bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Supplementary Figure 9 from Autophagy Inhibition–induced Cytosolic DNA Sensing Combined with Differentiation Therapy Induces Irreversible Myeloid Differentiation in Leukemia Cells
Authors: Baba Tomohisa , Tomaru Utano , Hirao Atsushi , Mukaida Naofumi , Johmura Yoshikazu
Published: March 2024

Fig. S9 and its legend
Supplementary Figure 13 from Autophagy Inhibition–induced Cytosolic DNA Sensing Combined with Differentiation Therapy Induces Irreversible Myeloid Differentiation in Leukemia Cells
Authors: Baba Tomohisa , Tomaru Utano , Hirao Atsushi , Mukaida Naofumi , Johmura Yoshikazu
Published: March 2024

Fig. S13 and its legend
FIGURE 3 from Autophagy Inhibition–induced Cytosolic DNA Sensing Combined with Differentiation Therapy Induces Irreversible Myeloid Differentiation in Leukemia Cells
Authors: Baba Tomohisa , Tomaru Utano , Hirao Atsushi , Mukaida Naofumi , Johmura Yoshikazu
Published: March 2024

Involvement of the AIM2 inflammasome in leukemic cell differentiation through the inhibition of p21 proteasomal degradation and subsequent p21 accumulation. A, Expression of p21 in shControl- and shAIM2-transduced HL-60 cells 24 hours after incubation with or without 1 µmol/L ATRA and 1 µmol/L MRT in the presence of 100 nmol/L MG-132 (Fujifilm Wako Chemicals) or DMSO (control). Data represent the mean ± SD from three independent experiments. Expression of USP10 (B) and SKP2 (C) in shControl- and shAIM2-transduced HL-60 cells treated with ATRA+MRT or DMSO (control) for 24 hours. Representative results and mean ± SD of MFI from three independent experiments are shown here. D, The levels of polyubiquitylated p21 protein, immunoprecipitated with anti-p21 mAb, were determined in HL-60 cells transduced with shControl and shAIM2, and treated with ATRA+MRT or DMSO (control) for 24 hours. Polyubiquitylated p21 was detected with the use of immunoblotting and a representative result is shown in the left. Intensities in polyubiquitylated p21 were determined, and ubiquitin ratios were calculated as the signal intensities of polyubiquitin divided by that of p21. Fold change in the levels of polyubiquitylated p21 was calculated by dividing the values in treated samples with the values in the DMSO control, and is shown in the right. Data represent the mean ± SD from three independent experiments. E, Expression of p21 in shControl- and shAIM2-transduced HL-60 cells after ATRA+MRT treatment in the presence of 2.5 µmol/L spautin-1 (MedChemExpress) or DMSO (control) for 24 hours. Representative results and mean ± SD of MFI from three independent experiments are shown here. F, Expression of CD11b on shControl- and shp21-transduced HL-60 cells after ATRA+MRT treatment for 24 hours. Representative results and mean ± SD of MFI from three independent experiments are shown here. G, Cell proliferation of shControl- and shp21-transduced HL-60 cells in drug-free medium after ATRA+MRT treatment for 24 hours (n = 4). Fold change in cell number was calculated by dividing the values at each timepoint with the values at 0d. **, P < 0.01; *, P < 0.05; N.S., no significant difference using Tukey-Kramer test (A and E), two-sided Student t test (B–D), or Dunnett test (F and G). d, day.
The Core Curriculum in Cariology: Fiction or Reality? Challenges about Implementation
Authors: Santamaría Ruth M. , Fontana Margherita , Chalas Renata , Guzman-Armstrong Sandra , Kolker Justine L. , Krithikadatta Jogikalmat , Kuzmina Irina , Maltz Marisa , Martignon Stefania , Ottolenghi Livia , Pitts Nigel , Abdin Maria , Splieth Christian H.
Published: March 2024

Introduction: The Core Curriculum in Cariology (CCC) was developed by ORCA and ADEE in 2010. This article summarizes challenges for the implementation of the CCC at university/country level identified at the “Education Platform” of the ORCA 2022 conference in Cagliari, Sardinia. Methods: Participants from universities from 3 European (Italy, Poland, and UK), 2 Asian (India and Russia), and 3 American countries (Brazil, Colombia, and USA) led the presentations, discussion, and generation of statements. Presentations were transcribed and summarized through qualitative content analysis. Key themes were identified, transformed into key topics, and sent to the panel for agreement. Results: Regardless of the wide variety of dental schools per country, from few (Poland n = 10) to many (India n = 318, Brazil n = 563) or from country/continent itself, frequent challenges to CCC implementation were highlighted. These included lack of agreement on a basic CCC as standard (96%), insufficient support or reimbursement for caries prevention and management (90%), separation between cariology and restorative dentistry (68%), focus on restorative/surgical management with prevention and nonoperative management being disconnected (73%). The group agreed that the integration of cariology and restorative dentistry remains essential to enhancing evidence-based decision-making, resulting in a shift of emphasis from cure to care. Conclusion: There is variation in the level of implementation of the CCC. A frequent challenge is the disconnect between cariology and restorative dentistry. The CCC should be disseminated and promoted as a uniform blueprint/framework to facilitate the implementation of a common cariology curriculum among universities within each country, as well as internationally.
Computed Tomography Perfusion in Acute Stroke Assessment
Authors: Pereira Anthony , Alakbarzade Vafa , Lowe Deborah , Hargroves David
Published: March 2024

Background: Traditionally, non-contrast computed tomography (CT) alone was used in the initial assessment of acute ischaemic stroke patients mainly to exclude haemorrhage or alternative pathology. Summary: Late-window (beyond 6 h) and recent large-volume endovascular mechanical thrombectomy (MT) trials integrated CT perfusion (CTP) imaging to guide MT and/or intravenous thrombolysis decision-making in stroke patients. Key Messages: In current clinical practice, many patients are being excluded from reperfusion therapy due to a lack of data from urgent investigations to assess cerebral vasculature and perfusion. Here, we explore the potential benefits of CTP incorporated into the initial CT protocol assessment of stroke patients.
A história em quadrinhos Criadores e criaturas e o imaginário do monstruoso
Authors: Souza Cassius Andre Prietto
Published: March 2024

It describes scientific research created as a comic book, where a researcher invests in a journey towards the universe of the monstrous, focusing on the creators, Edgar Allan Poe and Mary Shelley, and the creatures, Lenore, The Crow and Frankenstein. The journey begins when the researcher, lost in his research, is visited by the imaginary theorist Gilbert Durand, a mentor, who opens a magical portal, transporting the two characters to the imaginary universe. The adventure presents the researcher, the theories of the imaginary and the universe of the monster, revealing desires and tensions that animate creators and affect the creatures, emotions and concerns that drive the poetics of the monstrous.
O efeito dos incentivos sobre o desempenho de fundos de investimento multimercado sob gestão pública
Authors: Storck Fernanda Souza dos Anjos , Ferreira Felipe Ramos
Published: March 2024

O objetivo desse estudo é identificar se fundos de investimento multimercado que utilizam estratégia livre de instituições financeiras públicas estão alcançando desempenho compatível ao de instituições financeiras privadas. Os contratos de incentivos influenciam as decisões dos gestores e por consequência o desempenho das organizações. Identificamos iniciativas de organizações públicas na utilização de incentivos característicos da iniciativa privada com o propósito de alcançar melhores níveis de desempenho. Diante da readequação de incentivos em instituições financeiras públicas, buscamos colocar luz sobre o tema sob a perspectiva do mercado de fundos de investimento. O modelo econométrico propõe relacionar medidas de desempenho e risco de fundos de investimento multimercado estratégia livre geridos por instituições financeiras públicas e privadas representada por variável dummy e variáveis de controle. Identificamos desempenho superior de fundos de investimento sob gestão pública frente a fundos sob gestão privada, no período analisado, além de relação positiva entre desempenho de fundos públicos e taxa de performance. Os resultados desta pesquisa podem auxiliar no aperfeiçoamento do sistema de incentivos em instituições financeiras sob gestão pública. Acrescenta à literatura evidências sobre os efeitos da utilização de incentivos na gestão de fundos investimentos aplicados ao contexto de organizações públicas.
Accountability social de pessoas com deficiência e barreiras para o acesso a serviços públicos
Authors: Lima Diana Vaz de , Tol Ricardo van , Pereira Éverton Luís , Aquino André Carlos Busanelli de
Published: March 2024

Social accountability may serve as a viable strength to interrogate and engage in discussion regarding the expansion of access for people with disabilities to public services and for social participatory spaces. Based on a case study of the ombudsman hotline for the Brazilian federal highway police, we exemplify how the barriers present in the ombudsman hotline restrict social accountability. We identify by the analysis of published documents and individual complaints from service users that accessibility for people with disabilities is not a central theme in the strategic plan for the police force. Moreover, the adopted online platform for the service users to submit their feedback or complaints within the system reduces the abilities of people with disabilities to exercise social accountability.
Reproductive Carrier Screening: Identifying Families at Risk for Familial Hypercholesterolemia in the United States
Authors: Souter Vivienne , Becraft Emily , Brummitt Samantha , Gall Bryan J. , Prigmore Brittany , Wang Yang , Benn Peter
Published: March 2024

BACKGROUND:

Familial hypercholesterolemia is a treatable genetic condition but remains underdiagnosed. We reviewed the frequency of pathogenic or likely pathogenic (P/LP) variants in the
LDLR
gene in female individuals receiving reproductive carrier screening.

METHODS:

This retrospective observational study included samples from female patients (aged 18–55 years) receiving a 274-gene carrier screening panel from January 2020 to September 2022.
LDLR
exons and their 10 base pair flanking regions were sequenced. Carrier frequency for P/LP variants was calculated for the entire population and by race/ethnicity. The most common variants and their likely functional effects were evaluated.

RESULTS:

A total of 91 637 tests were performed on women with race/ethnicity reported as Asian (8.8%), Black (6.1%), Hispanic (8.5%), White (29.0%), multiple or other (15.0%), and missing (33.0%). Median age was 32.8 years with 83 728 (91%) <40 years. P/LP
LDLR
variants were identified in 283 samples (1 in 324). No patients were identified with >1 P/LP variant.
LDLR
carrier frequency was higher in Asian (1 in 191 [95% CI, 1 in 142–258]) compared with White (1 in 417 [95% CI, 1 in 326–533];
P
<0.001) or Black groups (1 in 508 [95% CI, 1 in 284–910];
P
=0.004). The most common variants differed between populations. Of all variants, at least 25.0% were predicted as null variants.

CONCLUSIONS:

P/LP variants in
LDLR
are common. Expanding the use of reproductive carrier screening to include genes associated with FH presents another opportunity to identify people predisposed to cardiovascular disease.
Analyzing Habitat Suitability of Bird Species in Urban Areas to Changes in Biotope Level: Case Study of Seoul
Authors: Baek Kyung Youl , Kim Ho Gul
Published: March 2024

Background and objective: Rapid urbanization has led to habitat degradation and fragmentation in urban ecosystems, negatively impacting biodiversity. Various natural spaces and green areas, particularly urban biotopes, are essential to foster an environment for diverse species within urban areas. The increase in biotope grades is a crucial factor in enhancing biodiversity and expanding wildlife habitats in urban areas, thereby improving the overall health and sustainability of urban ecosystems. This study focuses on environmentally sensitive bird species, applying scenarios of biotope grade elevation to derive efficient methods for improving biotope grades. The goal is to support projects and policy decisions to increase urban biodiversity and sustain ecosystems within the city.Methods: The analysis model employed the MaxEnt species distribution model, and 11 environmental variables tailored to bird characteristics were considered. Additionally, four scenarios for upward adjustments in biotope grades were examined: (1) current biotope grades, (2) upgrading second-grade areas to first-grade, (3) upgrading third-grade areas to second-grade, and (4) upgrading second and third-grade areas to first-grade. The study aimed to derive the efficiency of potential habitats in response to biotope grade increases under each scenario.Results: The results of the biotope grade upward scenarios showed an increase in efficiency of 81% for Scenario(2), 38.6% for Scenario (3), and 54.6% for Scenario (4). This reveals the efficiency of potential habitat expansion for urban birds with improved biotope grades. The findings underscore the significant role of biotope grade enhancement in securing bird habitats within the city.Conclusion: Focusing on birds in Seoul, this study concluded that higher biotope ratings significantly increase potential habitats. Limitations of the study include the omission of specific bird species when considering environmental variables and the lack of reflection of habitat characteristics like meteorological factors. Future research aims to develop a more in-depth and accurate model for evaluating the efficiency of biotope rating change scenarios.
The Role of Religion in Triggering Radicalism in Northern Nigeria
Authors: Brakoniecka Sabina
Published: March 2024

This paper studies the role of religion in driving radicalism in northern Nigeria, based on the example of Boko Haram. It examines how Islam is instrumentalised by the leaders of the organisation to earn legitimacy, radicalise and mobilise new adherents. It also analyses the ways in which spiritual matters motivate ordinary people’s support for the organisation. It discusses how Muhammad Yusuf and Abubakar Shekau, the two most charismatic leaders of the organisation, exploited religion to justify their violent actions. Furthermore, it traces the methods in which the former utilised religion and the weakness of any secular tradition in northern-Nigerian society, driving a collective identity based on an ‘us versus them’ concept and instrumentalising the sense of humiliation of northern-Nigerian Muslims and the victimising of co-believers.
Sacredness and Religious Fanaticism
Authors: Fahm AbdulGafar O. , Muhammad Aisha U.
Published: March 2024

The authors examine how Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie’s novel Purple Hibiscus portrays the conflicts between Igbo indigenous culture, Roman Catholic missionary culture, and inculturated Catholicism, and how these conflicts lead to religious fanaticism. This article focuses on the characters’ interactions with their respective cultures and religions, and juxtaposes the extreme devotion of Eugene Achike’s abusive Catholicism with the flexible understanding of the oneness of God in Papa Nnukwu’s traditional religious practices. The authors underscore the value of cultural diversity and the importance of tolerance and understanding while cautioning against the dangers of strict adherence to religious dogma.
A new fossil species of Callipteris (Callipteridae) in the Early Permian from the Xishan Area in Beijing, North China
Authors: CHEN XIN-YU , ZHANG HUA-CHUAN , YANG JIN-YUE
Published: March 2024

A new early Permian Medullosa (Pteridospermatophyta) is described based on a moderately well-preserved sample from Xishan Area in Beijing, North China. Callipteris seshufenensis Chen sp. nov. represents the first record of genus Callipteris in the early Permian period in Beijing region. Callipteris seshufenensis has a remarkable morphology characterized by a narrow midvein with distinct transverse stripes, small pinnules with 2–3 lateral branches directly connected with pinna-rachis except for the rounded-obtuse apex of pinnule and costule divided more than three times (sometimes more than five times). Together with coeval callipterid fossils recorded from the North China plate and the Siberian plate, the present discovery suggests that the migration route of callipterids in China extended from West China to Northeast China.
New species of Glyphohesione and Pseudexogone (Annelida, Pilargidae) from the Gulf of Thailand
Authors: PLATHONG JINTANA , PLATHONG SAKANAN , DEAN HARLAN K.
Published: March 2024

Two new species of Pilargidae, Glyphohesione pattaniensis sp. nov. and Pseudexogone losinensis sp. nov. are described from the southern Gulf of Thailand, Pattani Province. Glyphohesione pattaniensis sp. nov. is clearly distinguished from all other known species in the genus by having lateral antennae on the middle of the prostomium; lacking ventral cirri at chaetiger 2; first notopodial spines beginning at chaetiger 6; and having small epidermal papillae. Pseudexogone losinensis sp. nov. belongs to a group of species in the genus with eyespots present and differs from all other described species by the shape of the furcate chaetae with a strongly curved large tine and a tine with an open tip. An updated key to the species of Glyphohesione and Pseudexogone and a world map of both genera are also provided.
Which States Adopt Election-Subversion Policies?
Authors: Grumbach Jacob M. , Hill Charlotte
Published: March 2024

Research highlights a growing divergence among U.S. states in their costs of voting, the partisan balance of their legislative districts, and the responsiveness of state policy to public opinion. Less is known, however, about a new and acute threat to democracy at the state level: policies that increase the states’ vulnerability to election subversion. In this article, we investigate recent trends in state legislation that transfer election administration authority from independent to partisan actors, making it more likely that a losing presidential candidate could take office over the will of the electorate. We find that Republican control of state legislatures and the closeness of the 2020 presidential election are associated with these policies. Interestingly, these policies are mostly uncorrelated with gerrymandering and voter suppression policies that were enacted in the 2010s. We conclude with a discussion of how a recent Electoral Count Act reform in Congress partly mitigates the risk of election subversion.
The January 6th, 2025, Project: Fascist Politics and the Rising Threats to American Democracy
Authors: Hall Matthew E.K.
Published: March 2024

The violent attack on the U.S. Capitol on January 6, 2021, can easily be viewed as a culmination of serious threats to democracy that have been building in our nation for years. I introduce this volume first by showing that the core challenges to our democracy are not new: public opinion survey data show that, for decades, 25 to 30 percent of Americans promote racial and religious hierarchies, believe conspiracies and misinformation, distrust democratic institutions, and support antidemocratic behavior. I argue, though, that the severity of threats facing American democracy right now are unusually high. This introduction summarizes those threats and some of the findings of the articles within this volume. This volume shows how we came to be at an inflection point in American history, some strategies for creating a safer and more inclusive democratic future, and some reasons for optimism about American democracy.
Actor-Networks in Political Moral Conflict: A Case Study of an Online Gun Control Debate
Authors: Cole Kristen L. , Haverfield Marie C. , Choate Spencer Daniel
Published: March 2024

This research case study employs a theoretical and methodological framework of moral conflict theory informed by actor-network theory to better understand the sociomaterial entanglements—networks of human and non-human actors—that constitute political moral conflict. We analyze a case of moral conflict surrounding the issue of gun control, found within an online debate forum that was initiated by the question: should guns be banned in America? Through this case analysis, we identify key convergences and divergences in communication that facilitate coordination and cause incommensurability in conflict. These results reveal a new possibility for transcending political polarization through dialogue that attempts to account for the moral demands of objects.
Autonomy as a Strategic Dial: A Dynamic Framework for Managing Acquired Subsidiaries
Authors: C. Lawton Thomas , N. Angwin Duncan , Dattée Brice , Arrègle Jean-Luc , Barbieri Paolo
Published: March 2024

Managing acquired subsidiaries can be daunting. Parent and affiliate executives strive to co-create value, but fixed mindsets around subsidiary autonomy can result in diverging interests and outcomes. Through a longitudinal study of Audi’s post-acquisition integration of supercar manufacturer Lamborghini, this article provides guidance on how to manage the level of acquired subsidiary autonomy as a strategic dial that can be dynamically adjusted over time for mutual benefit. This dynamic approach to autonomy rests on three specific managerial levers—appraisal respect, organizational identity, and resource orchestration. These can enable the renewal of competitive capabilities and sustain post-acquisition success.
What works in improving inter-agency responses to missing children investigations: A scoping review
Authors: Monaghan Paige , Waring Sara , Giles Susan , O’Brien Freya
Published: March 2024

Responsibility for responding to missing children belongs to multiple agencies, including police, children’s homes and social services, but evidence highlights issues with collaboration. The following scoping review seeks to identify what is currently known about mechanisms that enhance collaboration in responding to missing. Findings highlight the value of (i) information-sharing techniques; (ii) cross-agency technology; (iii) single points of contact; (iv) regular multi-agency meetings; (v) shared understanding of terminology; (vi) clarifying roles and responsibilities; and (vii) joint training. However, research is needed that empirically tests the effectiveness of strategies and interventions for improving inter-agency working in this risky and uncertain context.
Analysis of the Federal Section 317 Immunization Program and Routine Adult Immunization Activities, United States, 2022-2023
Authors: Granade Charleigh J. , Crawford Nathan E. , Banks Michelle , Graitcer Sam
Published: March 2024

Objectives:

The federal Section 317 Immunization Program, administered by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), provides funding to support adult immunization efforts; however, current information on program implementation at the jurisdictional level is limited. We assessed the use of Section 317 and other funding sources to support routine adult immunization activities among the 64 immunization programs (“awardees”).

Methods:

We conducted a survey and key informant interviews with awardees in October to December 2022 to collect quantitative and qualitative data on current adult vaccine purchase and program operation activities funded by Section 317 and other funding sources. We assessed total vaccine cost and data on vaccine purchase projections for each awardee with CDC’s Cost and Affordability Tool for 2023.

Results:

Immunization program managers or their designees from 62 of 64 awardees (97%) completed the survey; 12 awardees participated in key informant interviews. Of 62 awardees, 32 (52%) used a single funding source to support adult vaccine purchases, of which 29 (91%) used only Section 317 funds, 21 (34%) reported not planning to purchase ≥1 age-based recommended vaccine for adults in 2023, and 33 (53%) reported using Section 317 funds only to support adult immunization program operations. Key informant interviews showed varied operational activities among awardees, but 8 awardees stated the need for additional staff to expand adult immunization program services in health care provider education (n = 5), program administration (n = 5), and site visits (n = 6).

Conclusions:

Additional efforts are needed to understand how to better support routine adult immunization activities implemented at the jurisdictional level.
Difference and diversity: Combining multiculturalist and interculturalist approaches to integration
Authors: Sealy Thomas , Dupont Pier-Luc , Modood Tariq
Published: March 2024

Multiculturalism (MC) and interculturalism (IC) as approaches to governing ethnic diversity have developed an often antagonistic relationship, borne out through scholarly as well as political debates. Yet, increasingly, scholars have begun to note that while IC-consistent policies have gained some prominence, they have done so alongside MC policies. This suggests the possibility of complementarity between the two, and prominent scholars on both sides have also begun to stress complementarity. What this might look like, however, has not yet been well researched or developed. Focusing on the UK context, an important site in which debates between MC and IC have played out, this article aims to address this point of complementarity. It does so through an analysis of documents and interviews from civil society organisations who work in areas of integration, diversity and anti-discrimination at national and local levels. The article identifies four models of complementarity and shows the divergent and contested ways in which theoretical aspects of competing normative positions are combined empirically. In this way, it develops an argument for the continued centrality of MC for policy in these areas.
Comparison between the human physiological sweat and pre-wetting method on the heat and mass transfer of thermal protective clothing under radiant exposure
Authors: Zhang Wenhuan , Su Yun , Wang YunYi , Li Jun
Published: March 2024

In this study, a thorough investigation of human sweating behavior was conducted to ensure an accurate evaluation of the thermal protection performance of garments, addressing the lack of existing standardized methods. Three fabrics were compared at different sweating rates under radiant exposure, focusing on exploring heat and mass transfer mechanisms using the traditional pre-wetting method and the innovative continuous sweating method. It was found that the pre-wetting method was effective in situations where fabrics experienced transient moisture absorption, whereas the continuous sweating method excelled in scenarios requiring continuous moisture supply before saturation and was used to estimate liquid moisture transfer. In particular, for materials with low hygroscopicity, the pre-wetting method resulted in 86.24 kJ/m2 more absorbed thermal energy at the skin surface compared with the continuous sweating method, with a sweat rate of 10 μL/min/cm2, highlighting the tendency of the pre-wetting method to overestimate the thermal protective performance. Conversely, for fabrics with high hygroscopicity and testing with high sweat rate, a 32.81% reduction in absorbed thermal energy on the skin surface was observed when the continuous sweating method was used in place of the pre-wetting method, significantly reducing operational risks. This study provides valuable guidance in selecting appropriate sweat simulation methods to evaluate the thermal protection performance based on specific environmental conditions, and provides critical insights for further studies on heat and moisture transfer.
Community weaving across Latin American peripheries: A listening infrastructure in Oaxaca
Authors: Moya-Latorre Antonio
Published: March 2024

In July 2021, residents of Vicente Guerrero, a settlement built around the largest landfill in Oaxaca, commemorated the waste-pickers’ 40th anniversary with an urban art festival. This event was organised by Santa Cecilia Music School, a community-led cultural infrastructure that has shaped the social and material landscape of Vicente Guerrero since 2011. Drawing on ethnographic fieldwork conducted around this festival and throughout 2023, I propose studying cultural initiatives like Santa Cecilia as listening infrastructures to discern their ability to ‘centre’ peripheral communities through the opportunities they create for self-, collective and social listening, which, respectively, promote self-growth, spark community projects and display peripheries as creative places. I argue that the combined effect of these forms of listening – what Vicente Guerrero residents call community weaving– helps overcome material and social stigma conditioning life on the periphery. By examining these listening mechanisms, this analysis aims to enrich debates about the fundamental role of cultural infrastructure in the making of (Latin American) cities and their peripheries.
A new fault component selection strategy based on statistical detection for slewing bearing weak signal de-noising
Authors: Pan Yubin , Wang Hua , Chen Jie , Hong Rongjing
Published: March 2024

Slewing bearing is a critical transmission component in large-size construction machinery due to its low-speed and heavy-load conditions. Fault prognostics and health management of slewing bearing are crucial for ensuring their high availability and profitable operation. However, the presence of background noise in construction machinery signals restricts the applicability of existing signal processing approaches in prognostics and health management. To address this challenge, a novel signal de-noising method is proposed based on adaptive decomposition, along with a new strategy for recognizing fault components using statistic detection through kernel principal component analysis (KPCA). First, robust local mean decomposition is utilized to adaptively decompose the fault and normal vibration signal over the entire service life. Then, product functions (PFs) decomposed by fault and normal vibration signal are used for KPCA anomaly detection. Finally, the fault PFs are reconstructed to obtain the de-noised signal. The effectiveness of the proposed method is validated through the use of both simulated and experimental vibration signals obtained from a slewing-bearing life-cycle test. The results illustrate that the proposed method has superior de-noising capability and decomposition efficiency, making it an effective signal preprocessing technique for prognostics and health management.
Information poverty subtleties of a small-scale farming community in KwaZulu-Natal
Authors: Zondi Nombuso Phamela , Nkomo Ntando , Moyane Smangele Pretty
Published: March 2024

The purpose of this study was to examine the information poverty subtleties of a small-scale farming community in KwaZulu-Natal. The objectives of the study were to determine the information needs of the selected small-scale farmers and to determine the factors that influenced the information poverty of the selected small-scale farmers. The study was guided by Elfreda Chatman's theory of information poverty. An exploratory research design employing purposive and convenience sampling selected twenty-six small-scale farmers who participated in the focus group discussions. Data obtained was analysed using thematic analysis. The findings revealed a variety of unmet information needs. The causal factors included a lack of financial resources, government support, outdated beliefs, and geographic disadvantage. The research has implications for the execution of development initiatives aimed at providing small-scale farmers with access to information products and services to eliminate information poverty.
Normalizing Anti-Thrombin III for heparin management during routine cardiopulmonary bypass for congenital cardiothoracic surgery: A single institution practice review
Authors: Deptula Joseph , Olshove Vincent , Oldeen Molly , Kozik Deborah , Alsoufi Bahaaldin
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Over the past decade, there has been an increase in the use of recombinant Anti-Thrombin III (AT-III) administration during neonatal and pediatric short- and long-term mechanical support for the replacement of acquired deficiencies. Recombinant AT-III (Thrombate) administration is an FDA licensed drug indicated primarily for patients with hereditary deficiency to treat and prevent thromboembolism and secondarily to prevent peri-operative and peri-partum thromboembolism. Herein we propose further use of Thrombate for primary AT-III deficiency of the newborn as well as for acquired dilution and consumption secondary to cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB).

Methodology

All patients undergoing CPB obtain a preoperative AT-III level. Patients with identified deficiencies are normalized in the OR using recombinant AT-III as a patient load, in the CPB prime, or both. Patient baseline Heparin Dose Response (HDR) is assessed using the Heparin Management System (HMS) before being exposed to AT-III. If a patient load of AT-III is given, a second HDR is obtained and this AT-III Corrected HDR is used as the primary goal during CPB. Once CPB is initiated, an AT-III level is obtained with the first patient blood analysis. A subtherapeutic level results in an additional dose of AT-III. During the rewarm period, a final AT-III level is obtained and AT-III treated once again if subtherapeutic. A retrospective, matched analysis review of practice analyzing two groups, a Study Group (Repeat HDR, May 2022 onward) and Matched Group (Without Repeat HDR, July 2019 to April 2022), for age (D), weight (Kg) and operation was conducted. The focus of the study was to determine any change in heparin sensitivity identified post AT-III patient bolus load in the HDR (U/mL), Slope (U/mL/s), ACT (s), and total amount of heparin on CPB (U) and protamine (mg) used in each group.

Results

No significance was seen in Baseline AT-III (%), post heparin load HDR (U/mL), first CPB ACT (s), first CPB HDR (U/mL), or total CPB heparin (u/Kg) between the two groups. Statistical significance was seen in Baseline ACT (s), Baseline HDR (U/mL), Baseline Slope (U/mL/s), Post Heparin Load ACT (s), first CPB AT-III (%), and Protamine (mg/Kg) ( p < .05). No statistical significance was seen in the Study Intragroup between pre versus post AT-III patient load baseline sample in ACT (s), however significance was seen in HDR (U/mL) and Slope (U/mL/s) ( p < .05).

Conclusion

Implementation of AT-III monitoring and therapy before and during CPB in conjunction with the HMS allows patients to maintain a steady state of anticoagulation with overall less need for excessive heparin replacement and potentially thrombin activation. The result is obtaining a steady state of anticoagulation, a reduced fluctuation in the heparin and ACT levels and a potential for lower co-morbidities associated with prolonged CPB times.
The perceptions of palliative care medical practitioners towards oral health: A descriptive qualitative study
Authors: Villarosa Amy R. , Agar Meera , Kong Ariana , Sousa Mariana S , Harlum Janeane , Parker Deborah , Srinivas Ravi , Wiltshire Jennifer , George Ajesh
Published: March 2024

Background:

Oral health problems are common, but often overlooked, among people receiving palliative care.

Aim:

To better understand how oral health can be addressed in this population, this study aimed to explore the perceptions of oral health care among medical practitioners who provide palliative care to inform the development of a palliative oral health care program.

Design:

A descriptive qualitative design was adopted.

Setting/participants:

A single focus group was conducted with 18 medical practitioners at a palliative care facility in Sydney, Australia. All participants had experience providing palliative care services to clients. The focus group was audio recorded, transcribed and thematically analysed.

Results:

The results from the inductive thematic analysis identified four themes. The themes highlighted that participants were aware of the oral health needs of people receiving palliative care; however, they also reflected on the complexity in delivering oral health care across the healthcare settings, as well as the challenges around cost, lack of appropriate dental referral pathways, time constraints and limited awareness. Participants also provided recommendations to improve the delivery of oral health care to individuals receiving palliative care.

Conclusions:

To improve the provision of oral health care in this population, this study highlighted the need for oral health training across the multidisciplinary team, standardised screening assessments and referrals, a collective responsibility across the board and exploring the potential for teledentistry to support oral health care provision.
The Impact of Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization on Young Women's Experiences of Objectification and Sexual Well-Being
Authors: Nolen Erin , Siegel Jaclyn A. , Mendoza Rebecca R. , Cubbin Catherine , Vohra-Gupta Shetal , Dosanjh Laura H. , Lewis-Smith Helena
Published: March 2024

The Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization decision overturned two previous rulings that had affirmed the constitutional right to abortion prior to fetal viability. While important work has been published about the legal, moral, professional, and economic ramifications of the Dobbs decision, missing on this topic are the voices of those most affected by these policies. We conducted an online survey to understand how the Dobbs ruling impacted the way women experience their bodies and sexual well-being. Participants were 339 cisgender women residing in the United States aged 19–29 years ( M = 24.4, SD = 2.84). Participants identified as Asian/Pacific Islander (23.0%), Black (22.4%), Latina (26.0%), Mixed (3.2%), and White (25.4%). We used codebook thematic analysis to analyze free-text survey responses. We constructed four themes and additional sub-themes related to embodiment in a post-Roe context, which consisted of experiencing objectification (denial of bodily autonomy, experiencing the body as a regulated/surveilled site, feeling dehumanized, and concern for future restrictions to abortion access and civil rights), impact on mental and sexual well-being (vigilance with sex, reduced sexual desire, sexual anxiety, personal safety anxiety), minimized impact (relationship or reproductive status, resource privilege, identifying as pro-life, concern for future), and resistance.
The Global Track Concept for Assessment of Engaging Hill-Sachs Defects in Anterior Shoulder Instability
Authors: Moroder Philipp , Akguen Doruk , Paksoy Alp , Gebauer Henry , Barthod-Tonnot Nicolas , Lupetti Mattia , Markova Viktoria , Zettinig Oliver , Parada Stephen , Karpinski Katrin
Published: March 2024

Background:

The glenoid track concept is used to determine preoperatively whether a Hill-Sachs defect is engaging or not. Currently, the glenoid track concept relies on measurements of bony structures as well as on the confines and elasticity of the rotator cuff as a reference point, which varies extensively among individuals and therefore limits the reliability and accuracy of this concept.

Purpose:

To evaluate the reliability of the global track concept, which determines the angular distance of the Hill-Sachs defect from the center of the articular surface of the humeral head as a new reference point with the help of an automated image analysis software and 3-dimensional analysis of the humeral head.

Study Design:

Controlled laboratory study.

Methods:

Computed tomography scans of 100 patients treated for anterior shoulder instability with different sizes of Hill-Sachs defects were evaluated manually by 2 orthopaedic surgeons independently using the software OsiriX as well as automatically by using a dedicated prototype software (ImFusion). Obtained manual and automated measurements included the Hill-Sachs length, Hill-Sachs width, and Hill-Sachs depth of the defect; the Hill-Sachs interval (HSI); and the glenoid width for the glenoid track concept, as well as the angular distance of the Hill-Sachs defect from the center of the articular surface of the humeral head (global track concept). The reliability of the different measurement techniques was compared by calculating intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs).

Results:

There was a significant difference for all obtained parameters comparing manual and automatic measurements. For manually obtained parameters, measurements referring to bony boundaries (glenoid width, Hill-Sachs length, and Hill-Sachs width) showed good to excellent agreement (ICC, 0.86, 0.82, and 0.62, respectively), while measurements referring to soft tissue boundaries (HSI and glenoid track; ICC, 0.56 and 0.53, respectively) or not directly identifiable reference points (center of articular surface and global track) only showed fair reliability (ICC middle excursion, 0.42). When the same parameters were measured with the help of an automated software, good reliability for the glenoid track concept and excellent reliability for the global track concept in the middle excursion were achieved.

Conclusion:

The present study showed that the more complex global track measurements of humeral defects are more reliable than the current standard HSI and glenoid track measurements. However, this is only true when automated software is used to perform the measurements.

Clinical Relevance:

Future studies using the new proposed method in combination with an automated software need to be conducted to determine critical threshold values for defects prone to engagement.
Noninvasive and Reliable Quantification of Anteromedial Rotatory Knee Laxity: A Pilot Study on Healthy Individuals
Authors: Willinger Lukas , Runer Armin , Vieider Romed , Muench Lukas N. , Siebenlist Sebastian , Winkler Philipp W.
Published: March 2024

Background:

Anteromedial rotatory instability (AMRI) of the knee is a complex and severe condition caused by injury to the anterior cruciate ligament and/or the medial collateral ligament. Clinical studies dealing with AMRI are rare, and objective measurements are nonexistent.

Purpose/Hypothesis:

The objectives of this study were, first, to quantify anteromedial rotatory knee laxity in healthy individuals using a noninvasive image analysis software and, second, to assess intra- and interrater reliability and equivalence in measuring anteromedial knee translation (AMT). It was hypothesized that AMT could be reliably quantified using a noninvasive image analysis software.

Study design:

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

This prospective proof-of-concept study included healthy individuals aged 16 to 40 years with no history of knee injury or surgery. Three adhesive surface markers were placed on predefined landmarks on the medial side of the knee. Three independent investigators examined anteromedial rotatory knee laxity with an anterior drawer test in different tibial rotations (neutral tibial rotation, 15° of external tibial rotation, and 15° of internal tibial rotation). The entire examination of each knee was recorded, and AMT including the side-to-side difference (SSD) was assessed using a freely available and validated image analysis software (PIVOT iPad application). Group comparisons were performed using a 1-way analysis of variance with Bonferroni-adjusted post hoc analysis. Intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) were calculated to assess inter- and intrarater reliability of AMT measurements. Equivalence of measurements was evaluated using the 2 one-sided t-test procedure.

Results:

Anteromedial rotatory knee laxity was assessed in 30 knees of 15 participants (53% male) with a mean age of 26.2 ± 3.5 years. In all 3 raters, the highest AMT was observed in neutral tibial rotation (range of means, 2.2-3.0 mm), followed by external tibial rotation (range of means, 2.0-2.4 mm) and internal tibial rotation (range of means, 1.8-2.2 mm; P < .05). Intrarater reliability of AMT (ICC, 0.88-0.96) and SSD (ICC, 0.61-0.96) measurements was good to excellent and moderate to excellent, respectively. However, interrater reliability was poor to moderate for AMT (ICC, 0.44-0.73) and SSD (ICC, 0.12-0.69) measurements. Statistically significant equivalence of AMT and SSD measurements was observed between and within raters for almost all testing conditions.

Conclusion:

Anteromedial rotatory knee laxity could be quantified using a noninvasive image analysis software, with the highest AMT observed during neutral tibial rotation in uninjured individuals. Reliability and equivalence of measurements were good to excellent within raters and moderate between raters.
Effect of surface-modified incinerated sewage sludge ash as a reinforcing filler on the mechanical and thermal properties of polylactic acid composites
Authors: Sun Hao , Liu Lu , Hu Siyang , Wei Lingjun , Chen Haiying , Nan Huixing , Li Mingwei , Yan Dongshuai
Published: March 2024

Biodegradable thermoplastic polylactic acid (PLA) has recently been limited in its broader development and application due to its high cost. Therefore, it is crucial to develop low-cost and high-performance PLA-based composites by adding fillers. In this study, surface-modified incinerated sewage sludge ash (M-OH-ISSA) was employed as a reinforcing filler in PLA to prepare PLA/M-OH-ISSA thermoplastic composites with varying M-OH-ISSA ratios (10–30 wt%), and the mold mechanism for the PLA/M-OH-ISSA composites was explored. The surface of incinerated sewage sludge ash (ISSA) was modified to improve interfacial adhesion by NaOH alkali treatment and KH570 silane grafting, which successfully grafted silane groups onto the surface of the ISSA and converted the surface from hydrophilic to hydrophobic, strengthening the compatibility between the ISSA and PLA. The effects of the M-OH-ISSA content on the mechanical and thermal properties of the PLA composites were investigated. The mechanical test results showed that the tensile and flexural properties of the 15 wt% M-OH-ISSA-filled PLA composites were excellent compared to those of pure PLA, with strengths of 33.67 MPa and 73.70 MPa, respectively, which are all 1.6 times greater than those of pure PLA. Morphological analysis via SEM indicated that the composites with 15 wt% M-OH-ISSA exhibited good adhesion between the M-OH-ISSA and the matrix. The thermal performance of the composites was determined by using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and thermogravimetric analysis (TG/DTG). The results showed that the crystallinity of the composites increased with increasing M-OH-ISSA content and that the thermal stability between 290°C and 400°C decreased slightly with increasing M-OH-ISSA. However, the composites have good thermal stability near 200°C and do not undergo thermal degradation if processed at this temperature. As a filler in composites, M-OH-ISSA can reduce PLA usage and improve polymer properties, applying PLA/M-OH-ISSA composites in packaging and 3D printing applications.