bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Abstract P3190: Renal Tubular Mitochondrial Akt1 Modulates Cardiorenal Metabolic Syndrome
Authors: Chang Kai-Ting , Lin Hugo Y
Published: October 2023

Metabolic syndrome-induced cardiomyopathy is a significant risk factor for cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). The proximal tubular cells of the kidney play a crucial role in regulating glucose and lipid metabolism. Mitochondrial dysfunction in these cells has been linked to the development of metabolic syndrome-induced cardiac dysfunction. AKT1, a serine/threonine protein kinase, regulates mitochondrial function. In this study, we investigated the effects of renal proximal tubular mitochondrial AKT1 on metabolic syndrome-induced cardiomyopathy in transgenic mice. We generated transgenic mouse lines, KMioxCAKT, with inducible overexpression of mitochondrial AKT1, specifically in renal proximal tubular cells. One line was induced with tamoxifen, while the other was with corn oil. Both lines were fed a high-fat diet (HFD) for 16 weeks to provoke metabolic syndrome. For renal function, although serum BUN (
p= 0.728
) and creatinine (
p=0.622
) were not changed, the proteinuria (
p=0.031
) and the urine KIM-1 (
p=0.012
) were decreased in tamoxifen-induced KMioxCAKT. The glomerulosclerosis index (
p
=0.027), tubulointerstitial fibrosis score (
p
=0.032), tubular dilatation score (
p
=0.032), tubular vacuolation score (
p
=0.031), and tubular casts (
p
=0.018) of renal histology were amended in tamoxifen-induced KMioxCAKT. The fasting glucose level (
p
=0.015); the 15 to 120 minutes glucose levels (
p
=0.020); the fasting insulin level (
p=0.037
), and insulin resistance measured by Homeostatic Model Assessment for Insulin Resistance (
p=0.005
) were reduced in metabolic syndrome with augmentation of renal tubular mitochondrial AKT1. In addition, tamoxifen-induced KMioxCAKT mice had significantly attenuated cardiac hypertrophy in the heart compared to corn oil-induced KMioxCAKT. Our results suggest that enhancing renal proximal tubular mitochondrial AKT1 could ameliorate the cardiorenal metabolic syndrome.
Abstract P3194: Redd1 Is Required For Glucose Metabolism And Insulin Sensitivity In Cardiomyocytes
Authors: Wheeler Mason , Stevens Shaunaci , Renick Jamie , Dennis Michael , Pfleger Jessica M
Published: October 2023

Type II diabetes (TIID) is characterized by insulin resistance (IR) and doubles a patient’s risk for cardiovascular disease (CVD). The pathogenesis of CVD in patients with TIID, or diabetic cardiomyopathy (DC), is unclear. Regulated in development and DNA damage (REDD)1 is a negative regulator of mammalian target of rapamycin complex (mTORC)1. Notably, deletion of REDD1 leads to systemic IR in mice. REDD1 is, therefore, necessary for insulin sensitivity, however the mechanisms required remain unclear. We hypothesized that REDD1 is required for glucose oxidation and, therefore, insulin sensitivity in cardiomyocytes. To examine the role of REDD1 in cardiomyocyte glucose metabolism and energetics, we cultured wild type (WT) AC16 cardiomyocytes or those with REDD1 deletion with 5.5 mM glucose and examined cellular respiration. The data demonstrate compromised respiration, as indicated by reduced maximal respiratory capacity in REDD1-null versus WT cells (1.5-fold±0.214). Importantly, western blotting confirmed the absence of REDD1 in cells with REDD1 deletion, as well as increased phosphorylation of eukaryotic translation initiation factor 4E-binding protein (p4E-BP)1 (Thr37/46) (1.3-fold±0.085), a direct target of mTORC1. Thus, REDD1 inhibits mTORC1 signaling and enhances glucose-driven respiration in cardiomyocytes. To examine the mechanisms by which REDD1 supports glucose utilization, we examined levels of phosphorylated pyruvate dehydrogenase (pPDH) (Ser293). Our data show that pPDH is increased in REDD1-null cells versus WT controls (1.2-fold±0.054), as well as in hearts from REDD1-deficient mice (1.2-fold±0.013), suggesting reduced glucose oxidation. We also observed enhanced extracellular acidification, an indirect measure of glycolysis, in our REDD1-null cells versus WT controls (1.7-fold±0.136). Pyruvate dehydrogenase kinases (PDKs) phosphorylate PDH. In our REDD1-null cells, we observe a significant increase in PDK4 mRNA versus WT controls (8-fold±0.593), as assessed by qPCR and consistent with the diabetic heart. Together, these data suggest that REDD1 inhibits mTORC1 activity and the expression of PDK4, activating PDH, and glucose oxidation as the mechanism by which cardiomyocytes remain insulin sensitive.
Abstract P3199: Role Of Acetylation In Regulating Mitochondrial Dysfunction In The Aged Heart
Authors: Stewart Jackson E , M Crawford Jenna , Jacques Angelica A , Stoner Michael W , Scott Iain , Thapa Dharendra
Published: October 2023

Cardiac mitochondrial dysfunction is a critical contributor to the pathogenesis of aging. Cardiac muscle is an extremely high energy demanding tissue, necessitating properly functioning mitochondria to meet this demand for contractile function. As such, complete control of mitochondrial function is indispensable to maintain cardiac efficiency. Lysine acetylation is a post-translational modification of proteins that has been shown to regulate several metabolic and biochemical processes in the mitochondria. The goal of this study is to understand the role of mitochondrial lysine acetylation in regulating mitochondrial processes in the aged heart. We observed an increased propensity towards a pro-acetylation profile resulting in increased acetylation of several cardiac mitochondrial proteins involved in metabolism, redox milieu and electron transport chain complexes in aging which was attenuated in our cardiac GCN5L1 knockout old animal. Based upon these findings, we hypothesize that mitochondrial acetyltransferase GCN5L1 has a critical role in regulating the function of mitochondrial proteins in the aged heart. Using immunoprecipitation assay, we observed an age-associated increase in acetylation of several key fatty acid oxidation and glucose oxidation proteins. This increased acetylation correlated with decreased activity of several fatty acid oxidation proteins, including short- and long-chain acyl-CoA dehydrogenase. Several mitochondrial proteins involved in mitochondrial fatty acid import and electron transport chain complexes were hyperacetylated in aging. These proteins largely exhibited increased acetylation levels in response to age that was attenuated by cardiac-specific GCN5L1 knockout. Lastly, we observed an age-associated increase in GCN5L1-mediated acetylation of the antioxidant enzyme manganese superoxide dismutase (SOD2) at lysine site K122. Acetylation of SOD2 at the K122 site has been shown to inhibit SOD2 activity. Based upon our findings, we conclude that age-associated increases in GCN5L1 expression results in derangements in cardiac fuel substrate utilization, electron transport chain complex function, and mediation of reactive oxygen species-associated damage.
Changes in ENSO Modulation of the Distribution of Rapidly Intensifying Tropical Cyclones over the Western North Pacific in Boreal Autumn
Authors: Tian Ye , Zhou Wen , Zhang Lin , Zhang Yue , Zhang Ruhua
Published: October 2023

This work explores the modulation of the Pacific decadal oscillation (PDO) on the relationship between the occurrence position of rapid intensification (RI) events of tropical cyclones (TCs) over the western North Pacific (WNP) in boreal autumn and El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO). From the warm to cold phase of the PDO, the occurrence position of WNP RI events experiences a significant westward shift of 5.5° in El Niño years and a significant northward shift of 4.5° in La Niña years. The strengthening of thermodynamic conditions west of 160°N plays a dominant role in the westward shift of RI events in El Niño years, and the northward shift in La Niña years is associated with the expansion of areas with warm sea surface temperature, high tropical cyclone heat potential and midlevel relative humidity, strengthening of relative vorticity north of 20°N, and weakening of dynamic conditions within 10°–20°N. During the PDO cold phase, the descending branch of the Walker circulation over the western Pacific is weak and shifts west of 140°E in El Niño years, whereas it is much stronger in La Niña years. In addition, the Hadley circulation over the WNP shows little change during El Niño, but the ascending branch around 10°N expands to 20°N during La Niña. These trends reflect the changing responses of the WNP environment to ENSO variation and are consistent with the changing distribution of WNP RI events. Moreover, during the PDO cold phases, SST over the north Indian Ocean is much warmer, and anomalous anticyclonic circulation occurs in the WNP in boreal spring (summer and autumn) during the developing phase of El Niño (La Niña) years, which may also contribute to strengthening the thermodynamic conditions over the WNP.
Voters and the IMF: Experimental Evidence From European Crisis Countries
Authors: Hübscher Evelyne , Sattler Thomas , Wagner Markus
Published: October 2023

IMF interventions are often associated with rising political discontent in countries where the Fund intervenes. Studies examining this relationship, however, face the challenge of disentangling the impact of the IMF from the impact of the crisis that triggered the intervention. To address this challenge, we conduct survey experiments in Greece, Ireland, Portugal, and Spain and directly assess how voters evaluate the costs and benefits of an IMF intervention. We find that voters believe that the crisis will more likely be solved when the IMF intervenes, but they are also critical of the corresponding loss of national sovereignty. Because the former consideration, on average, dominates their assessment, IMF interventions increase the support of voters for unpopular economic policies. Nonetheless, cross-country differences suggest that continued public support for intervention hinges on the IMF’s ability to deliver on its promise to help resolve the crisis.
Nicodemus—A Rabbi Seeking Wisdom
Authors: Coloe Mary L.
Published: October 2023

The meeting of two teachers at night suggests that they will be discussing sacred texts, as this was a conventional time for such learned dialogues. Nicodemus initiates the discussion, pointing to the “signs” Jesus has performed; Jesus elaborates further on the deeper meaning of the signs that Nicodemus so far has missed. The story of Jacob in Genesis 28 and the descriptions in the Wisdom of Solomon provide rich intertext for understanding the Nicodemus pericope. In the person of Jesus, the Son of Man has descended from heaven, and the heavens have been opened, enabling access to the reign of God for the one who is born anew.
Johannine (Ambivalent) Hospitality: Explorations for Today
Authors: Lozada Francisco
Published: October 2023

The essay explores the concept of hospitality in the Gospel of John and its relevance in today’s context, particularly in relation to strangers, migrants, and the poor. John’s perspective on hospitality is ambivalent in that it places restrictions on whom to extend benevolence and welcome into the community, based on belief. At the same time, the author of John presents a subtle reversal of roles between host and guest, with Jesus embracing both roles: a guest in need of hospitality and a host who welcomes all. Ambivalent hospitality arises in the narrative when conditions are established providing lodging, meals, and assistance based on one’s beliefs, understandings, or identity. The essay calls for leaders today to engage in deeper consideration of justice and human rights that promote hospitality for all without ambivalence.
A model predictive control trajectory tracking lateral controller for autonomous vehicles combined with deep deterministic policy gradient
Authors: Xie Zhaokang , Huang Xiaoci , Luo Suyun , Zhang Ruoping , Ma Fang
Published: October 2023

To solve the problem of trajectory tracking lateral control in autonomous driving technology, a model predictive control (MPC) controller trajectory tracking lateral control method combined with a deep deterministic policy gradient algorithm (DDPG) is proposed in this paper. This method inputs the real-time state of the vehicle into DDPG to achieve real-time automatic optimization of the prediction time domain and control time domain parameters of the MPC controller, and then affects the specific performance of the MPC controller in trajectory tracking lateral control. Specifically, the state space, action space, and reward function of DDPG are defined, and the automatic driving trajectory tracking lateral controller is designed in combination with the vehicle dynamics model. To reduce the exploration space of DDPG and improve the training efficiency of the entire model, the technique of advantage-disadvantage experience separation and extraction is introduced. Finally, the proposed method was trained and verified in various scenarios, and compared with two other lateral control methods for autonomous driving. The results showed that the learning and training time of the trajectory tracking lateral control method based on DDPG-MPC was shorter than that of the DDPG-based method, and the evaluation indicators in the trajectory tracking control process were better than those of the DDPG-based method and original MPC-based method.
Dear food: Yuca’s relational role in sustaining precarious populations in Ecuador
Authors: Cielo Cristina , Vera Cristina
Published: October 2023

In this article, we argue that communities’ relationship to food helps to shape their experiences of crises. The French term la vie chère – dear life – simultaneously invokes affective relations, collective valuations, and high prices, pointing to the importance of all these dimensions in understanding experiences and responses to rising costs of living. In this sense, the ways through which people apprehend and experience the cultivation and consumption of food influence their possibilities for material sustenance. The study compares the role of yuca, a regional word for cassava, in a coastal and in an Amazonian province of Ecuador, in order to shed light on trajectories of social reproduction in contexts of scarcity. Key to the divergent experiences of cassava in these two sites are histories of colonization and exploitation of land and people that shape social and human–nature relations, as well as expert studies that define and reinforce the tuber’s relational role in diverse ecologies.
Subcutaneous choriocarcinomas in captive Amargosa voles (Microtus californicus scirpensis)
Authors: Carrasco Sebastian E. , Johnson Amanda L. , Casey Kerriann M. , Allan Nora , Reed Mia , Foley Janet E. , Imai Denise M.
Published: October 2023

Spontaneous choriocarcinomas are rare, highly vascular, malignant trophoblastic tumors that occur in humans and animals. This report describes the unusual spontaneous presentation of 4 choriocarcinomas within the subcutaneous tissues of 4, multiparous but nongravid, Amargosa voles ( Microtus californicus scirpensis) from a captive breeding colony. Two subcutaneous neoplasms were composed of multifocal discohesive and infiltrative aggregates of medium to large trophoblasts and cytotrophoblasts within a fibrovascular stroma. Neoplastic cells were associated with variably sized thrombi and cavitary areas of hemorrhage and necrosis. Two subcutaneous tumors were predominantly composed of expansile, blood-filled, cystic spaces lined by neoplastic cytotrophoblasts and occasionally contained medium to large trophoblasts. Trophoblasts and cytotrophoblasts were positive for pancytokeratin and cytokeratin 8/18, negative for alpha-fetoprotein, and contained intracytoplasmic Periodic acid–Schiff (PAS)-positive glycogen in all 4 tumors. In species with hemochorial placentation, migration of trophoblasts into maternal circulation with embolization to distant nonreproductive tissues occurs and may explain the unusual subcutaneous distribution of these 4 tumors. The 2 multiloculated paucicellular tumors may represent an early stage of neoplastic transformation. To the authors’ knowledge, this is the first report characterizing choriocarcinomas in extrareproductive sites in rodents.
Gastrointestinal tract pathology of the owl monkey (Aotus spp.)
Authors: Hensel Martha E. , Rodrigues-Hoffmann Aline , Dray Beth K. , Wilkerson Gregory K. , Baze Wally B. , Sulkosky Sarah , Hodo Carolyn L.
Published: October 2023

Owl monkeys are small nocturnal new world primates in the genus Aotus that are most used in biomedical research for malaria. Cardiomyopathy and nephropathy are well-described common diseases contributing to their morbidity and mortality; less is known about lesions affecting the gastrointestinal tract. Records from a 14-year period (2008-2022) at the Keeling Center for Comparative Medicine and Research were queried to identify instances of spontaneous gastrointestinal disease that directly contributed to the cause of death from the 235 adult owl monkeys submitted for necropsy. Of the 235, 10.6% (25/235) had gastrointestinal disease listed as a significant factor that contributed to morbidity and mortality. Diagnoses included candidiasis (3/25), gastric bloat (4/25), and intestinal incarceration and ischemia secondary (11/25), which included intussusception (4/25), mesenteric rent (3/25), strangulating lipoma (2/25), intestinal torsion (1/25), and an inguinal hernia (1/25). Intestinal adenocarcinomas affecting the jejunum (4/25) were the most common neoplasia diagnosis. Oral squamous cell carcinoma (1/25) and intestinal lymphoma (2/25) were also diagnosed. This report provides evidence of spontaneous lesions in the species that contribute to morbidity and mortality.
COVID-19 and Public Transport in Auckland, New Zealand: Investigating Vulnerable Population Groups’ Ridership Behavior
Authors: Hossain Md Shahadat , Fatmi Mahmudur Rahman , Chowdhury Subeh
Published: October 2023

Public transit ridership was severely affected during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 and the effects have continued since. The present study examines changes to ridership immediately post-pandemic in 2021. Research investigating the effects of COVID-19 on disadvantaged population groups is limited and the present study addresses this knowledge gap. Ridership of socially-disadvantaged groups such as low-income, female, and ethnic minority people is examined using order logit regression models. The study uses data from an online travel survey conducted in Auckland, New Zealand, immediately after all COVID-19-related restrictions were lifted. This allowed the collection of revealed preference data for the post-pandemic period. The regression models included the effects of socio-demographic characteristics of individual riders, travel attributes, and built environment factors. Findings suggest that those with lower income and from an ethnic minority group are likely to continue using transit frequently post-pandemic. Younger riders from the ethnic minority group are less likely to use transit frequently, while pre-COVID-19 they were more likely. Access to transit stops near home and work are significant factors for the ethnic minority group. Higher land use mix near the residence and work locations are found to induce more transit trips for all. It is critical for transit agencies to understand how the usage has evolved post-pandemic. These findings highlight the importance of considering the effects of the pandemic on different disadvantaged groups. Public transport service providers are encouraged to consider equity as they develop strategies to improve transit ridership.
The Chinese Version of the Palliative Nursing Care Quality Scale: Translation, Cross-Cultural Adaptation, and Validity
Authors: Liu Qingwei , Zhang Meng , Guo Xiaojing , Zhang Yuchen , Qin Tong , Wang Ying , Gai Yubiao
Published: October 2023

Background

Nurses play an important role in palliative care, and high-quality assessment tools can help standardize palliative-related nursing behaviors, but there are no such tools in China.

Objective

This study aimed to revise, cross-culturally adapt, and validate the Palliative Nursing Care Quality Scale (PNCQS) to provide an effective tool that can help nurses in mainland China assess the quality of palliative care.

Methods

This study involved a 2-steps process. First, the PNCQS was translated, back-translated, and cross-cultural adapted using Brislin's translation model. Second, a cross-sectional study was used to evaluate the reliability and validity of the revised scale. From January to February 2023, 367 nurses engaged in palliative care-related nursing from 3 tertiary A general hospitals were surveyed with the revised scale. The evaluation methods used in this study included item analysis, test-retest reliability, internal consistency, criterion-related validity, content validity, and construct validity.

Results

The PNCQS-Chinese included 20 items. In this study, the item-total correlation coefficients ranged from 0.67 to 0.83 ( P < .01), and the critical ratio value of the items was 12.10 to 23.34 ( P < .01). The scale-level content validity index was 0.98, and the item-level content validity ranged from 0.86 to 1.00. The total Cronbach's α and test–retest reliability of the scale were 0.96 and 0.79, respectively. Factor analysis of 20 items extracted 1 factor, and the contribution rate of cumulative variance was 60.03%.

Conclusions

PNCQS-Chinese shows acceptable validity and reliability for assessing the quality of palliative care-related nursing in mainland China.
Depressive Symptoms Moderate the Association Between Functional Level at Admission to Intensive Post-Stroke Rehabilitation and Effectiveness of the Intervention
Authors: Mazzeo Salvatore , Pancani Silvia , Sodero Alessandro , Castagnoli Chiara , Politi Angela Maria , Barnabè Monica , Ciullini Francesca , Baccini Marco , Grippo Antonello , Hakiki Bahia , Macchi Claudio , Cecchi Francesca
Published: October 2023

Introduction

Previous studies showed that depression acts as an independent factor in functional recovery after stroke. In a prospective cohort of patients admitted to intensive inpatient rehabilitation after a stroke, we aimed to test depression as a moderator of the relationship between the functional level at admission and the effectiveness of rehabilitation at discharge.

Methods

All patients admitted to within 30 days from an ischemic or hemorrhagic stroke to 4 intensive rehabilitation units were prospectively screened for eligibility to a multicenter prospective observational study. Enrolled patients underwent an evidence-based rehabilitation pathway. We used clinical data collected at admission (T0) and discharge (T1). The outcome was the effectiveness of recovery at T1 on the modified Barthel Index (proportion of achieved over potential functional improvement). Moderation analysis was performed by using the PROCESS macro for SPSS using the bootstrapping procedure.

Results

Of 278 evaluated patients, 234 were eligible and consented to enrolment; 81 patients were able to answer to the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) and were included in this analysis. The relationship between the functional status at admission and rehabilitation effectiveness was significant only in persons with fewer depressive symptoms; depression (HADS cut-off score: 5.9) moderated this relationship ( P = .047), independent from age and neurological impairment.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that depression moderates between the functional status at admission and the functional recovery after post-stroke rehabilitation. This approach facilitates the identification of subgroups of individuals who may respond differently to stroke rehabilitation based on depression.
A novel rare variants association test for binary traits in family-based designs via copulas
Authors: Dossa Houssou R. G. , Bureau Alexandre , Maziade Michel , Lakhal-Chaieb Lajmi , Oualkacha Karim
Published: October 2023

With the cost-effectiveness technology in whole-genome sequencing, more sophisticated statistical methods for testing genetic association with both rare and common variants are being investigated to identify the genetic variation between individuals. Several methods which group variants, also called gene-based approaches, are developed. For instance, advanced extensions of the sequence kernel association test, which is a widely used variant-set test, have been proposed for unrelated samples and extended for family data. Family data have been shown to be powerful when analyzing rare variants. However, most of such methods capture familial relatedness using a random effect component within the generalized linear mixed model framework. Therefore, there is a need to develop unified and flexible methods to study the association between a set of genetic variants and a trait, especially for a binary outcome. Copulas are multivariate distribution functions with uniform margins on the [Formula: see text] interval and they provide suitable models to capture familial dependence structure. In this work, we propose a flexible family-based association test for both rare and common variants in the presence of binary traits. The method, termed novel rare variant association test (NRVAT), uses a marginal logistic model and a Gaussian Copula. The latter is employed to model the dependence between relatives. An analytic score-type test is derived. Through simulations, we show that our method can achieve greater power than existing approaches. The proposed model is applied to investigate the association between schizophrenia and bipolar disorder in a family-based cohort consisting of 17 extended families from Eastern Quebec.
School Nurses’ Experiences and Roles in Promoting and Administering the HPV Vaccine: A Systematic Review Using the Socioecological Framework
Authors: McNally Kimberly , Roess Amira , Weinstein Ali , Lindley Lisa , Wallin Robin
Published: October 2023

Understanding the school nurse's experience in human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine promotion can reduce vaccine disparities. HPV vaccination is critical to cancer prevention. Despite the importance of the school nurse in vaccine promotion, there is a lack of understanding. This article aims to examine the knowledge, attitude, experience, and role of school nurses related to HPV vaccination and promotion in school settings. A systematic search for school nurses and their experiences related to HPV vaccination was conducted. A thematic synthesis was undertaken using the socioecological model. This review highlights the complexity of HPV vaccine promotion in schools over time. Multilevel factors impact nursing practice. Nurses have good vaccine knowledge and positive attitudes. Poor workflow processes, competing demands, and vaccine communication challenge school nurses. The themes that were synthesized informed the LEADS model. With the support of school nurses, reaching the goal of eliminating cervical cancer as a public health problem is possible.
New product development project management: Insights and research tendency from a bibliometric-based literature review
Authors: Yang Qing , Tian Pingye
Published: October 2023

The research in relation to new product development (NPD) project management has been very rich in the past decade. However, there has been a lack of quantitative literature reviews investigating the status and evolution of research. In this study, we aimed to fill this gap by reviewing the NPD project management literature in the SCI-E and SSCI databases from 2012 to 2021 using the bibliometric method and the CiteSpace tool. First, we provided an overview of publications and identified several leading journals. Second, based on a keyword co-occurrence network, we identified five important research themes in NPD project management: optimization and simulation, knowledge management, product innovation, performance and success factors, and development strategy and firm strategy. Furthermore, we reviewed the important literature relating to each theme. Third, we analyzed the evolution of the NPD project management literature, as well as identifying research hotpots in the last 10 years, by creating a keyword time zone network. Finally, we proposed future trends in NPD project management research to fill the existing gaps.
“Norman Denzin is the Hub”
Authors: Hein Serge F.
Published: October 2023

This tribute is to Norman K. Denzin. In it, I reflect on my experiences with him and his work and his influence on me as a scholar and a person.
Remembering Norman
Authors: St.Pierre Elizabeth Adams
Published: October 2023

In this brief essay, I offer reflection on Norman Denzin’s role as an academic activist in qualitative inquiry.
Technological and sensory characteristics of hamburgers made with polyunsaturated gelled emulsions
Authors: Paula Marielle Maria de Oliveira , de Moura Ana Paula Rocha , Buchili Adelaide Florência Mateus , Zitha Elídio Zaidine Maurício , Cassimiro Débora Mara de Jesus , Ramos Alcinéia de Lemos Souza , Ramos Eduardo Mendes
Published: October 2023

The quest for healthiness has driven the meat industry to seek solutions to reduce or replace saturated animal fat. The replacement (partial or total) of animal fat by polyunsaturated vegetable oils rich in omega fatty acids has gained prominence in terms of making a product healthier. However, an obstacle to this strategy is the effects on the sensory characteristics of the products, which may be unfavorable to consumers. The objective of this study was to evaluate the lipid reformulation of hamburgers through the total replacement of pork fat with canola, sunflower, and corn oil emulsions. The physical–chemical, technological, and sensory properties analyses were performed. There were no significant changes ( P > 0.05) in moisture content, protein content, ash content, pH, weight loss (%), moisture retention (%), or shrinkage (%). However, the lipid content was reduced ( P < 0.05) and there was a significant improvement in the fatty acid profile with the application of gelled emulsions. The lipid peroxidation and oxidation also increased ( P < 0.05) for the samples with the addition of gelled emulsions, and we observed the same behavior for lipid retention (%). In the sensory evaluation, the samples showed good overall acceptance, with hedonic scores ranging from “like slightly” to “like very much.” In addition, through check-all-that-apply questions, we observed that the most positive scores given applied to the treatments were applied to the emulsions. The total replacement of animal fat by gelled emulsions is a promising strategy for producing healthier hamburgers.
Lifestyle Behaviors and Health-Related Quality of Life in Cancer Survivors: A Latent Class Analysis
Authors: Olson Jenny L. , Conroy David E. , Mama Scherezade K. , Schmitz Kathryn H.
Published: October 2023

Healthy lifestyle behaviors can improve health-related quality of life (HRQOL) in cancer survivors; but the combination of behaviors most important for HRQOL is not known. This study investigated the patterns of lifestyle behaviors among cancer survivors and differences in HRQOL between behavioral classes. Cancer survivors ( n = 2,463) were invited to participate in a cross-sectional survey. Participants ( N = 591) were predominately female (63%) and non-Hispanic White (90%). Survey items included self-reported physical activity, diet, smoking, sleep, HRQOL, and demographics. Behavioral classes were estimated by latent class analysis. Differences between classes were assessed by latent class regression. Compared with the “healthy lifestyles” class (higher probabilities of meeting aerobic/strength-based activity guidelines, high fruit/vegetable intake, and no sleep problems; 11% of sample), the “sleep and diet problems with inconsistent physical activity” class (higher probabilities of not meeting strength-based guidelines, low fruit/vegetable intake, some sleep problems; marginally higher probability of meeting aerobic guidelines; 41%) had poorer general and physical HRQOL. The “poor physical activity and diet” class (higher probabilities of not meeting aerobic/strength-based guidelines, low fruit/vegetable intake, and some sleep problems; 48%) had poorer general, physical, and mental HRQOL. Few participants exhibited healthy lifestyle patterns associated with HRQOL. The findings provide opportunities to develop differentiated multiple behavior-change interventions, targeted to two common patterns of behavior. A large subgroup of cancer survivors was susceptible to suboptimal physical activity and diet, warranting interventions exclusively targeting these behaviors. Another subgroup was susceptible to suboptimal physical activity, diet, and sleep, indicating interventions for this group should include strategies targeting these three behaviors.
Microfibrillar-associated protein 4 as a potential marker of acute relapse in inflammatory demyelinating diseases of the central nervous system: Pathological and clinical aspects
Authors: Samadzadeh Sara , Olesen Mads Nikolaj , Wirenfeldt Martin , Möller Sören , Misu Tatsuro , Soelberg Kerstin , Frederiksen Jette Lautrup , Heegaard Steffen , Mariotto Sara , Fujihara Kazuo , Ruprecht Klemens , Andersen Thomas Levin , Marignier Romain , Lillevang Søren Thue , Flanagan Eoin P , Pittock Sean J , Kim Ho Jin , Bennett Jeffrey L , Paul Friedemann , Sorensen Grith Lykke , Weinshenker Brian G , Lassmann Hans , Asgari Nasrin
Published: October 2023

Background:

Microfibrillar-associated protein 4 (MFAP4) is an extracellular matrix protein not previously described in the human central nervous system (CNS).

Objectives:

We determined MFAP4 CNS expression and measured cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and serum levels.

Methods:

Tissue was sampled at autopsy from patients with acute multiple sclerosis (MS) ( n = 3), progressive MS ( n = 3), neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) ( n = 2), and controls ( n = 9), including 6 healthy controls (HC). MFAP4 levels were measured in 152 patients: 49 MS, 62 NMOSD, 22 myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein-associated disease (MOGAD), and 19 isolated optic neuritis (ION).

Results:

MFAP4 localized to meninges and vascular/perivascular spaces, intense in the optic nerve. At sites of active inflammation, MFAP4 reactivity was reduced in NMOSD and acute MS and less in progressive MS. CSF MFAP4 levels were reduced during relapse and at the onset of diseases (mean U/mL: MS 14.3, MOGAD 9.7, and ION 14.6 relative to HC 17.9. ( p = 0.013, p = 0.000, and p = 0.019, respectively). Patients with acute ON ( n = 68) had reduced CSF MFAP4 (mean U/mL: 14.5, p = 0.006). CSF MFAP4 levels correlated negatively with relapse severity (rho = −0.41, p = 0.017).

Conclusion:

MFAP4 immunoreactivity was reduced at sites of active inflammation. CSF levels of MFAP4 were reduced following relapse and may reflect disease activity.
‘Every adventure begins with a cup of coffee’: Black rifle coffee company, reactionary fandom, and the tactical body
Authors: Dannar Anthony
Published: October 2023

This article examines the Black Rifle Coffee Company brand, its fans, and its connection to right-wing violence. By incorporating the literature on brand culture and the concepts and tools from fan studies, I show how Black Rifle merchandise develops into wearable symbols of white supremacy and reactionary politics celebrated by a fan culture and integrated into a tactical ensemble. While both Black Rifle’s promotional content and fans’ actions point to how capitalism provides a permission structure for white masculine supremacy, only by combining these approaches do we reveal the tactical body. I argue that the tactical body is a fannish embodiment of white supremacist conspiracy theories and a playful form of political engagement designed to actualize a revenge fantasy of insurrection. While I focus primarily on how Black Rifle fans play out their tactical canon in online and physical spaces, this case study points to a larger trend of tactical brands profiting from white male grievances and political tribalism.
The moderating role of trust in pandemic-relevant institutions on the relation between pandemic fatigue and vaccination intentions
Authors: Scholz David D , Bader Martina , Betsch Cornelia , Böhm Robert , Lilleholt Lau , Sprengholz Philipp , Zettler Ingo
Published: October 2023

This research helps to clarify the relation between pandemic fatigue (PF) and vaccination intentions (VI). Theoretically, two patterns seem plausible. First, as with any other health protective measure, PF might reduce the motivation to get vaccinated. Second, PF might increase the motivation to get vaccinated because vaccination reduces the number of (other) health protective measure needed. We tested these two opposing predictions and further explored the moderating role of trust in pandemic-relevant institutions on the link between PF and VI in two large-scale survey studies from Denmark and Germany (collected between 2020 and 2021; total N > 22,000). Data was analyzed using multiple regression models. Analyses reveal a negative link between PF and VI that is less pronounced for people high in trust. Results remain stable when accounting for covariates and quadratic trends. Thus, trust might buffer the negative relation between PF and VI.
Asian American social workers’ experiences and perspectives on anti-Asian hate
Authors: Lau Sophia B , Bersamira Clifford S , Lee Yeonjung Jane , Yamauchi Jaron
Published: October 2023

The rise in anti-Asian hate since the COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the challenges that Asian Americans in the United States (U.S.) experience with xenophobia, racism, and the “model-minority stereotype.” The model-minority stereotype is a misleading myth that has been pervasively attached to the Asian American identity and experiences. Thus, it can serve as a useful framework to understand experiences in the current anti-Asian hate climate. In this exploratory qualitative study, the investigators interviewed Asian American social workers ( N = 17), highlighting their perspectives and experiences during the anti-Asian hate climate, with attention paid to how the model minority stereotype was contextualized among participants.

Findings

The resounding tone underlying participants’ model-minority stereotype-related discussions was the need to counter the model minority stereotype. Notably, the model-minority stereotype was contextualized differently for participants and three themes were identified: (1) limbo between model minority and perpetual foreigner status; (2) impacts on the social worker role and in the organizational setting; and (3) impacts on advocacy work.

Applications

Study findings suggest a need for continued support and opportunities to unlearn and relearn the purpose of the model-minority stereotype and its broad sweep and attacks on various health dimensions (physically, psychologically, socially, and spiritually) across Asian Americans ethnic groups. Countering the model-minority stereotype can play a pivotal role in transforming the narratives surrounding Asian American's identity and experiences in the U.S., in addition to organizational culture and dynamics to support Asian Americans social workers practice and advocacy work across practice levels.
Differences Between Attending and Trainee Surgeon Performance Using Objective Performance Indicators During Robot-Assisted Lobectomy
Authors: Oh Daniel , Brown Kristen , Yousaf Sadia , Nesbitt Jonathan , Feins Richard , Sancheti Manu , Lin Jules , Yang Stephen , D’Souza Desmond , Jarc Anthony
Published: October 2023

Objective:

Existing approaches for assessing surgical performance are subjective and prone to bias. In contrast, utilizing digital kinematic and system data from the surgical robot allows the calculation of objective performance indicators (OPIs) that may differentiate technical skill and competency. This study compared OPIs of trainees and attending surgeons to assess differences during robotic lobectomy (RL).

Methods:

There were 50 cardiothoracic surgery residents and 7 attending surgeons who performed RL on a left upper lobectomy of an ex vivo perfused model. A novel recorder simultaneously captured video and data from the system and instruments. The lobectomy was annotated into discrete tasks, and OPIs were analyzed for both hands during 6 tasks: exposure of the superior pulmonary vein, upper division of the pulmonary artery and bronchus, and the stapling of these structures.

Results:

There were significant differences between attendings and trainees in all tasks. Among 20 OPIs during exposure tasks, significant differences were observed for the left hand in 31 of 60 (52%) of OPIs and for the right hand in 42 of 60 (70%). During stapling tasks, significant differences were observed for the stapling hand in 28 of 60 (47%) of OPIs and for the nonstapling hand in 14 of 60 (25%).

Conclusions:

Use of a novel data and video recorder to generate OPIs for both hands revealed significant differences in the operative gestures performed by trainees compared to attendings during RL. This method of assessing performance has potential for establishing objective competency benchmarks and use for tracking progress.
Adherence to Selected Pillars of Lifestyle Medicine in the United States: A Cross-Sectional Analysis
Authors: Storz Maximilian Andreas , Brommer Maria , Jeitler Michael
Published: October 2023

Background: The American College of Lifestyle Medicine proposed 6 evidenced-based pillars to tackle the increasing burden from chronic non-communicable diseases, including regular physical activity, 7+ hours of restorative sleep, a whole-food plant-based diet, stress management, avoidance of risky substances and positive social connections. Methods: We used cross-sectional nationally representative data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys to analyze the degree of adherence to 4 of these pillars in the US general population. Results: We analyzed data from n = 1217 participants (representing n = 64,468,933 US adults). Results suggested a low population prevalence of established lifestyle medicine behaviors. Less than 50% of the population met the minimal weekly physical activity goal of 150 minutes of moderate intensity activity. We observed a high prevalence of risky substances (excessive alcohol and tobacco) in younger participants aged 20-38 years. Only .52% met common indicators of a whole-food plant-based diet. We found substantial differences between sexes and age groups, with an alarmingly low percentage of young adults achieving optimal levels of common lifestyle practices. Conclusions: Lifestyle medicine as a cost-effective strategy to reduce premature mortality is widely established. Our findings reiterate the required shift from symptom management via interventions towards “tackling the cause” of chronic diseases.
An optimization model for low-carbon product family design considering component reliability and warranty period
Authors: Wang Qi , Qi Peipei , Li Shipei
Published: October 2023

Due to the considerations of the carbon footprint of the product, low-carbon product family design has attracted more and more attention. The existing low-carbon product family design methods do not adequately take into account the component reliability and warranty period. At present, providing warranty for key components of the product is an important marketing tool, and it is widely adopted by manufacturers. In fact, when component reliability and warranty period are considered in a low-carbon product family design, they affect not only the profit of the product family, but also the GHG emission. To this end, the article proposes an optimization model that optimizes product family design, supplier selection and component warranty period in parallel. The objective of the model is to maximize the profit of the product family and minimize GHG emission while satisfying various constraints. The developed model is solved using a genetic algorithm. The method’s effectiveness is verified through a case study, and a sensitivity analysis is performed. The method can assist manufacturers in simultaneously determining the product family configuration, supplier selection and the component warranty period based on their goal preferences.
Successful reverse total shoulder replacement in a patient with Apert syndrome
Authors: Burton Codey , Koong Denis P , Seagrave Kurt , Spasojevic Milos , Mackenzie Sam , Cass Ben
Published: October 2023

Apert syndrome, first described in the literature by a French pediatrician Eugene Apert, is a rare congenital form of acrocephalodactyly with autosomal dominant inheritance. Classically, this syndrome is characterized by craniosynostosis, midface hypoplasia, and symmetrical syndactyly of hands and feet resulting from embryonic anomalies during the third week of gestation. It is also associated with a variety of abnormalities of the viscera, involving the neurological, genitourinary, and cardiorespiratory systems. Glenohumeral manifestations of Apert syndrome include glenoid dysplasia, an oblong humeral head with a prominence of the greater tuberosity, acromial prominence, and inferior subluxation of the glenohumeral joint. This pathological anatomy results in progressive degenerative changes, synchondrosis, and restriction in shoulder joint mobility, particularly in flexion and abduction. While surgical options for the accompanying deformities of the feet and spine are described, interventions for shoulder pathology are not well-defined. Joint replacement surgery could offer such patients pain relief and improved function. Reverse total shoulder arthroplasty is yet to be described in Apert syndrome and this case report presents the outcome in a 48-year-old male.

Level of evidence: IV case report.
Interpreters as Spin Doctors: The Interactional Role of Interpreters in China’s Political Press Conferences
Authors: Liu Ruey-Ying
Published: October 2023

China’s political press conferences have received increasing academic attention as they provide a revealing window into the workings of the political communication system in the authoritarian context. However, the interactional role that interpreters play in these cross-linguistic press conferences remains underexamined. Taking a conversational analytic approach, this qualitative study empirically examines the interactional import of government interpreters’ practices at the Chinese Premier’s Press Conferences (CPPCs) from 2007 to 2023. The analysis reveals that interpreters consistently transform journalists’ questions with respect to (1) word choices, (2) contextual backgrounds, and (3) question forms. These transformative practices work to soften the critical messages that these questions would otherwise convey while also enabling politicians to more easily address these questions without having to deal with the negative consequences that might otherwise follow. I argue that government interpreters in CPPCs actively intervene in substantive ways consistent with a spin doctor role within press conference exchanges.