bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exosome-mediated Advancements in Plastic Surgery: Navigating Therapeutic Potential in Skin Rejuvenation and Wound Healing
Authors: Park Soo Yeon , Yi Kyu-Ho
Published: August 2024

Exosomes, tiny extracellular vesicles derived from various cells such as adipose-derived stem cells, bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells, and human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells, exhibit considerable potential in wound healing due to their ability to facilitate cell communication and modulate inflammatory responses. These exosomes contribute positively to collagen synthesis and scar reduction, and have shown efficacy in documented clinical cases of wound improvement. Although research indicates their potential in reducing hypertrophic scars and suppressing keloid fibroblasts, further clinical investigations are warranted. In plastic surgery, exosome application postsurgery can enhance wound healing, particularly in cases prone to swelling or poor healing conditions. This study incorporates five case reports of individuals undergoing exosome treatment (EXOP; Sihler Inc., and Exodew; Hyundaimeditech, Inc.) for wound healing, providing practical insights into the application of this therapeutic approach. The five case reports presented in this study demonstrate the practical applications and efficacy of exosome therapy in promoting wound healing and reducing scarring. Exosomes emerge as a promising avenue within the field of plastic surgery, showcasing their potential to enhance wound healing, reduce scarring, and improve overall outcomes in clinical settings. The findings from this study underscore the importance of further exploration into the therapeutic benefits of exosomes in wound management, paving the way for their widespread adoption in clinical practice.
Contemporary view on the care of the rheumatoid wrist
Authors: Demetri Leah R.F. , Chung Kevin C. , Blazar Philip E.
Published: August 2024

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a common inflammatory condition that can lead to debilitating hand and wrist deformity. Since the introduction of disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs in the 1990s, the rate of surgery for rheumatoid arthritis has dramatically decreased 1. Nonetheless, surgical intervention remains an important tool in the management of patients with RA, and young surgeons must seek out expertise in this domain due to diminished exposure during their training. In this article, we provide a comprehensive review of the evaluation and management of patients with wrist pathology due to RA as well as surgical technical pearls.
Primary Prostatic Stromal Sarcoma on 18F-PSMA PET/CT
Authors: Chen Meiyan , Dong Yanliang , Xu Baixuan , Liu Yachao
Published: August 2024

Primary prostatic stromal sarcoma is extremely rare. Serum PSA is usually normal. Here, we report a case of primary prostatic stromal sarcoma in a 23-year-old man. 18F–prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA) PET/CT showed prostate mass and multiple low-density lesions in the liver with high PSMA expression. However, after chemotherapy, the level of PSMA expression in the prostate mass decreased, and PSMA expression lesions in the liver disappeared.
68Ga-DOTA.SA.FAPi PET in Response Assessment After 177Lu-Microspheres Selective Intra-arterial Radionuclide Therapy for Unresectable Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Chopra Sejal , Mathur Yamini , Roesch Frank , Moon Euy Sung , Singh Harmandeep , Kalra Naveen , Duseja Ajay , Mittal Bhagwant Rai , Shukla Jaya
Published: August 2024

We report a case of a 48-year-old man with recurrent hepatocellular carcinoma, who underwent FDG PET for restaging and demonstrated mildly tracer-avid arterial enhancing lesion in segment III (SUVmax, 5.7). Owing to low FDG uptake, patient was planned for 68Ga-SA.FAPi PET, which demonstrated higher tracer avidity in the lesion (SUVmax, 24.4). Subsequently, patient underwent 177Lu-microsphere SIRT (2.2 GBq) in segment III. The 3- and 6-month posttherapy SA.FAPi PET demonstrated an interval decrease in tracer uptake and size of treated lesion. This case highlighted the promising role of SA.FAPi PET in patient selection for 177Lu-SIRT and subsequent response assessment.
Acanthamoeba castellanii alone is not a growth promoter for Hordeum vulgare
Authors: Sacharow Julia , Ratering Stefan , Schneider Bellinda , Österreicher Cunha-Dupont Alessandra , Schnell Sylvia
Published: August 2024

Protists are important key players in the microbial loop and influence their environment by grazing, which leads to the return of nutrients into the soil and reduces pathogen pressure on plants. Specifically, protists on and around plant roots are important for plants’ development and growth. For this study, the fourth most important crop in the world, Hordeum vulgare, was selected. Seeds of H. vulgare were inoculated with Acanthamoeba castellanii alone or with additional soil bacteria at the beginning and during the experiment. The germination of the seeds and the growth of the plants in pouches were monitored over 3 weeks. No differences were found in leaf growth, root growth, root and leaf nitrogen content or ammonia content of the liquid from the pouches. In contrast, the relative increase in root and leaf dry weight showed a small difference compared to the controls. The results of this experiment demonstrated that seed inoculation with A. castellanii alone or with additional unidentified soil bacteria did not have a major effect on the growth and development of barley. Nevertheless, small changes in plant development were detected, indicating that A. castellanii should be considered for further investigation of co-inoculations with plant growth-promoting bacteria and additional nutrients.
Exploration and characterization of a newly isolated bacterium, Enterobacter quasihormaechei strain BDIFST24001, capable of producing rhamnolipid biosurfactant for oil remediation
Authors: Jui Afsana Habib , Bhuiyan Mohammad Nazrul Islam , Bhowmik Banasree , Khatun Nazia , Chowdhury Abhijit , Bhuiyan Riyadh Hossen , Kabir Md. Alamgir , Rashid Md. Mamunur , Bhuiyan Md. Habibur Rahman , Afrin Sadia
Published: August 2024

Biosurfactants are naturally occurring compounds synthesized by micro-organisms that increasingly attract attention due to both their living area and application in various industries. In this study, we explore and characterize a novel bacterium, Enterobacter quasihormaechei strain BDIFST24001, isolated for its ability to produce rhamnolipid biosurfactants, with the aim of facilitating oil remediation processes. The isolation of this bacterium was carried out using Luria-Bertani (LB) broth media from environmental samples collected from oil-contaminated sites in Dhaka City. Screening tests, including the oil spreading method and drop collapse assay, were conducted to identify potential biosurfactant-producing strains, leading to the selection of E. quasihormaechei strain BDIFST24001 based on its favourable performance. Subsequent molecular identification revealed a high similarity of the strain’s 16S rRNA gene to E. quasihormaechei, which was corroborated through phylogenetic analysis. Further analysis of the biosurfactant produced by this strain indicated its rhamnolipid nature, as confirmed by FT-IR spectroscopy. The rhamnolipids exhibited promising surface-active properties, including a significant reduction in surface tension and emulsification activity, as evidenced by surface tension measurements and emulsification index assays. Optimization studies revealed that the optimal conditions for rhamnolipid production by E. quasihormaechei strain BDIFST24001 were a temperature of 37 °C, pH 10.0 and salinity of 4 %. The rhamnolipids produced by this strain demonstrated effective oil remediation capabilities, as observed through controlled experiments using petrol oil. The rhamnolipids effectively reduced the surface tension of the oil–water interface, facilitating the dispersion and emulsification of the oil phase in water. Overall, our findings highlight the potential of E. quasihormaechei strain BDIFST24001 as a promising candidate for biosurfactant-mediated oil spill cleanup and environmental remediation efforts.
Pleiotropic and sex-specific genetic architecture of circulating metabolic markers
Authors: van der Meer Dennis , Rahman Zillur , Ottas Aigar , Parekh Pravesh , Kutrolli Gleda , Stinson Sara , Koromina Maria , Rokicki Jaroslav , Sonderby Ida , Parker Nadine , Tesfaye Markos , Hindley Guy , Rodevand Linn , Koch Elise , Steen Nils , Berg Jens , O'Connell Kevin , Smeland Olav , Frei Oleksandr , Dale Anders , Djurovic Srdjan , Lehto Kelli , Alver Maris , Milani Lili , Shadrin Alexey , Andreassen Ole
Published: August 2024

Background: Metabolites in plasma form biosignatures of a range of common complex human diseases. Mapping the genetic architecture and discovering variants with pleiotropic effects across metabolites can reveal underlying mechanisms and potential targets for personalized interventions. Methods: We performed univariate and multivariate genome-wide association studies (GWAS) on the Nightingale panel of 249 circulating plasma metabolic markers, across 207,836 White British UK Biobank participants (mean age 57.4 years, 53.7% female), with replication conducted across 27,509 UK Biobank participants with different ancestries, and 92,661 Estonian Biobank participants (mean age 50.9 years, 65.7% female). We investigated rare variation through whole exome sequencing gene burden tests, quantified genetic architectures through Gaussian mixture modelling, analysed the causal role of body mass index (BMI) through Mendelian randomization, and performed genome-wide interaction analyses with sex. Results: We discovered 14,837 loci (497 unique), with shared and distinct effects on cardiometabolic traits, with high replication rates across populations. The loci explained over 70% of genetic variance for fatty acids. Findings from common and rare variant gene tests converged on lipid homeostasis pathways. There was strong evidence for causal effects of BMI on cholesterol and amino acid levels. We discovered 31 loci interacting with sex, which mapped to genes involved in cholesterol processing, and to cardiometabolic conditions with sex differences in prevalence. Discussion: The findings offer new insights into the genetic architecture of circulating metabolites, revealing novel loci and plausible sex-specific molecular mechanisms of lipid metabolism. This improved understanding of the molecular biology of metabolism lays a foundation for personalized prevention and treatment strategies.
Key competencies for identifying construction activities that produce recyclable materials: a competency gap analysis
Authors: Omer Mazen M. , Rahman Rahimi A. , Fauzi Muhammad Ashraf , Almutairi Saud
Published: August 2024

Purpose

This study aims to assess the competency gap among construction industry professionals concerning the competencies required for identifying construction activities that produce recyclable materials. Accordingly, the study objectives are threefold: to identify key competencies, analyze the disparity between the level of importance and level of competence for each competency, and quantify the criticality of the competency gaps.

Design/methodology/approach

A systematic literature review was conducted to identify and categorize 20 competencies into knowledge, skills, and abilities. The competencies formed the basis for a questionnaire survey distributed to construction industry professionals. 120 valid responses were collected and analyzed using mean and normalized values, Wilcoxon signed-ranks test, and competency gap analysis.

Findings

The findings highlight eight key competencies: ability to prepare sustainable designs, skills in trading construction waste materials, skills in lean construction techniques, skills in designing out waste in construction activities, knowledge of diagnosing construction waste generation, knowledge of construction-related waste design, knowledge of the practice of sustainable facilities management, and knowledge on the sustainable characteristics of construction activities. Despite their importance, critical competency gaps exist among these key competencies and must be addressed.

Originality/value

This study equips decision-makers with insights to manage natural resources efficiently, offers practitioners a list of key competencies for sustainable project management, and provides researchers with a solid foundation for further investigations to advance sustainability in construction.
Open access theses and dissertations: current status and perspectives
Authors: Khan Nadim Akhtar , Shafi S.M.
Published: August 2024

Purpose

There is an inclination towards openness in research greatly supported by the accessibility of open access theses and dissertations (OATDs) from many universities and research institutions through institutional repositories or collaborative efforts like the OATD.org. This study aims to explore different trends in the availability of theses through OATD.org to assess different dimensions concerning the OATD landscape.

Design/methodology/approach

An online survey was conducted to examine the availability of theses from 1994 to June 2023. The indexed theses were analyzed for their incorporation into OATD.org during different time frames. The data were further analyzed to reveal different facts concerning OATDs, with a focus on their growth and evolving trends.

Findings

OATDs are fast becoming available globally, with a significant overall growth rate. The data depicts growing trends in almost all the identified time frames, with the highest during 2004–2008. Moreover, there is a significant gap in the availability of OATDs from different geographical domains, with the highest-indexed OATDs from developed countries, indicating that the OATD landscape is still in its infancy in developing nations.

Research limitations/implications

This study is limited to the coverage encompassed by the OATD.org portal, which is the best and most significant resource for finding OATDs published worldwide.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is the first ordered and thorough attempt to explore the trends in the availability of OATDs through OATD.org.
Deciphering the nexus of climate change, agriculture, and migration: perspectives from African and Asian realms
Authors: Ritu Rajveer Kaur , Kaur Prabhjot , Kaur Amanpreet
Published: August 2024

Purpose

The present research attempts to delve into the climate-agriculture-migration nexus to ascertain whether the variation in agriculture output due to climatic factors has a significant influence on the emigration flows from the Asian and African continents.

Design/methodology/approach

The present study draws upon a rich panel of data from 27 countries (14 African and 13 Asian) between 1995 and 2020. The first stage least square, OLS and 2SLS techniques have been employed to examine the relationships between climatic factors and international migration, climatic factors and agriculture output, and agriculture output and international migration, respectively.

Findings

The results exhibit a positive relationship between temperature and international migration. The influence of temperature on agriculture output is negative but insignificant while precipitation promotes agriculture output. In addition, agriculture output negatively influences international migration, and these findings establish a climate-agriculture-migration relationship.

Practical implications

To counteract the climate-agriculture-migration nexus, it is incumbent upon governments to conduct extensive field trials and data collection exercises to assess the influence of climate in separate agro-ecological zones and devise policies accordingly.

Originality/value

The literature concerning the interrelationship between climatic factors, agriculture and migration is scarce and what is available pertains to different contexts. Moreover, no studies are based on Asia and Africa; the continents have a high dependence on agriculture and outmigration rates, and the present research covers this important gap in the literature.
Do self-help groups possess the dimensions of social capital? Empirical evidence from India
Authors: Mahato Jogeswar , Kumar Jha Manish
Published: August 2024

Purpose

The present study examines the relational, structural and cognitive dimensions of social capital developed within members of self-help groups (SHGs) in India.

Design/methodology/approach

The study has used multistage random sampling to collect 1,285 samples covering 4 districts such as Sundargarh, Mayurbhanj, Koraput and Rayagada in Odisha. Structure equation modeling (SEM) is used in hypothesis formulation and data analysis.

Findings

The result highlighted that relational, structural and cognitive social capital are significant to social capital formation among the participants of SHGs. However, structural social capital has the highest impact compared with others in building social capital.

Practical implications

Policy professionals, development agencies and government departments must use social capital as a catalyzing agent for the successful implementation of welfare schemes in rural areas.

Originality/value

The paper adds valuable contributions in advancing the theory of social capital. Additionally, marginalized households fail to uplift their socioeconomic conditions in developing nations due to a lack of social capital; hence, its measurement is critical.

Peer review

The peer-review history for this article is available at: https://publons.com/publon/10.1108/IJSE-10-2023-0804.
Does the efficiency model increase Sharia and non-Sharia firm performance? A multigroup analysis
Authors: Berakon Izra , Wibowo Amin , Indarti Nurul , Muhammad Nor Nabilla , Yusfiarto Rizaldi
Published: August 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to examine the effect of the efficiency model on firms performance. The authors also strive to test the compatibility of the efficiency models of Sharia and non-Sharia manufacturing firms.

Design/methodology/approach

The samples are manufacturing industry firms listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange from 2013 to 2021. This study used 68 firms, with details of 34 Sharia while the remaining 34 were non-Sharia. The data were analyzed using generalized least square (GLS) to test the entire formulated hypothesis. Moreover, current research provides robustness tests to gain more valid and reliable results.

Findings

The results demonstrated that cost efficiency (CE), human capital efficiency (HCE) and capital intensity (CI) affect the firm’s performance. The efficiency model is more appropriate to be applied to the manufacturing Sharia firms in Indonesia. The results are robust even though the feasible GLS and panel-corrected standards errors models are added and a split sample is applied based on certain firm characteristics.

Practical implications

This research can bridge the theory and practice that exist in companies. The authors proposed an efficiency model that can maximize firm performance profits. Moreover, it turns out that the efficiency model is more relevant to be applied to Sharia firms in Indonesia. Furthermore, the research findings have several implications notably for theoretical development, global enterprises and practitioners.

Originality/value

This study expands the literature and discussion about the efficiency model by formulating and investigating CE, HCE and CI on the firm performance which previous studies have rarely elaborated on and tested. In addition, the authors divided the sample into two groups (Sharia and non-Sharia firms) to ensure the compatibility of the implementation of the efficiency model on firm performance.
Mechanical properties of sustainable structural aerated-polystyrene concrete
Authors: Abdulhussein Samer S. , Johari Izwan , Fawzi Nada Mahdi
Published: August 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to produce lightweight concrete by combining aerated concrete with expanded polystyrene beads concrete to create structural aerated-polystyrene lightweight concrete that satisfies the criteria of sustainability for thermal and sound insulation properties and the structural criteria of having satisfactory compressive strength for structural elements.

Design/methodology/approach

The experimental study was carried out to reach the largest compressive strength while maintaining the lowest possible density by preparing nine mixes of concrete, involving different ratios of aluminum waste powder and polystyrene beads as 0%, 0.2% and 0.3% and 0%, 0.1% and 0.2%, respectively, by weight of cement to produce the lightweight concrete with different densities. The performance of mechanical properties, thermal conductivity, ultrasonic pulse velocity, density, modulus of elasticity, acoustic impedance and scanning electron microscopy were studied and discussed.

Findings

Results showed that aerated-expended polystyrene beads concrete had the most suitable properties when the proportions of aluminum waste powder and expanded polystyrene beads were 0.2% and 0.1%, respectively. The compressive strength, density, thermal conductivity and acoustic impedance were 38.5 MPa, 1,768 Kg/m3, 0.358 W/(m.k) and 4.91 Kg/m2 s, respectively.

Originality/value

The experimental work was done using aluminum scrap waste powder as an expanding agent to produce aerated concrete and combining it with expanded polystyrene bead concrete to produce structural aerated-polystyrene concrete, which contains fine materials (silica fume and local natural raw limestone) and superplasticizers.
La femme fait la maison: The Accumulation of Surplus Value through Family Planning in Burkina Faso1
Authors: Harper‐Shipman T.D. , Napon Katian
Published: August 2024

Since the 1960s, demographers, international donors, and governments have calculated the political, economic, and social benefits of modern contraception usage in West Africa. We evidence how family planning technologies (FPTs) that are tethered to population development extract double value (productive and reproductive labour) from Burkinabè women as a method of economic growth. More specifically, we show how concepts like unmet need and contraception prevalence rates (CPR) act as discursive mechanisms that facilitate wealth accumulation from Burkinabè women's reproductive capacities. These mechanisms highlight an additional route through which reproductive labour generates wealth for capital. We argue that these mechanisms, under the auspices of population development, are fundamentally tied to spatialised and racialised concerns over surplus labour and crises of capitalism from the global North. We conclude with nascent meditations on contraception abandonment as a possible form of resistance that Burkinabè women use to decouple their reproductive labour from logics of capitalism.
From Universal Owners to Owners of the Universe? How the Big Three Are Reshaping Corporate Governance
Authors: Aguilera Ruth V. , Desender Kurt A. , LopezPuertas‐Lamy Monica
Published: August 2024

Research Question/Issue

The prominent ownership position of the Big Three asset management firms (i.e., BlackRock, Vanguard, and State Street Global Advisors) in many leading companies around the world has sparked a lively debate regarding whether their concentration of power is beneficial or detrimental for corporate governance (CG). We conduct a comprehensive literature review of extant empirical research examining the link between the Big Three and CG dimensions.

Research Findings/Insights

We provide novel evidence on the Big Three's global positions and present a systematic review of empirical research on their impact on four key CG dimensions: board structure, financial reporting and disclosure, corporate social responsibility (CSR), and external CG mechanisms. Our analysis reveals nuanced influences varying across specific CG dimensions.

Theoretical/Academic Implications

We develop a conceptual framework which articulates the main arguments on the Big Three's stewardship role, building on two distinct characteristics that define them: their investment style and their portfolio size and coverage. Exploring the large passive funds' distinct incentives and the implications of substantial common ownership, our framework underscores varied motivations and new channels to shape CG. We develop an agenda for future research, building on the idea that the Big Three do not work in isolation, independently of other investors, governance agents, or the institutional environment.

Practitioner/Policy Implications

Understanding the Big Three's influence on various CG dimensions provides novel insights on the broader debate about their influence and allows for targeted and effective policymaking.
Responsive rhetoric: Evidence from congressional redistricting
Authors: Kaslovsky Jaclyn , Kistner Michael R.
Published: August 2024

Do representatives change their messaging to match the partisanship of their district? Prior studies of Congressional communication reveal a correspondence between district and member partisanship, but rely on cross‐sectional comparisons that do not distinguish between the role of electoral selection versus re‐election incentives. In this paper, we address this gap using decennial redistricting, examining how the partisan extremity of members' social media posts changes when they are redistricted into more partisan or more moderate districts. We find clear evidence of rhetorical responsiveness to the new constituency. Additional analyses show that rhetorical responsiveness complements roll call responsiveness, but is greater in magnitude. We argue that rhetorical responsiveness is normatively complex, potentially aiding representational processes but also possibly contributing to affective polarization. An examination of changes in specific word usage following redistricting supports the latter concern.
Breaking bad news: Comparing the perception of the role, barriers and experiences of neonatal intensive care and well‐baby nursery nurses
Authors: Haim‐Eli Lilach , Benbenishty Julie , Kienski Woloski Wruble Anna C.
Published: August 2024

Background

Nurses accompany patients throughout the breaking bad news process.

Aim

The aim of the research was to compare neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) nurses and well‐baby nursery (WBN) nurses on their role, barriers and experiences in breaking bad news to parents/relatives during hospitalization.

Study Design

A cross‐sectional comparative study.

Results

Two medical centres in Israel were employed. A 39‐item questionnaire was distributed with 140 nurses participating in the study. STROBE Checklist was used. A total of 140 nurses participated in this study. There was no significant overall difference (p ≤ .45) between NICU and WBN nurses in their perception of their role in breaking bad news. Differences were found in barriers to the role which included a lack of information, lack of time and communication issues. No differences were found in the nurses' experiences in breaking bad news. NICU and WBN nurses reported that they received no support (n = 40, 58.8%; n = 45, 64.3%, respectively). No breaking bad news specialty team existed in either unit (NICU: n = 64, 91.4%; n = 60, 87.0%).

Conclusions

Nurses in the WBN and NICU are involved in breaking bad news. The role of the nurse has not been fully acknowledged making it difficult to perform. Nurses' experiences in breaking bad news were varied. Nurses facing challenges should be provided guidance and support. This needs to be implemented.

Relevance to Clinical Practice

The role played by nurses in breaking bad news has not been fully acknowledged making it difficult to perform. Nurses need to receive formal training and support in order to improve this practice.
Therapeutic insights: Use of ceftazidime‐avibactam in pediatric patients
Authors: Akcan Özge Metin , Gençeli Mustafa , Üstüntaş Talha , Akkuş Abdullah , Pekcan Sevgi , Doğan Metin
Published: August 2024

Background

The increasing worldwide prevalence of multidrug‐resistant (MDR) bacteria underscores the pressing demand for innovative therapeutic solutions. Ceftazidime‐avibactam (CAZ‐AVI) represents a promising new drug combination that has received approval for specific infection types. However, there is limited information regarding its application in pediatric patients.

Methods

This study investigates the effectiveness and adverse reactions associated with CAZ‐AVI treatment in pediatric patients with life‐threatening infections caused by MDR pathogens. The study was conducted at a tertiary children's hospital between December, 2021 and July, 2023.

Results

A total of 21 patients with life‐threatening infections caused by MDR pathogens were enrolled in the study. All patients had underlying medical conditions: 10 had cerebral palsy, four had congenital neurometabolic disease, two had Nieman–Pick disease, two had cystic fibrosis, two had primary immunodeficiency, and one had leukemia. Among these, 12 patients had tracheostomies. Eight patients received CAZ‐ AVI monotherapy, and 13 patients received combination therapy. Microbiological eradication was achieved in 18 patients (85.7%), and a clinical response was observed in 20 patients (95.2%). Two patients (9.5%) experienced relapse with the same bacteria. One patient developed anaphylaxis, and one patient had elevated creatine phosphokinase levels that normalized following discontinuation of treatment. One patient died during the study period due to gastrointestinal bleeding.

Conclusions

Ceftazidime‐avibactam may be a promising new drug option for the treatment of life‐threatening infections caused by MDR Gram‐negative microorganisms in pediatric patients. However, further studies with larger case series are needed to further evaluate the efficacy and safety of CAZ‐AVI in this population.
Some Perceptions of Master’s Degree Students on the Comments (remarks) of their Thesis Directors
Authors: Moreno Mosquera Emilce , Ochoa Sierra Ligia
Published: August 2024

In the writing of the thesis, the comments and reviews given and received to test the hypothesis of the student throughout its elaboration take on a special meaning. Indeed, this article analyzes the students’ perceptions of the comments and the support in the review given by the thesis directors, in order to identify what kind of comments are constructive and which are not.
To achieve this objective, an exploratory method was used, using as procedure an interview of 10 master’s degree students who were in the final stage of the preparation of their theses, as well as a survey of 10 graduates, all of them belonging to Human Sciences majors.
A Cambrian spiny stem mollusk and the deep homology of lophotrochozoan scleritomes
Authors: Zhang Guangxu , Parry Luke A. , Vinther Jakob , Ma Xiaoya
Published: August 2024

Mollusks encompass enormous disparity, including familiar clams and snails alongside less familiar aculiferans (chitons and vermiform aplacophorans) with complex multicomponent skeletons. Paleozoic fossils trace crown mollusks to forms exhibiting a combination of biomineralized shells and sclerites (e.g., scales, spines, and spicules). We describe a shell-less, Cambrian stem mollusk,
Shishania aculeata
gen. et sp. nov., with conical, hollow chitinous sclerites and a smooth girdle, broad foot, and mantle cavity. The sclerites have a microstructure of narrow canals consistent with the impressions of chaetal microvilli found in annelids and brachiopods.
Shishania
sclerites provide a morphological stepping stone between typical chaetae (chitinous bristles) and the external organic part of aculiferan sclerites that encloses a mineralized body. This discovery reinforces a common origin of lophotrochozoan chaetae and the biomineralized aculiferan sclerites, suggesting that the mollusk ancestor was densely covered with hollow chitinous chaetae.
Nuclei engineering for even halide distribution in stable perovskite/silicon tandem solar cells
Authors: Chen Yihua , Yang Ning , Zheng Guanhaojie , Pei Fengtao , Zhou Wentao , Zhang Yu , Li Liang , Huang Zijian , Liu Guilin , Yin Ruiyang , Zhou Huanping , Zhu Cheng , Song Tinglu , Hu Chun , Zheng Dezhi , Bai Yang , Duan Ye , Ye Yakuan , Wu Yiliang , Chen Qi
Published: August 2024

Wide-bandgap (WBG) absorbers in tandem configurations suffer from poor crystallinity and weak texture, which leads to severe mixed halide-cation ion migration and phase segregation during practical operation. We control WBG film growth insensitive to compositions by nucleating the 3C phase before any formation of bromine-rich aggregates and 2H phases. The resultant WBG absorbers show improved crystallinity and strong texture with suppressed nonradiative recombination and enhanced resistance to various aging stresses. Perovskite/silicon tandem solar cells achieve power conversion efficiencies of 29.4% (28.8% assessed by a third party) in a 25–square centimeter active area and 32.5% in a 1–square centimeter active area. These solar cells retained 98.3 and 90% of the original efficiency after 1301 and 800 hours of operation at 25° and 50°C, respectively, at the maximum power point (AM 1.5G illumination, full spectrum, 1-sun) when encapsulated.
Standardizing sea level
Sea Level: A History
Wilko Graf von Hardenberg
University of Chicago Press, 2024. 200 pp.
Authors: Muka Samantha
Published: August 2024

A historian traces the complex origins of a seemingly straightforward metric
Cell and gene therapy accessibility
Authors: Rouce Rayne H. , Porteus Matthew H.
Published: August 2024

Patients with devastating illnesses demonstrate incredible courage in battling their disease. Innovative cell and gene therapies (CGTs), built on decades of research, are changing the lives of those who suffer from conditions ranging from cancer to sickle cell disease to neurologic diseases. Although hailed for their promise and recognized for benefits that will exceed the costs, the high prices of CGTs ($300 thousand to $4 million per dose) leave these therapies out of reach for many. This accessibility problem will only be solved if academia, industry, investors, funders, regulators, and advocacy groups work together to put CGT breakthroughs in the hands of all who stand to benefit.
In Other Journals
Authors: Lopez Bianca , Kelly Priscilla N. , Walia Ankit , Ash Caroline , Lavine Marc S. , Jin Sumin , Yeston Jake S.
Published: August 2024

Editors’ selections from the current scientific literature
Hunt for infectious causes of Alzheimer’s gains momentum
Authors: Couzin-Frankel Jennifer
Published: August 2024

New efforts seek causal links between pathogens and dementia
European deforestation rules are flawed, scientists argue
Authors: Rochmyaningsih Dyna
Published: August 2024

European Union faces calls to delay commodity import rules aimed at protecting forests
A History of Monitoring Marine Birds at Sea in Eastern and Arctic Canada
Authors: Gjerdrum Carina , Fifield David A. , Bolduc Francois , Wong Sarah N. P. , Beaumont Matthieu , Mallory Mark L.
Published: August 2024

Systematic surveys of marine birds from ships were first conducted by the Canadian Wildlife Service (CWS) in Atlantic Canada in 1965, and then expanded to the Canadian Arctic in 1969 under PIROP (Programme intégré de recherches sur les oiseaux pélagiques). PIROP surveys ended in 1992, then resumed in 2006 under the Eastern Canada Seabirds at Sea (ECSAS) program with an updated survey protocol. Surveys under both monitoring programs were conducted from a variety of ship types engaged in scientific, transport, and supply activities, totalling over 120,000 km within sub-Arctic and Arctic Canada waters and over a million marine birds observed, primarily northern fulmar (Fulmarus glacialis), black-legged kittiwake (Rissa tridactyla), thick-billed murre (Uria lomvia), and dovekie (Alle alle). The data collected inform offshore ecological inquiries, environmental impact reviews, mortality estimates from accidental oil releases, and define areas in need of protection. Although surveys were designed to quantify seabird distribution within the waters of eastern Canada, the data also include sightings of non-avian taxa that are made publicly available. Long-term and large-scale monitoring programs will remain essential for assessing the status and health of Canada’s marine birds, including surveys that take place at sea where these species spend most of their time.
Physical states and transition amplitudes in piecewise flat quantum gravity
Authors: Miković Aleksandar
Published: August 2024

In this paper, we show how the path integral for gravity and matter on a piecewise flat spacetime can be used to define the physical quantum gravity states and the related transition amplitudes. The physical states are given by the path integrals for open manifolds from a certain topological class, while the corresponding transition amplitudes are obtained by gluing two such open manifolds into a closed one and calculating the corresponding path integral. We also solve the problem of how to associate a quantum gravity state to an effective action. This is done by using the path integral for a closed manifold from the transition-amplitude topological class so that the state which corresponds to the effective action can be chosen to be the Hartle–Hawking or the Vilenkin wavefunction for the vacuum manifold component of the transition-amplitude manifold.
Artificial Intelligence, Social Responsibility, and the Roles of the University
Authors: Loui Michael C. , Bosch Nigel , Chan Anita Say , Davis Jenny L. , Gutiérrez Rochelle , He Jingrui , Karahalios Karrie , Koyejo Sanmi , Mendenhall Ruby , Sanfilippo Madelyn Rose , Tong Hanghang , Varshney Lav R. , Wang Yang
Published: August 2024

How universities can influence socially responsible AI technology development and use.
An Improved Nonlinear I‐V Model for GaN HEMTs
Authors: Yuan Qingyu , Zhang Yixin , Luan Xiaodong , Zhang Jun , Xie Chunxu , Cheng Jiali
Published: August 2024

In this article, an improved nonlinear model for gallium nitride high‐electron‐mobility transistors (GaN HEMTs) is proposed. Aiming at the problem of insufficient accuracy of the nonlinear DC model caused by the self‐heating effect and trap effect in the traditional model, this thesis uses the Softplus function to improve the traditional nonlinear DC model and establishes a nonlinear DC model including the self‐heating effect, which is verified by the three GaN HEMT devices of different sizes. The MSE of Ids is less than 2.44 × 10−6. The traditional empirical basis model needs to calculate the partial derivative of the current expression with respect to Vds, which is tedious and complicated. The proposed model can be directly used to fit the Gm. The verification results show that the MSE of the Gm is less than 1.07 × 10−4, which proves the effectiveness of the equation.
Assessment of Meat Content and Foreign Object Detection in Cattle Meatballs Using Ultrasonography, Radiography, and Electrical Impedance Tomography Imaging
Authors: Ulum Mokhamad Fakhrul , Maryani  , Rahminiwati Min , Choridah Lina , Setyawan Nurhuda Hendra , Ain Khusnul , Mukhaiyar Utriweni , Pamungkas Fitra Aji , Jakaria  , Garnadi Agah Drajat
Published: August 2024

Meat content and physically hazardous contaminants in the internal section of meatballs cannot be detected by the naked eye or surface detectors. This study is aimed at analyzing the meat content of cattle meatballs and detecting foreign objects using ultrasonography (USG), digital radiography (DR), and electrical impedance tomography (EIT). Meatballs were produced using four different meat formulations (0%, 25%, 50%, and 75% meat) and three treatments (no preservative (control), borax, and formalin preservatives). Cast iron and plastic beads were used as models of foreign objects embedded in the samples. The echogenicity, opacity, and resistivity values of each sample were evaluated and compared across groups. The results showed that the shelf life of the control meatballs was shorter than that of meatballs with preservatives. The echogenicity and opacity values for the different meat formulations were hypoechoic in USG and grey in DR. USG was able to distinguish between control and preservative‐treated meatballs but could not differentiate meat content and detect foreign objects. Conversely, DR effectively assessed meat content and detected iron‐based foreign objects, while EIT showed higher resistivity values for iron and plastic beads compared to the meatball bodies.
Figure S3 from Estrogen Induces LCAT to Maintain Cholesterol Homeostasis and Suppress Hepatocellular Carcinoma Development
Authors: He Wenzhi , Wang Min , Zhang Xuechun , Wang Yilan , Zhao Dongli , Li Wenhua , Lei Fang , Peng Min , Zhang Zhonglin , Yuan Yufeng , Huang Zan
Published: August 2024

Supplementary Figure 3
Supplementary Figure S9 from HTS384 NCI60: The Next Phase of the NCI60 Screen
Authors: Kunkel Mark W. , Coussens Nathan P. , Morris Joel , Taylor Ronald C. , Dexheimer Thomas S. , Jones Eric M. , Doroshow James H. , Teicher Beverly A.
Published: August 2024

Correlation plots BET-targeting agents.
Supplementary Figure S3 from HTS384 NCI60: The Next Phase of the NCI60 Screen
Authors: Kunkel Mark W. , Coussens Nathan P. , Morris Joel , Taylor Ronald C. , Dexheimer Thomas S. , Jones Eric M. , Doroshow James H. , Teicher Beverly A.
Published: August 2024

Doxorubicin control conc/resp
Supplementary Figure S10 from HTS384 NCI60: The Next Phase of the NCI60 Screen
Authors: Kunkel Mark W. , Coussens Nathan P. , Morris Joel , Taylor Ronald C. , Dexheimer Thomas S. , Jones Eric M. , Doroshow James H. , Teicher Beverly A.
Published: August 2024

Representative conc/resp BET-targeting agents and NAMPRTase-targeting agents.
Legends for Supplementary Figures from HTS384 NCI60: The Next Phase of the NCI60 Screen
Authors: Kunkel Mark W. , Coussens Nathan P. , Morris Joel , Taylor Ronald C. , Dexheimer Thomas S. , Jones Eric M. , Doroshow James H. , Teicher Beverly A.
Published: August 2024

Legends for Supplementary Figures S1-S10
Supplementary Figure 7 from Human 3D Ovarian Cancer Models Reveal Malignant Cell–Intrinsic and –Extrinsic Factors That Influence CAR T-cell Activity
Authors: Joy Joash D. , Malacrida Beatrice , Laforêts Florian , Kotantaki Panoraia , Maniati Eleni , Manchanda Ranjit , Annibaldi Alessandro , Hopkins Sarah , Garrobo-Calleja Ianire , Gautrot Julien , Balkwill Frances R.
Published: August 2024

Malignant cells and fibroblasts co-culture collagen gels treated with CAR-T cells.
Supplementary Figure 5 from Human 3D Ovarian Cancer Models Reveal Malignant Cell–Intrinsic and –Extrinsic Factors That Influence CAR T-cell Activity
Authors: Joy Joash D. , Malacrida Beatrice , Laforêts Florian , Kotantaki Panoraia , Maniati Eleni , Manchanda Ranjit , Annibaldi Alessandro , Hopkins Sarah , Garrobo-Calleja Ianire , Gautrot Julien , Balkwill Frances R.
Published: August 2024

CCL2 produced by fibroblasts activated CCR2/4+ CAR-T cells to induce antigen-dependent cytotoxicity.
Figure 7 from Human 3D Ovarian Cancer Models Reveal Malignant Cell–Intrinsic and –Extrinsic Factors That Influence CAR T-cell Activity
Authors: Joy Joash D. , Malacrida Beatrice , Laforêts Florian , Kotantaki Panoraia , Maniati Eleni , Manchanda Ranjit , Annibaldi Alessandro , Hopkins Sarah , Garrobo-Calleja Ianire , Gautrot Julien , Balkwill Frances R.
Published: August 2024

Vascularized microfluidic chip to investigate CAR T-cell migration and cytotoxicity. A, Design of the tri-channel microfluidic device with a 2 mm well in the central channel. B, Schematic diagram showing the development of ovarian cancer-on-a-chip model. Scale bar, 600 μm. C, Immunofluorescence image showing microvasculature in fibrin and OvCAR3 collagen gels (n = 3). Red, HUVEC. Scale bar, 100 μm. D, Real-time images showing the luminal flow of CAR T cells (arrows) through the vasculature formed within the microfluidic device (n = 2). Green, CAR T cells. Scale bar, 20 μm. E, Immunofluorescence image showing an ovarian cancer-on-a-chip 3 days after CAR T-cell treatment. CAR T cells (arrows) migrated into the OvCAR3 gel in the middle of the device. Dotted line marks the edge of the central well. Green, CAR T cells; red, HUVEC. Scale bar, 100 μm. F and G, CD3 (F) and caspase‐3 (Casp3; G) staining and quantification of OvCAR3 gels isolated from microfluidic device after CAR T-cell and anti-TNFα treatment. H, MSD data showing TNFα, IFNγ, and IL2 concentrations on media from microfluidic devices after CAR T-cell and anti-TNFα treatment. F–H, Data plotted as mean ± SD of two/three gels per two replicates. Two different CAR T-cell donors were used in this experiment. Scale bar, 50 μm. Statistics performed using two-way ANOVA.
Figure 1 from Human 3D Ovarian Cancer Models Reveal Malignant Cell–Intrinsic and –Extrinsic Factors That Influence CAR T-cell Activity
Authors: Joy Joash D. , Malacrida Beatrice , Laforêts Florian , Kotantaki Panoraia , Maniati Eleni , Manchanda Ranjit , Annibaldi Alessandro , Hopkins Sarah , Garrobo-Calleja Ianire , Gautrot Julien , Balkwill Frances R.
Published: August 2024

OvCAR3 cells were sensitive but G164 cells were resistant to CAR T-cell cytotoxicity in monolayer cultures. A, Flow cytometry analysis of the expression of MUC1 and TnMUC1 on monolayer, spheroid, and collagen gel cultures of OvCAR3 and G164 cells. Data plotted as mean ± SD of three repeats. B, Expression of MUC1 and TnMUC1 on OvCAR3+FB and G164+FB collagen gels. Data plotted as mean ± SD of three gels per three replicates. Different FB donors were used for each replicate. Scale bars, 50 μm. C, Schematic representation of CD19, MUC1, and TnMUC1 directed second generation CARs. D, ELISA data showing IFNγ concentration after coculturing CAR T cells with monolayers of T47D, OvCAR3, and G164 cells for 2 days at 1:1 and 1:5 T:E ratios. E, Representative images (left) and quantification (right) of Incucyte killing assay in which monolayers of T47D, OvCAR3, and G164 cells were treated with CAR T cells from one donor at 1:5 T:E ratio. Images shown are 3 days after treatment. Red, dead cells. Scale bars, 400 μm. F, Flow cytometry analysis of the expression of T-cell activation markers HLA-DR (top) and CD25 (bottom) pre and 2 days post coculture with monolayers of T47D, OvCAR3, and G164 cells. D and F, Data plotted as mean ± SD for three CAR T-cell donors. Statistics performed using two-way (D) and one-way ANOVA (F).
Suppl Table 4 from Extracellular Vesicles Containing circMYBL1 Induce CD44 in Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma Cells and Pulmonary Endothelial Cells to Promote Lung Metastasis
Authors: Fu Min , Gao Qian , Xiao Mian , Li Rui-Feng , Sun Xin-Yi , Li Sheng-Lin , Peng Xin , Ge Xi-Yuan
Published: August 2024

MS for RBP of circMYBL1
Suppl Table 2 from Extracellular Vesicles Containing circMYBL1 Induce CD44 in Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma Cells and Pulmonary Endothelial Cells to Promote Lung Metastasis
Authors: Fu Min , Gao Qian , Xiao Mian , Li Rui-Feng , Sun Xin-Yi , Li Sheng-Lin , Peng Xin , Ge Xi-Yuan
Published: August 2024

The screening of circRNAs
Figure S9 from Extracellular Vesicles Containing circMYBL1 Induce CD44 in Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma Cells and Pulmonary Endothelial Cells to Promote Lung Metastasis
Authors: Fu Min , Gao Qian , Xiao Mian , Li Rui-Feng , Sun Xin-Yi , Li Sheng-Lin , Peng Xin , Ge Xi-Yuan
Published: August 2024

Figure S9
Figure S2 from Extracellular Vesicles Containing circMYBL1 Induce CD44 in Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma Cells and Pulmonary Endothelial Cells to Promote Lung Metastasis
Authors: Fu Min , Gao Qian , Xiao Mian , Li Rui-Feng , Sun Xin-Yi , Li Sheng-Lin , Peng Xin , Ge Xi-Yuan
Published: August 2024

Figure S2
Figure S1 from Allysine-Targeted Molecular MRI Enables Early Prediction of Chemotherapy Response in Pancreatic Cancer
Authors: Ma Hua , Esfahani Shadi A. , Krishna Shriya , Ataeinia Bahar , Zhou Iris Y. , Rotile Nicholas J. , Weigand-Whittier Jonah , Boice Avery T. , Liss Andrew S. , Tanabe Kenneth K. , Caravan Peter
Published: August 2024

Figure S1. Mass spectra of MnL3 solutions before and after reaction with butyraldehyde. (A) MS spectrum of MnL3. [M + H]+ calcd for [C20H32MnN7O5], 505.2; found 505.0. (B) MS spectrum of the reaction product between MnL3 and butyraldehyde at pH 7.4 (PBS). [M + H]+ calcd for [C24H38MnN7O5], 559.2; found 559.5. (C) MS spectrum of the reaction product between MnL3 and butyraldehyde at pH 6.5(PBS).