bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
TLR7 Activation in M-CSF-Dependent Monocyte-Derived Human Macrophages Potentiates Inflammatory Responses and Prompts Neutrophil Recruitment
Authors: Simón-Fuentes Miriam , Herrero Cristina , Acero-Riaguas Lucia , Nieto Concha , Lasala Fatima , Labiod Nuria , Luczkowiak Joanna , Alonso Bárbara , Delgado Rafael , Colmenares Maria , Corbí Ángel L. , Domínguez-Soto Ángeles
Published: April 2023

Toll-like receptor 7 (TLR7) is an endosomal pathogen-associated molecular pattern (PAMP) receptor that senses single-stranded RNA (ssRNA) and whose engagement results in the production of type I IFN and pro-inflammatory cytokines upon viral exposure. Recent genetic studies have established that a dysfunctional TLR7-initiated signaling is directly linked to the development of inflammatory responses. We present evidence that TLR7 is preferentially expressed by monocyte-derived macrophages generated in the presence of M-CSF (M-MØ). We now show that TLR7 activation in M-MØ triggers a weak MAPK, NFκB, and STAT1 activation and results in low production of type I IFN. Of note, TLR7 engagement reprograms MAFB+ M-MØ towards a pro-inflammatory transcriptional profile characterized by the expression of neutrophil-attracting chemokines (CXCL1-3, CXCL5, CXCL8), whose expression is dependent on the transcription factors MAFB and AhR. Moreover, TLR7-activated M-MØ display enhanced pro-inflammatory responses and a stronger production of neutrophil-attracting chemokines upon secondary stimulation. As aberrant TLR7 signaling and enhanced pulmonary neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio associate with impaired resolution of virus-induced inflammatory responses, these results suggest that targeting macrophage TLR7 might be a therapeutic strategy for viral infections where monocyte-derived macrophages exhibit a pathogenic role.
The Effects of Chronic Asprosin Administration on Sense of Smell and Sexual Behavior in Female Rats
Authors: Oz Zeynep Dila , Kacar Emine , Serhatlioglu Ihsan , Ozdede Mehmet Ridvan , Atila Busra , Horoz Mert Ali , Avcu Gaye Goksu , Ozbeg Gulendam , Ozgen Aslisah , Tan Fatih , Zorlu Gokhan , Yasar Abdullah , Yılmaz Bayram , Kelestimur Haluk
Published: April 2023

Introduction: Asprosin is an adipokine released from white adipose tissue during fasting and acts through the olfactory receptor. It is known that adipokines play roles in reproductive physiology in mammals. However, there are very few studies conducted on role of asprosin in reproductive functions. There are no studies on its relationship with sexual motivation. It was shown in the literature that administration of asprosin to male mice improves olfaction. It is also known that there is a strong correlation between smell and sexual desire. In view of this, it was hypothesized that chronic administration of asprosin would improve olfactory performance and increase sexual incentive motivation in female rats for male partners. Methods: This hypothesis was tested by applying the hidden cookie test, sexual incentive test, active research test, and sexual behavior test. The changes in serum hormone levels in female rats that chronically received asprosin were also measured and compared. Results: Chronic asprosin exposure increased olfactory performance, male preference ratio, male investigation preference ratio, activity index, and anogenital investigation behavior. Also, serum oxytocin and estradiol levels increased following chronic administration of asprosin in female rats. Conclusion: These data suggest that chronic administration of asprosin can result in increased sexual incentive motivation for opposite sex in female rats over increased olfactory performance and changes in reproductive hormones.
Concepção neoliberal da corrupção no discurso contábil da JBS
Authors: Emoingt Beatriz Gil , Silva Marcelo Almeida de Carvalho
Published: April 2023

A corrupção é um fenômeno social amplamente estudado que permeia o debate público brasileiro com maior intensidade nos últimos anos. Neste artigo assumimos que a ideologia neoliberal propaga uma concepção particular de corrupção situada predominantemente nos agentes públicos cujo remédio passa, por consequência, pelo enfraquecimento do Estado. Esta concepção é amplamente difundida por organizações internacionais que apresentam soluções pré-concebidas para eliminar a corrupção. Neste sentido, este artigo se propõe a investigar de que forma se apresentam os discursos atrelados à corrupção divulgados nos relatórios corporativos anuais de uma grande empresa envolvida em caso de corrupção. Para isso foi utilizada a Análise Crítica do Discurso, mais especificamente o modelo tridimensional de Fairclough. Entre os principais achados foi possível concluir que em seus relatórios a empresa procura se eximir de responsabilidade pelos atos de corrupção, suavizando-os e atribuindo-lhes a um grupo específico dentro da organização. Ademais, foi possível identificar um alinhamento com a concepção neoliberal da corrupção por meio da responsabilização do Estado enquanto agente da corrupção, bem como pela adoção de soluções prontas difundidas e legitimadas por organizações internacionais de orientação neoliberal.
Transcatheter Leadless Pacing in Children: A PACES Collaborative Study in the Real-World Setting
Authors: Shah Maully J. , Borquez Alejandro A. , Cortez Daniel , McCanta Anthony C. , De Filippo Paolo , Whitehill Robert D. , Imundo Jason R. , Moore Jeremy P. , Sherwin Elizabeth D. , Howard Taylor S. , Rosenthal Eric , Kertesz Naomi J. , Chang Philip M. , Madan Nandini , Kutalek Steven P. , Hammond Benjamin H. , Janson Christopher M. , Ramesh Iyer V. , Williams Matthew R.
Published: April 2023

Background:

Transcatheter Leadless Pacemakers (TLP) are a safe and effective option for adults with pacing indications. These devices may be an alternative in pediatric patients and patients with congenital heart disease for whom repeated sternotomies, thoracotomies, or transvenous systems are unfavorable. However, exemption of children from clinical trials has created uncertainty over the indications, efficacy, and safety of TLP in the pediatric population. The objectives of this study are to evaluate clinical indications, procedural characteristics, electrical performance, and outcomes of TLP implantation in children.

Methods:

Retrospective data were collected from patients enrolled in the Pediatric and Congenital Electrophysiology Society TLP registry involving 15 centers. Patients ≤21 years of age who underwent Micra (Medtronic Inc, Minneapolis, MN) TLP implantation and had follow-up of ≥1 week were included in the study.

Results:

The device was successfully implanted in 62 of 63 registry patients (98%) at a mean age of 15±4.1 years and included 20 (32%) patients with congenital heart disease. The mean body weight at TLP implantation was 55±19 kg and included 8 patients ≤8 years of age and ≤30 kg in weight. TLP was implanted by femoral (n=55, 87%) and internal jugular (n=8, 12.6%) venous approaches. During a mean follow-up period of 9.5±5.3 months, there were 10 (16%) complications including one cardiac perforation/pericardial effusion, one nonocclusive femoral venous thrombus, and one retrieval and replacement of TLP due to high thresholds. There were no deaths, TLP infections, or device embolizations. Electrical parameters, including capture thresholds, R wave sensing, and pacing impedances, remained stable.

Conclusions:

Initial results from the Pediatric and Congenital Electrophysiology Society TLP registry demonstrated a high level of successful Micra device implants via femoral and internal venous jugular approaches with stable electrical parameters and infrequent major complications. Long-term prospective data are needed to confirm the reproducibility of these initial findings.
Accelerated Epigenetic Aging Is Associated With Multiple Cardiometabolic, Hematologic, and Renal Abnormalities: A Project Baseline Health Substudy
Authors: Uchehara Best , Coulter Kwee Lydia , Regan Jessica , Chatterjee Ranee , Eckstrand Julie , Swope Sue , Gold Gary , Schaack Terry , Douglas Pamela , Mettu Prithu , Haddad Francois , Shore Scarlet , Hernandez Adrian , Mahaffey Kenneth W. , Pagidipati Neha , Shah Svati H. ,   on behalf of the Project Baseline Health Study Group
Published: April 2023

Background:

Epigenetic clocks estimate chronologic age using methylation levels at specific loci. We tested the hypothesis that accelerated epigenetic aging is associated with abnormal values in a range of clinical, imaging, and laboratory characteristics.

Methods:

The Project Baseline Health Study recruited 2502 participants, including 1661 with epigenetic age estimates from the Horvath pan-tissue clock. We classified individuals with extreme values as having epigenetic age acceleration (EAA) or epigenetic age deceleration. A subset of participants with longitudinal methylation profiling was categorized as accelerated versus nonaccelerated. Using principal components analysis, we created phenoclusters using 122 phenotypic variables and compared individuals with EAA versus epigenetic age deceleration, and at one year of follow-up, using logistic regression models adjusted for sex (false discovery rate [
Q
] <0.10); in secondary exploratory analyses, we tested individual clinical variables.

Results:

The EAA (n=188) and epigenetic age deceleration (n=195) groups were identified as having EAA estimates ≥5 years or ≤−5 years, respectively. In primary analyses, individuals with EAA had higher values for phenoclusters summarizing lung function and lipids, and lower values for a phenocluster representing physical function. In secondary analyses of individual variables, neutrophils, body mass index, and waist circumference were significantly higher in individuals with EAA (
Q
<0.10). No phenoclusters were significantly different between participants with accelerated (n=148) versus nonaccelerated (n=112) longitudinal aging.

Conclusions:

We report multiple cardiometabolic, hematologic, and physical function features characterizing individuals with EAA. These highlight factors that may mediate the adverse effects of aging and identify potential targets for study of mitigation of these effects.

Registration:

URL:
https://www.clinicaltrials.gov
; Unique identifier: NCT03154346.
Creativity at rest: Exploring functional network connectivity of creative experts
Authors: Orwig William , Setton Roni , Diez Ibai , Bueichekú Elisenda , Meyer Meghan L. , Tamir Diana I. , Sepulcre Jorge , Schacter Daniel L.
Published: April 2023

The neuroscience of creativity seeks to disentangle the complex brain processes that underpin the generation of novel ideas. Neuroimaging studies of functional connectivity, particularly functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), have revealed individual differences in brain network organization associated with creative ability; however, much of the extant research is limited to laboratory-based divergent thinking measures. To overcome these limitations, we compare functional brain connectivity in a cohort of creative experts (n = 27) and controls (n = 26) and examine links with creative behavior. First, we replicate prior findings showing reduced connectivity in visual cortex related to higher creative performance. Second, we examine whether this result is driven by integrated or segregated connectivity. Third, we examine associations between functional connectivity and vivid distal simulation separately in creative experts and controls. In accordance with past work, our results show reduced connectivity to the primary visual cortex in creative experts at rest. Additionally, we observe a negative association between distal simulation vividness and connectivity to the lateral visual cortex in creative experts. Taken together, these results highlight connectivity profiles of highly creative people and suggest that creative thinking may be related to, though not fully redundant with, the ability to vividly imagine the future.
Ligusticopsis miyiensis (Apioideae, Apiaceae), a new combination from China revealed by morphological and molecular evidence
Authors: LEI JIA-QING , CAI JING , ZHOU SONG-DONG , HE XING-JIN
Published: April 2023

Ligusticum glaucescens (Apioideae, Apiaceae) found in China, is a poorly known species known only from the type collection. The species was considered to belong to Kitagawia. In our morphological examination, Ligusticum glaucescens is more morphologically consistent with Ligusticopsis than Kitagawia. Furthermore, several morphological characteristics of Ligusticum glaucescens can also easily distinguish this species from other validated Ligusticopsis species. Phylogenetic analyses based on plastome and nrDNA sequences revealed that Ligusticum glaucescens is distant from Kitagawia but nested in Ligusticopsis. As both morphological and phylogenetic evidence supported the inclusion of Ligusticum glaucescens within Ligusticopsis, this species is here transferred, and a new combination, Ligusticopsis miyiensis, is proposed.
Revision of Australian Ectomocoris with the description of nine new species (Hemiptera: Heteroptera: Reduviidae)
Authors: MALIPATIL M. B. , LIU YINGQI , CAI WANZHI
Published: April 2023

The Australian species of the genus Ectomocoris Mayr, 1865 (Hemiptera: Heteroptera: Reduviidae: Peiratinae), are revised. A total of 13 species are recognised, including nine new species: E. binotatus Malipatil & Liu, sp. nov., E. borealis Malipatil & Liu, sp. nov., E. fuscatus Malipatil & Liu, sp. nov., E. fuscifemoralis Malipatil & Liu, sp. nov., E. interiorius Malipatil & Liu, sp. nov., E. latus Malipatil & Liu, sp. nov., E. luteolus Malipatil & Liu, sp. nov., E. major Malipatil & Liu, sp. nov. and E. spinosus Malipatil & Liu, sp. nov. Redescriptions of E. australicus (Reuter, 1881), E. decoratus (Stål, 1863), E. ornatus (Stål, 1863) and E. truculentus (Stål, 1863) are presented. Callisphodrus patricius Stål, 1867 is treated as a new junior synonym of E. ornatus (Stål, 1863). Lectotypes are designated for Eumerus (Eumerus) australicus Reuter, 1881, Pirates decoratus Stål, 1863, P. ornatus Stål, 1863, P. truculentus Stål, 1863 and C. patricius Stål, 1867. A key to species is provided together with images of dorsal habitus of males and females of different wing forms and major structures of the male genitalia to assist distinguishing these species. Based on morphology, brief comments are provided on putative species groups within the studied species. A male extragenital structure, present in almost half of the species studied, is described in detail and its potential value in diagnosis and analysis of phylogenetic relationships within the genus as well as between related peiratine genera is discussed.
A Revised Diagnosis of Palaeodysagrion cretacicus Zheng et al. , 2016 (Insecta: Odonata) from mid-Cretaceous Burmese Amber, with erection of a new genus of fossil damselflies
Authors: BECHLY GÜNTER , VELTEN JÜRGEN
Published: April 2023

The diagnosis of Palaeodysagrion cretacicus Zheng et al., 2016 is revised based on the description of a new specimen from mid-Cretaceous Burmese amber. Previously, only a fragmentary wing base was known from the holotype. The new specimen shows the complete wing venation of fore- and hind wings as well as large parts of the body anatomy. The new information proves that Palaeodysagrion youlini Zheng et al., 2017 has a very different venation and does not belong to the same genus. Therefore, a new genus Pseudopalaeodysagrion gen. nov. is erected for this species. Concurring with the results of Archibald et al. (2021), the “dysagrionine” taxa from Burmese amber are transferred from Dysagrionidae to Burmadysagrionidae stat. nov.
What Is an Antitrust Problem, Anyway? Toward Antitrust Unlimited
Authors: Mehra Salil K.
Published: April 2023

What is it we talk about when we talk about antitrust? Frequently, a call for antitrust action at the frontier of the field is met by the response that the issue in question is “not an antitrust problem.” Things we were told pre-2020 were not “antitrust problems,” it ran the gamut from “patent holdup” and forcing a buyer to take an unwanted product to fake news and privacy breaches. Surprisingly, however, “antitrust problem” is not a well-defined term. As this has been pointed out, U.S. antitrust law as it exists today does not punish all ends that injure consumer welfare—for example, it is explicitly legal to possess a monopoly, and to use it to restrict output and charge monopoly prices. Nor does antitrust punish all means that injure consumer welfare—fraud and deception can injure consumer welfare, but without more they are not actionable under the antitrust laws. Post-2020, we find ourselves in an era in which policymakers are asking, not without some pushback, whether economic inequality, racial disparities, and decades of falling or stagnant wages can and should be addressed as problems by antitrust law. To define “antitrust problem,” we must consider what antitrust is ultimately supposed to protect: the benefits for Americans of a national economic system based on market competition. Displacing such a system, and thereby depriving consumers of the benefits of such a system, is at the heart of what antitrust was designed to accomplish—even if contemporary antitrust doctrine paints in much narrower brushstrokes.
Coercion, governance, and political behavior in civil war
Authors: Uribe Andres D
Published: April 2023

How do armed actors affect the outcome of elections? Recent scholarship on electoral violence shows that armed groups use violence against voters to coerce them to abstain or vote for the group’s allies. Yet this strategy is risky: coercion can alienate civilians and trigger state repression. I argue that armed actors have another option. A wide range of armed groups create governance institutions to forge ties of political authority with civilian communities, incorporating local populations into armed groups’ political projects and increasing the credibility of their messaging. The popular support, political mobilization, and social control enabled by governance offer a means to sway voters’ political behavior without resorting to election violence. I assess this argument in the context of the Peruvian civil war, in which Shining Path insurgents leveraged wealth redistribution and political propaganda to influence voting behavior. Archival evidence, time series analysis of micro-level violent event data, and a synthetic control study provide support for these claims. These results have implications for theories of electoral violence, governance by non-state actors, and political behavior in war-torn societies.
Learning from Cooperatives to Strengthen Economic Bicameralism
Authors: Pek Simon
Published: April 2023

Bicameral firms can generate societal benefits both directly, by granting representatives of labor investors voice in shaping firm decision-making, and more indirectly, by serving as a transition phase from capital investor–owned firms to worker cooperatives. However, there is room to augment these benefits by leveraging insights from research on cooperatives. This article draws lessons from three types of cooperatives—traditional worker cooperatives, multistakeholder cooperatives, and union cooperatives—to help refine Ferreras's proposal for bicameral firms. First, bicameral firms should offer labor investors more opportunities to participate in firm governance and hold their representatives to account. Second, they should create robust channels for other stakeholders to influence firm decision-making. Third, they should carefully delineate the role of labor unions vis-à-vis the Chamber of Representatives of the Labour Investors. These refinements will better position bicameral firms to achieve their direct benefits and facilitate subsequent transitions to worker cooperatives.
Examining Online Behaviors of Young Adults During the Covid-19 Pandemic Social Isolation Period with Regard to Life Satisfaction, Loneliness, and Hostility
Authors: Yildirim Taskın , Caner-Yildirim Sonay
Published: April 2023

The Covid-19 pandemic exposed individuals to intense restrictions and social isolation, as well as the possibility of deterioration of physical health. In the pandemic period, the Internet has become the principal avenue for social interaction, leisure related activities, and school-work pursuits for most people and consequently problematic Internet use (PIU) has increased dramatically in this period. Modeling of PIU among university students - considered one of the most negatively affected groups at this time - along with PIU subconstructs as well as indicators of psychological well-being - life satisfaction, loneliness, and hostility - will be valuable in directing future studies. This study examined the effects of the psychological well-being indicators of life satisfaction, loneliness, and hostility on PIU constructs; the preference for online social interaction, Internet use for mood regulation, and deficient self-regulation of Internet use during the Covid-19 pandemic social isolation period. Participants were 418 undergraduate students from a public university (130 male and 288 female). Results revealed that young adults with low life satisfaction have been more likely to problematically use the Internet to regulate their mood during the Covid-19 pandemic. Hostility and loneliness between which there is a moderately strong direct relationship, were similarly related to deficiently self-regulated Internet use. Moreover, individuals experiencing feelings of loneliness are more likely to use the Internet problematically for online social interaction purposes, while those experiencing feelings of hostility are more likely to use it problematically for mood regulation purposes. Given the significant relationships between indicators of psychological well-being and PIU, higher education institutions should take measures to prevent PIU behaviors in their students in case they face potential periods of social isolation.
The U.S.-Mexican Border and Music as a “Border Crosser”
Authors: Hellman Judith Adler
Published: April 2023

The ever-changing, always porous Mexican-U.S. border region has long been the site of intense and productive cultural and political exchange of every kind, particularly with respect to music. Today, mariachi performance in the United States provides a counternarrative to the discourse of anti-immigrant, anti-Mexican hate language deployed by Donald Trump and his supporters. Accordingly, the rapid spread of interest and proficiency in the production of mariachi music performed by Latino and non-Latino students in schools across the Southwest and as far northeast as New England can be thought of as a kind of social movement. Two case studies—the first a program developed by a Mexican American instructor working predominantly with Mexican American children in an overwhelmingly Anglo town in Connecticut and the second serving an ethnically diverse elementary school in Central New York State where neither the instructor nor more than a few current students are Latino—suggest the potential of this movement for breaking down ethnic and racial barriers.

El siempre cambiante y siempre poroso espacio de la frontera México-Estados Unidos ha sido, durante mucho tiempo, el sitio de un intenso y productivo intercambio cultural y político de todo tipo, particularmente con respecto a la música. Hoy en día, las actuaciones de mariachis en los Estados Unidos nos brindan una contranarrativa al discurso del lenguaje de odio antiinmigrante y antimexicano desplegado por Donald Trump y sus partidarios. En consecuencia, la rápida difusión del interés y la creciente competencia en la producción de música de mariachi interpretada por estudiantes latinos y no latinos en escuelas de todo el suroeste de los Estados Unidos y tan al noreste como Nueva Inglaterra puede considerarse una especie de movimiento social. Dos estudios de caso, el primero un programa desarrollado por un instructor mexicoamericano que trabaja predominantemente con niños mexicoamericanos en una ciudad abrumadoramente anglosajona en Connecticut, y el segundo involucrando a una escuela primaria étnicamente diversa en el centro del estado de Nueva York, donde ni el instructor ni la mayor parte de los estudiantes actuales son latinos, sugieren el potencial de este movimiento para romper barreras étnicas y raciales.
A new MOPSO algorithm for solving mathematical test functions and control engineering problems
Authors: Mahmoodabadi M J , Rasekh M
Published: April 2023

In this article, a new multiobjective particle swarm optimization (MOPSO) algorithm is introduced to improve the performance of a sliding mode based robust fuzzy proportional–integral–derivative (PID) controller. In this regard, the non-dominated solution having minimum number of neighbors is considered as the global best position, while the sigma values of the members are employed to determine the personal best position. A modified multiple-crossover operator is combined with the operators of the particle swarm optimization to significantly increase the convergence speed of the algorithm. To limit the size of the archive, a dynamical elimination scheme defined in the Euclidean space is introduced. Besides, iteration-based linear relations are implemented to adaptively compute the inertia weight and learning coefficients. To evaluate the effectiveness of the introduced MOPSO algorithm, the requirements are conducted by means of three benchmark functions with regard to generational distance, spacing, and maximum spread metrics. This analysis demonstrates that the proposed algorithm operates better through comparison with well-known elitist multiobjective evolutionary algorithms. Moreover, the MOPSO algorithm is applied for optimal design of a hybrid robust fuzzy PID controller for a pneumatic system with two bellows. Conflicting objective functions are considered as the normalized values of overshoot and settling time of the displacement between the bellows that should be simultaneously minimized. The feasibility and efficiency of the strategy are assessed in comparison with the conventional controllers.
The Gap Between Us: Income Inequality Reduces Social Affiliation in Dyadic Interactions
Authors: Stancato Daniel M. , Keltner Dacher , Chen Serena
Published: April 2023

In this investigation, we tested the hypothesis that increased income inequality between individuals will reduce social affiliation within dyadic interactions. In three experiments, we examined the effects of income inequality on key indices of affiliation using semi-structured interactions. In the first two experiments, a participant and confederate were randomly assigned to a low- or high-power role and compensated mildly or extremely unequally. In Experiment 3, inequality and inequity were orthogonally manipulated to determine whether inequality’s social consequences are moderated by the fairness of the income distribution. We demonstrated that greater inequality produced more negative emotional responses, reduced desire for closeness, and harsher evaluations of one’s partner, regardless of one’s power role and the equitability of the income distribution. We also obtained evidence that greater inequality reduces behavioral warmth, although this effect was less consistent. Our results begin to unpack the psychological processes through which income inequality worsens societal well-being.
Predictive role of magnetic resonance imaging in the distinction of isocitrate dehydrogenase (IDH) mutant grade 4 astrocytomas versus glioblastomas
Authors: Halefoglu Ahmet Mesrur , Camurcuoglu Eyup , Tanik Canan , Kizilkaya Orhan , Yilmaz Adem
Published: April 2023

Background

Isocitrate dehydrogenase (IDH) mutation status is a crucial prognostic factor in high-grade glial tumors.

Purpose

To investigate whether magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) features can display a diagnostic performance in the determination of IDH mutation in high-grade gliomas.

Material and Methods

A total of 170 patients including 24 IDH mutant grade 4 astrocytomas and 146 glioblastomas (GBM) were retrospectively examined via contrast-enhanced (CE) MRI before surgery. Immunohistochemistry and genomic sequence analyses were performed on specimen materials for the determination of IDH mutational status. Certain morphological and diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) parameters were utilized to see if they could play a role to be non-invasive potential imaging predictors in the discrimination of IDH mutant versus wild-type (WT) high-grade gliomas.

Results

On histopathological examination, IDH mutation was detected in 24 patients with high-grade glioma and 146 of the patients were found to be WT. Certain morphological criteria of tumor location and involvement, tumor margins, visual detection of diffusion restriction on DWI, and quantitative apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) parameters consisting of ADCmean, ADCmin, and ADCr could be used as imaging predictors in the discrimination of high-grade IDH mutant versus WT tumors.

Conclusion

Certain MRI morphologic features and visual detection of diffusion restriction on DWI and quantitative ADC parameters consisting of ADCmean, ADCmin, and ADCr can be considered non-invasive, significant independent imaging predictors in the discrimination and can obviate invasive procedures for histopathological diagnosis.
Floating poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid)-based controlled-release drug delivery system for intravesical instillation
Authors: Fu Kai , Zhou Yifei , Hou Jia , Shi Tao , Ni Jie , Li Xue , Zhang Hong
Published: April 2023

Objectives

To investigate the floating, structural, and controlled-release characteristics of a floating poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA)-based controlled-release drug delivery system, and determine the feasibility of this drug delivery system for intravesical instillation.

Methods

PLGA was dissolved in dimethylacetamide, then mixed with IR780 and doxorubicin (DOX) to prepare a drug delivery system capable of solidification and flotation on water at room temperature. Preparations of PLGA, PLGA+IR780, PLGA+DOX, and PLGA+IR780+DOX were formulated. Their floating characteristics in vivo and in vitro were investigated, along with their structural and controlled-release characteristics. Preparations of saline, DOX, and PLGA+IR780+DOX were also formulated; the content of DOX in bladder tissue delivered by each preparation was determined by fluorescence microscopy.

Results

PLGA exhibited stable flotation in vivo and in vitro. A honeycomb structure was observed by scanning electron microscopy. When irradiated with a near-infrared laser, IR780 generated heat that vitrified PLGA, allowing controlled release of DOX from the drug delivery system. The PLGA+IR780+DOX preparation achieved the highest content of DOX in bladder tissue.

Conclusions

Our floating PLGA-based controlled-release drug delivery system exhibited a honeycomb stabilized structure and achieved controlled release when irradiated by a near-infrared laser, making it an ideal drug delivery system for intravesical instillation.
A comprehensive review on design and development analysis and blade material selection of helical Savonius rotor
Authors: Debnath Pinku , Gandhirajan V.
Published: April 2023

The helical Savonius rotor (HSR) is used as green energy generation. The accurate design of HSR is essential before installing any wind farm in a region. It has been widely employed that positive static torque coefficients of helical Savonius rotor are higher compared to conventional semicircular rotor stated by several researchers. The reason is behind that the formation of secondary vortex of fluid. It is leading by vertical vortex flow, which passes over the curve surface and creates drag force. Still now, various design have been proposed to meet peak power output through optimum geometry parameters like blade profile design, aspect ratio and overlap ratio. The selection of blade material is also the influencing parameter to improve the starting torque of the rotor. In this regards present paper is aim to study the details experimental, numerical, and analytical review on HSR and selection of blade material with minimum production cost.
Mentors’ Supporting Approaches of Mentees’ Cognitive Emotion Regulation Strategies
Authors: Kiadarbandsari Atefeh
Published: April 2023

This study assesses the frequency of youth mentees’ cognitive emotion regulation strategies during negative life events and it explores how mentors respond to their mentees’ cognitive emotion regulation strategies during those situations. This research engaged 40 mentees and 35 mentors in New Zealand. Analyses are completed using descriptive statistics and thematic analysis. Findings revealed that the mentors reported their mentees’ more frequent use of adaptive cognitive emotion regulation strategies (acceptance, positive reappraisal, positive refocusing, putting things into perspective, and refocus on planning), whereas youth mentees reported slightly different rates of the strategies (positive reappraisal, acceptance, refocus on planning, putting into perspective, and rumination). In response to their mentees, the mentors supported their mentees’ cognitive emotion regulation through two over-arching responses: emotional support (e.g., reassurance, use of self-disclosure, normalizing mentees’ feelings, redirecting self-blame, showing availability, and validation); and by providing new ways of learning (e.g., teaching positive reappraisal, refocus on planning and problem solving, positive refocus, situation analysis, promoting perspective-taking, as well as emphasizing ownership and taking responsibility). These findings provide insights into youth emotion regulation in mentoring contexts and also offer suggestions for future studies and mentor training.
Low-order sliding mode repetitive control for uncertain linear systems perturbed by band-limited periodic disturbances
Authors: Kurniawan Edi , Pratiwi Enggar B , Harno Hendra G , Prakosa Jalu A , Purwowibowo Purwowibowo , Adinanta Hendra , Widiyatmoko Bambang , Ula Rini K , Hanto Dwi
Published: April 2023

This article presents a systematic method for designing discrete-time low-order sliding mode repetitive controller for a class of uncertain linear systems. A linear system considered in this class is perturbed by band-limited periodic disturbances and parametric uncertainties. The digital controller design method we propose combines two control strategies, namely the repetitive control and the sliding mode control techniques. The proposed controller is required to be low order and is intended to reject the periodic disturbances with specific dominant frequencies and to establish robustness against plant parametric uncertainties. Moreover, the proposed method yields a repetitive controller with only a small number of delay terms and can perform fast transient responses. We show through mathematical analyses that the linear system applying the low-order sliding mode repetitive controller satisfies sliding mode stability and robustness criteria. In addition, we demonstrate via a numerical example that a servomotor controlled by the low-order sliding mode repetitive controller can track a frequency-shifted triangular signal with a short transient period and minor errors. Other examples are also presented and show that the low-order sliding mode repetitive controller exhibits better performance than other relevant control methods.
Merger Woes: Punjab National Bank Pushed to Crossroads
Authors: Das Arnab Kumar , Sahay Arunaditya
Published: April 2023

On1 23 August 2019, the Finance Minister of India declared and cleared the way for the merger2 of 10 public sector banks into four large public sector banks (PSBs). In pursuance thereof, the Oriental Bank of Commerce (OBC) merged into Punjab National Bank (PNB). OBC held a 23% stake in Canara HSBC OBC Life Insurance Co. Ltd. (CHOIC), whereas PNB itself held a 30% stake in PNB MetLife India Insurance Co. Ltd. (PMLI) (Outlook, 2020). Thus, post-merger, PNB had two insurance businesses. Mr Mallikarjuna Rao, Managing Director & CEO, PNB, was in a fix on whether to continue with a 23% stake in Canara HSBC OBC Life Insurance or discard them. He wondered whether the two competing businesses would augur well for PNB. Should he not get out of Canara HSBC OBC Life Insurance and concentrate on PNB MetLife India Insurance or vice versa? How much cash could he raise through this disposal? Would it be right for him to dispose immediately or wait for a better valuation?3 These questions were circling in his mind. He knew that whatever decision he took, his focus had to be on improving Punjab National Bank’s profitability.
Syrian Refugee Women’s Maternal Mental Health Perceptions, Coping Strategies, and Help-Seeking Practices in Lebanon
Authors: Alnaji Nada A. , Tippens Julie A. , ElRayes Wael
Published: April 2023

Introduction:

Globally, 27 million female refugees of reproductive age are subjected to numerous socio-ecological factors that increase their risks of mental health issues, especially during the postpartum period. This study seeks to explore Syrian refugee mothers’ experiences and perceptions of postpartum depression.

Methods:

We used a qualitative phenomenological approach to interview purposively sampled typical postpartum Syrian mothers living in informal camps in Lebanon to evaluate their maternal mental health perceptions, coping strategies, and help-seeking practices.

Results:

Results revealed three major themes: conceptualizing maternal depression as extraordinary and ordinary, cultural perceptions of mental health help-seeking, and coping with negative emotions.

Discussions:

Findings are critical to Lebanon and other Muslim refugee-hosting countries as they can inform future health policies, health care delivery models, and community interventions. Utilizing culturally and religiously appropriate frameworks in assessing and providing mental health services to this vulnerable group can substantially improve mental health services’ acceptance, utilization, and impact.
Integration of Population Health, Social Determinants, and Social Justice in Transcultural Nursing and Culturally Competent Care: White Paper by the Scholars Education Interest Group
Authors: Pacquiao Dula F. , Maxwell Joanna Basuray , Ludwig-Beymer Patti , Stievano Alessandro , Sagar Priscilla L. , Purnell Larry , Daub Katharyn F. , Halabi Jehad O.
Published: April 2023

Introduction:

As part of its mission to advance Transcultural Nursing worldwide, the Transcultural Nursing Society Scholars upholds the central role of the discipline and cultural competence in advocacy, empowerment, and transformation of the life conditions of disadvantaged populations. This White Paper affirms the Scholars’ core belief in the value of Transcultural Nursing and culturally competent care in addressing social determinants to promote health equity.

Methods:

The Scholars Education Interest Group proposes recommendations for changes in education, practice, and research undergirding the discipline and expand cultural competence to directly address social structural and historical forces that perpetuate health vulnerability in diverse populations.

Results:

Collaborative leadership between the TCNS Scholars, Board of Trustess and members should develop initiatives to foster implementation of the recommendations and promote global dissemination of exemplars in education, research and practice.

Discussion:

Collaborative implementation of recommendations will generate evidence of health equity outcomes through TCN and culturally competent care.
Using the Beck Depression Inventory to Assess Anhedonia: A Scale Validation Study
Authors: Cogan Ashby B. , Persons Jacqueline B. , Kring Ann M.
Published: April 2023

Anhedonia is central to several psychological disorders and a frequent target of psychosocial and pharmacological treatments. We evaluated the psychometric properties of two widely used anhedonia measures derived from the Beck Depression Inventory: a 3-item (BDI-Anh3) and a 4-item version (BDI-Anh4). We evaluated these measures in a large undergraduate sample, a community sample, and a clinical sample. Both the BDI-Anh3 and the BDI-Anh4 showed adequate internal consistency, with BDI-Anh4 performing somewhat better, across the three samples. Both measures showed good convergent and discriminant validity, even after controlling for shared variance with other items on the BDI. These findings indicate that both measures have sufficient reliability and validity to support their use by researchers and clinicians.
Higher Levels of Tumour-Infiltrating Lymphocytes (TILs) are Associated with a Better Prognosis, While CDK5 Plays a Different Role Between Nonmetastatic and Metastatic Colonic Carcinoma
Authors: Wang Qinghua , Yin Ruihua , Chen Xiaoxiao , Hu Bin , Jiang Bingjing , Tang Wanfen , Zhang Xia , Jin Xiayun , Ying Mingliang , Fu Jianfei
Published: April 2023

Objective

We investigated the prognostic value of cyclin-dependent kinase 5 (CDK5) in a true population-based cohort of patients with colon cancer.

Methods

1. Immunohistochemical (IHC) staining was used to retrospectively analyse the expression of CDK5 in colon cancer tissue samples of 296 patients. The χ2 test, Kaplan-Meier method and Cox proportional regression model were used to analyse the difference between the patients with differential expression of CDK5 and with different stages (metastatic and nonmetastatic); 2. The number of tumour-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) in tumour sections was determined, and its relationship with prognosis was explored.

Results

1. Among 296 patients stained for CDK5, 18 cases (6.09%) showed negative expression, 77 cases (26.01%) showed weak expression (+1), 124 cases (41.89%) showed medium positive expression (2+), and 77 cases (26.01%) showed strong positive expression (3+). The expression of CDK5 was neither related to mismatch repair nor TILs ( p > .05). In non-metastatic patients, longer progression-free survival (PFS) and cancer-specific survival (CSS) were observed in patients with high CDK5 expression (2+ or 3+) than low CDK5 expression (- or 1+), while in metastatic disease, the opposite was true ( p < .001). 2. TILs in 226 patients were detected in the study. Among them, 115 cases (50.88%) showed a low number of TILs (TILs-L), and 111 cases (49.12%) showed a high number of TILs (TILs-H). Patients with a TIL ratio greater than .2 had a significantly better CSS ( p < .001) or PFS ( p = .008) than patients with a lower TIL ratio. By multivariate analysis, TILs-H was a protective factor for CSS, however failed to reach a significant difference (hazard ratio: .59, 95% CI: .33∼1.06, p = .079), and so was the PFS (HR: .65, 95% CI: .29∼1.43, p = .279).

Conclusion

High expression of CDK5 indicates a good prognosis in nonmetastatic colon cancer, while it is the opposite in metastatic colon cancer, and the expression of CDK5 is unrelated to TILs. Patients with TIL-H have a better prognosis, with a proper cut-off value of 20% for colon cancer.
Parameters optimization of three-element dynamic vibration absorber with inerter and grounded stiffness
Authors: Baduidana Marcial , Kenfack-Jiotsa Aurelien
Published: April 2023

Improving the control performance of dynamic vibration absorbers has recently been effective by introducing a grounded negative stiffness device. However, the negative stiffness structure is unstable and difficult to achieve in engineering practice , and its major drawback is that it amplif ies the vibration response of the primary system at low frequency region. Meanwhile, some mechanical devices can be combined to make the DVA work even better with a grounded positive stiffness. For this purpose, this paper combines for the first time the control effect of the inerter device and grounded positive stiffness into a three-element DVA model in order to better improve vibration reduction of an undamped primary system under excitation. First, the dynamic equation of motion of the system is written according to Newton ’s second law. Then, the steady-state displacement response of the primary system under harmonic excitation is calculated. In order to minimize the resonant response of the primary system around its natural frequency, the extended fixed point theory is applied. Thus, the optimized parameters such as the tuning frequency ratio, the stiffness ratio , and the approximate damping ratio are determined as a function of mass ratio and inerter – mass ratio. From the results analysis, it was found that the inerter – mass ratio has a better working range to guarantee the stability of the coupled system. Then , study on the effect of inerter – mass ratio on the primary system response is carried out. It can be seen that increasing the inerter – mass ratio in the optimal working range can reduce the response of the primary system beyond its uncontrolled static response. However, it is necessary to avoid the situation where the inerter – mass ratio is very large because it can lead to unrealistic optimal parameters. Finally, comparison with other DVA models is show n under harmonic and random excitation of the primary system. It is found that the proposed DVA model in this paper has high control performance and can be used in many engineering practice s .
“Will My Baby Be OK?” A Qualitative Analysis of Pregnant Women’s Suboxone® Online Forum Posts
Authors: Moore Dorothy J. , Butzlaff Alice
Published: April 2023

Background:

Intentional or accidental drug-overdose is a leading cause of mortality in U.S. women of child-bearing age. Opioid use during pregnancy is not only associated with maternal overdose, but with low birth weight at term and neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS). Buprenorphine was approved as a medication for opioid use disorder (MOUD) in the United States in 2002 and is for many women, a preferred treatment option versus methadone. Buprenorphine is relatively safe during pregnancy and is associated with lower rates of NAS than methadone. Given the importance of MOUD during pregnancy, relatively little information exists regarding patients’ questions and concerns about buprenorphine treatment, including the psychological challenges they face.

Aims:

The purpose of the study was to describe the perinatal concerns of women with opioid use disorder who posted to an online suboxone forum.

Methods:

Qualitative descriptive design to analyze some 170 posts from mothers with OUD to an online Suboxone® support forum over the period 2016–2021.

Results:

The analysis of the interview data revealed 4 important themes: (a) Stigma resulting in self-deprecation, low self-esteem, and low self-efficacy; (b) stigma from family members and loved ones; (c) stigma from the medical profession; and (d) stigma from the community at-large (social stigma).

Conclusions:

There is compelling evidence to emphasize the importance of open communication and support between medical personnel and patients to ensure optimal outcomes for mother and baby.
The Impact of Message Framing on Wildlife Approach During Ungulate Viewing Experiences in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem
Authors: Freeman Stephanie , Taff Brendan Derrick , Lawhon Ben , Benfield Jacob A. , Kreye Melissa , Newton Jennifer , Miller Lauren , Newman Peter
Published: April 2023

Every year, millions of people visit parks and protected areas to view wildlife. Conflict between people and ungulates is prominent, and many incidents occur when people approach ungulates at proximities less than the National Park Service regulation of 25 yards. The purpose of this study was to test how wildlife viewing communication messages impact park visitors’ approach behavior. A survey and walking exercise were conducted with life-sized ungulate cutouts on a 100-yard transect in Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks to test the influence of three message frames (i.e., current NPS messaging, resource protection messaging, and a visitor experience message) on visitors’ approach behaviors. Park visitors overestimated proximity when given current park messaging. Additionally, the resource protection- and the visitor experience-framed messages led to more conservative wildlife approach compared to current park messaging. These results have practical applications for influencing visitors’ behaviors and reducing human-wildlife conflict through education and interpretation.