bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Aberrant Gut Microbiome Contributes to Barrier Dysfunction, Inflammation, and Local Immune Responses in IgA Nephropathy
Authors: Tang Yuyan , Xiao Yong , He Haidong , Zhu Yifan , Sun Weiqian , Hu Ping , Xu Xudong , Liu Zhen , Yan Zhaowei , Wei Minggang
Published: March 2023

Introduction: Numerous research works have shown that serum Gal-deficient (Gd) IgA1 levels are increased in IgA nephropathy (IgAN) patients and these levels are a dangerous risk factor for IgAN. A relationship between the gut microbiota and IgAN has been reported. Whether the gut microbiota participates in the pathogenesis of IgAN was still controversial. Methods: We evaluated changes in the gut flora and the levels of Gd-IgA1 in IgAN patients and healthy controls (HCs). We investigated the Gd-IgA1 levels in both blood and urine specimens. C57BL/6 mice were given a broad-spectrum antibiotic cocktail to deplete the endogenous gut flora. We established a model of IgAN in pseudosterile mice and investigated the expression of the markers of intestinal permeability, inflammation, and local immune responses. Results: Studies have shown that the levels of certain gut flora differ between IgAN patients and HCs. Moreover, elevated Gd-IgA1 levels were found in both the serum and urine. Interestingly, Coprococcus, Dorea, Bifidobacterium, Blautia, and Lactococcus, selected from 10 candidate biomarkers to predict risk in IgAN patients according to random forest analysis, were inversely associated with urinary Gd-IgA1 levels. Notably, the urine level of Gd-IgA1 could best distinguish IgAN patients from HCs. Additionally, the degree of kidney damage in pseudosterile mice with IgAN was more severe than that in mice with IgAN. Furthermore, the markers of intestinal permeability were significantly elevated in pseudosterile IgAN mice. Moreover, the inflammation responses (TLR4, MyD88, and NF-κB in intestinal and renal tissues; TNF-α and IL-6 in serum) and local immune responses (BAFF and APRIL in intestinal tissue) were upregulated in pseudosterile IgAN mice. Conclusions: The urine Gd-IgA1 level may be as a biomarker for the early screening of potential IgAN, and gut microbiota dysbiosis was demonstrated in IgAN, which might involve the dysfunction of the mucosal barrier, inflammation, and local immune responses.
The Self-Evaluation of Negative Symptoms in Differentiating Deficit Schizophrenia: The Comparison of Sensitivity and Specificity with Other Tools
Authors: Samochowiec Jerzy , Jabłoński Marcin , Plichta Piotr , Piotrowski Patryk , Stańczykiewicz Bartłomiej , Bielawski Tomasz , Misiak Błażej
Published: March 2023

Introduction: Psychometric properties of the Self-evaluation of Negative Symptoms (SNS) in subjects with the deficit subtype of schizophrenia (SCZ-D) have not been investigated so far. This study had the following aims: (1) to assess psychometric properties of SNS in subjects with SCZ-D and (2) to explore the usefulness of SNS, in comparison with other clinical characteristics, in screening for SCZ-D. Methods: Participants were 82 stable outpatients with schizophrenia, including 40 individuals with SCZ-D and 42 individuals with the non-deficit subtype (SCZ-ND). Results: Internal consistency was acceptable-to-good in both groups. Factor analysis revealed two dimensions (apathy and emotional). There were significant positive correlations of the SNS total score with the subscore of negative symptoms from the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS) and significant negative correlations with scores of the Social and Occupational Functioning Assessment Scale (SOFAS) in both groups, indicating good convergent validity. The following measures were found to be appropriate screening tools for differentiating SCZ-D and SCZ-ND (p < 0.001): the SNS total score (area under the curve [AUC]: 0.849, cut-off ≥16, sensitivity: 80.0%, specificity: 78.6%), the PANSS subscore of negative symptoms (AUC: 0.868, cut-off ≥11, sensitivity: 90.0%, specificity: 78.6%), and the SOFAS (AUC: 0.779, cut-off ≤59, sensitivity: 69.2%, specificity: 82.5%). Also, adding the SOFAS (cut-off ≤59) to the SNS (cut-off: ≥16) further improved sensitivity and specificity (AUC: 0.898, p < 0.001, sensitivity = 87.5%, specificity = 82.2%). Cognitive performance and age of psychosis onset were not found to be suitable measures for differentiating SCZ-D and SCZ-ND. Conclusion: The present findings indicate that the SNS has good psychometric properties in subjects with SCZ-D and those with SCZ-ND. Moreover, the SNS, the PANSS, and the SOFAS might be used as screening tools for SCZ-D.
Association between Resting Heart Rate and Oncological Outcomes in Patients with Early-Stage Cervical Cancer Who Have Undergone Radical Hysterectomy with Pelvic Lymphadenectomy
Authors: Dhanaworavibul Kriengsak , Leetanaporn Kittinun , Wattanapaisal Panote , Deevongkij Kittiya , Leelarujijaroen Chutinun , Hanprasertpong Jitti
Published: March 2023

Introduction: A few studies have explored the association of resting heart rate (RHR) with mortality and/or other oncological outcomes in patients with specific cancers such as breast, colorectal, and lung cancer. This study aimed to evaluate the association between the RHR and oncological outcomes in patients with early-stage cervical cancer (CC) who underwent radical surgical resection. Methods: We included 622 patients with early-stage CC (stages IA2–IB1). The patients were divided into four groups based on the RHR as follows: quartile 1, ≤64; quartile 2, 65–70; quartile 3, 71–76; and quartile 4, >76 beats per min (bpm), with the lowest quartile being the reference group. We evaluated the associations of the RHR and clinicopathological features with oncological outcomes using Cox proportional-hazards regression. Results: There were clear among-group differences. Further, there was a significant positive correlation of RHR with tumor size and deep stromal invasion. Multivariate analysis revealed that RHR was an independent prognostic factor for disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS). Compared with patients with an RHR ≤70 bpm, those with an RHR of 71–76 bpm had a 1.84- and 3.05-times higher likelihood of DFS (p = 0.016) and OS (p = 0.030), respectively, while those with RHR >76 bpm had a 2.20-times higher likelihood of DFS (p = 0.016). Conclusion: This is the first study to demonstrate that RHR may be an independent prognostic factor for oncological outcomes in patients with CC.
Estigma do peso: conceito, consequências e ações de combate
Authors:   Universidade de São Paulo. Faculdade de Filosofia, Ciências e Letras de Ribeirão Preto, Gulá Paula Victoria Sozza Silva , Secaf Camila Barillari ,   Universidade de São Paulo. Faculdade de Filosofia, Ciências e Letras de Ribeirão Preto, Almeida Sebastião de Sousa ,   Universidade de São Paulo. Faculdade de Filosofia, Ciências e Letras de Ribeirão Preto, Costa Telma Maria Braga ,   Universidade de São Paulo. Faculdade de Filosofia, Ciências e Letras de Ribeirão Preto, Laus Maria Fernanda ,   Universidade de São Paulo. Faculdade de Filosofia, Ciências e Letras de Ribeirão Preto
Published: March 2023

O objetivo da obra é apresentar conceitos básicos acerca do estigma relacionado ao peso, focalizando no conteúdo referente às explicações sobre este tema tão importante, seguido da apresentação dos seus determinantes na sociedade, as consequências que o estigma do peso apresenta para as pessoas e ações para a prevenção e combate. A proposta é de compartilhar o conhecimento científico e auxiliar a população no acesso a informações seguras, de forma didática e clara para todos os públicos, desde jovens, adultos até idosos, também para estudantes, profissionais da saúde e para pessoas pertencentes à qualquer meio que não seja universitário, acadêmico ou de saúde. Assim, este livro conta com cinco capítulos, elaborados pelos presentes organizadores, cada um contemplando um foco diferente relacionado ao estigma do peso. Espera-se que o livro “Estigma do peso: conceito, consequências e ações de combate” desperte no leitor um olhar curioso e atento, contribuindo para ampliar a visão sobre esta temática e sobre como devemos trabalhar juntos, com ações pessoais e coletivas, para enfrentar toda a estigmatização relacionada ao corpo.
RNF130 Regulates LDLR Availability and Plasma LDL Cholesterol Levels
Authors: Clifford Bethan L. , Jarrett Kelsey E. , Cheng Joan , Cheng Angela , Seldin Marcus , Morand Pauline , Lee Richard , Chen Mary , Baldan Angel , de Aguiar Vallim Thomas Q. , Tarling Elizabeth J.
Published: March 2023

Background:

Removal of circulating plasma low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) by the liver relies on efficient endocytosis and intracellular vesicle trafficking. Increasing the availability of hepatic LDL receptors (LDLRs) remains a major clinical target for reducing LDL-C levels. Here, we describe a novel role for RNF130 (ring finger containing protein 130) in regulating plasma membrane availability of LDLR.

Methods:

We performed a combination of gain-of-function and loss-of-function experiments to determine the effect of RNF130 on LDL-C and LDLR recycling. We overexpressed RNF130 and a nonfunctional mutant RNF130 in vivo and measured plasma LDL-C and hepatic LDLR protein levels. We performed in vitro ubiquitination assays and immunohistochemical staining to measure levels and cellular distribution of LDLR. We supplement these experiments with 3 separate in vivo models of RNF130 loss-of-function where we disrupted
Rnf130
using either ASO (antisense oligonucleotides), germline deletion, or AAV CRISPR (adeno-associated virus clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats) and measured hepatic LDLR and plasma LDL-C.

Results:

We demonstrate that RNF130 is an E3 ubiquitin ligase that ubiquitinates LDLR resulting in redistribution of the receptor away from the plasma membrane. Overexpression of RNF130 decreases hepatic LDLR and increases plasma LDL-C levels. Further, in vitro ubiquitination assays demonstrate RNF130–dependent regulation of LDLR abundance at the plasma membrane. Finally, in vivo disruption of
Rnf130
using ASO, germline deletion, or AAV CRISPR results in increased hepatic LDLR abundance and availability and decreased plasma LDL-C levels.

Conclusions:

Our studies identify RNF130 as a novel posttranslational regulator of LDL-C levels via modulation of LDLR availability, thus providing important insight into the complex regulation of hepatic LDLR protein levels.
Circadian Misalignment Impacts the Association of Visceral Adiposity With Elevated Blood Pressure in Adolescents
Authors: Morales-Ghinaglia Natasha , Larsen Michael , He Fan , Calhoun Susan L. , Vgontzas Alexandros N. , Liao Jason , Liao Duanping , Bixler Edward O. , Fernandez-Mendoza Julio
Published: March 2023

Background:

Although insufficient sleep has been shown to contribute to obesity-related elevated blood pressure, the circadian timing of sleep has emerged as a novel risk factor. We hypothesized that deviations in sleep midpoint, a measure of circadian timing of sleep, modify the association between visceral adiposity and elevated blood pressure in adolescents.

Methods:

We studied 303 subjects from the Penn State Child Cohort (16.2±2.2 years; 47.5% female; 21.5% racial/ethnic minority). Actigraphy-measured sleep duration, midpoint, variability, and regularity were calculated across a 7-night period. Visceral adipose tissue (VAT) was measured with dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. Systolic blood pressure (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure levels were measured in the seated position. Multivariable linear regression models tested sleep midpoint and its regularity as effect modifiers of VAT on SBP/diastolic blood pressure levels, while adjusting for demographic and sleep covariables. These associations were also examined as a function of being in-school or on-break.

Results:

Significant interactions were found between VAT and sleep irregularity, but not sleep midpoint, on SBP (
P
interaction=0.007) and diastolic blood pressure (
P
interaction=0.022). Additionally, significant interactions were found between VAT and schooldays sleep midpoint on SBP (
P
interaction=0.026) and diastolic blood pressure (
P
interaction=0.043), whereas significant interactions were found between VAT and on-break weekdays sleep irregularity on SBP (
P
interaction=0.034).

Conclusions:

A delayed and an irregular sleep midpoint during school and during free-days, respectively, increase the impact of VAT on elevated blood pressure in adolescents. These data suggest that deviations in the circadian timing of sleep contribute to the increased cardiovascular sequelae associated with obesity and that its distinct metrics require measurement under different entrainment conditions in adolescents.
Specific HIF-2α (Hypoxia-Inducible Factor-2) Inhibitor PT2385 Mitigates Placental Dysfunction In Vitro and in a Rat Model of Preeclampsia (RUPP)
Authors: Colson Arthur , Depoix Christophe Louis , Lambert Isaline , Leducq Camille , Bedin Marie , De Beukelaer Michèle , Gatto Laurent , Loriot Axelle , Peers de Nieuwburgh Maureen , Bouhna Khadija , Baldin Pamela , Hubinont Corinne , Sonveaux Pierre , Debiève Frédéric
Published: March 2023

Background:

Preeclampsia is one of the leading causes of maternal mortality worldwide and is strongly associated with long-term morbidity in mothers and newborns. Referred to as one of the deep placentation disorders, insufficient remodeling of the spiral arteries during the first trimester remains a major cause of placental dysfunction. Persisting pulsatile uterine blood flow causes abnormal ischemia/reoxygenation phenomenon in the placenta and stabilizes the HIF-2α (hypoxia-inducible factor-2α) in the cytotrophoblasts. HIF-2α signaling impairs trophoblast differentiation and increases sFLT-1 (soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase-1) secretion, which reduces fetal growth and causes maternal symptoms. This study aims to evaluate the benefits of using PT2385—an oral specific HIF-2α inhibitor—to treat severe placental dysfunction.

Methods:

To evaluate its therapeutic potential, PT2385 was first studied in primary human cytotrophoblasts isolated from term placenta and exposed to 2.5% O
2
to stabilize HIF-2α. Viability and luciferase assays, RNA sequencing, and immunostaining were used to analyze differentiation and angiogenic factor balance. The ability of PT2385 to mitigate maternal manifestations of preeclampsia was studied in the selective reduced uterine perfusion pressure model performed in Sprague-Dawley rats.

Results:

In vitro, RNA sequencing analysis and conventional techniques showed that treated cytotrophoblast displayed an enhanced differentiation into syncytiotrophoblasts and normalized angiogenic factor secretion compared with vehicle-treated cells. In the selective reduced uterine perfusion pressure model, PT2385 efficiently decreased sFLT-1 production, thus preventing the onset of hypertension and proteinuria in pregnant dams.

Conclusions:

These results highlight HIF-2α as a new player in our understanding of placental dysfunction and support the use of PT2385 to treat severe preeclampsia in humans.
Change in Smoking Behavior and Outcome After Ischemic Stroke: Post-Hoc Analysis of the SPS3 Trial
Authors: Anadani Mohammad , Turan Tanya N. , Yaghi Shadi , Spiotta Alejandro M. , Gory Benjamin , Sharma Richa , Sheth Kevin N. , de Havenon Adam
Published: March 2023

Background:

Cigarette smoking is a known risk factor for cardiovascular disease, including ischemic stroke. The literature regarding the rate of persistent smoking after acute ischemic stroke and its effect on subsequent cardiovascular events is scarce. With this study, we aimed to report the rate of persistent smoking after ischemic stroke and the association between smoking status and major cardiovascular outcomes.

Methods:

This is a post-hoc analysis of the SPS3 trial (Secondary Prevention of Small Subcortical Strokes). Patients were divided into 4 groups based on smoking status at trial enrollment: (1) never smokers, (2) former smokers, (3) smokers who quit at 3 months, and (4) persistent smokers. The primary outcome is a major adverse cardiovascular events composite of stroke (ischemic and hemorrhagic), myocardial infarction, and mortality. Outcomes were adjudicated after month 3 of enrollment until an outcome event or the end of study follow-up.

Results:

A total of 2874 patients were included in the study. Of the total cohort, 570 patients (20%) were smokers at enrollment, of whom 408 (71.5%) patients continued to smoke and 162 (28.4%) quit smoking by 3 months. The major adverse cardiovascular events outcome occurred in 18.4%, 12.4%, 16.2%, and 14.4%, respectively, in persistent smokers, smokers who quit, prior smokers, and never smokers. In a model adjusted for age, sex, race, ethnicity, education, employment status, history of hypertension, diabetes, hyperlipidemia, myocardial infarction, and intensive blood pressure randomization arm, the risk of major adverse cardiovascular events, and death were higher in the persistent smokers compared with never smokers (HR for major adverse cardiovascular events: 1.56 [95% CI, 1.16–2.09]; HR for death: 2.0 [95% CI, 2.18–3.12]). The risk of stroke, and MI did not differ according to smoking status

Conclusions:

Compared with never smoking, persistent smoking after acute ischemic stroke was associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular events and death.

Registration:

URL:
https://www.clinicaltrials.gov
; Unique identifier: NCT00059306.
Geographic distribution of the hard ticks (Acari: Ixodida: Ixodidae) of the world by countries and territories
Authors: GUGLIELMONE ALBERTO A. , NAVA SANTIAGO , ROBBINS RICHARD G.
Published: March 2023

The hard tick family Ixodidae currently comprises 762 species worldwide, but an analysis of the occurrence of these species in the world´s countries, territories, zoogeographic regions (Afrotropical, Australasian, Nearctic, Neotropical, Oriental, Palearctic) and remote islands has not been attempted since 2009. Here, we present and critically discuss distributional data for all currently accepted ixodid species known from 226 countries and territories in six zoogeographic realms. This summary of ixodid tick biogeography should prove to be a valuable reference for biologists interested in ticks as organisms as well as specialists focusing on tick-borne diseases. Data for all species treated here were derived from a literature search that ended on March 31, 2022.
Case Report of Histiocytoid Invasive Lobular Carcinoma
Authors: Breese Rebecca O. , Friend Kara
Published: March 2023

The histiocytoid variant of invasive lobular carcinoma (ILC) is a rare subtype of breast cancer that can be challenging to diagnose and aggressive in nature. It is often diagnosed after the disease has metastasized. This report describes a case of a six-centimeter ILC of the histiocytoid subtype. The patient is a 66-year-old female who was initially told that she had dense breast tissue. At the time of diagnosis, she had a large mass and was found to have metastases to the axillary lymph nodes and vertebra. She was started on chemotherapy and immunotherapy, but has since developed multiple new lesions to her spine, rib, and femur. This case highlights the aggressive nature of this variant, which progressed while during treatment.
National Analysis of Health care Related Costs for Health care Workers and Administrators Over the Past Decade: Toward Establishing Sustainable and Cost Effective Health care System
Authors: Abella Maveric , Hayashi Jeffrey , Martinez Brian , Elkbuli Adel
Published: March 2023

Background

We aim to investigate the costs associated with growth in the administrators, health care staff, and physicians to provide direction to establish a sustainable and cost-effective U.S. health care system.

Methods

Data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, particularly the Labor Force Statistics from the Current Population Survey, were utilized from 2009 to 2020. Wages and employment of medical and health service managers (administrators), health care practitioners and technical operations (health care staff), and physicians were used to calculate the total cost.

Results

Administrator wages have grown similarly to health care staff wages (−4.40 vs −3.01%, P = .454) and physician wages (−4.40 vs −3.29%, P = .672). Additionally, there has been a similar increase in health care staff employment (9.91 vs 14.23%, P = .269) and physician employment (9.91 vs 15.35%, P = .252) compared to administrator employment. Overall, the total growth in administrator cost is similar to the growth in total health care staff cost (6.23 vs 11.80, P = .104) and total physician cost (6.23 vs 13.02%, P = .079). In 2020, physicians had the highest employment growth but the smallest wage increase.

Conclusion

Although health care staff experienced a greater percent growth in employment and cost per employee than administrators since 2009, the cost per administrator remains greater than that of health care staff. Understanding differences in wages and costs is essential to reduce health care spending without compromising access, delivery, and quality of health care services.
Overdose and suicide are different phenomena among opioid users that require different clinical management
Authors: Darke Shane , Farrell Michael , Lappin Julia
Published: March 2023

Given the high rates of mental health comorbidity among opioid users, and increasing rates of opioid prescription for chronic pain, psychiatrists and mental health clinicians are likely to treat patients who are dependent on opioids. Among such patients, many will have histories of opioid overdose or suicide attempts. It is tempting to assume that these are related behaviours and that ‘accidental’ overdoses are actually suicide attempts. We provide evidence here to demonstrate that while some overdoses are intentional, most are not. More than half of deaths among opioid users are due to unintentional overdose. Suicides constitute a minority: less than 10% of heroin user deaths are estimated to be due to suicide, as are 20–30% of prescribed opioid fatalities. Moreover, suicide attempts are more commonly made using means other than opioids. Overdose and suicide among opioid dependent patients are two distinct phenomena, associated with different risk factors, that need to be separately assessed and their respective risk managed.
Impact of a Multifaceted Intervention on Antibiotic Prescribing for Cystitis and Asymptomatic Bacteriuria in 23 Community Hospital Emergency Departments
Authors: Ingalls Emily M. , Veillette John J. , Olson Jared , May Stephanie S. , Dustin Waters C. , Gelman Stephanie S. , Vargyas George , Hutton Mary , Tinker Nick , Fontaine Gabriel V. , Foster Rachel A. , Stallsmith Jena , Earl Ali , Buckel Whitney R. , Vento Todd J.
Published: March 2023

Background: Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are over-diagnosed and over-treated in the emergency department (ED) leading to unnecessary antibiotic exposure and avoidable side effects. However, data describing effective large-scale antimicrobial stewardship program (ASP) interventions to improve UTI and asymptomatic bacteriuria (ASB) management in the ED are lacking. Methods: We implemented a multifaceted intervention across 23 community hospital EDs in Utah and Idaho consisting of in-person education for ED prescribers, updated electronic order sets, and implementation/dissemination of UTI guidelines for our healthcare system. We compared ED UTI antibiotic prescribing in 2021 (post-intervention) to baseline data from 2017 (pre-intervention). The primary outcomes were the percent of cystitis patients prescribed fluoroquinolones or prolonged antibiotic durations (>7 days). Secondary outcomes included the percent of patients treated for UTI who met ASB criteria, and 14-day UTI-related readmissions. Results: There was a significant decrease in prolonged treatment duration for cystitis (29% vs 12%, P < .01) and treatment of cystitis with a fluoroquinolone (32% vs 7%, P < .01). The percent of patients treated for UTI who met ASB criteria did not change following the intervention (28% pre-intervention versus 29% post-intervention, P  = .97). A subgroup analysis indicated that ASB prescriptions were highly variable by facility (range 11%-53%) and provider (range 0%-71%) and were driven by a few high prescribers. Conclusions: The intervention was associated with improved antibiotic selection and duration for cystitis, but future interventions to improve urine testing and provide individualized prescriber feedback are likely needed to improve ASB prescribing practice.
Adaptive global energy optimal management strategy based on the Pontryagin’s minimum principle: An isolated microgrid example
Authors: Wang Mingqian , Hou Xiaoxin , Chen Tao , Zhao Shuangle , You Guodong
Published: March 2023

Optimal control is a common control strategy to solve complex non-linear systems. Pontryagin’s minimum principle, as a typical optimal control theory, is widely used in energy management systems. Due to the randomness of new energy generation and the diversity of load power consumption, microgrid energy management system is a complex non-linear stochastic system. The efficient operation of microgrid energy management strategy largely depends on the real-time performance of the control algorithm. Pontryagin’s minimum principle is an offline control strategy, whose co-state variable λ depends on expert experience and needs to be manually adjusted according to different working conditions, so it is difficult to achieve real-time optimal control. First, the energy management system model of island-type microgrid is established in this paper. In order to improve the economy of power generation and prevent battery over-charge or over-discharge, the state of charge (SOC) change of battery pack is comprehensively considered, and the fuel cost and pollutant treatment cost are taken as the objective function. Second, an adaptive Pontryagin’s minimum principle energy management strategy is proposed. By introducing the penalty mechanism and adjusting the parameters adaptively, the problem that the open-loop control of Pontryagin’s minimum principle needs to adjust the co-state variables in real time is solved. Comparative experiments show that compared with Pontryagin’s minimum principle and particle swarm optimization, adaptive Pontryagin’s minimum principle can not only limit battery SOC within the ideal range but also effectively reduce the daily operation cost of microgrid. Experimental results verify the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm.
Leading Pedestrian Intervals at Urban Crosswalks: Effects on Safety for Travelers Who Are Blind
Authors: Bourquin Eugene A. , Bieder Joy , Wall Emerson Robert , Franck Lukas
Published: March 2023

Introduction: The use of leading pedestrian intervals (LPIs) creates safer street crossings for typical pedestrians, giving them a head-start into the crosswalk. The LPI, however, delays the onset of the traditional traffic sound cue that pedestrians who are blind use to initiate crossing streets. LPIs can create situations where pedestrians who are blind will frequently begin or end crossings or both against the pedestrian signal. Methods: The researchers conducted two sets of observations in an urban environment. They measured the seconds from the initiation of the vehicular circular green signal to the front of the first vehicle passing through the center of the intersection (n = 40) to calculate the average driver's delay. Pedestrians who are blind, to confirm a straight-through surge of parallel traffic (i.e. not turning vehicles), listen for a vehicle to reach the roadway center to know it is the appropriate time to initiate a crossing. In the second set of observations (n = 40), the researchers recorded the length of the Walk, Flashing Don’t Walk, and LPI to calculate average impacts on crossing. Results: The average time for vehicles to reach the center of the intersection was 6.0 s. When there was an LPI, on average the clearance for pedestrians after reaching the far corner was 0.49 s; for Walk intervals, there was an average of 3.35 s margin of time to begin crossing. Discussion: These observational studies verify the crossing latencies for pedestrians who are blind. At crosswalks with LPI, pedestrians can be expected to cross after the Walk sign has expired 15 to 38% of the time and end their crossing 40 to 82% of the time when the visual display says Don’t Walk. Implications for Practitioners: Orientation and mobility specialists should instruct students on how to identify intersections with LPI to assist in decision making. Traffic management remediation is the installation of an accessible pedestrian signal (APS); specialists should advocate for the installation of APS where LPIs are implemented and teach students how to use APS.
Developing Capabilities in Smart City Ecosystems: A multi-level approach
Authors: Gupta Anushri , Panagiotopoulos Panos , Bowen Frances
Published: March 2023

Smart city projects require complex coordination of resources, but research on how capabilities form at the city-ecosystem level remains scarce. This article develops a multi-level approach to capability development in smart city ecosystems through an empirical study of London’s city data. We analyse the London case to discover how two ecosystem-level capabilities – data provisioning and data insights – developed through global, configural and shared aggregation processes. We find that the emergence process changes as the smart city ecosystem develops, requiring different coordination and resource mobilisation mechanisms at various stages. We contribute to the capability development and smart city literatures by focusing on ecosystem-level capabilities linked to collective city-level outcomes rather than the capabilities of the leading city authority. Insights from the study are of value to city authorities considering how to scale up and organise smart city initiatives in support of urban development goals.
Williamson and Organization Studies: Reclaiming a legacy
Authors: Grandori Anna
Published: March 2023

Following Oliver Williamson’s passing in 2020, associations and journals in institutional and organizational economics have undertaken various initiatives in recognition of his contribution. The organization research field, though, has remained quite silent, and I wish to not only raise a voice, but also reclaim a legacy. The article offers an organizational re-reading of what is often (mis)classified as an ‘economics of organization’, highlighting how organization as a discipline contributed to shaping that Nobel-prized vision of ‘a science of organization’ integrating the basic social sciences (most notably economics and law, but also, as retrieved here, sociology) with organization theory; and the methodological lessons for interdisciplinary research that can be drawn from it. The analysis then pushes the boundaries further, extracting from the ‘market and hierarchy’ perspective a ‘court of justice’ notion of hierarchy, and arguing that such type of hierarchy is consistent with, and even complementary to, the forms of horizontal organization and polycentric governance of our times, as well as the ‘thirdness’ of institutions prescribed by modern law.
Are all patients with sapheno-femoral junction incompetence the same? An ultrasound analysis to potentially predict recurrence after invasive treatments
Authors: Pagano Maurizio , Bissacco Daniele , Cacace Luigi , Calculli Federica , Casana Renato , Tondi Paolo
Published: March 2023

The sapheno-femoral junction (SFJ) and the great saphenous vein (GSV) are recognized as one of the main sources of reflux in chronic venous disease. Moreover, reflux time is considered as the main parameter to characterize GSV disease. Despite this, it is well-known in the clinical practice that not all patients with SFJ/GSV reflux are similar, in terms of disease severity and degree. Some other anatomical findings, such as SFJ and GSV diameters, as well as the absence/incompetence of suprasaphenic femoral valve (SFV) might be of interest to better “quantify” the disease severity. The aim of this paper is to describe, through a duplex scan analysis, the relationship between SFJ incompetence, GSV/SFJ diameter and SFV absence/incompetence, to identify if there are patients with “severe” GSV disease and a potential higher recurrence rate after invasive treatments.
Bidirectional Relationships between Parental Anxiety, Internalizing Symptoms, and Peer Victimization and Aggression among Early Adolescents
Authors: Larrucea-Iruretagoyena Maite , Orue Izaskun
Published: March 2023

There have been few studies on the bidirectional interaction between the parental and the offspring’s psychological symptoms. It is important to fill in this lacuna to understand the development and vicious cycles of psychological symptoms in the familial context. The objective was to study the bidirectional relationships between parental anxiety, early adolescents’ internalizing symptoms, and peer victimization and aggression. 288 early adolescents (54% girls) between 9 and 15 years ([Formula: see text] = 12.84 and SD = 1.22) and their parents participated in a two-wave bidirectional study. Path analyses showed bidirectional relationships between early adolescents’ internalizing symptoms and peer victimization. Maternal anxiety was preceded by the offspring’s internalizing symptoms. The hypothesized model differed by gender but not age, indicating that the path from peer victimization to peer aggression was stronger in girls. These results contribute to the study of parental and early adolescent symptoms from a multi-informant perspective.
The Role of Parental Self-Efficacy Regarding Parental Support for Early Adolescents’ Coping, Self-Regulated Learning, Learning Self-Efficacy and Positive Emotions
Authors: Holzer Julia , Korlat Selma , Pelikan Elisabeth , Schober Barbara , Spiel Christiane , Lüftenegger Marko
Published: March 2023

Although adolescence is characterized by increasing individuation, parental support represents an important resource especially in early adolescence. This multi-informant study examined the role of parental self-efficacy in providing emotional and instrumental support when early adolescents partially learned from home during the COVID-19 pandemic. Based on a resources model of coping, we examined effects of parental self-efficacy on early adolescents' reports of self-regulated learning (SRL), learning self-efficacy, and positive emotions, mediated via early adolescents’ problem-focused and emotion-focused coping. Assumptions were tested among 263 Austrian parent-child dyads. While the mediation assumption was rejected, we identified positive associations between emotional support and SRL, and between problem-focused coping and SRL, learning self-efficacy, and positive emotions. Instrumental support negatively related to SRL, suggesting benefits of emotional over instrumental support.
How academics can play a more influential role during a year-in-industry placement: A contemporary critique and call for action
Authors: Donald William E , Hughes Helen PN
Published: March 2023

Universities worldwide are tasked with producing employable graduates capable of operating in evolving, complex, and global labour markets. Research into the effectiveness of year-in-industry placements to facilitate such objectives often portrays the dominant actors as students, employers, managers, and (de)centralised placement teams. Framing this as our point of departure, we propose that academics can play a more influential role. Our essay discusses the challenges for academics of designing, delivering, and assessing a year-in-industry placement module. Next, we consider the opportunities for students to enhance their self-perceived employability. We conclude with a call for innovative thinking, knowledge sharing, and empirical research.
A biomechanical finite element study to assess the suitability of implantation on lumbar vertebrae L4-L5
Authors: Kamal D , Jain Pushpdant , Biswas Jayanta Kumar , Sing Ngie David Chua
Published: March 2023

Instability in the spinal section along with the cases of degeneration is commonly cured by the pedicle screw fixation system. The present work aims at the identification of suitable instrumentation at the spinal segment L4-L5 through finite element method and compared with an intact spine. Vertebral section (L3- Coccyx) upper surface L3 were subjected to various axial compressive forces for the body weights of 17, 67, 100 and 167 kg under the different physiological motion conditions such as rotation, flexion, extension and bending. Considering Intact as 100% the calculated results of equivalent stress on IVD-L34, L45 and L5S are as 90%, 43% and 76% during flexion, for extension 118%, 26% and 108%, during bending 58%, 58% and 80% and during rotation 57%, 46%, 74% respectively are the lowest for 6 mm instrumentation as compared to other instrumentation model. It was also observed that the load on the cortical and annulus region were highest as compared to the cancellous and nucleus region. The results of the present study can contribute to explaining fracture and intervertebral disc replacement cases subjected to pedicle screw implantation.
Cryo treatment and corrosion studies of nickel-titanium shape-memory alloy
Authors: Vishwanatha HM , Saxena Kuldeep K , Pramanik Alokesh , Behera Ajit
Published: March 2023

Nickel (Ni)-titanium (Ti) shape-memory alloy (SMA) is a functional material that has received a higher demand in aerospace industries, biomedical industries, actuator, and sensor industries owing to the property of superelasticity and shape memory effect. In addition, SMAs offer better mechanical and corrosion-resistant properties. In this current work, cryo treatment of NiTi alloy has been carried out to investigate the change in the properties. NiTi SMA prepared by powder metallurgy are cryo treated for 12 hours to 48 hours. Further, a corrosion study has been performed on the cryo-treated NiTi samples with the variation in corrosion time to know the effect on the morphology and the hardness. It is found that cryo-treated NiTi shows higher resistance to corrosion than the non-treated sample. The present work is an attempt to find out the effect of cryo treatment on the hardness and corrosion behavior of NiTi SMA. In the scanning electron microscope (SEM) analysis, it is observed that with the increase in cryo treatment time, NiTi (martensite) phase increases. Similar phases are present in both untreated and cryo-treated NiTi pellets. Out of all cryo-treated NiTi pellets, 24 hours cryo-treated NiTi has a lower percentage of corroded area with an increase in the corrosion exposure time. Corrosion preferentially starts at the pit area and progresses toward the Ti-rich area. The hardness value increased for 48 hours cryo-treated sample when compared with other cryo-treated and untreated NiTi pellets.
KLRG1 is reduced on NK cells in SLE patients, inversely correlates with disease activity and is modulated by hydroxychloroquine in vitro
Authors: Novelli Lucia , Barbati Cristiana , Capuano Cristina , Recalchi Serena , Ceccarelli Fulvia , Vomero Marta , Alessandri Cristiano , Morrone Stefania , Conti Fabrizio
Published: March 2023

Objectives

Killer cell lectin-like receptor G 1 (KLRG1), a transmembrane receptor with inhibitory capacity expressed in human immune cells, emerged as a novel susceptibility gene for systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). The aim of this study was to investigate the expression of KLRG1 in SLE patients compared to healthy controls (HC) on both NK and T cells and to evaluate its possible involvement in SLE pathogenesis.

Methods

Eighteen SLE patients and twelve healthy controls were enrolled. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from these patients were phenotypically characterized by immunofluorescence and flow cytometry. The effect of the hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) in vitro on KLRG1 expression and its signaling mediated functions in NK cells were analyzed.

Results

KLRG1 expression was significantly reduced on the analyzed immune cell populations in SLE patients compared to HC, especially on total NK cells. Moreover, expression of KLRG1 on total NK cells inversely correlated with the SLEDAI-2K. A direct association between KLRG1 expression on NK cells and patients’ treatment with HCQ was observed. In vitro treatment with HCQ increased KLRG1 expression on NK cells. In HC, KLRG1+ NK cells showed reduced degranulation and IFNγ production, while in SLE patient, this inhibition occurred only for the IFNγ production.

Conclusion

With this study we revealed a reduced expression and an impaired function of KLRG1 on NK cells in SLE patients. These results suggest a possible role of KLRG1 in the pathogenesis of SLE and as a novel biomarker of this disease.
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder: The Underlying Role of Diminished Access to Internal States
Authors: Liberman Nira , Lazarov Amit , Dar Reuven
Published: March 2023

We suggest that individuals with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) experience difficulty accessing their internal states, including their feelings, emotions, preferences, and motivations. Instead, they rely on proxies to inform them of these states—that is, discernible substitutes in the form of fixed rules and rituals, observable behavior, and indexes. The Seeking Proxies for Internal States (SPIS) model of OCD proposes that compulsions, obsessions, indecision, and doubt result from seeking and using such proxies. The SPIS model not only accounts for these OCD symptoms but also sheds new light on normal processes of action control, metacognition, decision-making, and introspection.
Ideological Frames and Reaction to Intergroup Norm Violations
Authors: Tripathi R. C. , Kumar Rashmi , Siddiqui Roomana N. , Mishra R. C. , Bano Shabana
Published: March 2023

This article examines how ideological frames, certain context factors and emotions influence choice of a retributory, retaliatory or reconciliatory reaction in intergroup conflict situations. Hindu and Muslim respondents supporting secular multiculturalism and composite culturalism gave their reactions to three norm-violating situations of varying intensities. Multinomial logistic regression was used to predict preferred reactions across situations. Reconciliation in comparison to retaliation and retribution was the most preferred reaction of both Hindus and Muslims. Ideological beliefs also predicted preferred reactions of respondents. Muslims with composite culture beliefs preferred retribution over reconciliation in two out of three situations, while Hindus having composite cultural beliefs preferred reconciliation over retaliation only in one situation. Positive out-group attitudes favoured a reconciliatory reaction in both groups. Anger and fear influenced choice of reactions of Hindus but not of Muslims. For Hindus and Muslims, resource power favoured choosing retribution over reconciliation. However, Muslims with greater retaliatory power chose retaliation. Own group identity and fraternalistic relative deprivation (FRD) played only a minor role.
Incidence, Inequality and Determinants of Catastrophic Health Expenditure in India
Authors: Gaddam Rohin , Rao K. Ramachandra
Published: March 2023

This study tries to estimate the incidence, intensity and inequality of Catastrophic Health Expenditure in India and its determinants using unit-level data from the four consecutive surveys of NSSO on ‘Healthcare Consumption and Morbidity’ spread across a 23-year period. For CHE incidence, a 10% threshold level of household consumption expenditure is considered. Additionally, socio-economic determinants of CHE were identified using multivariate logistic regression. Study reveals that the demand for healthcare services has increased gradually during the period 1995–2014 but this demand is primarily financed from out-of-pocket expenditures and hence leading to an increased risk of financial catastrophe, peaking at 23.45% in 2014. But a significant reduction in demand for healthcare is seen in the latest 75th round. Although the incidence of catastrophe has decreased, the inequality of catastrophic burden has increased. The results show that economic and social vulnerability have a significant impact on the likelihood of CHE incidence in households. The findings suggest that a targeted approach is required to alleviate the socially and economically vulnerable households from health expenditure catastrophe.
It’s Just About Having Fun’? Interrogating the lived experiences of newcomers To Canada in introductory winter sport programmes
Authors: Barrick Simon
Published: March 2023

This study examined the underexplored relationship between winter sport, newcomer participation, integration, and national identity. Winter sports hold a prominent place within Canadian culture and identity; newcomers recognize this and express a willingness to try winter sports to feel ‘more Canadian’. Using a qualitative intrinsic case study design, I interrogated how newcomers to Canada experienced the significance of participating in one introductory winter sport programme – the WinSport Newcomers Programme – for their integration into Canadian society. Study methods included qualitative in-depth interviews and a photo elicitation focus group with WinSport Newcomers Programme participants, as well as participant observations of the programmes. This research was theoretically informed by social constructionist perspectives on race and ethnicity, as well as critical insights on sport-related integration. Using reflexive thematic analysis, I developed two themes focusing on the relationship between winter sport participation and newcomer integration, and considerations about future winter sport participation. Results illustrate that study participants experienced diverse programme outcomes and drew varied meanings from learning prominent Canadian winter sports. Various program shortcomings were also identified, which weakened the WinSport Newcomers Programme's integrative potential. Acknowledging the programme shortcomings, I argue that the role of introductory winter sport programmes for newcomer integration is worthy of future inquiry.
Protesting With Feeling in Puerto Rico: Twitter and El Verano Del 19
Authors: Gainous Jason , Vélez Serrano Mayra , Wagner Kevin M.
Published: March 2023

Communication research has extensively addressed the influence of social media on protest. We seek to add to this body of research by examining how sentiment contained in Twitter communication about protest can condition the public reach of this communication. Specifically, we are interested in whether Twitter communication couched in negative sentiments like anger, disgust, and fear will drive this reach more than communication couched in positive sentiment such as trust, joy, and surprise. We rely on sentiment analysis to examine roughly 30,000 tweets surrounding the summer of 2019 Protests in Puerto Rico. These protests centered on a scandal involving former Governor Ricardo Rossello that ultimately led to his resignation. The analysis required adapting an English language sentiment dictionary to Spanish. Our results suggest that protesters frequently tweeted with both positive and negative sentiment when calling for the governor’s resignation, but ultimately, those tweets couched in negative sentiment, when compared to those with positive sentiment, had the most reach. That said, those tweets including either positive or negative sentiment had more reach than those absent sentiment.