guillaume , Lee Hyoungjoo , Drew David A. , Klempner Samuel J. , Cho Jin S. , Ryan Thomas J. , Rustgi Naryan , Lee Hyuk , Lee Jeeyun , Caraballo Alexander , Magicheva-Gupta Marina V. , Rios Carmen , Shin Alice E. , Tseng Yuen-Yi , Davis Jeremy L. , Chung Daniel C. , Chan Andrew T. , Wang Harris H. , Ryeom Sandra
Published: April 2024

There is a high unmet need for early detection approaches for diffuse gastric cancer (DGC). We examined whether the stool proteome of mouse models of gastric cancer (GC) and individuals with hereditary diffuse gastric cancer (HDGC) have utility as biomarkers for early detection. Proteomic mass spectrometry of the stool of a genetically engineered mouse model driven by oncogenic KrasG12D and loss of p53 and Cdh1 in gastric parietal cells [known as Triple Conditional (TCON) mice] identified differentially abundant proteins compared with littermate controls. Immunoblot assays validated a panel of proteins, including actinin alpha 4 (ACTN4), N-acylsphingosine amidohydrolase 2 (ASAH2), dipeptidyl peptidase 4 (DPP4), and valosin-containing protein (VCP), as enriched in TCON stool compared with littermate control stool. Immunofluorescence analysis of these proteins in TCON stomach sections revealed increased protein expression compared with littermate controls. Proteomic mass spectrometry of stool obtained from patients with HDGC with CDH1 mutations identified increased expression of ASAH2, DPP4, VCP, lactotransferrin (LTF), and tropomyosin-2 relative to stool from healthy sex- and age-matched donors. Chemical inhibition of ASAH2 using C6 urea ceramide was toxic to GC cell lines and GC patient-derived organoids. This toxicity was reversed by adding downstream products of the S1P synthesis pathway, which suggested a dependency on ASAH2 activity in GC. An exploratory analysis of the HDGC stool microbiome identified features that correlated with patient tumors. Herein, we provide evidence supporting the potential of analyzing stool biomarkers for the early detection of DGC.

Prevention Relevance: This study highlights a novel panel of stool protein biomarkers that correlate with the presence of DGC and has potential use as early detection to improve clinical outcomes.
Pharmacologic Targeting of Histone H3K27 Acetylation/BRD4-dependent Induction of ALDH1A3 for Early-phase Drug Tolerance of Gastric Cancer
Authors: Lee Jin , Mashima Tetsuo , Kawata Naomi , Yamamoto Noriko , Morino Shun , Inaba Saori , Nakamura Ayane , Kumagai Koshi , Wakatsuki Takeru , Takeuchi Kengo , Yamaguchi Kensei , Seimiya Hiroyuki
Published: April 2024

Anticancer drug-tolerant persister (DTP) cells at an early phase of chemotherapy reshape refractory tumors. Aldehyde dehydrogenase 1 family member A3 (ALDH1A3) is commonly upregulated by various anticancer drugs in gastric cancer patient-derived cells (PDC) and promotes tumor growth. However, the mechanism underlying the generation of ALDH1A3-positive DTP cells remains elusive. Here, we investigated the mechanism of ALDH1A3 expression and a combination therapy targeting gastric cancer DTP cells. We found that gastric cancer tissues treated with neoadjuvant chemotherapy showed high ALDH1A3 expression. Chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP)-PCR and ChIP sequencing analyses revealed that histone H3 lysine 27 acetylation was enriched in the ALDH1A3 promoter in 5-fluorouracil (5-FU)-tolerant persister PDCs. By chemical library screening, we found that the bromodomain and extraterminal (BET) inhibitors OTX015/birabresib and I-BET-762/molibresib suppressed DTP-related ALDH1A3 expression and preferentially inhibited DTP cell growth. In DTP cells, BRD4, but not BRD2/3, was recruited to the ALDH1A3 promoter and BRD4 knockdown decreased drug-induced ALDH1A3 upregulation. Combination therapy with 5-FU and OTX015 significantly suppressed in vivo tumor growth. These observations suggest that BET inhibitors are efficient DTP cell–targeting agents for gastric cancer treatment.

Significance:

Drug resistance hampers the cure of patients with cancer. To prevent stable drug resistance, DTP cancer cells are rational therapeutic targets that emerge during the early phase of chemotherapy. This study proposes that the epigenetic regulation by BET inhibitors may be a rational therapeutic strategy to eliminate DTP cells.
Three-Year Follow-Up Study Investigating Changes in Retinal Vascular Morphology and the Relationship with Diabetic Retinopathy in Children with Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Chen Shuli , Xiao Ying , Cui Lipu , Qin Xinran , An Qingyu , Yuan Tianyi , Wu Yiwei , Lin Qiurong , Qian Yu , Yang Chenhao , Zou Haidong
Published: April 2024

Introduction: This study aimed to investigate changes in retinal microvascular morphology and associated factors, and their relationship with diabetic retinopathy (DR) in children with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM). Methods: Thirty-eight children enrolled in this 3-year follow-up study underwent complete ophthalmic examinations including fundus photography. Retinal vascular parameters were measured automatically and compared between baseline and follow-up. Multiple linear regression was used to investigate factors affecting changes in vascular parameters. Binary logistic regression was used to analyze the relationship between retinal microvascular morphology and DR. Results: The caliber of all retinal vessels (within 1–1.5 papillary diameter [PD] from the center of the optic disc, p = 0.030; 1.5–2 PD, p = 0.003), arterioles, and venules (1.5–2 PD, p = 0.001) was narrower in nearly all regions in the follow-up group compared with the baseline group. Vascular tortuosity increased in the central part of the retina and decreased in the periphery. The density (1–1.5 PD, p = 0.030) and fractal dimension (p = 0.037) of retinal vessels were increased at the end of the follow-up compared with baseline. Retinal vascular caliber was independently correlated with DR (odds ratio 0.793 [95% confidence interval 0.633–0.993]; p = 0.044). Conclusion: Retinal microvascular morphology in children with T1DM varied with the disease course. Narrower retinal vessels may be an independent risk factor for DR. Results of this study emphasized the importance of regular follow-up of fundus vascular morphology for the detection of early DR in children with T1DM.
Growth Patterns of 11–29-Month-Old Children Consuming Young Child Formula: Secondary Analysis of a Randomized, Controlled Study
Authors: Sirkka Outi , Bindels Jacques , Chatchatee Pantipa , Kosuwon Pensri , Lee Way S. , SimaKachorn Nipat , Marintcheva-Petrova Maya , Abrahamse-Berkeveld Marieke
Published: April 2024

Introduction: The impact of young child formula (YCF) consumption on children’s growth, particularly under suboptimal conditions, has scarcely been studied. In the current study, weight-for-age (WAZ), length-for-age (LAZ), and BMI-for-age (BAZ) z-score development was evaluated in children from five different countries (n = 668) who participated in a double-blind, randomized, controlled trial. Methods: The children (1–3 years old) were randomized to one of two intervention YCFs (with presence or absence of prebiotics and n-3 LCPUFAs) during 52 weeks of intervention. Additional stratified analyses evaluated the growth patterns of underweight, overweight, or stunted children. Results: No apparent differences in anthropometric measurements were observed between the intervention groups. In both YCF intervention groups, mean WAZ, LAZ and BAZ development was indicative of adequate growth during the intervention period. Stratified analyses showed stable WAZ and BAZ development among children with a healthy weight or overweight at baseline. Among underweight and stunted children, normalization in mean weight (∼1 SD) and length (∼0.8 SD) gain, respectively, was observed. Conclusion: The current study suggests that consumption of YCF, either or not containing prebiotics and n-3 LCPUFAs, is associated with adequate growth among young children. This association may depend on the child’s baseline nutritional status. Future studies to assess the potential role of YCF in supporting adequate weight/length gain among children at risk for undernutrition are warranted.
Association between the Thickness or Area of the Temporal Muscle and Skeletal Muscle Mass in Bioimpedance Analysis
Authors: Han Jee Myung , Kim Du Hwan , Lee Byung Chan
Published: April 2024

Introduction: Sarcopenia associated with stroke can significantly impact patient prognosis; however, the current standard diagnostic methods for sarcopenia are rarely used in stroke patients. Therefore, the aim of the current study was to investigate whether the temporal muscle thickness (TMT) or area (TMA) could serve as a surrogate marker for measuring skeletal muscle mass. Methods: This retrospective chart review study was conducted on 244 participants from March 2018 to February 2020. The TMT and TMA were measured at the supraorbital roof level using brain CT or T1-weighted MR imaging obtained from participants. The skeletal muscle mass and skeletal muscle index (SMI) and whole-body phase angle (WBPA) at 50 kHz were collected. Pearson correlation analysis was used to assess the relationship between the TMT or TMA and the results of the bioimpedance analysis. Results: The mean TMT showed significant positive correlations with skeletal muscle mass (male, r = 0.520; female, r = 0.706), SMI (male, r = 0.426; female, r = 0.582), and WBPA (male, r = 0.295; female, r = 0.232). The mean TMA showed significant positive correlations with skeletal muscle mass (male, r = 0.490; female, r = 0.657), SMI (male, r = 0.289; female, r = 0.473), and WBPA (male, r = 0.232; female, r = 0.243). Conclusion: We observed moderate to strong positive correlations between body composition analysis measured by BIA and TMT or TMA, suggesting that TMT or TMA could serve as a reliable surrogate marker for identifying low skeletal muscle mass in cerebrovascular disease.
Evaluating ChatGPT’s Accuracy in Responding to Patient Education Questions on Acute Kidney Injury and Continuous Renal Replacement Therapy
Authors: Sheikh Mohammad Salman , Thongprayoon Charat , Suppadungsuk Supawadee , Miao Jing , Qureshi Fawad , Kashani Kianoush , Cheungpasitporn Wisit
Published: April 2024

Introduction: Acute kidney injury (AKI) and continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT) are critical areas in nephrology. The effectiveness of ChatGPT in simpler, patient education-oriented questions has not been thoroughly assessed. This study evaluates the proficiency of ChatGPT 4.0 in responding to such questions, subjected to various linguistic alterations. Methods: Eighty-nine questions were sourced from the Mayo Clinic Handbook for educating patients on AKI and CRRT. These questions were categorized as original, paraphrased with different interrogative adverbs, paraphrased resulting in incomplete sentences, and paraphrased containing misspelled words. Two nephrologists verified the questions for medical accuracy. A χ2 test was conducted to ascertain notable discrepancies in ChatGPT 4.0’s performance across these formats. Results: ChatGPT provided notable accuracy in handling a variety of question formats for patient education in AKI and CRRT. Across all question types, ChatGPT demonstrated an accuracy of 97% for both original and adverb-altered questions and 98% for questions with incomplete sentences or misspellings. Specifically for AKI-related questions, the accuracy was consistently maintained at 97% for all versions. In the subset of CRRT-related questions, the tool achieved a 96% accuracy for original and adverb-altered questions, and this increased to 98% for questions with incomplete sentences or misspellings. The statistical analysis revealed no significant difference in performance across these varied question types (p value: 1.00 for AKI and 1.00 for CRRT), and there was no notable disparity between the artificial intelligence (AI)’s responses to AKI and CRRT questions (p value: 0.71). Conclusion: ChatGPT 4.0 demonstrates consistent and high accuracy in interpreting and responding to queries related to AKI and CRRT, irrespective of linguistic modifications. These findings suggest that ChatGPT 4.0 has the potential to be a reliable support tool in the delivery of patient education, by accurately providing information across a range of question formats. Further research is needed to explore the direct impact of AI-generated responses on patient understanding and education outcomes.
Traditional Cardiovascular Risk Factors and Coronary Microvascular Dysfunction in Women and Men: A Single-Center Study
Authors: Zornitzki Lior , Shetrit Aviel , Freund Ophir , Frydman Shir , Banai Ariel , Amar Shamir Reut , Ben-Shoshan Jeremy , Arbel Yaron , Banai Shmuel , Konigstein Maayan
Published: April 2024

Introduction: Coronary microvascular dysfunction (CMD) is common in patients with and without obstructive epicardial coronary artery disease (CAD). Risk factors for the development of CMD have not been fully elucidated, and data regarding sex-associated differences in traditional cardiovascular risk factors for obstructive CAD in patients with CMD are lacking. Methods: In this single-center, prospective registry, we enrolled patients with nonobstructive CAD undergoing clinically indicated invasive assessment of coronary microvascular function between November 2019 and March 2023. Associations between coronary microvascular dysfunction, traditional cardiovascular risk factors, and sex were assessed using univariate and multivariate regression models. Results: Overall, 245 patients with nonobstructive CAD were included in the analysis (62.9% female; median age 68 (interquartile range: 59, 75). Microvascular dysfunction was diagnosed in 141 patients (57.5%). The prevalence of microvascular dysfunction was similar in women and men (59.0% vs. 57.0%; p = 0.77). No association was found between traditional risk factors for coronary atherosclerosis and CMD regardless of whether CMD was structural or functional. In women, but not in men, older age and the presence of previous ischemic heart disease were associated with lower coronary flow reserve (β = −0.29; p < 0.01 and β = −0.15; p = 0.05, respectively) and lower resistive reserve ratio (β = −0.28; p < 0.01 and β = −0.17; p = 0.04, respectively). Conclusion: For the entire population, no association was found between coronary microvascular dysfunction and traditional risk factors for coronary atherosclerosis. In women only, older age and previous ischemic heart disease were associated with coronary microvascular dysfunction. Larger studies are needed to elucidate risk factors for CMD.
Pensamientos políticos desde la juventud afrodescendiente: cuestionamientos raciales
Authors: Arroyo Ortega Adriana , Victoria Alvarado Sara
Published: April 2024

Este artículo forma parte de la tesis doctoral denominada “Narrativas de mujeres jóvenes afrodescendientes en torno a la subjetividad política: una perspectiva decolonial y feminista” del Doctorado en Ciencias Sociales, Niñez y Juventud. Su búsqueda es el establecimiento de perspectivas de razonamiento que involucren al lector en las limitaciones y posibilidades políticas de los jóvenes afros o negros en Colombia, en aras de provocar deliberaciones éticas, epistemológicas y sociales respecto a la sociedad que se ha construido. Este artículo inicia con un acercamiento a las implicaciones políticas de denominarse afrodescendiente o negro; se pasa en un segundo apartado a preguntarse por la juventud y de manera particular por la juventud afrodescendiente, para finalizar con la reflexión sobre su pensamiento y acción política.
Entre la regulación y la emancipación: el caso de las políticas de atención en salud para mujeres trans (Bogotá D.C., 2008-2013)
Authors: Ruiz López Ángela Patricia , García Gómez Leandro Carlo , García García Edisson Giovanny
Published: April 2024

La investigación que se resume en el presente artículo corresponde al estudio de caso de las acciones que han venido emprendiendo desde 2008 las instituciones de la ciudad de Bogotá D.C., orientadas a garantizar de manera diferencial el derecho a la salud para las personas transgénero. El artículo se centra en las condiciones sociales y agentes que intervienen en este proceso, bajo la óptica de que estos últimos (instituciones distritales, organizaciones LGBT y mujeres trans) han realizado acciones de transformación reflexivos e intencionales sobre la realidad. Mediante una estrategia investigativa de tipo cualitativo se identifican los obstáculos y desafíos que la reivindicación de las transformaciones corporales le presenta al campo de estudio sobre los problemas contemporáneos del desarrollo incluyente.
Las estéticas en jóvenes escolarizadas, su sentido y significado
Authors: Corredor Sánchez Karol Lilian , Alfonso Rojas Carlos
Published: April 2024

Esta investigación tiene como objetivo analizar algunas formas de construcción de la identidad femenina a través de la expresión corporal de jóvenes escolarizadas. Se estudian los diferentes elementos que configuran las estéticas de estas jóvenes, a partir de la observación de su indumentaria que altera su uniforme escolar y tensiona la normatividad institucional, lo cual configura formas de construcción de cuerpos a partir de cánones de belleza preestablecidos y reproducidos desde la subjetividad de las estudiantes. También se indaga sobre el uso del maquillaje, lo exagerado de sus accesorios, y cómo estos dan sentido a la construcción del cuerpo femenino y joven dentro del colegio. Esta investigación es de tipo cualitativo con enfoque hermenéutico y busca conocer los diferentes significados que los individuos dan a sus experiencias. Como instrumento metodológico se utilizó el grupo focal, conformado por siete estudiantes de grados séptimo a noveno de la Institución Educativa Compartir de Soacha. Los resultados permiten afirmar que el uso de maquillaje y las modificaciones en el vestuario buscan dar una apariencia distinta a la asignada por la normatividad en el espacio escolar, y por medio de estas expresiones y actitudes las estudiantes intentan configurar su propia identidad.
Sujetos constituidos desde la salud pública: una arqueología y genealogía de los discursos de salud pública en la ciudad de Bogotá durante el periodo 2004-2012
Authors: Sierra Polanco Dalis del Pilar
Published: April 2024

Esta investigación se centró en adquirir una mirada histórica de las condiciones y posibilidades de los enunciados en salud pública en la ciudad de Bogotá durante el periodo de 2004 a 2012, en el marco de la promoción y la prevención. Se escudriñó cada uno de los espacios y momentos que dieron lugar al régimen de verdad; se reconoció la historicidad y las relaciones que entretejieron y forjaron los enunciados, con la intención de señalar los puntos de inflexión discursiva y de reconocer a partir de estos los elementos sinuosos en el devenir histórico, es decir una ontología crítica del presente, desde la arqueología y la genealogía, como comprensión y análisis de los discursos que han configurado al sujeto desde los saberes instaurados como verdad y las relaciones de poder. De esta manera se dio respuesta a los interrogantes y postulados de la investigación, los cuales arrojaron como resultado que la salud pública constituye un discurso regulador de la vida que se instaura como un saber/verdad, bajo el régimen de la gubernamentalidad, el cual es constituido como un dispositivo de poder sobre los sujetos, puesto que determina comportamientos y envuelve los diferentes escenarios de la vida. Por este motivo la salud se plantea como un dispositivo de regulación del cuerpo que pretende organizar la vida y establecer un sistema de conductas consecuentes a un objetivo de universalización orientado a la productividad.
Agencia, política y cultura en la comunidad afrocolombiana en la 19 del barrio oasis de altos de cazucá. Sistemas de organización y visibilización social
Authors: Jaramillo Hincapié Ángela María , Mora Perilla Diana Marcela , Sánchez Córdoba Geydy Andrea
Published: April 2024

Este artículo presenta los hallazgos del trabajo de investigación “Agencia, política y cultura en la comunidad afrocolombiana en la 19 del barrio oasis de altos de Cazucá, sistemas de organización y visibilización social”, donde se buscó comprender cuáles son los procesos de agencia y como se dan en los líderes de la comunidad. Para la recolección de la información se utilizó la entrevista semiestructurada, la observación y el diario de campo. El método de análisis utilizado fue la teoría fundamentada. Como resultado del proceso investigativo se encontró que las situaciones límites por las que atraviesan en algún momento de sus vidas, se convierten en una especie de detonante para que se dé el agenciamiento, así mismo, se evidenció que el agenciamiento en los líderes de esta comunidad se da en dos grandes líneas; la primera, es la necesidad de incidir y sentirse representados en las políticas públicas y la segunda, es lograr una visibilización cultural que contribuya a que sean tratados como comunidad afro y en igualdad de condiciones sin tratos racistas o discriminatorios.
El florecimiento de sí: un acercamiento a la comprensión de la construcción de identidad de algunos maestros y maestras de Medellín
Authors: Cardona Berrío Laura Marcela , Ospina Ospina Diego León , Rodríguez Claudia Patricia
Published: April 2024

El presente es el artículo de resultados de la investigación: “El florecimiento de sí: un acercamiento a la comprensión de la construcción de identidad de algunos maestros y maestras de Medellín”, el cual indagó alrededor de las múltiples posibilidades de florecer de seis maestros/as de instituciones públicas y privadas de Medellín. La investigación pretendía aportar a la reflexión alrededor del sujeto maestro/a en un ámbito educativo que se ha venido instrumentalizando, olvidando uno de los aspectos fundamentales del acontecimiento educativo: la pervivencia de lo humano. El florecimiento de sí se presentó como una posibilidad para el reconocimiento de los/as maestros/as, de su propia identidad y del inquietarse por sí como autores de su propia biografía, en el marco de una educación para la trasformación, y el cuidado de sí como camino para entender y emprender el cuidado de los otros y las otras. El ejercicio investigativo se realizó por medio de un modelo de investigación comprensiva, con un enfoque hermenéutico-fenomenológico, al ser el florecimiento de sí un acontecimiento de naturaleza plural que vive un sujeto singular. El grupo de participantes del proceso investigativo lo conformaron seis maestros/as de diferentes instituciones educativas de Medellín, con diversos niveles de formación y áreas de enseñanza, seleccionados por medio de un grupo focal. Las narrativas fueron el camino para acceder al mundo simbólico y acercarnos a las múltiples formas en que acontece el florecimiento de sí. Así pues, buscamos acercarnos a la comprensión de su configuración identitaria y a las posibilidades de su florecimiento. Se abordaron los siguientes autores: Katya Mandoki, Charles Taylor, Hélena Béjar, Michael Foucault, entre otros. Nuestros principales hallazgos giran en torno a la identidad en tres aspectos básicos: ser maestros/as para ocupar un lugar en el mundo, identidad como aspiración al bien y horizonte moral, y, finalmente, identidad configurada en relaciones de reconocimiento.
Análisis cualitativo del perfil interpersonal de los centennials en Colombia y México
Authors: Samacá-Salamanca Eliana , Martínez-Estrella Eva Citlali , García-Rivero Ainhoa
Published: April 2024

(analytical)Generation Z has become one of the most studied cohorts in the last decade, as it is a completely digital, curious, and self- taught person, which represents a challenge for any social system. Therefore, in order to achieve a real approach, it will be essential to know a detailed profile, which includes an inner vision of the Centennial, considering their beliefs, values, fears and interests. Thanks to the application of a mixed methodology, focused on social listening, interviews (n=27) and surveys (n=365), this research presents the "Z profile" of young people in Colombia and Mexico. As for the results, it should be noted that we find a well-balanced young Z who pursues stability as the vital objective.
Elliptic Fourier analysis of leaf shape of Callicarpa pedunculata and Callicarpa rubella (Lamiaceae)
Authors: Danila Jennifer S. , D. Alejandro Grecebio Jonathan
Published: April 2024

Leaves play an important role in species discrimination. An elliptic Fourier analysis (EFA) based morphometric technique was used to assess divergence between the poorly differentiated species, Callicarpa pedunculata and C. rubella. Using leaf specimen images from herbarium collections, principal components (PCs) were extracted from the Fourier coefficients and used to describe leaf outline and leaf shape descriptors: circularity, aspect ratio, and solidity. The results indicate that symmetric (54%) and asymmetric (35%) components of the leaves of C. pedunculata and C. rubella are sources of shape variation, as shown in the width and leaf tips among the samples. MANOVA revealed significant interspecific differences (P = 0.03) between C. pedunculata and C. rubella. The jack-knife cross-validation showed 71% of correctly classified species both in C. pedunculata and C. rubella. Furthermore, the results of this study were able to reveal significant leaf shape descriptors like aspect ratio, circularity, and solidity as important diagnostic characters in discriminating C. pedunculata and C. rubella. Thus, in conclusion, leaf serrations, leaf size, and leaf lobes are important characteristics in discriminating between C. pedunculata and C. rubella.
Percutaneous Balloon–Expandable Stent Implantation to Treat Transverse Aortic Arch Obstruction: Medium- to Long-Term Outcomes of a Retrospective Multicenter Study
Authors: Salavitabar Arash , Eisner Mariah , Armstrong Aimee K. , Boe Brian A. , Chisolm Joanne L. , Cheatham John P. , Cheatham Sharon L. , Forbes Thomas , Jones Thomas K. , Krings Gregor J. , Morray Brian H. , Steinberg Zachary L. , Akam-Venkata Jyothsna , Voskuil Michiel , Berman Darren P.
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND:

Transverse aortic arch obstruction is a challenging lesion for which stent implantation provides a potentially important alternate therapy. The objectives were to evaluate the technical, procedural, and medium-to-long-term clinical outcomes of percutaneous stent implantation of transverse aortic arch obstruction.

METHODS:

This is a retrospective, multicenter study of transverse aortic arch stent implantation. Univariable and multivariable analyses were performed.

RESULTS:

Index catheterization included 187 stent implants in 146 patients. The median age is 14.3 years (interquartile range, 9.3–19), weight is 53 kg (30–69), and follow-up is 53 months (12–120). The most common stent design was open cell (n=90, 48%). Stents overlapped 142 arch vessels (37 carotid arteries) in 118 (81%) cases. Technical and procedural success rates were 100% and 88%, respectively. Lower weight (
P
=0.018), body surface area (
P
=0.013), and minimum-to-descending aortic diameter ratio (
P
<0.001) were associated with higher baseline aortic gradient. The residual gradient was inversely associated with implant and final dilation diameters (
P
<0.001). The combined incidence of aortic injury and stent-related complications was 14%. There were no reports of abnormal brain scans or stroke. Blood pressure cuff gradient, echocardiographic arch velocity, and hypertension rates improved within 1-year follow-up with increased antihypertensive medication use. Reintervention was reported in 60 (41%) patients at a median of 84 (22–148) months to first reintervention. On multivariable logistic regression, residual aortic gradient >10 mm Hg was associated with increased odds of reintervention at all time points when controlling for each final dilation diameter, weight, and minimum-to-descending aortic diameter ratio.

CONCLUSIONS:

Transverse aortic arch stent implantation has high rates of technical, procedural, and medium-to-long-term clinical success. Aortic gradient >10 mm Hg is associated with increased odds of reintervention at 1-year and most recent follow-ups. Open cell stent design was frequently used for its advantages in conformability, perfusion of arch vessels, low fracture rate, and the ability to perform effective angioplasty of side cells.
Precision brain morphometry using cluster scanning
Authors: Elliott Maxwell L. , Nielsen Jared A. , Hanford Lindsay C. , Hamadeh Aya , Hilbert Tom , Kober Tobias , Dickerson Bradford C. , Hyman Bradley T. , Mair Ross W. , Eldaief Mark C. , Buckner Randy L.
Published: April 2024

Measurement error limits the statistical power to detect group differences and longitudinal change in structural MRI morphometric measures (e.g., hippocampal volume, prefrontal cortical thickness). Recent advances in scan acceleration enable extremely fast T1-weighted scans (~1 minute) that achieve morphometric errors that are close to the errors in longer traditional scans. As acceleration allows multiple scans to be acquired in rapid succession, it becomes possible to pool estimates to increase measurement precision, a strategy known as “cluster scanning.” Here, we explored brain morphometry using cluster scanning in a test-retest study of 40 individuals (12 younger adults, 18 cognitively unimpaired older adults, and 10 adults diagnosed with mild cognitive impairment or Alzheimer’s Dementia). Morphometric errors from a single compressed sensing (CS) 1.0 mm scan (CS) were, on average, 12% larger than a traditional scan using the Alzheimer’s Disease Neuroimaging Initiative (ADNI) protocol. Pooled estimates from four clustered CS acquisitions led to errors that were 34% smaller than ADNI despite having a shorter total acquisition time. Given a fixed amount of time, a gain in measurement precision can thus be achieved by acquiring multiple rapid scans instead of a single traditional scan. Errors were further reduced when estimates were pooled from eight CS scans (51% smaller than ADNI). Neither pooling across a break nor pooling across multiple scans of different spatial resolutions boosted this benefit. We discuss the potential of cluster scanning to improve morphometric precision, boost statistical power, and produce more sensitive disease progression biomarkers.
Gauge-Optimal Approximate Learning for Small Data Classification
Authors: Vecchi Edoardo , Bassetti Davide , Graziato Fabio , Pospíšil Lukáš , Horenko Illia
Published: April 2024

Small data learning problems are characterized by a significant discrepancy between the limited number of response variable observations and the large feature space dimension. In this setting, the common learning tools struggle to identify the features important for the classification task from those that bear no relevant information and cannot derive an appropriate learning rule that allows discriminating among different classes. As a potential solution to this problem, here we exploit the idea of reducing and rotating the feature space in a lower-dimensional gauge and propose the gauge-optimal approximate learning (GOAL) algorithm, which provides an analytically tractable joint solution to the dimension reduction, feature segmentation, and classification problems for small data learning problems. We prove that the optimal solution of the GOAL algorithm consists in piecewise-linear functions in the Euclidean space and that it can be approximated through a monotonically convergent algorithm that presents—under the assumption of a discrete segmentation of the feature space—a closed-form solution for each optimization substep and an overall linear iteration cost scaling. The GOAL algorithm has been compared to other state-of-the-art machine learning tools on both synthetic data and challenging real-world applications from climate science and bioinformatics (i.e., prediction of the El Niño Southern Oscillation and inference of epigenetically induced gene-activity networks from limited experimental data). The experimental results show that the proposed algorithm outperforms the reported best competitors for these problems in both learning performance and computational cost.
Common Concern of Humankind and Its Legal Consequences for Climate Stability
Authors: Amat-i-Puigsech Didac
Published: April 2024

One of the main challenges for modern international law is its capacity to deal with global public interests. In a world characterized by growing interdependence, the international community requires instruments to regulate the global commons, provide global public goods, and enforce its fundamental values. In this context, this article contributes to the debate on the legal consequences of recognizing climate stability as a global public good. While these goods are regulated on a case-by-case basis, some of them have the status of being common concerns of humankind. Since the icj and the ilc have not clarified the content of this legal status, I discuss the main academic perspectives and propose a new standpoint. Considering the current stage of public international law, I argue that the common concern status does not generate new state obligations but impacts the content of those commitments already included in the international climate change regime.
Machine learning-based wood anatomy identification: towards anatomical feature recognition
Authors: He Xin , Pelt Daniël M. , Gao JingRan , Gravendeel Barbara , Zhu PeiQi , Chen SongYang , Qiu Jian , Lens Frederic
Published: April 2024

Computer vision-based wood identification has been successfully applied to recognize tree species using digital images of wood sections or surfaces. However, this image-to-species approach can only recognize a limited number of species due to two main reasons: 1) the lack of a good reference database requiring high-quality standardized images from multiple individuals of hundreds or even thousands of traded timber species, and 2) species not included in the reference database cannot be identified without expert knowledge. Another bottleneck is that the feature extraction process used by these species recognition approaches is a black box, thereby creating a discrepancy between machine learning features and wood anatomical features. This discrepancy prevents wood anatomists from understanding how these machine-learning algorithms work. Here, we survey currently existing methods used in feature extraction, classification, and deep learning methods applied in wood identification along with their pitfalls and opportunities. As an example of how the field could move forward, we launch the idea of building an image-to-features-to-species identification approach based on microscopic wood images as well as text files comprising wood anatomical descriptions. If we can manage machine learning-based algorithms to recognize the main wood anatomical traits that experts use to identify species in a (semi-)automated way, this would boost wood identification in two ways: (1) extensive reference databases for each species would become less crucial as the databases are ordered at the trait level, (2) timber identification would become more feasible for species that have not yet been included in the reference database as long as wood anatomical descriptions are available.
Assessing children’s health literacy: A curricular approach
Authors: Otten Claire , Kemp Nenagh , Cruickshank Vaughan , Peralta Louisa , Hawkins Melanie , Nash Rose
Published: April 2024

Objectives:

Increasing childhood health literacy (HL) is a crucial means of improving health outcomes and reducing preventable deaths globally. Understanding how to best support children’s HL development in schools is essential. However, identifying pedagogical strategies that develop children’s HL relies on a fit-for-purpose measure. Currently, no universally accepted approach for measuring HL among children exists. The purpose of this paper was to propose and discuss how a curricular approach to assessing children’s HL could provide a means to overcoming the challenges with existing children HL measures.

Design/Methods:

The discussion is framed by the key components of assessment – outcome of interest, and collection, analysis and interpretation of data – and is underpinned by contemporary HL and educational research.

Setting:

The Australian Curriculum is used to discuss the approach in practice.

Results:

A curricular approach to HL assessment suggests that HL assessment may work best when it is relevant to the child and their context, is integrated with other areas of the curriculum, allows children to demonstrate a wide range of HL skills and contains an element of open-endedness. Measurement could be guided by a rubric (underpinned by a taxonomy), and interpretation of scores consistently aligned with the learning intentions outlined in the curriculum.

Conclusion:

A curricular approach provides a contextually adaptive framework from which HL assessment tools for children can be developed.
The Role of Internal Control Disclosure in Financial Reporting Precision and the Quality of Audited Financial Reports
Authors: Deng Mingcherng , Wen Xiaoyan
Published: April 2024

We study the impact of internal control disclosure in a model in which a client company privately invests corporate resources in its internal control system that subsequently determines its financial reporting precision. Without internal control disclosure, the capital market cannot observe the precision and must price the client value based on its conjecture. With internal control disclosure requirements, the effectiveness of internal controls is disclosed, which reveals the precision to the market. Thus, internal control disclosure provides the client with another channel to influence the market pricing. Contrary to the conventional wisdom, we find that the client tends to invest less in its internal control system with disclosure requirements. As a result of lower precision, internal control disclosure may lower the informativeness of audited financial reports, albeit ex-post communicating more information to the market. We also find that internal control disclosure reduces the client’s ex-ante payoff when the auditor bears a high misstatement cost due to audit failure.

JEL Classification: M41, M48
Using Virtual Reality to Teach Science Vocabulary to Transition Aged Youth With Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities
Authors: Abrams Katie , McMahon Donald , Whittenburg Holly , Bruno Lauren , Firestone Jonah
Published: April 2024

Individuals with disabilities have been less involved in school activities than their peers of the same age and this includes career preparation in science and math (Agran et al., 2019; Eriksson et al., 2007; Jackson et al., 2022). Students with disabilities often lack access to facilities, programs, and equipment, and acceptance by educators, employers, and co-workers (Burgstahler, 1994). The effects of a virtual reality (VR) human anatomy application as the means of teaching science vocabulary definitions and locations acquisition for three different human anatomy systems (digestive, respiratory, and integumentary) to college-age students with intellectual disability (ID) are reviewed. This single subject, multiple baseline study included two transition age youth with ID. The intervention package included both a guided and exploratory portion. Data were collected on the participants’ accuracy on the definitions and locations of ten vocabulary words for each of the three body systems on a paper assessment. Findings indicated that a functional relation existed between the implementation of the intervention package and an increase in the accuracy of scores in both definitions and locations for each of the three body systems for each participant.
Empowering Expecting Women to Obtain High-Quality Healthcare in Pakistan: An Evaluation of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Conditional Cash Transfer Program
Authors: Majeed Rabia , Iqbal Javed , Haq Zahoor ul , Shahzad Muhammad Faisal
Published: April 2024

Maternal mortality, largely stemming from complications during pregnancy and childbirth, impacts poor expecting women with limited healthcare access in rural Pakistan. Conditional Cash Transfers (CCTs), commonly implemented in developing nations, are designed to improve the well-being of vulnerable populations by focusing on health and education. A CCT initiative named Chief Minister’s Special Initiative for Mother and Child Health (CM-SIMCH) was launched in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), one of the less-developed provinces of Pakistan, to empower expecting women to access quality healthcare. This study investigates the factors influencing CM-SIMCH program participation and assesses its impact on the health of expecting women by analyzing health-seeking hospital visits in KP, Pakistan. The study utilizes the Propensity Score Matching (PSM) technique to analyze cross-sectional data obtained from 303 expecting women residing in the Nowshera district of KP. The PSM allows for a balanced comparison of participants who received the CM-SIMCH transfers with those who did not, assessing its impact on maternal healthcare access and outcomes. Empirical results show that factors such as education and family system positively influence the participation of expecting women in the CM-SIMCH program, whereas travel costs exert a negative effect. The intervention leads to a notable increase in hospital visits among these women, contributing to improved health outcomes in KP. This underscores the program’s potential effectiveness in addressing maternal healthcare challenges and enhancing healthcare access for vulnerable women in less-developed areas. Therefore, empirical evidence supports the CM-SIMCH program’s potential to promote maternal health and improve healthcare access in KP. The study recommends government intervention in health sector as a strategic imperative to empower women and enhance infant health.
Substance Use Patterns among Early Adolescents in an Urban Community: Associations with Risk and Promotive Factors
Authors: Dunn Courtney B. , Farrell Albert D.
Published: April 2024

Polysubstance use is related to elevated risk for adverse outcomes but remains understudied among early adolescents. This study focused on a cross-sectional ( N = 1568) primarily Black (79%) sample of eighth grade students living in urban communities (Mean age = 13.8, SD = .68) to identify subgroups based on adolescents’ reports of lifetime and past 30-day substance use. It also examined subgroup differences in individual, peer, caregiver, and community risk and promotive factors. Latent class analysis identified four subgroups: Non-use (73.7%), Alcohol Use (5.8%), Lifetime Use (13.2%), and Polysubstance Use (7.2%). There were no sex differences in subgroup membership when accounting for differential item functioning. The polysubstance use subgroup reported the highest levels of risk (e.g., delinquency) and lowest levels of promotive factors (e.g., caregiver knowledge). Findings inform our understanding of polysubstance use patterns during early adolescence within a primarily Black urban sample and suggest implications for future research.
Idiopathic gingival fibromatosis and primary analysis of dominant bacteria in subgingival biofilm: a case report
Authors: Zhu Jingli , Fan Xinyue , Ding Lili , Song Tianzhu
Published: April 2024

Idiopathic gingival fibromatosis (IGF), a rare fibroproliferative disease of unknown etiology, affects gingival tissue and has substantial adverse effects on patients. Therefore, the pathogenesis of IGF requires more extensive and in-depth research. In this case, a patient with confirmed IGF underwent initial nonsurgical periodontal therapy and gingivectomy, and the prognosis was good. The patient had no loss of periodontal attachment but had a history of swelling and bleeding of the gingiva prior to fibrous enlargement, which prompted further investigation. We explored the patient’s subgingival microbiome and found a high abundance of periodontal pathogens. Gingival tissue biopsy revealed abundant fibrous tissue containing multiple inflammatory cell infiltrates. These results suggest that gingival inflammation secondary to periodontal pathogens can contribute to IGF onset.