bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Postural motion perception during vestibular stimulation depends on the motion perception threshold in persistent postural-perceptual dizziness
Authors: Helmchen Christoph , Blüm Smila-Karlotta , Storm Renana , Krause Janina , Sprenger Andreas
Published: May 2024

Patients with persistent postural-perceptual dizziness (PPPD) perceive postural instability larger than the observed sway. It is unknown whether the concept of postural misperception prevails during vestibular stimulation and whether it may account for the unsteadiness patients complain during body movements. We tested the hypothesis of an abnormal sensory-perceptual scaling mechanism in PPPD by recording objective, perceived, and the reproduced postural sway under various standing conditions, modulating visual and proprioceptive input, by binaural galvanic vestibular stimulation (GVS). We related postural sway speed to individual vestibular motion perceptional thresholds and disease-related PPPD questionnaires in 32 patients and 28 age-matched healthy control subjects (HC). All participants showed normal vestibular function tests on quantitative testing at the time of enrollment. The perception threshold of GVS was lower in patients. Compared to HC, patients showed and perceived larger sway on the firm platform. With GVS, posturo-perceptual ratios did not show group differences. The ratio of reproduced to real postural sway showed no group differences indicating normal postural sway perception during vestibular stimulation. Noticeably, only in patients, reproduced postural instability became larger with lower individual thresholds of vestibular motion detection. We conclude that posturo-perceptual (metacognitive) scaling of postural control seems to be largely preserved in PPPD during GVS. Vestibular stimulation does not destabilize patients more than HC, even in challenging postural conditions. Low individual thresholds of vestibular motion perception seem to facilitate instability and postural misperception on solid grounds. This conclusion is important for an effective physical therapy with vestibular exercises in PPPD.
Diagnostic accuracy of contrast-enhanced computed tomography in assessing bone invasion in patients with oral squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Struckmeier Ann-Kristin , Buchbender Mayte , Agaimy Abbas , Kesting Marco
Published: May 2024

Objectives

This study aimed to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CT) in detecting bone invasion in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) patients and to explore clinicopathological factors associated with its reliability.

Materials and methods

417 patients underwent preoperative contrast-enhanced CT followed by radical surgery. The presence or absence of bone invasion served as the outcome variable, with histopathologic examination of the resection specimen considered the gold standard. Statistical analyses, comprising correlation analyses and the determination of sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), and negative predictive value (NPV), were conducted.

Results

CT exhibited 76.85% sensitivity, 82.20% specificity, 47.14% PPV, and 89.67% NPV. False-positive and false-negative rates were 11.27% and 5.99%, respectively. Artifacts affected assessment in 44 patients, but not in those with bone invasion. Tumor size, depth of invasion (DOI), tumor localization at the upper jaw, lymphatic invasion, and perineural invasion correlated with incorrect identification of bone invasion (Chi-square, p < 0.05).

Conclusions

Despite utilizing thin-section CT, notable false-positive and false-negative results persisted. Patients with T3 tumors, DOI ≥ 10 mm, or upper jaw tumors are at higher risk for misidentification of bone invasion. Combining multiple methods may enhance diagnostic accuracy, and the integration of artificial intelligence or tracking electrolyte disturbances by tumor depth profiling shows promise for further assessment of bone invasion before histopathology.

Clinical relevance

Surgeons should consider these insights when planning tumor resection. Supplementary imaging may be warranted in cases with high risk factors for misidentification. Further methodological advancements are crucial for enhancing diagnostic precision.
Mind it! A mindfulness-based group psychotherapy for substance use disorders in adolescent inpatients
Authors: Legenbauer Tanja , Baldus Christiane , Jörke Carina , Kaffke Lara , Pepic Amra , Daubmann Anne , Zapf Antonia , Holtmann Martin , Arnaud Nicolas , Thomasius Rainer ,   the IMAC-Mind Consortium
Published: May 2024

Cannabis use disorder (CUD) is the most frequent reason for psychiatric inpatient substance use disorder (SUD) treatment among 15–19-year-olds in Germany. Despite effective treatment programs, relapse rates remain high. Thus, existing multi-component programs (TAU) need to be enhanced with SUD-specific elements. Mindfulness-based interventions (MBI) seem promising as they can positively influence SUD-related behaviors (e. g. craving). Given limited research in adolescents, this randomized controlled trial investigated the extent to which MBI-based group therapy (Mind it!) as an add-on treatment to TAU led to fewer cannabis use days after 6 months in 84 adolescent inpatients with CUD. Additionally, craving, severity of CUD, and changes in mindfulness were monitored (pre-, post-, and follow-up (FU) assessments). The results revealed a significant reduction in cannabis use days in both groups at 6-month FU (d = − 0.72 and = − 0.75). Although minor additional benefits of Mind it! were evident post-treatment, specifically reduction of craving and SUD severity, by the 6-month mark, TAU exhibited a more substantial decrease in SUD severity (d = 0.78), and reward craving (d = 0.28) compared to Mind it!. Regarding self-regulation skills (mindfulness), Mind it! demonstrated superiority over TAU after 6-month FU (d = 0.27). Therapists judged the MBI as feasible. (Serious) adverse events were unrelated to Mind it!. There was a systematic dropout among Mind it! participants. Primarily, the results emphasize the effectiveness of TAU in reducing cannabis use. MBI also seem feasible for youth, but results remain inconsistent and unstable over time. Importantly, enhanced adherence to reduce dropouts is needed.

Trial registration: German Clinical Trials Register, DRKS00014041. Registered on 17 April 2018.
In Defence of the Indefensible: Exploring Justification Narratives of Corporate Elites Accused of Corruption
Authors: Torbor Mabel , Sarpong David , Ofosu George , Boakye Derrick
Published: May 2024

Drawing on the pragmatic turn in contemporary social theory, we explore how corporate elites accused of corruption in the context of weak institutions engage in their justification works. Empirically, we focus on three high-profile corruption scandals that shook Ghana between 2010 and 2020 and inspired widespread public condemnation. Publicly accessible archival documents, such as court reporting, newspaper stories, press conferences, and the digital footprints of corporate elites implicated in the scandals provide data for our inquiry. Focussing on the juxtaposition of ‘sayings’ and ‘doings’, the findings show justification as performative, and rooted in contextual pragmatism that acknowledges the plurality of logics situated between self-interest and folk-logic. Within this framework, the domestic and civic orders of worth emerge as most prominent, with the justification processes manifesting through victimising, scapegoating, and crusading. Building on these insights, we develop a framework that highlights how the use of justifications serves as a critique of the inadequacies within climates of weak institutional frameworks consequently fostering an atmosphere conducive to framing unethical conducts as morally acceptable.
Dose-dependent effects of gamma radiation sterilization on the collagen matrix of human cortical bone allograft and its influence on fatigue crack propagation resistance
Authors: Crocker Dylan B. , Hering Thomas M. , Akkus Ozan , Oest Megan E. , Rimnac Clare M.
Published: May 2024

Fatigue crack propagation resistance and high-cycle S–N fatigue life of cortical bone allograft tissue are both negatively impacted in a radiation dose-dependent manner from 0 to 25 kGy. The standard radiation sterilization dose of 25–35 kGy has been shown to induce cleavage of collagen molecules into smaller peptides and accumulation of stable crosslinks within the collagen matrix, suggesting that these mechanisms may influence radiation-induced losses in cyclic fracture resistance. The objective of this study was to determine the radiation dose-dependency of collagen chain fragmentation and crosslink accumulation within the dose range of 0–25 kGy. Previously, cortical bone compact tension specimens from two donor femoral pairs were divided into four treatment groups (0 kGy, 10 kGy, 17.5 kGy, and 25 kGy) and underwent cyclic loading fatigue crack propagation testing. Following fatigue testing, collagen was isolated from one compact tension specimen in each treatment group from both donors. Radiation-induced collagen chain fragmentation was assessed using SDS-PAGE (n = 5), and accumulation of pentosidine, pyridinoline, and non-specific advanced glycation end products were assessed using a fluorometric assay (n = 4). Collagen chain fragmentation increased progressively in a dose-dependent manner (p < 0.001). Crosslink accumulation at all radiation dose levels increased relative to the 0 kGy control but did not demonstrate dose-dependency (p < 0.001). Taken together with our previous findings on fatigue crack propagation behavior, these data suggest that while collagen crosslink accumulation may contribute to reduced notched fatigue behavior with irradiation, dose-dependent losses in fatigue crack propagation resistance are mainly influenced by radiation-induced chain fragmentation.
Salinity stress mitigation by radicular and foliar humic substances application in lettuce plants
Authors: Atero-Calvo Santiago , Magro Francesco , Masetti Giacomo , Navarro-León Eloy , Blasco Begoña , Ruiz Juan Manuel
Published: May 2024

Salinity stress constitutes one of the main abiotic stresses that considerably reduces crop yield. An approach to enhance plant growth under salt stress involves the addition of humic substances (HS) to roots or leaves. Here, we evaluated the potential use of BLACKJAK®, an HS-based product, to enhance salt tolerance in lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.). For this aim, plants were exposed to salinity (100 mM NaCl), salinity + HS: radicular (R)-HS (0.40 mL/L and 0.60 mL/L) and foliar (F)-HS (7.50 mL/L and 10.00 mL/L), along with a control (without NaCl). Parameters related to plant growth, Na+ and K+ accumulation, photosynthetic activity, oxidative stress, enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidants, as well as proline levels were evaluated. Results showed that R and F-HS considerably enhanced salinity tolerance. In addition, F-HS offered a greater improvement of plant growth in relation to shoot fresh weight, shoot relative growth rate, and foliar area, being 10.00 mL/L the best dose. This tolerance could be associated with reduced Na+ translocation to the shoot and enhanced shoot K+ accumulation, decreasing Na+/K+ ratio. Furthermore, HS improved the net photosynthetic rate, Rubisco carboxylation efficiency, and photosystem II performance, and reduced ROS levels and lipid peroxidation. Hence, our data show the potential use of BLACKJAK® to improve lettuce tolerance to salinity, with foliar application slightly better than radicular to achieve this aim, especially at 10.00 mL/L dose.
Qualitative Insights into Organizational Value Creation: Decoding Characteristics of Metaverse Platforms
Authors: Tingelhoff Fabian , Schultheiss Raphael , Schöbel Sofia Marlena , Leimeister Jan Marco
Published: May 2024

The significance of metaverse platforms is growing in both research and practical applications. To utilize the chances and opportunities metaverse platforms offer, research and practice must understand how these platforms create value, which has not been adequately explored. Our research explores the characteristics of metaverse platforms that facilitate value creation for organizations in both B2B and B2C sectors. Employing a qualitative inductive approach, we conducted 15 interviews with decision-makers from international corporations active in the metaverse. We identified 26 metaverse platform characteristics, which we categorized into six dimensions based on the DeLone and McLean Information Systems success model. Subsequently, we provide examples to illustrate the application of these identified characteristics within metaverse platforms. This study contributes to the academic discourse by uncovering the characteristics that shape the competitive landscape of emerging metaverse platforms. Leveraging these characteristics may offer metaverse providers a competitive edge in attracting complementary organizations to their platforms.
Virtual Reality for Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation Healthcare Professionals Training: A Systematic Review
Authors: Trevi Roberto , Chiappinotto Stefania , Palese Alvisa , Galazzi Alessandro
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Virtual reality (VR) is becoming increasingly popular to train health-care professionals (HCPs) to acquire and/or maintain cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) basic or advanced skills.

Aim

To understand whether VR in CPR training or retraining courses can have benefits for patients (neonatal, pediatric, and adult), HCPs and health-care organizations as compared to traditional CPR training.

Methods

A systematic review (PROSPERO: CRD42023431768) following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. In June 2023, the PubMed, Cochrane Library, Scopus and Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL) databases were searched and included studies evaluated in their methodological quality with Joanna Briggs Institute checklists. Data were narratively summarized.

Results

Fifteen studies published between 2013 and 2023 with overall fair quality were included. No studies investigated patients’ outcomes. At the HCP level, the virtual learning environment was perceived to be engaging, realistic and facilitated the memorization of the procedures; however, limited decision-making, team building, psychological pressure and frenetic environment were underlined as disadvantages. Moreover, a general improvement in performance was reported in the use of the defibrillator and carrying out the chest compressions. At the organizational level, one study performed a cost/benefit evaluation in favor of VR as compared to traditional CPR training.

Conclusions

The use of VR for CPR training and retraining is in an early stage of development. Some benefits at the HCP level are promising. However, more research is needed with standardized approaches to ensure a progressive accumulation of the evidence and inform decisions regarding the best training methodology in this field.
Actinide isotope analysis and trace element composition of bones of prehistoric animals and humans by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS)
Authors: Nesmiyan I. , Ragazzon-Smith A. , Saidullaev B. D. , Vasidov A. , Strashnov I.
Published: May 2024

Inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) has been used for analysis of the bones of archanthropus, ancient bear, southern mammoths, dinosaurs, as well as soils collected in various parts of Uzbekistan. The concentrations of 64 elements have been detected including thorium and uranium for which isotope compositions were also analysed. The comparison of the ICP-MS data with the results we obtained earlier for some bones using instrumental neutron activation analysis (INAA) is presented. The concentrations of 234, 235, 238U are up to two orders of magnitude elevated compared to the soils (e.g.238U in south mammoth bone—130.1 mg/kg, and that of soil is only 1.6 mg/kg). The levels of 236U, and 239, 240, 242, 244Pu isotopes (possible neutron capture products of 235U and 238U) correspond to a count rate of blank samples. In addition, the isotope analysis confirms the uranium in the bones and surrounding soils is natural (the average determined for all samples uranium ratios 235U/238U = 0.0071 ± 0.0003 (2-sigma errors). The concentration of 230Th (which is the part of 234U and 238U decay chain) is also elevated in the bones compared to the surrounding soils, however, the concentrations of stable 232Th largely correspond to those of the soil. The excess uranium detected in bones is most probably due to the preferential accumulation from soil, and not to the paleo diet.
Properties of biopolymer blends based on Rugulopteryx okamurae and hydrophobic polycaprolactone (PCL) and hydrophilic acylated soy protein isolated (SPIa)
Authors: Santana Ismael , Felix Manuel , Bengoechea Carlos
Published: May 2024

The present study explored the utilization of Rugulopteryx okamurae (RO), an invasive brown seaweed, as a renewable raw material for plastic materials based on biopolymer blends. The goal of this study was to improve the previously observed poor mechanical properties of materials based on single biopolymer RO. To enhance these properties, two polymers with distinct hydrophobicities were incorporated into the formulation of different blends: hydrophobic polycaprolactone (PCL) and hydrophilic acylated soy protein isolate (SPIa). SPIa was derived from soy protein through a chemical modification process, introducing hydrophilic carboxyl groups. The addition of PCL significantly strengthened the blend, increasing the storage modulus (E′1 Hz) from ~ 110 to ~ 250 MPa. Conversely, SPIa incorporation resulted in softening, with E′ values around 40 MPa. Both additives enhanced deformability proportionally to their concentrations, with SPIa exhibiting notably higher deformability, reaching a maximum deformation of ~ 23% for a RO/SPIa ratio of 25/75. In summary, the study demonstrates the feasibility of producing environmentally friendly blend materials based on RO, tailored for specific applications by incorporating suitable additives into the formulation. Therefore, PCL is recommended for applications susceptible to moisture effects, such as packaging, while SPIa is suggested for highly absorbent applications such as personal care or horticulture.
Effects of percutaneous cryoablation for renal tumor on overall and split renal function
Authors: Yamagami Takuji , Yoshimatsu Rika , Nitta Noriko , Miyatake Kana , Iwasa Hitomi , Shibata Junki , Osaki Marina , Maeda Hitomi , Noda Yoshihiro , Yamanishi Tomoaki , Matsumoto Tomohiro , Yamamoto Shinkuro , Karashima Takashi , Inoue Keiji
Published: May 2024

Purpose

To evaluate retrospectively the influence of percutaneous cryoablation for small renal tumors on total and affected kidney function and risk factors associated with worsening function of the affected kidney.

Materials and methods

Between April 2016 and March 2022, 27 patients who underwent cryoablation for small renal tumors at our institution participated in this study, which investigated time-dependent changes in postoperative renal function. We evaluated estimated glomerular filtration rates (eGFRs) and split renal function revealed by scintigraphy using 99 m technetium-mercaptoacetyltriglycine (99mTc-MAG3) before cryoablation and at 1 week, 1 month, and 6 months after cryoablation. Numerous variables were analyzed to assess risk factors for worsening renal function.

Results

Baseline eGFR (mean ± standard deviation) was 56.5 ± 23.7 mL/min/1.73 m2 (mean ± SD; range, 20.5–112.5). Mean eGFRs at 1 week, 1 month, and 6 months after cryoablation were 57.4 ± 24.5 (19.1–114.9), 57.1 ± 25.1 (21.5–114.9), and 53.8 ± 23.9 mL/min/1.73 m2 (20.0–107.5), respectively. Changes were statistically insignificant (p = 1.0000, = 0.6749, and = 0.0761, respectively). Regarding split renal function, mean baseline contribution of the affected kidney determined by 99mTc-MAG3 was 49.7% ± 6.0% (38.8–63.3%); these rates at 1 week, 1 month, and 6 months after cryoablation were 43.7% ± 8.8 (29.1–70.6%), 46.2% ± 7.7% (32.6–70.3%), and 46.0% ± 8.5% (32.5–67.6%), respectively. Differences from baseline were significant for all periods (p < 0001, < 0001, = 0.0001, respectively). Serum C reactive protein and lactate dehydrogenase at 1 day following cryoablation, tumor’s nearness to the collecting system or sinus, and volume of ablated normal renal parenchyma were significantly correlated with decreased contributions of the affected kidney by > 10% after cryoablation.

Conclusion

Unlike total renal function, affected kidney function could worsen after cryoablation.
In vitro bioactivity of biodegradable films based on chitosan/quince seed mucilage reinforced with ZnO-nanoparticle
Authors: Emir Coban Ozlem , Akat Zelal , Karatepe Pınar , Incili Gökhan Kürşad
Published: May 2024

In this study, biodegradable active films were designed by adding ZnO-NPs to the quince seed mucilage/chitosan matrix. The films were investigated for characterization and in vitro bioactivity. According to the results, a significant decrease in moisture content, water holding capacity and light (L*) occurred with the addition of ZnO-NP. (p < 0.05). FT-IR spectra showed the interaction between ZnO-NPs and N-H quince seed mucilage and chitosan groups. Nanocomposite films containing ZnO-NP showed improved thermal stability. The developed bionanocomposite films were easily buried in soil and subjected to degradation. The minimum degradation of the film in soil after 20 days was 62.02%. The maximum cell viability (%) of C/ZnO-NP and C/QSM/ZnO-NP films were determined as 86.81% and 91.22%, respectively, and the films were found to be non-toxic. Moreover, while the quince seed mucilage film did not show antibacterial performance, chitosan and ZnO NPs showed antibacterial effects against the tested bacteria Listeria monocytogenes (ATCC 7644) and Escherichia coli O157:H7 (ATCC 35,150). In this context, the design bionanocomposite films can be used as an active food packaging material for food preservation by controlling food-borne pathogens. In addition, the developed films do not pose a threat to the environment and therefore have great potential for the sustainable food packaging industry.
Phytochemical contents and bioactivity of four endemic Salvia seeds from Turkey: a comparative study to chia seed
Authors: Karadeniz-Pekgöz Asuman , Turgut Aslıhan Cesur , Çinbilgel İlker , Yavuz Orhan
Published: May 2024

Recently, the importance of medicinal plants such as Salvia species has been increasing both in medicine and in industrial branches, which includes food, feed, and cosmetic raw materials. On the other hand, chia seed is a functional food that has recently increased industrial importance due to its superior nutritional value, phytochemical components, and therapeutic effects. In our study, the antioxidant activity of methanol extracts from the seeds of endemic Salvia cadmica Boiss var. cadmica, and Salvia caespitosa Montbret & Aucher ex Benth., Salvia pisidica Boiss. & Heldr. ex Benth., and Salvia potentillifolia Boiss. & Heldr. ex Benth. collected from Burdur-Antalya/Turkey were determined via 1,1-diphenyl,2-picryl hydrazyl radical scavenging activity, cupric (II) reducing antioxidant capacity, b-carotene/linoleic acid bleaching and total phenolic, and total flavonoid content tests and compared with that of chia seed. Antimicrobial activity was determined according to minimum inhibitory concentration values, on S. aureus, E. coli, S. enterica, L. monocytogenes, C. albicans strains, but it was found negligible. Phenolic and fatty acid contents of the seed extracts were also determined by HPLC and GC–MS, respectively. S. pisidica and S. potentillifolia were found to be highly active. The major fatty acid composition of the chia seed was linolenic acid, linoleic acid, oleic acid, palmitic acid, and stearic acid while the others were linoleic, oleic, palmitic, and stearic acids. Despite fatty acid ratios of chia seed being more favorable; 1,1-diphenyl,2-picryl hydrazyl radical scavenging activity, cupric (II) reducing antioxidant capacity, total phenolic content, and antimicrobial activity of S. pisidica seed extracts and total flavonoid content and inhibition of β-carotene bleaching of S. potentillifolia seed extracts was higher than that of chia seed. These findings suggest seed extracts of these Salvia species are richer in phytochemicals and they are more active as antioxidants when compared to chia seed.
An Anticipatory Approach to Ethico-Legal Implications of Future Neurotechnology
Authors: Rainey Stephen
Published: May 2024

This paper provides a justificatory rationale for recommending the inclusion of imagined future use cases in neurotechnology development processes, specifically for legal and policy ends. Including detailed imaginative engagement with future applications of neurotechnology can serve to connect ethical, legal, and policy issues potentially arising from the translation of brain stimulation research to the public consumer domain. Futurist scholars have for some time recommended approaches that merge creative arts with scientific development in order to theorise possible futures toward which current trends in technology development might be steered. Taking a creative, imaginative approach like this in the neurotechnology context can help move development processes beyond considerations of device functioning, safety, and compliance with existing regulation, and into an active engagement with potential future dynamics brought about by the emergence of the neurotechnology itself. Imagined scenarios can engage with potential consumer uses of devices that might come to challenge legal or policy contexts. An anticipatory, creative approach can imagine what such uses might consist in, and what they might imply. Justifying this approach also prompts a co-responsibility perspective for policymaking in technology contexts. Overall, this furnishes a mode of neurotechnology’s emergence that can avoid crises of confidence in terms of ethico-legal issues, and promote policy responses balanced between knowledge, values, protected innovation potential, and regulatory safeguards.
Between Technological Utopia and Dystopia: Online Expression of Compulsory Use of Surveillance Technology
Authors: Ng Yu-Leung , Lin Zhihuai
Published: May 2024

This study investigated people’s ethical concerns of surveillance technology. By adopting the spectrum of technological utopian and dystopian narratives, how people perceive a society constructed through the compulsory use of surveillance technology was explored. This study empirically examined the anonymous online expression of attitudes toward the society-wide, compulsory adoption of a contact tracing app that affected almost every aspect of all people’s everyday lives at a societal level. By applying the structural topic modeling approach to analyze comments on four Hong Kong anonymous discussion forums, topics concerning the technological utopian, dystopian, and pragmatic views on the surveillance app were discovered. The findings showed that people with a technological utopian view on this app believed that the implementation of compulsory app use can facilitate social good and maintain social order. In contrast, individuals who had a technological dystopian view expressed privacy concerns and distrust of this surveillance technology. Techno-pragmatists took a balanced approach and evaluated its implementation practically.
Insight into the Relationship Between Motor and Cognitive Symptoms in Essential Tremor
Authors: Paparella Giulia , Angelini Luca , Margiotta Roberta , Passaretti Massimiliano , Birreci Daniele , Costa Davide , Cannavacciuolo Antonio , De Riggi Martina , Alunni Fegatelli Danilo , Bologna Matteo
Published: May 2024

Essential tremor (ET) is a heterogeneous disorder characterized by bilateral upper limbs action tremor and, possibly, neurological signs of uncertain significance, including voluntary movement abnormalities and cognitive disturbances, i.e., the so-called ‘soft’ signs configuring the ET-plus definition. While motor and cognitive disturbances often coexist in ET, their interrelationship remains largely unexplored. Here we aim to further investigate the relationship between motor symptoms, objectively assessed through kinematic analysis, and cognitive dysfunctions in ET. Seventy ET patients underwent clinical examination, as well as kinematic recordings of tremor and finger tapping and a thorough cognitive assessment. We then tested clinic-demographic and kinematic differences between patients with and without cognitive abnormalities, i.e., with mild cognitive impairment (MCI). Correlation analysis served to explore potential associations between kinematic and cognitive data. Forty-three ET patients (61.42%) had MCI. ET-MCI patients exhibited reduced movement velocity during finger tapping compared to those with normal cognition (p < 0.001). Lower movement velocity during finger tapping was associated with poorer cognitive performance. Namely, we observed a correlation between movement velocity and performance on the Babcock Story Immediate and Delayed Recall Test (r = 0.52 and r = 0.45, both p < 0.001), as well as the interference memory task at 10 and 30 s (r = 0.3, p = 0.008 and r = 0.2, p = 0.03). In this study, we have provided data for a better pathophysiological interpretation of motor and cognitive signs in ET, including the role played by the cerebellum or extra-cerebellar areas, which possibly underpin both signs.
Targeting neutrophil elastase is a promising direction for future cancer treatment
Authors: Jia Wangqiang , Mao Yudong , Luo Qianwen , Wu Jiang , Guan Quanlin
Published: May 2024

Neutrophil elastase (NE) is a proteolytic enzyme released extracellular during the formation of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) through degranulation. In addition to participating in the body's inflammatory response, NE also plays an important role in cancer. It can promote tumor proliferation, migration, and invasion, induce epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), and change the tumor microenvironment (TME) to promote tumor progression. Concurrently, NE promotes systemic treatment resistance by inducing EMT. However, it can also selectively kill cancer cells and attenuate tumor development. Sivelestat is a specific NE inhibitor that can be used in the perioperative period of esophageal cancer patients to reduce the incidence of postoperative complications after esophagectomy. In addition, the combination of sivelestat and trastuzumab can enhance the efficacy of human epidermal growth factor receptor 2(HER 2) positive breast cancer patients. Meanwhile, targeting the human antibody domains and fragments of NE is also a new way to treat cancer and inflammation-related diseases. This review provides valuable insights into the role of NE in cancer treatment. Additionally, we discuss the challenges associated with the clinical application of sivelestat. By shedding light on the promising potential of NE, this review contributes to the advancement of cancer treatment strategies.
Toward Reducing Casting Defects via 3D Risers via 3D Sand-Printing: A Simulation Study
Authors: Shuvo Md Moinuddin , King Philip , Voigt Robert , Manogharan Guha
Published: May 2024

The 3D sand printing (3DSP) process is a binder jetting class of additive manufacturing process that can incorporate complex 3D mold designs and consolidate cores with intricate features that were previously inaccessible. Prior studies in 3DSP mold design have been shown to improve pouring and filling conditions for sand casting. However, the opportunity to improve casting quality by exploring 3D riser designs during the solidification stage has not yet been explored. In this research, three novel 3D riser geometries—ellipsoid, spherical, and a fusion riser (combination of cylindrical and ellipsoid riser) were investigated. The results were compared to the benchmark cylindrical risers to assess casting performance (e.g., reduction in shrinkage porosity, increase in solidification time). Computational solidification simulations have been presented to evaluate the characteristics of the novel risers for three different metal alloys- nickel aluminum bronze (NAB), low-carbon steel A216 (WCB), and aluminum alloy (A319) alloy. From the results of this research, spherical risers were found to provide 45% yield improvement of for the three alloys studied. In addition, the riser neck diameter using a spherical riser experienced up to 77% reduction when compared to the recommended dimensions from previous literature. Finally, one of the spherical riser designs provided 18% improvement in terms of riser-pipe safety height over the benchmark design. Findings from this research will help metalcasting industries to optimize their riser designs for complex casting geometries by implementing 3D riser geometries (via 3DSP) into traditional mold making for yield improvement and defect-free castings.
Crossing the distance: University student newcomer socialization in online semesters—a case study
Authors: Berger Sonja , Stadler Matthias , Sailer Michael , Eberle Julia , Cooper-Thomas Helena D. , Stegmann Karsten
Published: May 2024

During the COVID-19 pandemic, emergency online learning impeded the pursuit of in-person activities that usually foster successful socialization in higher education. To investigate the effects of online learning on socialization, we asked two exploratory research questions: (1) How and to what extent does the level of socialization change during the first online semester? and (2) To what extent does level of change predict course dropout and academic performance? In our case study, using a sample of new students at a large German university, we ran an autoregressive three-factorial model of socialization (role, relationships, organization) with three measurements taken during the new students’ first semester, which was the second semester in which emergency online learning took place. Our results show that the relationships component of socialization did not increase over the semester, while the role and organization components increased. Furthermore, our results support a negative effect of the organization component of socialization on course dropout and a positive effect of the relationship component of socialization on academic performance.
How Reasons-Focused Is the Categorical Imperative?
Authors: Schumski Irina
Published: May 2024

According to Pauline Kleingeld’s account of Kant’s prohibition on using others merely as means, A uses B merely as a means if and only if (1) A uses B as a means in the service of realizing her ends, (2) without, as a matter of moral principle, making this use conditional on B’s consent, where (3) by “consent” is meant B’s genuine actual consent to being used, in a particular manner, as a means to A’s end. I suggest that there are two readings of what I refer to as her account’s “double reasons-focus”: whether A uses B merely as a means is either partly or fully determined by A’s reasons (moderate or radical reasons-focus in the criterion sense) and A’s reasons are either part of what the prohibition assesses or the only thing it assesses (moderate or radical reasons-focus in the object-of-assessment sense). I then argue that while it is unusual to interpret Kant’s prohibition as radically reasons-focused in both these senses, doing so is far from unmotivated and might constitute a fruitful move in the debate on the Categorical Imperative. I conclude by showing that this move would allow Kleingeld to dismiss what might otherwise seem like a problem for her account, namely that it cannot accommodate the possibility of non-instrumentalizing violations of perfect duty.
C-terminal frameshift mutations generate viable knockout mutants with developmental defects for three essential protein kinases
Authors: Zhang Yun , Cui Miao-Miao , Ke Run-Nan , Chen Yue-Dan , Xie Kabin
Published: May 2024

Loss-of-function mutants are fundamental resources for gene function studies. However, it is difficult to generate viable and heritable knockout mutants for essential genes. Here, we show that targeted editing of the C-terminal sequence of the embryo lethal gene MITOGEN-ACTIVATED PROTEIN KINASES 1 (OsMPK1) results in weak mutants. This C-terminal-edited osmpk1 mutants displayed severe developmental defects and altered disease resistance but generated tens of viable seeds that inherited the mutations. Using the same C-terminal editing approach, we also obtained viable mutants for a wall-associated protein kinase (Os07g0493200) and a leucine-rich repeat receptor-like protein kinase (Os01g0239700), while the null mutations of these genes were lethal. These data suggest that protein kinase activity could be reduced by introducing frameshift mutations adjacent to the C-terminus, which could generate valuable resources for gene function studies and tune protein kinase activity for signaling pathway engineering.
The prospects of using AI in euthanasia and physician-assisted suicide: a legal exploration
Authors: van Kolfschooten Hannah
Published: May 2024

The Netherlands was the first country to legalize euthanasia and physician-assisted suicide. This paper offers a first legal perspective on the prospects of using AI in the Dutch practice of euthanasia and physician-assisted suicide. It responds to the Regional Euthanasia Review Committees’ interest in exploring technological solutions to improve current procedures. The specific characteristics of AI – the capability to process enormous amounts of data in a short amount of time and generate new insights in individual cases – may for example alleviate the increased workload of review committees due to the continuous increase of euthanasia cases. The paper considers three broad categories for the use of AI in the Dutch euthanasia practice: (1) the physician’s assessment of euthanasia requests, (2) the actual execution of euthanasia, and (3) the retrospective reviews of cases by the Regional Euthanasia Review Committees. Exploring the legal considerations around each avenue, both in the EU AI Act and the Dutch legal framework, this paper aims to facilitate the societal discussion on the role of technology in such deeply human decisions. This debate is equally relevant to other countries that legalized euthanasia (e.g. Belgium and Canada) or physician-assisted suicide (e.g. Switzerland and numerous states in the US).
Reducing organizational inequalities associated with algorithmic controls
Authors: Li Yueqi , Xiang Biyun
Published: May 2024

Algorithmic technologies are widely applied in organizational decision-making today, which can improve resource allocation and decision-making coordination to facilitate the accuracy and efficiency of the decision-making process within and across organizations. However, algorithmic controls also introduce and amplify organizational inequalities—workers who are female, people of color and the marginalized population, and workers with low skills, a low level of education, or who have low technology literacy can be disadvantaged and discriminated against due to the lack of transparency, explainability, objectivity, and accountability in these algorithms. Through a systematic literature review, this study comprehensively compares three different types of controls in organizations: technical controls, bureaucratic controls, and algorithmic controls, which led to our understanding of the advantages and disadvantages associated with algorithmic controls. The literature on the organizational inequality related to the employment of algorithmic controls is then discussed and summarized. Finally, we explore the potential of trustworthy algorithmic controls and participatory development of algorithms to mitigate organizational inequalities associated with algorithmic controls. Our findings raise the awareness related to the potential corporate inequalities associated with algorithmic controls in organizations and endorse the development of future generations of hiring and employment algorithms through trustworthy and participatory approaches.
The Channel Islands in Anglo-French Relations, 1689-1918
Authors: Partridge Colin , Préneuf Jean de , Lambert Andrew
Published: May 2024

Examines how the Channel Islands have been crucial to Britain's successful maritime superiority in the English Channel.
Varieties of Values: Moral Values Are Uniquely Divisive
Authors: JUNG JAE-HEE , CLIFFORD SCOTT
Published: May 2024

Political scientists have long viewed values as a source of constraint in political belief systems. More recently, scholars have argued that values—particularly moral values—contribute to polarization. Yet, there is little direct and systematic research on which values are perceived as moral values. We examine 21 values, including Schwartz’s values, political values, and moral foundations. Drawing on a broad literature on cooperation, we first develop theoretical expectations for the extent of value moralization both between and within value systems. We next argue that this moralization matters because it intensifies the effects of value disagreement on social polarization. Using a probability-based survey of the US and an embedded conjoint experiment, we find substantial variation in moralization across values, and that highly moralized values are more polarizing. Our research brings together competing literatures on values and shows how moral values differentially shape polarization.
The Clinical Gaze of Lurianic Kabbalah
Authors: Tamari Assaf
Published: May 2024

What changes in the conceptualization of God, the ultimate healer, once God himself becomes the object of healing? This article examines the delicate tensions between divine and human agency in the Lurianic kabbalah, focusing on its grammar of action, and the complex relations between the subjects and the objects of this action. Rather than analyzing the relations between the kabbalists and their God through their conscious perceptions, the article explores how these relations emerge from the Lurianic discursive configurations and describes the role of medical discourse in their shaping. I claim that in order to perceive the transformation in the image of God in this early modern kabbalistic corpus, we should place at the heart of our inquiry the questions of who the patient is in the Lurianic medical clinic and how the relations between the human and the divine protagonists of the Lurianic drama are woven in this clinic.
From modal collapse to moral collapse
Authors: Smith Drew
Published: May 2024

I aim in this article to contribute two points to the ongoing discussion regarding strong DDS and modal collapse. First, I will examine a recent version of the modal collapse objection formulated by R. T. Mullins, demonstrating that one can modify the argument to survive its most forceful rejoinder. Having established the cogency of Mullins's modal collapse argument, I next aim to heighten the severity of the conclusion. In particular, I demonstrate that the success of the modal collapse argument entails a moral collapse wherein well-established principles of ethical reasoning fail. Finally, I examine a recent attempt by Katherine Rogers to undercut some of the unwelcomed results of a modal collapse via an appeal to the theistic multiverse. I conclude that this manoeuvre proves ineffective against the moral collapse objection.
The effect of social support on the emotional well-being of people with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: Exploring the mediating role of spirituality
Authors: Fernandez Anne , Guenegou Léo , Corcia Philippe , Bailly Nathalie
Published: May 2024

Objectives

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that, so far, is considered always fatal. Treatments mainly consist in increasing survival and aim to improve the quality of life of people with ALS (pwALS). Social support and spirituality have been shown to play a key role in pwALS’ quality of life. Our study explored it in depth by investigating the underlying mechanisms linking social support, spirituality, and emotional well-being.

Methods

Thirty-six pwALS underwent a battery of tests evaluating emotional well-being (emotional well-being scale of the 40-item Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Assessment Questionnaire), social support (6-item Social Support Questionnaire), and spiritual well-being (12-item Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy – Spiritual well-being). Our recruitment was web-based through the FILSLAN and the ARSLA websites as well as through Facebook® advertisements (ALS groups). Data were analyzed by Pearson correlation analysis and Process macro was used in an SPSS program to analyze the mediator variable effect.

Results

Availability of social support, spiritual well-being, and 2 of its dimensions, i.e., meaning and peace, were positively correlated with emotional well-being. The mediational analyses showed that spiritual well-being, meaning, and peace act as mediators in the association between availability of social support and good emotional well-being.

Significance of results

Availability of social support and spirituality are essential for the emotional well-being of pwALS. Spirituality as a mediator between availability of social support and emotional well-being appears as real novel finding which could be explored further. Spiritual well-being, meaning, and peace appear as coping resources for pwALS. We provide practical guidance for professionals working with pwALS.
Validation of the Mexican version of the EORTC QLQ-CR29 in patients with colorectal cancer
Authors: Hernández-Marín Jazmín , Galindo-Vázquez Oscar , Calderillo-Ruíz German , Ortega-Andeane Patricia , Estapé Tania , Montero-Pardo Xolyanetzin , Ruíz-García Erika , Herrera-Martínez Marytere , Meneses-García Abelardo
Published: May 2024

Background

The evaluation of the quality of life (QoL) of patients with colorectal cancer (CRC) is an essential measure to measure the impact of the disease and treatments on the lives of patients. However, in Latin America there is no validated and reliable instrument to assess this construct.

Objectives

This study aims to validate the EORTC QLQ-CR29 instrument in the Mexican population with CRC.

Methods

This study aims to validate the EORTC QLQ-CR29 instrument in the Mexican population with CRC. The study used an instrumental design and a nonprobabilistic sample due to availability, made up of 251 patients with CRC, with an average age of 54.7 ± 12.28 years. Exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses were performed, as well as concurrent validity tests.

Results

The exploratory factorial analysis yielded 4 factors that explained 51.64% of the variance, with a Cronbach reliability coefficient of .766 and an Omega index of .725. The confirmatory factor analysis indicated that the proposed theoretical model fits the data almost perfectly, with an error close to 0, which shows that it is a balanced and parsimonious instrument to measure the QoL of the patients with CRC.

Significance of results

The EORTC QLQ-CR29 instrument proved to be a valid and reliable instrument for use in clinical care and research directed at patients with CRC in Mexico. Its use is recommended by multidisciplinary health teams in oncology in Mexico, since it allows knowing the patient’s perspective on the impact of CRC on their life, guiding therapeutic decision-making and being a primary outcome measure.