bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rayleigh–Taylor shock waves
Authors: Olson Britton J. , Cook Andrew W.
Published: January 2008

Beginning from a state of hydrostatic equilibrium, in which a heavy gas rests atop a light gas in a constant gravitational field, Rayleigh–Taylor instability at the interface will launch a shock wave into the upper fluid. We have performed a series of large-eddy simulations which suggest that the rising bubbles of light fluid act like pistons, compressing the heavy fluid ahead of the fronts and generating shocklets. These shocklets coalesce in multidimensional fashion into a strong normal shock, which increases in strength as it propagates upwards. The simulations demonstrate that the shock Mach number increases faster in three dimensions than it does in two dimensions. The generation of shocks via Rayleigh–Taylor instability could play an important role in type Ia supernovae.
Ab initiocalculations of the mechanical properties of SrAl2O4 stuffed tridymite
Authors: Yamada Hiroshi , Xu Chao-Nan
Published: January 2008

We report for the first time the complete set of elastic coefficients of the mechanoluminescent material SrAl2O4 stuffed tridymite determined by the first-principles plane-wave pseudopotential total energy method. We calculate other mechanical properties (i.e., bulk modulus, Young’s modulus, and Poisson’s ratio) of this material from the elastic coefficients determined, and compare them with the corresponding experimental and calculated results of typical oxides, indicating that SrAl2O4 stuffed tridymite is a relatively soft ceramic oxide. In addition, we investigate the crystal structure of SrAl2O4 stuffed tridymite at elevated hydrostatic pressures up to 10GPa and confirm anisotropic deformation in the SrAl2O4 lattice.
Effective metal dispersion in pyridinelike nitrogen doped graphenes for hydrogen storage
Authors: Kim Gyubong , Jhi Seung-Hoon , Park Noejung
Published: January 2008

We study the pyridinelike nitrogen-doped graphene (PNG) with dispersed transition metal (TM) atoms as a potential hydrogen storage medium using the pseudopotential density functional method. It is found that highly localized states near the Fermi level, which are derived from the nitrogen defects, contribute to strong TM bindings and favorable hydrogen adsorption in the PNG. The strong TM binding prevents the metal aggregation and improves the material stability. The hydrogen molecular binding energy in TM+PNG complex is shown to be optimistic for room temperature storage and release.
The sandstone fantasy of Petra
Authors: WALTHAM TONY
Published: January 2008

The rose‐red city half as old as time is an incredible series of monuments carved out of Cambrian sandstone, which offers more than a little geological interest. Both the site of Petra and its approach canyons are tightly controlled by the geology, and the sandstone itself is mineralized and coloured on a surprising scale.
Protective Effects ofGinkgo biloba,Panax ginseng, andSchizandra chinensisExtract on Liver Injury in Rats
Authors: Chang Hsin-Fang , Lin Yun-Ho , Chu Chia-Chou , Wu Shu-Ju , Tsai Ya-Hui , Chao Jane C.-J.
Published: January 2008

This study investigated the effects of the combined extracts of Ginkgo biloba, Panax ginseng, and Schizandra chinensis at different doses on hepatic antioxidant status and fibrosis in rats with carbon tetrachloride ( CCl4)-induced liver injury. Male Sprague-Dawley rats ( n = 8–12 per group) were divided into the control, CCl4, CCl4+ silymarin (0.35%), CCl4+ low-dose herbal extract (0.24% of Ginkgo biloba, Panax ginseng, and Schizandra chinensis extract at 1:1:1; LE), and CCl4+ high-dose herbal extract (1.20% of the same herbal extract; HE) groups. Silymarin or herbal extract was orally given to rats a week before chronic intraperitoneal injection with CCl4for 6 weeks. The pathological results showed that herbal extract suppressed hepatic bile duct proliferation, and low-dose herbal extract inhibited liver fibrosis. Hepatic superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity was lower in the CCl4group, but there was no difference in the silymarin or herbal extract treated groups compared to the control group. Hepatic catalase activity and the ratio of reduced to oxidized glutathione were significantly higher ( p < 0.05) in the HE group than those in the CCl4group. Silymarin and herbal extract reversed the impaired hepatic total antioxidant status ( p < 0.05). Herbal extract partially reduced the elevated hepatic lipid peroxides. Hepatic transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) level decreased significantly ( p < 0.05) in the LE group. Therefore, high-dose herbal extract improved hepatic antioxidant capacity through enhancing catalase activity and glutathione redox status, whereas low-dose herbal extract inhibited liver fibrosis through decreasing hepatic TGF-β1 level in rats with CCl4-induced liver injury.
Antibacterial Properties of Chinese Herbal Medicines against Nosocomial Antibiotic Resistant Strains of Pseudomonas aeruginosa in Taiwan
Authors: Liu Ching-Shen , Cham Thau-Ming , Yang Cheng-Hong , Chang Hsueh-Wei , Chen Chia-Hong , Chuang Li-Yeh
Published: January 2008

Pseudomonas aeruginosa is well-recognized as a nosocomial pathogen, which exhibits inherent drug resistance. In this study, the antibacterial activity of ethanol extracts of 58 Chinese herbal medicines used in Taiwan were tested against 89 nosocomial antibiotic resistant strains of Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The results gathered by the disc diffusion method showed that 26 out of the 58 herbal extracts exhibited antibacterial activity. Among the 26 herbal extracts, 10 extracts showed broad-spectrum antibacterial activities and were selected for further antibacterial property assay. The minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC) of the active partition fractions ranged from 0.25 to 11.0 mg/L. The presence of flavonoid compounds in the active fractions of test herbal extracts was observed by the TLC-bioautography. The results from the time-kill assay revealed that most of the herbal extracts completely killed the test organisms within 4 hours. Exposure of the test strains to a sub-MIC level of the herbal extracts for 10 consecutive subcultures did not induce resistance to the active components. A combination of the active herbal fractions with antibiotics showed that one of the herbal medicines, the hexane fraction of Ramulus Cinnamomi, possessed a synergistic effect with tetracycline, gentamycin, and streptomycin. In conclusion, the tested Chinese medical herbs have the potential to be developed into natural antibiotics. This is the first evaluation for screening large amounts of medical plants against nosocomial antibiotic resistant bacteria in Taiwan.
THE SCHRÖDINGER PICTURE OF THE DIRAC QUANTUM MECHANICS ON SPATIALLY FLAT ROBERTSON–WALKER BACKGROUNDS
Authors: COTĂESCU ION I.
Published: January 2008

The time evolution Schrödinger picture of the Dirac quantum mechanics is defined in charts with spatially flat Robertson–Walker metrics and Cartesian coordinates. The main observables of this picture are identified, including the interacting part of the Hamiltonian operator produced by the minimal coupling with the gravitational field. It is shown that in this approach new Dirac quantum modes on de Sitter spacetimes may be found analytically solving the Dirac equation.
How do people really interact with TV?
Authors: DARNELL MICHAEL J.
Published: January 2008

To understand how people really interact with digital TV and digital video recorder (DVR) systems, 10 people were recruited, 6 with DVRs and 4 with non-DVR digital cable or satellite TV systems. Video-recording equipment was set up in their homes to record their TV viewing. The person viewing as well as the TV content being viewed were recorded as the person watched TV. Afterwards, the recordings were reviewed and analyzed by the experimenter together with the viewer, who then described his or her behavior. The results show that overall the most common way people interacted with TV was in avoiding advertisements and finding new programming to watch when the current show ended. These results can be used to find ways to improve how users experience TV systems.
Five deep questions in computing
Authors: Wing Jeannette M.
Published: January 2008

Even if they seem unanswerable, just trying to answer them will advance the field's scientific foundations and help engineer the systems we can only imagine.
Thalamocortical Relay Fidelity Varies Across Subthalamic Nucleus Deep Brain Stimulation Protocols in a Data-Driven Computational Model
Authors: Guo Yixin , Rubin Jonathan E. , McIntyre Cameron C. , Vitek Jerrold L. , Terman David
Published: January 2008

The therapeutic effectiveness of deep brain stimulation (DBS) of the subthalamic nucleus (STN) may arise through its effects on inhibitory basal ganglia outputs, including those from the internal segment of the globus pallidus (GPi). Changes in GPi activity will impact its thalamic targets, representing a possible pathway for STN-DBS to modulate basal ganglia-thalamocortical processing. To study the effect of STN-DBS on thalamic activity, we examined thalamocortical (TC) relay cell responses to an excitatory input train under a variety of inhibitory signals, using a computational model. The inhibitory signals were obtained from single-unit GPi recordings from normal monkeys and from monkeys rendered parkinsonian through arterial 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine injection. The parkinsonian GPi data were collected in the absence of STN-DBS, under sub-therapeutic STN-DBS, and under therapeutic STN-DBS. Our simulations show that inhibition from parkinsonian GPi activity recorded without DBS-compromised TC relay of excitatory inputs compared with the normal case, whereas TC relay fidelity improved significantly under inhibition from therapeutic, but not sub-therapeutic, STN-DBS GPi activity. In a heterogeneous model TC cell population, response failures to the same input occurred across multiple TC cells significantly more often without DBS than in the therapeutic DBS case and in the normal case. Inhibitory signals preceding successful TC relay were relatively constant, whereas those before failures changed more rapidly. Computationally generated inhibitory inputs yielded similar effects on TC relay. These results support the hypothesis that STN-DBS alters parkinsonian GPi activity in a way that may improve TC relay fidelity.
How Large a Training Set is Needed to Develop a Classifier for Microarray Data?
Authors: Dobbin Kevin K. , Zhao Yingdong , Simon Richard M.
Published: January 2008

Purpose: A common goal of gene expression microarray studies is the development of a classifier that can be used to divide patients into groups with different prognoses, or with different expected responses to a therapy. These types of classifiers are developed on a training set, which is the set of samples used to train a classifier. The question of how many samples are needed in the training set to produce a good classifier from high-dimensional microarray data is challenging.

Experimental Design: We present a model-based approach to determining the sample size required to adequately train a classifier.

Results: It is shown that sample size can be determined from three quantities: standardized fold change, class prevalence, and number of genes or features on the arrays. Numerous examples and important experimental design issues are discussed. The method is adapted to address ex post facto determination of whether the size of a training set used to develop a classifier was adequate. An interactive web site for performing the sample size calculations is provided.

Conclusion: We showed that sample size calculations for classifier development from high-dimensional microarray data are feasible, discussed numerous important considerations, and presented examples.
SNX2112, a Synthetic Heat Shock Protein 90 Inhibitor, Has Potent Antitumor Activity against HER Kinase–Dependent Cancers
Authors: Chandarlapaty Sarat , Sawai Ayana , Ye Qing , Scott Anisa , Silinski Melanie , Huang Ken , Fadden Pat , Partdrige Jeff , Hall Steven , Steed Paul , Norton Larry , Rosen Neal , Solit David B.
Published: January 2008

Purpose: The heat shock protein 90 (Hsp90) chaperone plays an important role in transformation by regulating the conformational maturation and stability of oncogenic kinases and transcription factors. Ansamycins, such as 17-(allylamino)-17-demethoxygeldanmycin (17-AAG), inhibit Hsp90 function; induce the degradation of Hsp90 client proteins such as HER2, and have shown activity in early clinical trials. However, the utility of these drugs has been limited by their hepatotoxicity, poor solubility, and poorly tolerated formulations.

Experimental Design: We determined the pharmacodynamic and antitumor properties of a novel, synthetic Hsp90 inhibitor, SNX-2112, in cell culture and xenograft models of HER kinase–dependent cancers.

Results: We show in a panel of tumor cell lines that SNX-2112 and its prodrug SNX-5542 are Hsp90 inhibitors with properties and potency similar to that of 17-AAG, including: degradation of HER2, mutant epidermal growth factor receptor, and other client proteins, inhibition of extracellular signal-regulated kinase and Akt activation, and induction of a Rb-dependent G1 arrest with subsequent apoptosis. SNX-5542 can be administered to mice orally on a daily schedule. Following oral administration, SNX-5542 is rapidly converted to SNX-2112, which accumulates in tumors relative to normal tissues. A single dose of SNX-5542 causes HER2 degradation and inhibits its downstream signaling for up to 24 h, and daily dosing results in regression of HER2-dependent xenografts. SNX-5542 also shows greater activity than 17-AAG in a non–small cell lung cancer xenograft model expressing mutant EGFR.

Conclusions: These results suggest that Hsp90 inhibition with SNX-2112 (delivered as a prodrug) may represent a promising therapeutic strategy for tumors whose growth and survival is dependent on Hsp90 clients.
Integrative Genomic Analysis of Aneuploidy in Uveal Melanoma
Authors: Ehlers Justis P. , Worley Lori , Onken Michael D. , Harbour J. William
Published: January 2008

Purpose: Aneuploidy is a hallmark of cancer and is closely linked to metastasis and poor clinical outcome. Yet, the mechanisms leading to aneuploidy and its role in tumor progression remain poorly understood. The extensive and complex karyotypic abnormalities seen in many solid tumors could hinder the identification of pathogenetically relevant chromosomal alterations. Uveal melanoma is an attractive solid tumor for studying aneuploidy because it is a relatively homogeneous cancer that is highly metastatic and has low nonspecific chromosomal instability.

Experimental Design: Comparative genomic hybridization and gene expression profiling were used to analyze patterns of aneuploidy in 49 primary uveal melanomas. This analysis was supplemented by a review of cytogenetic findings in 336 published cases.

Results: Three prognostically significant tumor subgroups were identified based on the status of chromosomes 3 and 6p. Discrete patterns of chromosomal alterations accumulated in these three subgroups in a nonrandom temporal sequence. Poor clinical outcome was associated with early chromosomal alterations rather than overall aneuploidy. A gene expression signature associated with aneuploidy was enriched for genes involved in cell cycle regulation, centrosome function, and DNA damage repair. One of these genes was PTEN, a tumor suppressor and genomic integrity guardian, which was down-regulated in association with increasing aneuploidy (P = 0.003).

Conclusions: The relationship between aneuploidy and poor prognosis may be determined by specific, pathogenetically relevant chromosomal alterations, rather than overall aneuploidy. Such alterations can be identified using integrative genomic methods and may provide insights for novel therapeutic approaches.
A Numerical Study to Investigate the Relationship between Moisture Convergence Patterns and Orography in Central Mexico*
Authors: Bhushan S. , Barros A. P.
Published: January 2008

This study examines small-scale orographic effects on atmospheric moisture convergence at the ridge–valley scale in the Grande de Santiago River basin in central Mexico during a major monsoon storm on 13–14 August 1999. The simulation was performed using a coupled land–cloud resolving model on three nested grids (at 12-, 3-, and 1-km resolutions). The specific objective is to investigate the physical mechanisms that explain the regional space–time organization of orographic precipitation and cloudiness identified in the region from satellite data. The overarching goals of the research were 1) to characterize the effects of landform and topography-flow geometry relationships on the spatial distribution of precipitation and clouds, especially with regard to the role of mountain winds and lateral drainage flows, and 2) to assess the influence of land–atmosphere interactions (specifically latent and sensible heat fluxes) on moisture convergence patterns during monsoon storms.

The model results indicate that large-scale moisture convergence dominates the distribution of total water in the troposphere during monsoon storms, which is modulated by topographically induced gravity waves and thermodynamic gradients associated with the land–sea contrast in the coastal zone. In the Grande de Santiago River basin, mountain–plain differences in thermodynamic response control mesoscale moisture convergence patterns leading to nocturnal buildup in the valleys. At the ridge–valley scale, strong convergence and strong winds (up to 15 m s−1) occur on the lee side of ridges oriented perpendicularly to the impinging synoptic flow with the development of transient flow conditions (from supercritical to subcritical) in the valley, independently of the time of day. In turn, this localized hydraulic-jump-like circulation drives strong return winds (i.e., cold outflows in the downvalley direction) that converge in the central lowlands preceding nighttime rainfall, lifting warm moist air at the mouth of the valley, thus initiating nocturnal convection. Simulated moisture convergence patterns are clustered along the ridges and against the foot slopes at the outlet of the north–south oriented catchments consistent with the space–time distribution of satellite observations of precipitation and clouds in the region overall, and with precipitation features detected during the simulated event in particular.
Callous and unemotional traits in children and adolescents
living in Great Britain
Authors: Moran Paul , Ford Tamsin , Butler Georgia , Goodman Robert
Published: January 2008

Few studies have assessed psychopathic traits in community samples of young
people. We investigated the predictive utility of callous and unemotional
traits in a representative sample of 5770 young people from Great Britain.
Teachers provided information on the presence of callous and unemotional
traits and parents completed the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire to
determine the level and impact of psychiatric problems at baseline, 12 and
24 months later. Baseline callous and unemotional trait scores independently
predicted the number and intensity of conduct, emotional and hyperactivity
symptoms at follow-up. Callous and unemotional traits are longitudinally
associated with the level and impact of childhood psychiatric problems.
Crossing Borders: The Impact of the California Tobacco Control Program on Both Sides of the US–Mexico Border
Authors: Martínez-Donate Ana P. , Hovell Melbourne F. , Hofstetter C. Richard , González-Pérez Guillermo J. , Kotay Anu , Adams Marc A.
Published: January 2008

We examined the association between exposure to the California Tobacco Control Program and tobacco-related behaviors and perceptions among adults of Mexican descent. Three cross-sectional population-based surveys were conducted among adults in cities that represent full, partial, and no exposure to the program: San Diego, Calif, Tijuana, Mexico, and Guadalajara, Mexico, respectively.

After we controlled for socioeconomic differences, we found significantly different rates of smoking, exposure to environmental tobacco smoke, and smoking bans in the 3 cities. We also observed a parallel gradient of cross-city differences in theoretical mediators of tobacco control. This suggests a significant association among the California Tobacco Control Program, tobacco-control outcomes, and theoretical mediators of these outcomes.

Similar programs should be implemented in other regions; they have widespread effects on social norms and behaviors related to smoking and environmental tobacco smoke and can help achieve tobacco control across nations.
Influence of Nasal Sponges on Patients’ Complaints after Nasal and Sinus Surgery
Authors: Wiesmiller Kerstin , Lindemann Joerg , Rettinger Gerhard , Leiacker Richard , Rozsasi Ajnacska , Keck Tilman
Published: January 2008

Background

The goal of this study was to investigate the effect of nasal sponges on the subjective nasal well-being after nasal and sinus surgery.

Methods

The study was designed as a randomized prospective clinical trial comparing four different types of sponges used as nasal passive humidifiers (NPHs). The 40 participants were blinded to the size and pore structure of the NPHs. The NPHs were applied in both nostrils for 1 hour on the 2nd postoperative day. Subjective nasal sensations were evaluated on a visual analog scale.

Results

Wearing comfort was rated as satisfactory. Intranasal humidity and feeling of a dry nose were rated as improved after wearing the NPHs.

Conclusion

The use of NPHs may have a positive effect on the patients’ perception of nasal obstruction and intranasal humidity. Additional investigations in patients with intranasal dryness are planned to improve patients’ complaints.
Recommendations for the Safe Application of Temporal Interference Stimulation in the Human Brain Part I: Principles of Electrical Neuromodulation and Adverse Effects
Authors: Cassarà Antonino M. , Newton Taylor H. , Zhuang Katie , Regel Sabine J. , Achermann Peter , Pascual‐Leone Alvaro , Kuster Niels , Neufeld Esra
Published: February 2025

Temporal interference stimulation (TIS) is a new form of transcranial electrical stimulation (tES) that has been proposed as a method for targeted, non‐invasive stimulation of deep brain structures. While TIS holds promise for a variety of clinical and non‐clinical applications, little data is yet available regarding its effects in humans and its mechanisms of action. In order to inform the design and safe conduct of experiments involving TIS, researchers require quantitative guidance regarding safe exposure limits and other safety considerations. To this end, we undertook a two‐part effort to determine frequency‐dependent thresholds for applied currents below which TIS is unlikely to pose risk to humans in terms of heating or unwanted stimulation. Part I of this effort, described here, comprises a summary of the current knowledge pertaining to the safety of TIS and related techniques. Specifically, we provide: i) a broad overview of the electrophysiological impacts neurostimulation, ii) a review of the (bio‐)physical principles underlying the mechanisms of action of transcranial alternating/direct stimulation (tACS/tDCS), deep brain stimulation (DBS), and TIS, and iii) a comprehensive survey of the adverse effects (AEs) associated with each technique as reported in the scientific literature and regulatory and clinical databases. In Part II, we perform an in silico study to determine field exposure metrics for tDCS/tACS and DBS under normal (safe) operating conditions and infer frequency‐dependent current thresholds for TIS that result in equivalent levels of exposure.
Exploratory Raman Spectroscopic Studies of Canine Oral Tumour Types
Authors: Jadhav Priyanka A. , Hole Arti , Saha Panchali , Pansare Kshama , Ghanwat Aishwarya , Gera Poonam , Bendale Kiran , Krishna C. Murali , Chaudhari Pradip
Published: February 2025

Canine cancers are becoming increasingly significant due to their natural occurrence, similar to the spontaneous cancers in humans as well as their histological and biological similarities to human cancers. Several oral cancer types have been witnessed in dogs, based on the cell type from which the tumour originates. The type of oral tumour dictates severity of the disease, treatment options and prognoses. The current tissue‐based Raman Spectroscopy (RS) study explores stratification of canine cancers. Raman spectra of histopathologically confirmed normal and oral tumour types namely Epulis, Spindle cell sarcoma (SCS), and Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) were acquired using a Raman confocal microscope with 532 nm laser, pre‐processed and multivariate analyses performed. PC‐LDA achieved overall classification accuracy of > 70%. Thus, the present study evaluates potential of RS to identify the tumour type based on the identification of characteristic spectral features. Findings warrant large scale in vivo RS explorations in canine cancer subjects.
Estimation of the high-cycle fatigue behaviour of timber connections with inclined screws under tension
Authors: Niebuhr Peter Lothar , Sieder Mike
Published: February 2025

On the basis of 31 quasistatic and 27 constant-amplitude fatigue tests, the withdrawal behaviour of a self-tapping timber screw under cyclic loading is examined in two configurations with respect to the penetration length. Together with similar results from earlier withdrawal tests on threaded rods, indications of a dependence of the bearable load cycles on the penetration length are revealed. A larger penetration length was found to yield inferior performance under cyclic loads. Furthermore, combined with results from earlier axial tensile tests on the examined screw, insights into the transition point between steel tensile failure and withdrawal are gained. The results on the withdrawal failure mode are combined with results from earlier studies to develop a proposal for a holistic verification concept for the high-cycle fatigue design of connections with inclined self-tapping screws. After reviewing the relevant failure modes, the verification is reduced to the dominant failure modes, namely, withdrawal and steel tensile failure. Subsidiary effects such as bending in the fastener are inherently considered.
Vision-based power line cables and pylons detection for low flying aircraft
Authors: Gwizdała Jakub , Oner Doruk , Roy Soumava Kumar , Shah Mian Akbar , Eberhard Ad , Egorov Ivan , Krüsi Philipp , Yakushev Grigory , Fua Pascal
Published: February 2025

Power lines are dangerous for low-flying aircraft, especially in low-visibility conditions. Thus, a vision-based system able to analyze the aircraft’s surroundings and to provide the pilots with a “second pair of eyes” can contribute to enhancing their safety. To this end, we develop a deep learning approach to jointly detect power line cables and pylons from images captured at distances of several hundred meters by aircraft-mounted cameras. In doing so, we combine a modern convolutional architecture with transfer learning and a loss function adapted to curvilinear structure delineation. We use a single network for both detection tasks and demonstrate its performance on two benchmarking datasets. We have also integrated it within an onboard system and run it inflight. We show with our experiments that it outperforms the prior distant cable detection method by Stambler et al. (in: International Conference on Robotics and Automation, 2019) on both datasets, while also successfully detecting pylons, given their annotations are available for the data.
Treatment of Boerhaave syndrome: experience from a tertiary center
Authors: Kooij Cezanne D. , Boptsi Eleni , Weusten Bas L. A. M. , de Vries D. R. , Ruurda Jelle P. , van Hillegersberg Richard
Published: February 2025

Background

Boerhaave syndrome is a rare, life-threatening condition, characterized by spontaneous esophageal rupture. This study aims to share our 13-year experience in managing Boerhaave syndrome.

Methods

A retrospective, observational study was conducted of consecutive patients with Boerhaave syndrome who presented at our tertiary referral center, between 2011 and 2023. Patients were categorized by time to diagnosis, to assess the impact of diagnostic delay.

Results

Among 21 patients, 13 (62%) were diagnosed early (< 24 h) and 8 (38%) late (> 24 h). In the early-diagnosed group (n = 13), 6 patients (46%) received primary intervention with stent placement in combination with surgical drainage (5 with mediastinal and pleural drainage and 1 with only pleural drainage), while 5 patients (38%) were initially treated with only a stent. One patient (8%) underwent surgical pleural drainage alone and one (8%) underwent an esophagectomy. Among the 8 late-diagnosed patients, 4 (50%) were primarily treated with both stent placement and surgical drainage (2 with mediastinal drainage, 1 with pleural drainage and 1 with both), 3 (38%) with only stent placement, and one (13%) was managed conservatively. Additional interventions were required in 14 patients (67%). Additional surgical drainage was performed in 5 of 8 patients who had initially been treated with stent only (63%) and in 2 of 10 patients who had initially received both stent and surgical drainage (20%). Stent complications occurred in 7 patients (37%), including leakage (16%), migration (16%), and bleeding (5%). The median hospital stay was 32 days (IQR 15–37) and the overall 90-day mortality was 14%. Mortality was significantly higher in late-diagnosed patients (n = 3, 38%) compared to those early diagnosed (n = 0, 0%) (p = 0.042), with all 3 deceased patients either refusing or being unfit for treatment.

Conclusion

Based on this study, we recommend prioritizing closure of the defect combined with drainage, while considering individual patient factors, including advanced age.
Age distribution and risk factors for Barrett's esophagus by sex at health check-up settings in Japan
Authors: Fukuda Sho , Watanabe Kenta , Kubota Dai , Yamamichi Nobutake , Takahashi Yu , Watanabe Yoshitaka , Adachi Kyoichi , Ishimura Norihisa , Koike Tomoyuki , Sugawara Hideyuki , Asanuma Kiyotaka , Abe Yasuhiko , Kon Takashi , Ihara Eikichi , Haraguchi Kazuhiro , Otsuka Yoshihiro , Yoshimura Rie , Iwaya Yugo , Okamura Takuma , Manabe Noriaki , Horiuchi Akira , Matsumoto Mio , Onochi Kengo , Takahashi So , Yoshida Tatsuki , Shimodaira Yosuke , Iijima Katsunori
Published: February 2025

Background

Given the high prevalence of esophageal adenocarcinoma and Barrett's esophagus (BE), a precancerous lesion, among males, it is important to understand the characteristics of BE by sex to develop an effective endoscopic surveillance program in Japan. The present study examined the age distribution and risk factors for BE in the Japanese health check-up cohort by sex.

Methods

The data set at baseline of our preceding multicenter study, comprising a total of 33,478 individuals who underwent upper endoscopic screening at 17 health check-up institutes across Japan, was utilized. BE and long-segment BE (LSBE) were defined as a columnar-lined esophagus ≥ 1 cm and ≥ 3 cm, respectively. Logistic regression analyses were performed to ascertain the factors associated with BE.

Results

BE was relatively common (10–20%) across all 10-year age groups in men and women. Although the prevalence of LSBE was rare (0.2%), it began to increase at younger ages in men. In the multivariable analysis of the male cohort, while body mass index (BMI) was negatively associated with BE with an adjusted odds ratio (95% confidence interval) of 0.84 (0.74–0.95), waist circumference (WC) was positively associated with 1.26 (1.13–1.41). Furthermore, this association was more pronounced in LSBE. In contrast, no such association was observed between BMI or WC and BE in women.

Conclusion

The nationwide Japanese multicenter study yielded insights into the age distribution of BE in the Japanese population. Furthermore, our findings indicate that a low BMI/high WC represents a significant risk factor for BE in the Japanese male population.
Predicting Trajectories of Everyday Functioning in Adults Aging with HIV Using Latent Growth Mixture Modeling
Authors: Ham Lillian , Roesch Scott , Franklin Donald R. , Ellis Ronald J. , Grant Igor , Moore David J.
Published: February 2025

As the U.S. population of people with HIV (PWH) ages, PWH exhibit high rates of adverse health outcomes including everyday functioning decline. We aimed to (1) identify trajectories of self-reported everyday functioning and (2) examine baseline predictors (demographics, cognitive domains, psychiatric and medical comorbidities, HIV-disease characteristics) of trajectories among PWH. 742 PWH completed up to five semi-annual visits over two years. Latent growth mixture modeling identified a linear 3-class solution with good statistical fit and interpretability. Most PWH (88%) had good baseline functioning with stability. Two classes had elevated baseline functional declines with worsening (7%) or improvement (5%). Greater depressive symptoms and motor skills impairment predicted higher odds of impaired functioning. Having chronic pulmonary disease increased odds of improvement, which may reflect connection to care, while older age increased odds of worsening. Most aging PWH demonstrate stable everyday functioning; however, interventions for depression and motor skills may improve functioning.
Effect of Transcutaneous Tibial Nerve Stimulation in Multiparous Egyptian Women with Vaginal Laxity: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Hady Doaa A. Abdel
Published: February 2025

Vaginal laxity (VL) is a common symptom of pelvic floor disorder, an underreported condition, and has a substantial impact on women's sex lives and relationships. The study aimed to determine the effect of transcutaneous tibial nerve stimulation (TTNS) on women with VL. Fifty women with vaginal laxity were chosen from an outpatient clinic in Egypt. They were randomly split into two equal categories (A and B). Group A (n = 25) received pelvic floor exercises (PFE), while Group B (n = 25) received TTNS and PFE. Every week, both groups performed three sessions for three months. The outcomes were evaluated both before and following treatment using ultrasound imaging to assess pelvic floor muscle (PFM) function and the Female Sexual Function Index to measure sexual function. Vaginal Laxity Questionnaire (VLQ) were used to examine vaginal looseness. The analysis demonstrated a significant improvement in vaginal laxity in both groups. Post-treatment comparisons revealed a statistically significant difference in VLQ scores and PFM strength between Groups B and A. These findings indicate that TTNS is notably more effective in improving PFM activity and VLQ scores in women with vaginal laxity.
Family Firms and Ethics: Towards a Deeper Understanding of the Determinants of Ethical Decision-Making and Emerging Future Research Pathways
Authors: Kastanakis Minas N. , Magrizos Solon , Kampouri Katerina , Calabrò Andrea
Published: February 2025

The goal of this study is to reveal which contextual factors can shape ethical behaviour and decision-making in family firms (FFs), with the aim to uncover emerging themes that help set the stage for future work on FF ethics. To do so, we conducted an integrative literature review. By systematically collecting, reviewing 90 studies and synthesizing their key findings with prior theoretical foundations in the FF field, we demonstrate how personal and family values, preservation of socioemotional wealth, generation succession and structural factors (e.g. FF size, FF life cycle) can affect ethical decision-making in FFs. We also provide propositions and research pathways to orient future studies.
Exploring Consent to Use Real-World Data in Lung Cancer Radiotherapy: Decision of a Citizens’ Jury for an ‘Informed Opt-Out’ Approach
Authors: Kapadi Arbaz , Turner-Uaandja Hannah , Holley Rebecca , Wicks Kate , Hamrang Leila , Turner Brian , van Staa Tjeerd , Bowden Catherine , Keane Annie , Price Gareth , Faivre-Finn Corinne , French David , Sanders Caroline , Holm Søren , Devaney Sarah
Published: February 2025

An emerging approach to complement randomised controlled trial (RCT) data in the development of radiotherapy treatments is to use routinely collected ‘real-world’ data (RWD). RWD is the data collected as standard-of-care about all patients during their usual cancer care pathway. Given the nature of this data, important questions remain about the permissibility and acceptability of using RWD in routine practice. We involved and engaged with patients, carers and the public in a two-day citizens’ jury to understand their views and obtain decisions regarding two key issues: (1) preferred approaches to consent for the use of RWD within the context of patients receiving radiotherapy for lung cancer in RAPID-RT and (2) how RWD use should be best communicated to patients. Individual views were polled using questionnaires at various stages of the jury, whilst group discussion activities prompted further dialogue about the rationale behind choices of consent. Key decisions obtained from the jury include: (1) an opt-out approach to consent for the use of RWD; (2) the opt-out approach to consent should be informed. Furthermore, it was advised that information and communication regarding the consent process and use of RWD should be accessible, clear and available in a variety of formats. It is important that the consent process for patient data use is underpinned by principles of autonomy and transparency with clear channels of communication between those asking for and giving consent. Moreover, the process of seeking consent from patients should be proportionate to the risks presented from their participation.
Pulmonary Aspergillosis and Low HIES Score in a Family with STAT3 N-Terminal Domain Mutation
Authors: Lima de Souza Suiane , Asano Takaki , Glumoff Virpi , Keskitalo Salla , Pikkarainen Keela , Martelius Timi , Kaustio Meri , Saarela Janna , Kuismin Outi , Lappi-Blanco Elisa , Jartti Airi , Yannopoulos Fredrik , Tiitto Leena , Seppänen Mikko R. J. , Boisson Bertrand , Casanova Jean-Laurent , Varjosalo Markku , Hautala Timo , Chen Zhi
Published: February 2025

Signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) plays a key role in leukocytic and non-leukocytic cells. Germ line mutations in STAT3, which are mainly found in the SH2, DNA binding and transactivation domains, can be loss- or gain-of-function (LOF and GOF). STAT3 N-terminal domain (NTD) mutations are rare, and their biological effects remain incompletely understood. We explored the significance of STAT3 NTD p.Trp37* variant in a patient with chronic pulmonary aspergillosis and a low Hyper-IgE syndrome (HIES) score. In cell culture models, the expression of full-length p.Trp37* allele showed shorter STAT3 protein expression suggesting a re-initiation (Met99 or Met143). STAT3 activity using luciferase reporter assay showed a twofold-increased activity of the STAT3 p.Trp37* STAT3 protein compared with WT STAT3 at basal level and upon IL-6 stimulation. In contrast, the activity of the short pTrp37* peptide (amino acids 1 to 37) was amorphic but without dominant negative (DN) effect on transcriptional activity or STAT3 Tyr705 phosphorylation. The proteins initiated at Met99 and Met143 were surprisingly hypermorphic. In carriers’ peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs), both WT and mutated STAT3 mRNA were equally present and the global amount of STAT3 protein was not significantly reduced. In stimulated heterozygous carriers’ PBMCs, however, STAT3 Tyr705 phosphorylation and Th17 were reduced but not completely abolished. This suggests a DN effect of an unknown product of the p.Trp37* allele. Transcriptomics analysis of PBMCs from the index revealed selectively distinct gene expression. We conclude that heterozygosity for the NTD p.Trp37* STAT3 mutation defines a novel allelic form of STAT3 deficiency, associated with a chronic pulmonary aspergillosis and minor signs of HIES.
Further Evidence for the Latent Structure and Relationship Between Belief in a Just World and Subjective Well-Being: A Commentary on the Latent Factor Approach by Hafer et al. (2020)
Authors: Donat Matthias , Wolgast Anett
Published: February 2025

Just-world research frequently indicates a relatively strong and positive relation between belief in a just world (BJW) and subjective well-being (SWB). Researchers argue that BJW provides people with beneficial, adaptive functions allowing them to sustain mental health and well-being. Furthermore, BJW is often divided into two dimensions (personal and general BJW) which are usually positively related to each other but also differently to SBW. Hafer et al., Social Justice Research proposed a latent factor approach to investigate the extent to which a common latent factor ‘BJW’ relates stronger to well-being than personal or general BJW. Building upon the approach of Hafer et al., Social Justice Research we propose a second-order-factor approach including first-order factors measured at the latent level using structural equation modeling. We analyzed this approach with two culturally different samples consisting of N = 482 German participants and N = 569 Iranian participants. Our results indicated strong positive relations between the latent second-order factors BJW and SWB and conceptually replicated the results of Hafer et al., Social Justice Research by using an approach that accounts for the measurement errors in the first- and second-order factors. Our findings support the assumptions of Hafer et al., Social Justice Research and the measurement of first- and second-order factors at the latent level and provide possible implications for just-world research.
Parablechnum shuariorum (Blechnaceae), a new fern species from the Cordillera del Cóndor
Authors: Molino Sonia , Zapata José Nicolás , Heal Deli , Testo Weston L.
Published: February 2025

Parablechnum is the most diverse genus in the fern family Blechnaceae, with about 70 species, mainly from Central and South America, the Austropacific, and a few in Africa. Species delimitation in Parablechnum is challenging, and regional studies vary in species recognized. This genus is generally found in humid mid- to high-elevation forests, especially in the Andes. Ecuador is notable for its high species richness, particularly in the poorly explored Cordillera del Cóndor, a sub-Andean range with a distinctive geology contributing to high plant diversity and endemism. Since the early 2000s, botanical expeditions have revealed numerous endemic species, highlighting the region's significance. In 2006, an unusual Parablechnum species was collected in the Cordillera del Cóndor. Here, we describe it as a new species, Parablechnum shuariorum. It grows on sandstone cliffs along small rivers and can be distinguished by its fertile fronds, which are shorter than its sterile ones, and its densely scaly rachis. This species, endemic to the Cordillera del Cóndor, is found at elevations of 900–1,600 m. It is named after the Shuar people, whose lands include the collection sites. Preliminary conservation assessment suggests that P. shuariorum is endangered due to a limited area of occupancy and threats from human activities, such as mining.
Microstructural Analysis of the Dissimilar Weld AL6XN SASS and 2205 DSS Steels Plates
Authors: Rodríguez-Torres José Antonio , López-Morelos Víctor Hugo , Granados-Becerra Heriberto , Reyes-Gasga José
Published: February 2025

Microstructural and chemical analyses of a dissimilar welded joint between AL6XN super austenitic stainless steel and 2205 duplex stainless steel plates by scanning electron microscopy, energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, electron backscatter diffraction, and X-ray diffraction were carried out. Gas-metal arc welding process used ERNiCrMo-3 filler wire and 95Ar, 3%N2, 2%O2 as shielding gas. Voltage, current, and travel speed were set up to a heat input of 1.6 kJ/mm. The analyses were done in the dilution, fusion, and heat-affected zones. The dilution percentage at the AL6XN SASS and the 2205 DSS interfaces yielded 12.97 and 13.75%, respectively. Phase analysis provided insights into microstructural evolution, including twin dissolution, at the HAZ-2205 DSS interface. The formed precipitates were rich in Nb, Mo, Ti, Al and Si. The Vickers microhardness measurements revealed variations attributed to thermal gradients and cooling rates.
The need for clinical, genetic and radiological characterization of atypical polycystic kidney disease
Authors: Righini Matteo , Corsi Cristiana , Sciascia Nicola , Aiello Valeria , Ciurli Francesca , Lerario Sarah , Berti Gian Marco , Montanari Francesca , Conti Amalia , Cristalli Carlotta Pia , Menabò Soara , Caramanna Luca , Tondolo Francesco , Turchetti Daniela , La Manna Gaetano , Capelli Irene
Published: February 2025

Background

Autosomal Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease (ADPKD) is a monogenic disease having a prevalence of 1:400–1000 live births. Depending on kidney imaging, patients can be subdivided into Class 1 (typical) and Class 2 (atypical). The present study aims to provide better assessment of Class 2 patients to help define their family history, together with their clinical and radiological characteristics.

Methods

One hundred twenty-four PKD patients with abdominal Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) for the staging of ADPKD, were retrospectively analyzed, aiming to focus on Class 2 ADPKD patients. Total kidney volume and total cyst volume were evaluated, while also assessing their clinical and genetic characteristics.

Results

Twelve patients fulfilled the Mayo criteria for Class 2 ADPKD (two Class 2B and ten Class 2A). Extrarenal involvement was observed in 66.7% of cases, but only two subjects presented an estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate (eGFR) < 60 mL/min/1.73 m2. A positive family history for cystic disease was more frequent compared to other published cohorts. Only 8.3% tested positive for a likely pathogenic mutation in the PKD1 gene. Class 2B patients showed a lower height-adjusted total kidney volume, with a lower percentage of total cyst volume.

Conclusion

Based on our results, atypical ADPKD does not represent an uncommon condition, being present in about 10% of MRI-evaluated patients diagnosed with ADPKD. Genetic tests are frequently negative for PKD1/PKD2, and total cyst volume and residual tissue volume do not increase the prognostic value of MRI in patients with these radiological characteristics. Other tools are needed to better characterize their kidney prognosis.

Graphical abstract
Technology-enabled organization designs for tackling the grand challenges: the case of Giga
Authors: Tatarinov Katherine , Ambos Tina C.
Published: February 2025

This Point of View article discusses how technology enables new maverick organization designs for tackling the grand challenges. Organizations with maverick designs, those that deviate from the norm, are disrupting the status quo, but the longevity of these types of designs is often limited. This is particularly problematic when organizations aim to address grand challenges, as these require long-term vision and continuous collaboration.  The grand challenges context requires an evolving ecosystem of stakeholders to work together creating a meta-organization. In this article, we introduce the case of Giga, a maverick organization design formed out of two United Nations organizations, that aims to connect all schools in the world to the internet. Giga uses technology to enable a new way of working and collaborating across sectors to create revolutionary pathways for scaling school connectivity. We draw multiple learnings from this distinctive case, illustrating how novel organizing forms enabled by technology can effectively navigate the design dilemmas that often confound organizations: bridging the gap between bureaucracy and new venture; balancing control and orchestration; and harmonizing technology with human principles. The case demonstrates the effectiveness of technology-enabled organization designs and their potential to increase the longevity of maverick approaches by showcasing how a technology-based thematic can be used as an evolving guiding principle; how an open-source approach can aid orchestration and build a meta-organization; and how technology can serve as a humanizing principle to result in a lasting narrative.