bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Data from Rapamycin inhibits multiple stages of c-Neu/ErbB2–induced tumor progression in a transgenic mouse model of HER2-positive breast cancer
Authors: Mosley Jonathan D. , Poirier John T. , Seachrist Darcie D. , Landis Melissa D. , Keri Ruth A.
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Amplification of the HER2 (ErbB2, c-Neu) proto-oncogene in breast cancer is associated with poor prognosis and high relapse rates. HER2/ErbB2, in conjunction with ErbB3, signals through the Akt/phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase pathway and leads to the activation of mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR), a critical mRNA translation regulator that controls cell growth. Gene expression analysis of mammary tumors collected from mouse mammary tumor virus-c-Neu transgenic mice revealed that mRNA levels of several mTOR pathway members were either up-regulated (p85/phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase and p70S6 kinase) or down-regulated (eIF-4E-BP1) in a manner expected to enhance signaling through this pathway. Treatment of these mice with the mTOR inhibitor rapamycin caused growth arrest and regression of primary tumors with no evidence of weight loss or generalized toxicity. The treatment effects were due to decreased proliferation, associated with reduced cyclin D1 expression, and increased cell death in primary tumors. Whereas many of the dead epithelial cells had the histopathologic characteristics of ischemic necrosis, rapamycin treatment was not associated with changes in microvascular density or apoptosis. Rapamycin also inhibited cellular proliferation in lung metastases. In summary, data from this preclinical model of ErbB2/Neu-induced breast cancer show that inhibition of the mTOR pathway with rapamycin blocks multiple stages of ErbB2/Neu-induced tumorigenic progression. [Mol Cancer Ther 2007;6(8):2188–97]
Data from The Histone Deacetylase Inhibitor MGCD0103 Induces Apoptosis in B-Cell Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia Cells through a Mitochondria-Mediated Caspase Activation Cascade
Authors: El-Khoury Victoria , Moussay Etienne , Janji Bassam , Palissot Valérie , Aouali Nasséra , Brons Nicolaas H.C. , Van Moer Kris , Pierson Sandrine , Van Dyck Eric , Berchem Guy
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Clinical trials have shown activity of the isotype-selective histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitor MGCD0103 in different hematologic malignancies. There are data to support the use of HDAC inhibitors in association with other cancer therapies. To propose a rational combination therapy, it is necessary to depict the molecular basis behind the cytotoxic effect of MGCD0103. In this study, we found that MGCD0103 was substantially more toxic in neoplastic B cells relative to normal cells, and we described the death pathways activated by MGCD0103 in B-cell chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) cells from 32 patients. MGCD0103 decreased the expression of Mcl-1 and induced translocation of Bax to the mitochondria, mitochondrial depolarization, and release of cytochrome c in the cytosol. Caspase processing in the presence of the caspase inhibitor Q-VD-OPh and time course experiments showed that caspase-9 was the apical caspase. Thus, MGCD0103 induced the intrinsic pathway of apoptosis in CLL cells. Moreover, MGCD0103 treatment resulted in the activation of a caspase cascade downstream of caspase-9, caspase-dependent amplification of mitochondrial depolarization, activation of calpain, and Bax cleavage. We propose a model whereby the intrinsic pathway of apoptosis triggered by MGCD0103 in CLL is associated with a mitochondrial death amplification loop. Mol Cancer Ther; 9(5); 1349–60. ©2010 AACR.
Data from Proteasome inhibitor PS-341 (VELCADE) induces stabilization of the TRAIL receptor DR5 mRNA through the 3′-untranslated region
Authors: Kandasamy Karthikeyan , Kraft Andrew S.
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Addition of proteasome inhibitor PS-341 (VELCADE, bortezomib) to prostate cancer cells enhances cell death mediated by tumor necrosis factor–related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL). PS-341 sensitizes prostate cancer cells to TRAIL-induced apoptosis by increasing TRAIL receptors (DR5), inhibiting protein degradation, and elevating DR5 mRNA. Investigations into how PS-341 regulates the stability of DR5 mRNA revealed that PS-341 increased DR5 mRNA by extending its half-life from 4 to 10 h. The 2.5-kb 3′-untranslated region of the DR5 gene stabilized a heterologous gene in LNCaP human prostate cancer cells, suggesting the importance of this mRNA sequence. In contrast, human prostate cancer cell lines PC-3 and DU145 do not show this stabilization, suggesting cell specificity. PS-341 treatment of LNCaP cells increases the level of specific cytoplasmic mRNA-binding proteins, including AUF-1 isoforms, hnRNP C1/C2, and HuR proteins. In UV cross-linking experiments, after PS-341 treatment, the HuR protein markedly increases binding to specific sequences in the DR5 3′-untranslated region. In LNCaP cells treated with PS-341, small interfering RNA–mediated knockdown of HuR markedly decreases the half-life of DR5 mRNA, indicating that HuR is essential for mRNA stabilization. HuR protein is ubiquitinated, suggesting that PS-341 increases this protein by preventing its degradation. These experiments implicate modulation of mRNA stability as a novel mechanism by which proteasome inhibitors function, sensitizing cancer cells to antineoplastic agents. [Mol Cancer Ther 2008;7(5):1091–100]
The Temporary Transfer of Presidential Powers in the Czech Republic
Authors: Köker Philipp
Published: April 2023

The Presidency plays a central role in the functioning of the Czech political system. Among others, the President convenes the first sitting of the Chamber of Deputies after elections and must appoint the Government before it can seek parliamentary confidence. Therefore, the emergency hospitalization of President Miloš Zeman after the 2021 parliamentary election presented politicians with a hitherto unprecedented dilemma. Although a full-scale constitutional crisis was eventually averted, the incident still demonstrated the ambiguity and limitations of constitutional provisions on presidential inability and the temporary transfer of presidential powers in the Czech Republic. This article discusses the respective constitutional provisions and assesses their expedience in light of recent events. Drawing on historical precedents and political debates from the last 30 years, the article proposes options for reform and argues that constitutional crises will remain a real possibility unless political actors agree on at least a minimum of procedural requirements and codify these in organic law.
Leading for Resilience: Fostering Employee and Organizational Resilience in Tourism Firms
Authors: Prayag Girish , Muskat Birgit , Dassanayake Chaminda
Published: April 2023

Grounded in conservation of resources (COR) theory, this study identifies the effect of leadership behaviors on the resilience of tourism firms and employees in Sri Lanka during the early stages of the COVID-19 crisis. The developed conceptual model links the resilient leadership behaviors of vision sharing, leadership of tasks, and management of change with employee resilience (cognitive, behavioral, and contextual) and organizational resilience (planned and adaptive). The findings highlight that resilient leadership behaviors in the early stages of the pandemic enhanced both employee and organizational resilience. The contextual and behavioral dimensions of employee resilience mediated the effect of resilient leadership behaviors on organizational resilience. The study offers suggestions for the development of organizational resilience and the specific support that may facilitate the recovery of the tourism sector from the COVID-19 crisis.
Dream and Reality for Autonomous Vehicles: Results and Lessons from an In Situ Experiment
Authors: Corvec Stéphanie Souche-Le , Laroche Florent , Crispim-Junior Carlos. F.
Published: April 2023

The concept of the autonomous vehicle (AV) is becoming a credible alternative for the coming decades. Interest in AVs has been mirrored by a strong increase in the number of academic papers on the subject. However, few studies have considered a genuinely autonomous vehicle or similar in a realistic environment. They are limited to autonomous shuttles and restricted roads to test attitudes to and acceptance of AVs. This paper reports an exploratory experiment carried out on AV use in real conditions. The objective is to analyze the evolution of AV representation by participants ( n = 30) before and after the experiment, between dreams about AVs and reality. The feelings and attitudes induced by AVs and the activities that could be performed in them are considered. The findings show that many of the participants were initially in favor of AVs and were very excited about the idea of the test. Most of them did not feel any stress and the level of trust was high. After the experiment, feelings such as stress and fear increased and the level of trust decreased. Finally, the two main activities declared by the participants before the experiment were similar to the declaration after, being, respectively “watching the road” and “watching through windows.”
The Demise of “Advocacy Planning” in Community Design? A Content Analysis of the Mission Statements of Community Design Centers (CDCs) in the United States
Authors: Lee Donggyu
Published: April 2023

This paper investigates the role(s) of contemporary community design centers (CDC) in the United States. Based on a content analysis of CDCs’ mission statements and semi-structured interviews with selected CDC leaders, I identify seven roles these organizations perform. The results indicate that current CDCs do not exclusively focus on assisting underserved communities. They perform a more diverse set of roles for various socioeconomic communities. These different roles suggest that CDCs can, and should, be thought of as a diverse category of planning organization. In conclusion, I suggest three implications for planning education and future research and practice related to community design.
The Art of Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) in Menopause Management
Authors: Cameron Courtney R. , Cohen Stacey , Sewell Keri , Lee Meissane
Published: April 2023

Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is considered the gold standard for management of vasomotor and vaginal symptoms of menopause. Vasomotor symptoms of menopause may include hot flashes and diaphoresis that vary in intensity and duration. Other symptoms of menopause can include vaginal atrophy and dryness, leading to dyspareunia and increased risk of infection. These symptoms can be impactful on a woman’s life and HRT has data to support its efficacy, however, HRT carries significant risks that are generally well known, including risk of stroke, cardiovascular disease, breast cancer, and venous thromboembolism. These risks were most well characterized by several landmark trials published in the early 2000s. There are several nuances to prescribing HRT that can make doing so complex. These include consideration of cyclic vs continuous administration and of tapering therapy. Additionally, estrogen is available in a variety of dosage forms including injections and transdermal formulations. However, for women with an intact uterus, estrogen will need to be combined with progestin or bazedoxifene (a selective estrogen receptor modulator – SERM), both once daily oral formulations, in order to minimize malignancy risk. Though product preference and considerations of dosing may vary depending on practitioner preference, this brief report aims to clarify some nuances to prescribing or recommending HRT.
‘Had I been a girl it would have been a big problem’: An intersectional approach to the social exclusion of refugee adolescents with disabilities in Jordan
Authors: Pincock Kate , Jones Nicola , Bani Odeh Kifah
Published: April 2023

Adolescents with disabilities in Jordan, and particularly girls, are marginalized within their household, often isolated from their peers and communities, at greater risk of violence, and have limited access to opportunities for education, work, and agency. This paper focuses on intersectionality-informed participatory and qualitative research. Through two case studies we explore the ways that gender, disability, and refugee status intersect to produce particular experiences of social exclusion, which in turn highlight entrenched and complex structural inequalities.
Asymmetric Impact of Structural Shocks of Crude Oil Price on Equity Market in Two Large Emerging Market Economies: Evidence from China and India
Authors: Banerjee Souvik , Mohanti Debaditya
Published: April 2023

The objective of this particular study is to understand the asymmetric impact of structural shocks (in terms of supply and demand shocks on crude oil price) on equity market returns in the context of the largest two emerging market economies, that is, China and India. The timeframe of this study is January 1996 to January 2022. The study has been conducted, based on monthly data. The present study employs a structural vector auto regression as well as NARDL model to understand the asymmetry of these structural shocks. Our findings are in contradiction to the popular perception of the Press that crude oil price and equity market returns are inversely related. The present study found that different structural shocks have very different impacts on the stock returns. Our study also adds to the existing literature, as it showed that both the Chinese and Indian markets react in similar fashion to structural shocks in the crude oil market. Structural shocks have no impact on the Indian market, whereas there is a significant asymmetric impact of only precautionary demand shock in, both, the long and short runs, in the context of the Chinese market.
Delivery and Impact of Foster Parent Training: Similarities and Differences for Relative and Non-Relative Foster Parents
Authors: Koh Eun , Bruhn Chris , Ansong David , Budde Stephen , Mann Kimberly
Published: April 2023

Literature on the delivery and impact of foster parent training, such as the Nurturing Parenting Program (NPP), is sparse, particularly for relative foster parents. This study investigates (a) how NPP referral, initiation, and completion rates vary between relative and non-relative foster parents, (b) reasons for not initiating NPP, and (c) changes in parenting attitudes and behaviors for relative and non-relative foster parents after participating in NPP. The study analyzed data from the Illinois Birth to Three (IB3) study for 722 relative and 397 non-relative foster parents of children ages three and younger. Relative and non-relative foster parents had similar NPP referral and initiation rates, but relatives had significantly lower completion rates. Content analysis of case notes for 498 cases showed that relative foster parents more frequently noted barriers (e.g., childcare, transportation) to NPP initiation. Among NPP completers, both groups reported similar levels of improvements in parenting attitudes and behaviors at the end of NPP, but a pattern of lower scores was observed for relative foster parents. The findings suggest a need for more support for foster parents, particularly relative foster parents.
Effects of the air temperature on immunoglobulin concentrations of healthy people
Authors: Hu Songtao , Liu Rujin , Li Hui , Zhu Hui
Published: April 2023

The air temperature was critical to human health, especially for the mucosal immunity of the respiratory system. Amongst a few biomarkers, immunoglobulin was an effective material to evaluate respiratory health. In order to explore the effects of the natural air temperature on serum immunoglobulin concentrations of people, an epidemiological investigation was conducted between Jan 2018 and Dec 2019. In addition, an experiment was conducted to find the relationship between indoor air temperature and salivary immunoglobulin E (IgE) concentration, under the built environment within the comfort zone of people. Results of the epidemiological investigation showed that the serum IgE concentration was the most sensitive to temperature and was positively correlated with outdoor environmental temperature ( p < 0.001, Spearman = 0.509). In addition, the experimental results showed that the salivary IgE concentration was also positively correlated with indoor temperature ( p = 0.009, Spearman = 0.495), and it rose significantly with the increase of thermal comfort votes ( p = 0.022, Spearman = 0.508). In a comfortable temperature range, keeping a higher air temperature can increase the concentration of IgE antibodies, which is one of the ways to improve the mucosal immunity of the respiratory system.
Experimental study on combined effect of mechanical loads and corrosion using tube-packaged long-gauge fiber Bragg grating sensors
Authors: Xu Luyang , Shi Shuomang , Yan Fei , Huang Ying , Bao Yi
Published: April 2023

This study presents an experimental investigation on the combined effect of mechanical loads and corrosion using the designed polytetrafluoroethylene tube-packaged fiber Bragg grating (FBG) sensors, as to implement long-gauge FBG (LFBG) sensors in corrosion detection practices for structural health monitoring. A simplified LFBG-based sensing model was proposed for strain measurement in terms of the Bragg wavelength change. Correspondingly, a systematic corrosion assessment strategy was developed to estimate corrosion severity and average corrosion rate. Upon this, the experimental study was performed on epoxy-coated steel specimens embedded with LFBG sensors, where the loading, corrosion, and combined loading–corrosion tests were used to explore the effect of mechanical loads on corrosion behavior. Test results revealed that the specimens subjected to combined conditions exhibited more severe corrosion damage. The maximum mass loss was observed to be 1.82 and 2.43 in percentage under individual corrosion and combined loading–corrosion conditions, respectively. Also, the pit depth under combined conditions was found to develop rapidly in the early stage. The pit depth severity ratio was around 0.2–0.8 during the 67 days of exposure, indicating an evident impact of loading on corrosion severity. Furthermore, the maximum average corrosion rate under combined conditions was found to be 5.66 times that under individual corrosion conditions.
So, entrepreneurship theory—agreements, criticisms and promises [aka our tent, our circus, our next act]
Authors: Arend Richard J
Published: April 2023

This So!apbox Forum’s essays relating to the state of entrepreneurship theory are collectively and briefly assessed and summarized by considering their substantive areas of agreement and disagreement, as well as their projections for how such theory can progress and add even more value to society in the future.
Has the Landscape of Immunotherapy for Prostate Cancer Changed? A Systematic Review and Post Hoc Analysis
Authors: Ashraf Muhammad Usman , Farwa Ume , Siddiqa Maryam , Sarfraz Azza , Azeem Nishwa , Sarfraz Zouina
Published: April 2023

Prostate cancer (PCa) is the second leading cause of cancer-causing death in the United States. As the most common malignancy in men, it is pertinent to explore whether novel immunotherapies may improve the quality of life and overall survival (OS) of patient populations. This systematic review and post hoc analysis curates a patient-by-patient pool of evidence adhering to PRISMA Statement 2020 guidelines. In total, 24 patients were analyzed for treatment history and associated variables including prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels at diagnosis and post-treatment, Gleason score, secondary tumor locations, success/failure of therapy, and post-immunotherapy outcomes including OS. In total, 10 types of immunotherapies were identified with Pembrolizumab (among 8 patients) followed by IMM-101 (among 6 patients) being the most commonly administered. The mean OS for all patients was 27.8 months (24 patients) with the relatively highest mean OS reported with IMM-101 (56 months) followed by tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (30 months). This research article provides critical insights into the evolving landscape of immunotherapies being tested for PCa and addresses gaps in oncological research to advance the understanding of PCa.
Analysis of Knowledge About Male Breast Cancer Among Patients at Tertiary Medical Center
Authors: Altiner Saygın , Altiner Özge Tonbuloğlu , Büyükkasap Çağrı , Uğraş Dikmen Asiye , Pekcici Mevlüt Recep , Erel Serap
Published: April 2023

In the overall population, the incidence of breast cancer in men is lower than in women. Men’s breast cancer awareness is affected both by the low incidence of breast cancer in men and by the presence of a perception that breast cancer can only be seen in women in society. This study aims to determine this awareness and guide future studies on improving social awareness. This study examined male and female patients aged 18 to 75 years who were admitted to our hospital’s general surgery outpatient clinic. A questionnaire containing questions about male breast cancer was administered to the patients, and the study was conducted face-to-face voluntarily. A total of 411 patients, 270 female and 141 male, participated in the study. The results showed that 61.1% of the participants were unaware of the possibility of breast cancer in men. Evaluation of the relationship between awareness and gender revealed that women were more knowledgeable than men ( p = .006). Educational status also had a significant influence on awareness ( p = .001). Awareness of male breast cancer in society is low. Raising public awareness of this issue will enable men to be diagnosed earlier, at a lower stage, and thus to better respond to treatment, increasing their survival time.
Research on working condition diagnosis method of downhole oil-water separation system with sucker-rod pump
Authors: Jiang Minzheng , Chang Siyuan , Dong Kangxing
Published: April 2023

Compared with the rod-pumping oil production system of the conventional pumping unit, the structure of the down-hole oil-water separation system from the rod pump is more complicated, and the down-hole working conditions are worse. Existing technology no longer meets the needs of its downhole condition diagnosis. It seriously affected the production output and economic benefits of the oil field. Because of this, a fault pre-diagnosis method for the downhole oil-water separation system from the rod pump was proposed. Through the theoretical calculation of oil well production and pump efficiency. After field investigation and collection of many suspension point indicators diagrammed for comparison and analysis, the injection pump’s failure probability was 90% above. At this time, the extraction pumps work normally. Therefore, a reverse calculation method is proposed: establish and solve the static/dynamic load model of the production pump, and obtain the load-displacement function of the production pump. The load-displacement function of the suspension point derived from the suspension point indicator diagram is subtracted from the calculated load-displacement function of the production pump to obtain the load-displacement function of the injection pump so that the working condition diagnosis can be performed according to the injection pump work diagram. In the application of 18 wells within the field, the judgment result of injection pump failure and the result of pump inspection coincided with 91.3%, which verified the correctness of the calculation model. This method provides necessary theoretical guidance for the field application and working condition diagnosis of rod pump downhole oil-water separation system and is of great significance for improving the comprehensive benefit of oilfield production.
Insights into Leadership among Female Clergy in the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America
Authors: Phelps Deborah
Published: April 2023

Christian congregations strive to be caring and inspirational communities, but women who lead them often face challenges to their well-being not experienced by their male counterparts. We conducted a study of leadership challenges among female pastors, administering a survey to a sample of 102 Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) pastors. The results suggest that pastors are not isolated from the types of gender discrimination females experience outside of the church. The insights gained can be useful to church leaders, clergy, seminarians, congregants, and those generally interested in gender dynamics and effective leadership strategies.
The Sihailongwan Maar Lake, northeastern China as a candidate Global boundary Stratotype Section and Point for the Anthropocene series
Authors: Han Yongming , Zhisheng An , Lei Dewen , Zhou Weijian , Zhang Luyuan , Zhao Xue , Yan Dongna , Arimoto Richard , Rose Neil L , Roberts Sarah L , Li Li , Tang Yalan , Liu Xingqi , Fu Xuewu , Schneider Tobias , Hou Xiaolin , Lan Jianghu , Tan Liangcheng , Liu Xingxing , Hu Jing , Cao Yunning , Liu Weiguo , Wu Feng , Wang Tianli , Qiang Xiaoke , Chen Ning , Cheng Peng , Hao Yifei , Wang Qiyuan , Chu Guoqiang , Guo Meiling , Han Mei , Tan Zhihai , Wei Chong , Dusek Ulrike
Published: April 2023

Sihailongwan Maar Lake, located in Northeast China, is a candidate Global boundary Stratotype Section and Point (GSSP) for demarcation of the Anthropocene. The lake’s varved sediments are formed by alternating allogenic atmospheric inputs and authigenic lake processes and store a record of environmental and human impacts at a continental-global scale. Varve counting and radiometric dating provided a precise annual-resolution sediment chronology for the site. Time series records of radioactive (239,240Pu, 129I and soot 14C), chemical (spheroidal carbonaceous particles, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, soot, heavy metals, δ13C, etc.), physical (magnetic susceptibility and grayscale) and biological (environmental DNA) indicators all show rapid changes in the mid-20th century, coincident with clear lithological changes of the sediments. Statistical analyses of these proxies show a tipping point in 1954 CE. 239,240Pu activities follow a typical unimodal globally-distributed profile, and are proposed as the primary marker for the Anthropocene. A rapid increase in 239,240Pu activities at 88 mm depth in core SHLW21-Fr-13 (1953 CE) is synchronous with rapid changes of other anthropogenic proxies and the Great Acceleration, marking the onset of the Anthropocene. The results indicate that Sihailongwan Maar Lake is an ideal site for the Anthropocene GSSP.
Facilitators and Barriers to Using Virtual Reality and its Impact on Social Engagement in Aged Care Settings: A Scoping Review
Authors: Hung Lillian , Mann Jim , Wallsworth Christine , Upreti Mona , Kan Winnie , Temirova Alisha , Wong Karen Lok Yi , Ren Haopu , To-Miles Flora , Wong Joey , Lee Caitlin , Kar Lai So David , Hardern Sonia
Published: April 2023

Aim: This scoping review aims to identify the facilitators and barriers to the implementation of VR technology in the aged-care setting. Background: Virtual reality (VR) offers the potential to reduce social isolation and loneliness through increased social engagement in aged-care settings. Methods and Analysis: This scoping review followed the Joanna Briggs Institute scoping review methodology and took place between March and August 2022. The review included a three-step search strategy: (1) identifying keywords from CINHAL, Embase, Medline, PsycInfo, Scopus, and Web of Science (2) conducting a second search using all identified keywords and index terms across selected databases; and (3) searching the reference lists of all included articles and reports for additional studies. Results: The final review included 22 articles. The analysis identified factors affecting the VR technology implementation in aged care settings to reduce isolation and loneliness: (a) key facilitators are local champions and staff training. (b) barriers include technological adaptability, video quality, and organizational culture. Conclusion: Existing evidence points to VR as a promising intervention to decrease loneliness and feelings of isolation and improve social engagement in older people living in aged-care settings.
Practice effect and test–retest reliability of the Wechsler Memory Scale-Fourth Edition in people with dementia
Authors: Lee Shu-Chun , Chien Tzu-Hua , Chu Chih-Pang , Lee Yen , Chiu En-Chi
Published: April 2023

Background

The Wechsler Memory Scale-Fourth Edition (WMS-IV) has been widely used to assess memory function in people with dementia. The older adult battery of the WMS-IV includes four indices and seven subtests. The aims of this study were to examine the practice effect and test–retest reliability and calculate the reliable change index modified for practice (RCIp) for the indices and subtests of the older adult battery of the WMS-IV for people with dementia.

Methods

Fifty-six participants completed the WMS-IV twice, two weeks apart. The practice effect was investigated using effect size (Cohen’s d) and bootstrapping mixed design analysis of variance while considering the severity of dementia. The test–retest reliability was estimated using intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC).

Results

The results showed non-significant practice effects with Cohen’s d < 0.20 in different severities of dementia on two indices and five subtests. The ICC values of these indices and subtests were 0.82–0.85 and 0.57–1.00, respectively. The other two indices (i.e., auditory memory and immediate memory) and two subtests (i.e., logical memory delayed recall and visual reproduction immediate recall) demonstrated small to moderate practice effect (d = 0.46–0.74) for people with mild severity of dementia.

Conclusion

On the whole, the WMS-IV has no to moderate practice effects and moderate to excellent test–retest reliability in people with dementia. The values of the RCIp with 95% confidence interval for the indices and subtests were provided in this study, which are useful to clinicians and researchers for interpreting the real score change in persons with dementia. The two indices (i.e., auditory memory and immediate memory) and two subtests (i.e., logical memory delayed recall and visual reproduction immediate recall) with noticeable practice effect should be used with caution when assessing memory function repeatedly in people with mild severity of dementia.
Pasture-finishing of bison improves animal metabolic health and potential health-promoting compounds in meat
Authors: van Vliet Stephan , Blair Amanda D. , Hite Lydia M. , Cloward Jennifer , Ward Robert E. , Kruse Carter , van Wietmarchsen Herman A. , van Eekeren Nick , Kronberg Scott L. , Provenza Frederick D.
Published: April 2023

Background

With rising concerns regarding the effects of red meat on human and environmental health, a growing number of livestock producers are exploring ways to improve production systems. A promising avenue includes agro-ecological practices such as rotational grazing of locally adapted ruminants. Additionally, growing consumer interest in pasture-finished meat (i.e., grass-fed) has raised questions about its nutritional composition. Thus, the goal of this study was to determine the impact of two common finishing systems in North American bison—pasture-finished or pen-finished on concentrates for 146 d—on metabolomic, lipidomic, and fatty acid profiles of striploins (M. longissimus lumborum).

Results

Six hundred and seventy-one (671) out of 1570 profiled compounds (43%) differed between pasture- and pen-finished conditions (n = 20 animals per group) (all, P < 0.05). Relative to pasture-finished animals, the muscle of pen-finished animals displayed elevated glucose metabolites (~ 1.6-fold), triglycerides (~ 2-fold), markers of oxidative stress (~ 1.5-fold), and proteolysis (~ 1.2-fold). In contrast, pasture-finished animals displayed improved mitochondrial (~ 1.3-fold higher levels of various Krebs cycle metabolites) and carnitine metabolism (~ 3-fold higher levels of long-chain acyl carnitines) (all P < 0.05). Pasture-finishing also concentrated higher levels of phenolics (~ 2.3-fold), alpha-tocopherol (~ 5.8-fold), carotene (~ 2.0-fold), and very long-chain fatty acids (~ 1.3-fold) in their meat, while having lower levels of a common advanced lipoxidation (4-hydroxy-nonenal-glutathione; ~ 2-fold) and glycation end-product (N6-carboxymethyllysine; ~ 1.7-fold) (all P < 0.05). In contrast, vitamins B5, B6, and C, gamma/beta-tocopherol, and three phenolics commonly found in alfalfa were ~ 2.5-fold higher in pen-finished animals (all P < 0.05); suggesting some concentrate feeding, or grazing plants rich in those compounds, may be beneficial.

Conclusions

Pasture-finishing (i.e., grass-fed) broadly improves bison metabolic health and accumulates additional potential health-promoting compounds in their meat compared to concentrate finishing in confinement (i.e., pen-finished). Our data, however, does not indicate that meat from pen-finished bison is therefore unhealthy. The studied bison meat—irrespective of finishing practice—contained favorable omega 6:3 ratios (< 3.2), and amino acid and vitamin profiles. Our study represents one of the deepest meat profiling studies to date (> 1500 unique compounds), having revealed previously unrecognized differences in animal metabolic health and nutritional composition because of finishing mode. Whether observed nutritional differences have an appreciable effect on human health remains to be determined.

Graphical abstract
Metabolomic analysis of aqueous humor reveals potential metabolite biomarkers for differential detection of macular edema
Authors: Jiang Dan , Yan Congcong , Ge Lina , Yang Chun , Huang Ying , Chan Yau Kei , Chen Chonghua , Chen Wei , Zhou Meng , Lin Bing
Published: April 2023

Background

Macular edema (ME) is a major complication of retinal disease with multiple mechanisms involved in its development. This study aimed to investigate the metabolite profile of aqueous humor (AH) in patients with ME of different etiologies and identify potential metabolite biomarkers for early diagnosis of ME.

Methods

Samples of AH were collected from 60 patients with ME and 20 age- and sex-matched controls and analyzed by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC/MS)-based metabolomics. A series of univariate and multivariate statistical analyses were performed to identify differential metabolites and enriched metabolite pathways.

Results

The metabolic profile of AH differed significantly between ME patients and healthy controls, and differentially expressed metabolites were identified. Pathway analysis revealed that these differentially expressed metabolites are mainly involved in lipid metabolism and amino acid metabolism. Moreover, significant differences were identified in the metabolic composition of AH from patients with ME due to different retinal diseases including age-related macular degeneration (AMD-ME), diabetic retinopathy (DME) and branch retinal vein occlusion (BRVO-ME). In total, 39 and 79 etiology-specific altered metabolites were identified for AMD-ME and DME, respectively. Finally, an AH-derived machine learning-based diagnostic model was developed and successfully validated in the test cohort with an area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve of 0.79 for AMD-ME, 0.94 for DME and 0.77 for BRVO-ME.

Conclusions

Our study illustrates the potential underlying metabolic basis of AH of different etiologies across ME populations. We also identify AH-derived metabolite biomarkers that may improve the differential diagnosis and treatment stratification of ME patients with different etiologies.
Effects of changing the timing of warfarin administration in combination with fluconazole on prolongation of the PT-INR: a case report
Authors: Akamatsu Hayato , Nakagawa Hiroo , Matsumaru Ichiro , Hashizume Junya , Harasawa Hitomi , Kodama Yukinobu , Miura Takashi , Ohyama Kaname
Published: April 2023

Background

Fluconazole (FLCZ) inhibits cytochrome P450 (CYP) 2C9, 2C19, and 3A4 and has a drug-drug interaction that potentiates the effects of warfarin and prolong the prothrombin time-international normalized ratio (PT-INR). Although a drug-drug interaction have been reported between FLCZ and warfarin, the effects of the timing of their administration on this interaction have not yet been investigated.

Case presentation

A female patient in her 30s with Marfan syndrome had undergone the Bentall procedure with a mechanical valve and total arch replacement for acute aortic dissection Stanford A type and rupture of the ascending aorta. Warfarin was administered to prevent thromboembolism. She was hospitalized 1 year ago for graft infection caused byCandida albicans, and treatment with FLCZ was initiated. She received FLCZ 200 mg once a day in the morning and warfarin 1.75 mg once a day in the evening, and the PT-INR remained stable at approximately 2.0 and within the therapeutic range. However, 42 days after changing the timing of administration of warfarin from evening to morning, the PT-INR was prolonged by approximately 3-fold to 6.25. The PT-INR then decreased to the previous level by changing the timing of administration of warfarin from morning to evening.

Conclusions

The timing of administration of FLCZ and warfarin may affect the magnitude of drug-drug interaction.
Deep learning for inverse design of low-boom supersonic configurations
Authors: Chen Shusheng , Qiu Jiyan , Yang Hua , Yuan Wu , Gao Zhenghong
Published: April 2023

Mitigating the sonic boom to an acceptable stage is crucial for the next generation of supersonic transports. The primary way to suppress sonic booms is to develop a low sonic boom aerodynamic shape design. This paper proposes an inverse design approach to optimize the near-field signature of an aircraft, making it close to the shaped ideal ground signature after propagation in the atmosphere. By introducing the Deep Neural Network (DNN) model for the first time, a predicted input of Augmented Burgers equation is inversely achieved. By the K-fold cross-validation method, the predicted ground signature closest to the target ground signature is obtained. Then, the corresponding equivalent area distribution is calculated using the classical Whitham’s F-function theory from the optimal near-field signature. The inversion method is validated using the classic example of the C608 vehicle provided by the Third Sonic Boom Prediction Workshop (SBPW-3). The results show that the design ground signature is consistent with the target signature. The equivalent area distribution of the design result is smoother than the baseline distribution, and it shrinks significantly in the rear section. Finally, the robustness of this method is verified through the inverse design of sonic boom for the non-physical ground signature target.
Long-term outcomes of arthroscopic synovectomy and core decompression through multiple small bone holes for early-stage avascular necrosis of the femoral head
Authors: Ji Quanbo , Li Xiaoya , Luo Song , Geng Lei , Ren Peng , Ni Ming , Zheng Qingyuan , Xin Peng , Wang Yan , Zhang Guoqiang
Published: April 2023

Objective

This study described a minimally invasive approach for the management of early-stage avascular necrosis of the femoral head, which integrated arthroscopic intra-articular decompression and core decompression by drilling multiple small holes.

Method

A total of 126 patients with 185 hip avascular necrosis were included between March 2005 and January 2008, and the hips were classified, based on the Association Research Circulation Osseous staging system, into stage I (n = 43), stage II (n = 114), and stage III (n = 28). Arthroscopic intra-articular inspection and debridement, along with drilling of multiple small holes for core decompression, were performed. The Modified Harris hip score system and radiographs were used to assess the pre- and post-surgery outcomes.

Results

One hundred and three patients (involving 153 hips) were followed up successfully for an average of 10.7 ± 3.4 years (range: 9–12 years). After surgery, the overall survival rate was 51.6% (79 hips), and the clinical survival rates were 79%, 72%, 52%, 32%, and 10% for patients with stage I, IIa, IIb, IIc, and III, respectively. The outcomes of patients with Association Research Circulation Osseous Stages I or IIA were better than those of other stages, while hips with a large necrotic area had poor results. This approach preserved the original biomechanical strength of the femoral head after core decompression and eliminated arthritis factors in the hip joint.

Conclusion

The core decompression with multiple small-size holes is an effective method for treating early-stage avascular necrosis of the femoral head, particularly in those with pathological changes in the hip joint.

Level of evidence

Therapeutic study, Level IV.
Análise ultraestrutural e novos registros da espécie endêmica da Mata Atlântica Atlantodesmus teresa (Hoffman) (Diplopoda, Polydesmida, Chelodesmidae)
Authors: Marques Maria Gabrielle , Lino Gelvane , Bouzan Rodrigo Salvador , Iniesta Luiz Felipe Moretti
Published: April 2023

A classe Diplopoda é conhecida por espécies de baixa capacidade de dispersão e limitada área de distribuição, podendo ser restritas a montanhas, ilhas ou manchas de florestas. Membros da classe tem importância agrícola e médica. A família Chelodesmidae é a segunda mais diversa para Diplopoda, com cerca de 800 espécies descritas. Em Chelodesmidae, o gênero Atlantodesmus Hoffman, 2000 é conhecido pela ausência de projeções ventrais nos esternitos dos anéis corpóreos e por características presentes na estrutura reprodutiva dos machos. Até o momento são conhecidas seis espécies no gênero amplamente distribuídas na Mata Atlântica e Cerrado. Dentre essas espécies, Atlantodesmus teresa (Hoffman) é endêmica da Mata Atlântica. O presente trabalho tem como objetivo caracterizar a espécie com base em análise de ultraestrutura e mapear a sua distribuição no bioma a partir de dados de coleções biológicas. Como resultado foram identificados 15 adultos dos estados do Minas Gerais e Espírito Santo, sendo dois novos indivíduos registrados para região de Sooretama, ES. As principais características morfológicas relacionados aos gonópodos dos machos. Futuros estudos ainda são necessários para entender a distribuição do gênero e a riqueza da família no bioma.
Spatio-temporal Fluctuation of Temperature Using Specific Climate Indices in South Xinjiang, China
Authors: Ahmad Ali Khan  , Zhao Yuanjie  , Jamil Khan  , Rahman Ghani , Muhammad Rafiq
Published: April 2023

Temperature and precipitation are significant variables that can be used to determine the climatic variability in a region. This research study has focused on temperature, which is significant for the study of climatic variability over a long period in an area. The temperature has been assessed spatially and temporally in South Xinjiang, China using various climate indices. The temporal data about the temperature of seventeen meteorological stations were acquired from the Chinese Meteorology Administration (CMA) from 1980 to 2018. The Mann-Kendall (MK) trend test and Sen’s Slope (SS) statistical models were used to quantify the magnitude and temporal trend. The monthly and seasonal analysis of temperature reveals a significant increasing trend in mean maximum, mean minimum and average temperatures in the study area. The Sen’s Slope test results indicate an increasing monthly and seasonal temperature trend in almost all meteorological stations. The increasing trend in temperature is mainly due to the desert type of climate of the region that is gradually further aggravating with every passing year. This increasing temperature trend will smoothen the way for perpetual drought in the region in the future. Therefore, this research would be beneficial for future planning and management of water resources in the region and for making preventive measures to mitigate the impacts of climate change in the study area.
W przededniu transformacji. Studium pewnego dziennika osobistego
Authors: Przeperski Michał , Wicenty Daniel
Published: April 2023

Artykuł stanowi analizę dzienników Teresy Konarskiej, emerytki o ziemiańskim rodowodzie, a zarazem diarystki i obserwatorki życia politycznego. Wybrane tomy dzienników, powstałe między sierpniem 1988 a kwietniem 1989 r., dają sposobność do studium mentalności, wyobrażeń i emocji inteligenckiej wizji świata społecznego i politycznego. Autorzy wskazują jej kluczowe elementy: politykę jako domenę aktorów, dychotomiczny podział świata (partyjni vs. solidarnościowcy, ludzie na poziomie vs. głupcy), poczucie zagrożenia, beznadziei i schyłku. Konkludując, osadzają tę subiektywną wizję w kontekście wiedzy o polskim społeczeństwie lat osiemdziesiątych oraz antecedencji zjawisk, które stały się widoczne w latach dziewięćdziesiątych.
A four-line active shunt filter to enhance the power quality in a microgrid
Authors: Mostefa Abdelkader , Belalia Karim , Lantri Tayeb , Boulouiha Houari Merabet , Allali Ahmed
Published: April 2023

In recent years, power quality has become a major concern for electric network managers. Active filtering control schemes ensure improved power quality of the electric network and are able to maintain a desired voltage level at the point of connection, regardless of the current absorbed by nonlinear loads. Harmonics can cause vibrations, equipment distortion, losses and sweatiness in transformers. The main objective of this work is to enhance the quality of energy in a microgrid consisting of 100 kW photovoltaic (PV) system and a 50 kW battery storage connected to nonlinear and unbalanced loads. This paper proposes a the four-arm parallel active filter with a on Proportional-Integral (PI) controller to mitigate the harmonic problems in a microgrid. In addition, an algorithm has been designed to eliminate the neutral current. The identification function is one of the most particular approach for extracting harmonics, it involves providing a current reference imposed by the active filter in order to carry out the filtering operation. Both the performance and the quality of the current harmonic compensation's depend strongly on the strategy adopted for the generating the current reference. In this work, the instantaneous power strategy p-q is chosen outstanding the simplicity and effectiveness in implementation. The proposed control strategy has been tested under simulations and the results have shown good tracking of the references and a significant reduction in the Total Harmonic Distorsion (THD) level under highly unbalanced conditions of the nonlinear loads. The current THD is reduced from 43.64 before filtering to 3.74% after the application of the four-arm filter, following the recommendations of IEEE-519 standard (THD less than 5%).
Examining the Therapeutic Effect of Ceremonial Ayahuasca on Narcissistic Personality and Antagonistic Externalizing in Adults
Authors: Weiss Brandon , Sleep Chelsea , Miller Joshua D. , Campbell W. Keith
Published: April 2023

Changes in narcissistic traits (e.g., entitlement) following the ceremonial use of ayahuasca were examined across three timepoints (baseline, postretreat, 3-month follow-up) in a sample of 314 adults using self- and informant-report (N = 110) measures. Following ceremonial use of ayahuasca, self-reported changes in narcissism were observed (i.e., decreases in Narcissistic Personality Inventory [NPI] Entitlement-Exploitativeness, increases in NPI Leadership Authority, decreases in a proxy measure of narcissistic personality disorder [NPD]). However, effect size changes were small, results were somewhat mixed across convergent measures, and no significant changes were observed by informants. The present study provides modest and qualified support for adaptive change in narcissistic antagonism up to 3 months following ceremony experiences, suggesting some potential for treatment efficacy. However, meaningful changes in narcissism were not observed. More research would be needed to adequately evaluate the relevance of psychedelic-assisted therapy for narcissistic traits, particularly studies examining individuals with higher antagonism and involving antagonism-focused therapeutic approaches.