bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Swirl Brake Design for Improved Rotordynamic Vibration Stability Based on Computational Fluid Dynamics System Level Modeling
Authors: Shujan Ali MD , Mortazavi Farzam , Palazzolo Alan
Published: July 2023

The accurate characterization of compressor rotordynamic coefficients during the design phase reduces the risk of subsynchronous vibration problems occurring in the field. Although rotordynamists extensively investigate discrete compressor components (such as seals and front shrouds) to tackle instability issues, integrated or system-level analysis of compressor rotordynamics is very sparse. In reality, the impeller, eye-labyrinth seal, and the front shroud heavily influence one another; and the collective dynamic behavior of the system differs from the sum of the dynamic behavior of isolated components. A computational fluid dynamics (CFD)-based approach is taken to evaluate the dynamic behavior of the system as a whole. The geometry and operating conditions in this work are based on the recent experimental study of Song et al. (2019, “Non-Axisymmetric Flows and Rotordynamic Forces in an Eccentric Shrouded Centrifugal Compressor—Part 1: Measurement,” ASME J. Eng. Gas Turbines Power, 141(11), p. 111014. 10.1115/1.4044874) on centrifugal compressor. The commercial CFD code cfx 19.0 is used to resolve Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes equations to quantify the eye-labyrinth seal and front cavity stiffness, damping, and added mass. The entire compressor stage is modeled to uncover the coupled behavior of the components and assess the stability of the whole system instead of just discrete components. In the current work, three CFD approaches, namely quasi-steady, transient static eccentricity, and transient mesh deformation techniques are studied and benchmarked against analytical and experimental results from the literature. Having established the efficacy of the proposed approach, four types of swirl brakes are proposed and analyzed for stability. The novel swirl brakes create negative swirls at the brake cavities and stabilize both the front shroud and the eye-labyrinth seal simultaneously.
Comments and illustrations of the WFUMB CEUS liver guidelines: Rare benign focal liver lesion, part I
Authors: Dong Yi , Wang Wen-Ping , Zadeh Ehsan Safai , Möller Kathleen , Görg Christian , Berzigotti Annalisa , Chaubal Nittin , Cui Xin Wu , De Molo Chiara , Dirks Klaus , Montagut Nathally Espinosa , Gilja Odd Helge , Hollerweger Alois , Jenssen Christian , Jung Ernst-Michael , Klinger Christoph , Lim Adrian , Sansone Vito , Schuler Andreas , Serra Carla , Sparchez Zeno , Dietrich Cristoph F
Published: July 2023

Improved detection and characterization of common focal liver lesions (FLL) are the main topics of the World Federation for Ultrasound in Medicine and Biology (WFUMB) guidelines on the use of contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS). On stateof-the-art CEUS imaging, to create a library of rare FLL, especially concerning their atypical imaging characteristics, might be helpful for improving clinical diagnostic efficiency. In this review, we aim to summarize the ultrasound and CEUS features of rare benign FLL. Currently there are limited reports and images published.
Spectral weighting functions for localization of complex sound. II. The effect of competing noise
Authors: Folkerts Monica L. , Picou Erin M. , Stecker G. Christopher
Published: July 2023

Spectral weighting of sound localization cues was measured in the presence of three levels of competing noise presented in the free field. Target stimuli were complex tones containing seven tonal components, presented from an ∼120° range of frontal azimuths. Competitors were two independent Gaussian noises presented from 90° left and right azimuth at one of three levels yielding +9, 0, and −6 dB signal-to-noise ratio. Results revealed the greatest perceptual weight for components within the interaural time difference (ITD) “dominance region,” which was found previously to peak around the 800-Hz component in quiet [Folkerts and Stecker (2022) J. Acoust. Soc. Am. 151, 3409–3425]. Here, peak weights were shifted toward lower-frequency components (i.e., 400 Hz) in all competing noise conditions. These results contradict the hypothesis of a shift in the peak weights toward higher frequencies based on previous behavioral localization performance in competing noise but are consistent with binaural cue sensitivity, availability, and reliability; measured low-frequency ITD cues within the dominance region were least disrupted by the presence of competing noise.
Social Media Scholarship in Sport Studies and the State of Cultural Studies
Authors: King-White Ryan
Published: July 2023

This commentary provides a brief critique of current research on social media from a critical pedagogical and sociological perspective. It discusses how social media has become important for communities to congregate and share views, beliefs, and culture. Then, it describes how social media research in sport studies has developed in recent years, paying particular attention to how critical sport scholars view and evaluate this form of communication differently than traditional sport management academics. Following this, the commentary describes the ways that marginalized and privileged subcultures have utilized social media in ways that serve to amplify their voices in the crowded social mediascape and how the progressive possibilities of the two subcultures are in constant conflict with each other. Finally, the commentary describes theoretical, methodological, and empirical possibilities for future research by making the suggestion that more nuanced reception studies and/or praxical social media, as it pertains to sport, can be utilized toward progressive ends, despite the fact that those in power (read: upper class, heterosexual, White, and male) will incessantly fight to maintain their hegemonic position in society in and through the social medium.
The Effects of a Field-Based Priming Session on Perceptual, Physiological, and Performance Markers in Female Rugby Sevens Players
Authors: Mason Billy R.J. , McKune Andrew J. , Pumpa Kate L. , Mara Jocelyn K. , Engel Alexander C. , Kilduff Liam P. , Ball Nick B.
Published: July 2023

Purpose: This study aimed to determine the effects of a field-based priming session on perceptual, physiological, and performance responses in female rugby sevens athletes. Methods: Thirteen highly trained female rugby sevens players (age: 20.7 [2.0] y; height: 169.3 [4.8] cm; weight: 68.8 [7.9] kg) completed either a 20-minute field-based priming session or a control condition. Perceptual, physiological, and performance variables were collected at baseline (PRE) and 5 (POST5), 30 (POST30), and 120 minutes (POST120) postintervention. Data were analyzed using Bayesian mixed effects models. Results: The priming protocol had a larger increase in mental readiness (maximum a posteriori [MAP] = 20, 95% high-density intervals [HDI] = −4 to 42, probability of direction [PD]% = 95, % in region of practical equivalence [ROPE] = 9.7), physical readiness (MAP = 20.1, 95% HDI = −4.6 to 42.1, PD% = 93, % in ROPE = 10.6), and testosterone (MAP = 14.9, 95% HDI = 0.5 to 27.7, PD% = 98, % in ROPE = 5.6) than the control POST30. Cognitive performance decreased POST120 in the priming condition for congruent (MAP = 0.02, 95% HDI = −0.06 to 0.00, PD% = 95, % in ROPE = 6.4) and incongruent tasks (MAP = 0.00, 95% HDI = −0.07 to 0.00, PD% = 98, % in ROPE = 3.2) when compared with the control. Conclusions: Perceptual and physiological markers improved POST30 in the priming condition. Findings indicate that perceptual and physiological responses to priming were not coupled with performance improvements. Priming was not accompanied by perceptual, physiological, or performance improvements at POST120.
“Like Ships in the Night” and the Paradox of Distinctiveness for Sport Management: A Citation Network Analysis of Institutional Theory in Sport
Authors: Dowling Mathew , Robertson Jonathan , Washington Marvin , Leopkey Becca , Lee Ellis Dana , Riches Andie , Smith Lee
Published: July 2023

A central issue within sport management is the extent to which the field should develop a distinctive theoretical knowledge base. This paper empirically investigates the connectedness within (intrafield) and between (interfield) management and sport management disciplines in one specific knowledge domain—institutional theory. We utilized a database of 188 sport-related institutional studies and conducted a citation network analysis of the aggregated reference lists from these articles. We argue that the fields of management and sport management act like “ships in the night.” That is, as the field of sport management has become more distinctive, the field is becoming less connected with general management literature and contemporary theoretical discussions. Potential implications for sport management scholarship and understanding the nature of the field are discussed, along with how it may be possible (if desired) to bridge the gap between sport and management research.
Establishment of a CPER reverse genetics system for Powassan virus defines attenuating NS1 glycosylation sites and an infectious NS1-GFP11 reporter virus
Authors: Conde Jonas N. , Himmler Grace E. , Mladinich Megan C. , Setoh Yin Xiang , Amarilla Alberto A. , Schutt William R. , Saladino Nicholas , Gorbunova Elena E. , Salamango Daniel J. , Benach Jorge , Kim Hwan Keun , Mackow Erich R.
Published: July 2023

Powassan virus (POWV) is an emerging tick-borne Flavivirus that causes lethal encephalitis and long-term neurologic damage. Currently, there are no POWV therapeutics, licensed vaccines, or reverse genetics systems for producing infectious POWVs from recombinant DNA. Using a circular polymerase extension reaction (CPER), we generated recombinant LI9 (recLI9) POWVs with attenuating NS1 protein mutations and a recLI9-split-eGFP reporter virus. NS1 proteins are highly conserved glycoproteins that regulate replication, spread, and neurovirulence. POWV NS1 contains three putative N-linked glycosylation sites that we modified individually in infectious recLI9 mutants (N85Q, N208Q, and N224Q). NS1 glycosylation site mutations reduced replication kinetics and were attenuated, with 1–2 log decreases in titer. Severely attenuated recLI9-N224Q exhibited a 2- to 3-day delay in focal cell-to-cell spread and reduced NS1 secretion but was lethal when intracranially inoculated into suckling mice. However, footpad inoculation of recLI9-N224Q resulted in the survival of 80% of mice and demonstrated that NS1-N224Q mutations reduce POWV neuroinvasion
in vivo
. To monitor NS1 trafficking, we CPER fused a split GFP11-tag to the NS1 C-terminus and generated an infectious reporter virus, recLI9-NS1-GFP11. Cells infected with recLI9-NS1-GFP11 revealed NS1 trafficking in live cells and the novel formation of large NS1-lined intracellular vesicles. An infectious recLI9-NS1-GFP11 reporter virus permits real-time analysis of NS1 functions in POWV replication, assembly, and secretion and provides a platform for evaluating antiviral compounds. Collectively, our robust POWV reverse genetics system permits analysis of viral spread and neurovirulence determinants
in vitro
and
in vivo
and enables the rational genetic design of live attenuated POWV vaccines.

IMPORTANCE

Our findings newly establish a mechanism for genetically modifying Powassan viruses (POWVs), systematically defining pathogenic determinants and rationally designing live attenuated POWV vaccines. This initial study demonstrates that mutating POWV NS1 glycosylation sites attenuates POWV spread and neurovirulence
in vitro
and
in vivo
. Our findings validate a robust circular polymerase extension reaction approach as a mechanism for developing, and evaluating, attenuated genetically modified POWVs. We further designed an infectious GFP-tagged reporter POWV that permits us to monitor secretory trafficking of POWV in live cells, which can be applied to screen potential POWV replication inhibitors. This robust system for modifying POWVs provides the ability to define attenuating POWV mutations and create genetically attenuated recPOWV vaccines.
Supplemental Material: Magma mingling and ascent in the minutes to hours before an explosive eruption as recorded by banded pumice
Authors: Shamloo Hannah I. , Grunder Anita L.
Published: July 2023

Additional figures with discussion of analytical and modeling methods (File S1: Figs. S1–S6), data collected (File S2: Tables S1–S4), and Python script (File S3).  
Infraspinatus-teres minor (ITM) interfascial block: a novel approach for combined suprascapular and axillary nerve block
Authors: Kim Shin Hyung , Yeo In-Seung , Jang Jaewon , Jung Hyun Eom , Chun Yong-Min , Yang Hun-Mu
Published: July 2023

Background

Combined suprascapular and axillary nerve block could be an analgesic option for shoulder pain control. The current description of this technique requires performing the block procedures at two different sites without consideration for catheter placement. We hypothesized that a single site injection to the interfascial plane between the infraspinatus and teres minor would result in an injectate spread to the suprascapular and axillary nerves.

Methods

We performed 10 injections with this approach using 25 mL dye solution in 10 shoulders of five unembalmed cadavers. Also, we described three case reports, two single-injection cases and one catheter-placement case, using this approach in patients with acute postsurgical pain and chronic pain in their shoulder region.

Results

In cadaveric evaluations, dye spreading to the suprascapular nerves on the infraspinatus fossa and the spinoglenoid notch cephalad and axillary nerves in the quadrilateral space caudally were observed in all injections. In addition, the most posterolateral part of the joint capsule was stained in 8 out of 10 injections. There was no dye spreading on the nerves to the subscapularis or lateral pectoral nerves. Clinically successful analgesia with no adverse events was achieved in all three cases.

Conclusion

Our anatomical and clinical observations demonstrated that an injection to the interfascial plane between the infraspinatus and teres minor consistently achieved injectate spreading to both suprascapular and axillary nerves, which innervate the glenohumeral joint.
Estimating plasticity index directly from piezocone penetration tests in saturated natural soils
Authors: Ramsey N. , Tho K.K.
Published: July 2023

Plasticity index, Ip, is a relatable parameter for most geotechnical engineers, because Ip can be used to estimate other soil properties, such as internal friction angle, compression index, and low-strain shear modulus. Consequently, a method for estimating Ip directly from a piezocone penetration test (CPTU), which measures cone resistance, sleeve friction, and pore pressure would be useful for many practising geotechnical engineers. This technical note presents a method for estimating Ip profiles entirely from CPTU data. The new method has been calibrated using a case database of 258 complementary measurements taken, in natural soils, at 25 globally distributed marine sites.
Greybody factors for massive scalar field emitted from black holes in dRGT massive gravity
Authors: Boonserm Petarpa , Phalungsongsathit Sattha , Sansuk Kunlapat , Wongjun Pitayuth
Published: July 2023

Greybody factors are transmission probabilities of the Hawking radiation, which are emitted from black holes and can be obtained from the gravitational potential of black holes. The de Rham, Gabadadze, and Tolly (dRGT) massive gravity is one of the gravity theories that modified general relativity. In this paper, we investigate the greybody factor from the massive scalar field in both the asymptotically dS and the AdS spacetime using the WKB and the rigorous bound methods. We found that the greybody factor depends on the shape of the potential as found in quantum mechanics. The higher the potential barrier, the lower the amount of the greybody factor. Interestingly, for the low multipole case, we found that there exists a critical mass which provides the maximum bound of the greybody factor. This is a crucial feature of the massive scalar field on the greybody factor from the black holes in both the asymptotically dS and the AdS spacetime.
The Effects of Cinobufagin on Hepatocellular Carcinoma Cells Enhanced by MRT68921, an Autophagy Inhibitor
Authors: Xu Zhongwei , Bao Jun , Jin Xiaohan , Li Heng , Fan Kaiyuan , Wu Zhidong , Yao Min , Zhang Yan , Liu Gang , Wang Dan , Yu Xiaoping , Guo Jia , Xu Ruicheng , Gong Qian , Wang Fengmei , Wang Jin
Published: July 2023

Cinobufagin, a cardiotonic steroid derived from toad venom extracts, exhibits significant anticancer properties by inhibiting Na[Formula: see text]/K[Formula: see text]-ATPase in cancer cells. It is frequently used in clinical settings to treat advanced-stage cancer patients, improving their quality of life and survival time. However, its long-term use can result in multidrug resistance to other chemotherapy drugs, and the exact mechanism underlying this effect remains unknown. Therefore, this study explores the molecular mechanism underlying the anticancer effects of cinobufagin in hepatocellular carcinomas (HCCs), specifically in HepG2 and Huh-7 cells. As determined using transcriptome analysis, cinobufagin-triggered protective autophagy suppressed cell apoptosis in liver cancer HepG2 and Huh-7 cells by inhibiting the phosphoinositide-3-Kinase (PI3K)-AKT serine/threonine kinase (AKT)-mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway. Cinobufagin-inhibited cell proliferation, induced apoptosis, and generated cell autophagy by upregulating the expression of MAP1 light chain 3 protein II, Beclin1, and autophagy-related protein 12–5. In addition, the autophagy inhibitor MRT68921 improved the antiproliferative and proapoptotic effects of cinobufagin in the studied cell lines. Overall, this study suggests that combining cinobufagin with an autophagy inhibitor can effectively treat HCC, providing a potential strategy for cancer therapy.
SI and Binary Prefixes: Clearing the Confusion
Authors: Temiz Hakan
Published: July 2023

Considering the emergence of non-standard acceptance of SI prefixes.
L-Space and Large Language Models
Authors: Kaye Jofish
Published: July 2023

From the intersection of computational science and technological speculation, with boundaries limited only by our ability to imagine what could be.

Design fiction is an approach to understanding and speculating about alternate futures. One part of this can involve creating representative artifacts or prototypes from the future, as if they fell through a time warp to the present day. This column is a piece of such speculative fiction, set in 2025.
The Human Touch
Authors: Neville-Neil George
Published: July 2023

There is no substitute for good, direct, honest training.
The Transformative Potential of Restorative Justice: What the Mainstream Can Learn from the Margins
Authors: Rossner Meredith , Taylor Helen
Published: July 2023

Restorative justice is an idea and a practice that has had a significant impact on criminology over the past four decades and has proliferated throughout the criminal justice system. Yet from the beginning of this movement, there have been worries that the mainstreaming of restorative justice will lead to its dilution, or even corruption, and undermine its transformative potential. Developing alongside the growing institutionalization of restorative justice has been a transformative justice movement that has arisen from larger movements for racial and gender justice, drawing on similar foundational values to restorative justice. This review interrogates the relationship between restorative and transformative justice by examining a flourishing of ideas and experiments at the margins of the restorative justice movement in three key areas—responses to racial injustice, sexual violence, and environmental harm—and finds that restorative justice has the capacity to work at multiple levels to respond to harm, transform relationships, and prevent future injustices.
Depression and Associated Factors among People Living with Human Immunodeficiency Virus Attending Antiretroviral Therapy in Public Health Facilities, Hosanna Town, Southern Ethiopia
Authors: Hankebo Markos , Fikru Chaltu , Lemma Lire , Aregago Gezehagn
Published: July 2023

Background. Among those infected with the human immunodeficiency virus, depression is one of the most prevalent mental health issues. Despite its high incidence, depression goes undiagnosed and untreated in the majority of HIV/AIDS patients, which has a negative impact on how well they adhere to their antiretroviral regimen. Objective. To assess the magnitude of depression and associated factors among people attending antiretroviral therapy in public health facilities of Hosanna town, Hadiya Zone, Southern Ethiopia, 2019. Methods. Institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted at public health facilities of Hosanna town from June 6 to July 6, 2019, among people living with HIV/AIDS aged 18 years and older who were on ART. A systematic sampling technique was used to select 392 participants. Data were collected using a pretested and standardized structured interviewer-administered questionnaire. Variables having a

p

value less than 0.2 in bivariate analysis were entered into the multiple logistic regression model. Odds ratio with 95% CI was computed, and variables with

p

value < 0.05 were considered as statistically significantly associated with depression. Result. The prevalence of depression among HIV patients was 37.8%. Being female (

AOR
=
2.15

, 95% CI (1.21, 3.84)), not disclosing their HIV status (

AOR
=
2.77

, 95% CI (1.57, 4.89)), rural dwellers (

AOR
=
2.69

, 95% CI (1.58, 4.57)), poor ART adherence (

AOR
=
1.89

, 95% CI (1.10, 3.24)), having HIV-perceived stigma (

AOR
=
1.71

, 95% CI (1.01, 2.88)), and poor social support (

AOR
=
1.85

, 95% CI (1.11, 3.09)) were significantly associated with depression. Conclusion. The magnitude of depression was high among PLWHIVs. Being female, rural dwellers, not disclosing HIV status, poor ART adherence, HIV-perceived stigma, and poor social support were significantly associated with depression. Enhancing adherence, counseling, and linking those patients who had poor social support to the concerned relatives for care and support is recommended. Providing health education both at the facility level and at the community level may reduce stigma and subsequently depression. Encouraging disclosing HIV status may help to prevent depression.
Investigation of Planar Isolators for Mutual Coupling Reduction in Two-Dimensional Microstrip Antenna Arrays
Authors: Yin Ruowei , Wu Zhipeng
Published: July 2023

The design of isolators to reduce mutual coupling in large two-dimensional antenna arrays is complex and requires significant computational effort. This work attempts to alleviate this problem by applying different types of planar isolators in different orientations and experimenting first with two-element microstrip antenna arrays. A U-shaped planar transmission line isolator, a U-shaped planar transmission line-based destructive ground structure, and a planar neutralization line structure are designed to reduce E-plane or H-plane coupling in two-element microstrip antenna arrays. A mutual coupling reduction of approximately 6 dB is achieved. Four combinations of these planar isolators are compared and analyzed in a four-element microstrip antenna array. An optimal combination is then obtained by using two reversely placed U-shaped line isolators, which reduce the mutual coupling by more than 6.1 dB. The study is also extended to a 5 × 5 antenna array. Similar results of mutual coupling reduction are obtained. In addition to simulation, both two-element and 25-element microstrip antennas have been constructed and tested. The agreement of the simulation results with the measured results confirms the effectiveness of the decoupling structures.
Safe Use of Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy in the Treatment of Diabetic Foot Ulcers: A Multidisciplinary Approach to Minimize Adverse Effects
Authors: Vahabi Arman , Mert Merve , Erdem Hüseyin Aytaç , Yıldırım Şimşir Ilgın , Taşbakan Meltem Işıkgöz , Öztürk Anıl Murat
Published: July 2023

Purpose. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the side effects associated with hyperbaric oxygen therapy and provide recommendations to prevent them in patients with diabetic foot ulcers. Introduction. The use of hyperbaric oxygen therapy in the treatment of diabetic foot ulcers remains a contentious issue, and minimizing side effects is critical. While the incidence of side effects related to hyperbaric oxygen (HBO2) therapy is low, it is essential to evaluate cases in a multifaceted and interdisciplinary manner to prevent adverse outcomes. Methods. A retrospective cohort study was conducted over the period of 2018–2020, involving a dataset of 100 patients. The primary objective of the study was to examine the frequency and types of side effects experienced by patients who underwent hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBO) for diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs). In addition, we analyzed various wound characteristics, characteristics of hospitalizations, the surgical or medical interventions received by patients, and laboratory parameters including CRP levels, total blood count, culture results, HbA1c levels, duration of diabetes, treatment received for diabetes, and antibiotic therapy regimens. Results. The percentage of patients who experienced side effects was as low as 6%, and none of them were critical. The most common side effect was discomfort due to the confined space in the chamber. Conclusion. Appropriate patient selection, combined with a multidisciplinary approach to evaluate eligibility, is crucial to avoid adverse side effects. Patient education and early screening for side effects are also essential. Since various treatment protocols exist for HBO2 therapy, pooled data from different protocols may be misleading. Further studies focused on side effects with specific indications are necessary.
Supplementary Table S5 from CDK4/6-MEK Inhibition in MPNSTs Causes Plasma Cell Infiltration, Sensitization to PD-L1 Blockade, and Tumor Regression
Authors: Kohlmeyer Jordan L. , Lingo Joshua J. , Kaemmer Courtney A. , Scherer Amanda , Warrier Akshaya , Voigt Ellen , Raygoza Garay Juan A. , McGivney Gavin R. , Brockman Qierra R. , Tang Amy , Calizo Ana , Pollard Kai , Zhang Xiaochun , Hirbe Angela C. , Pratilas Christine A. , Leidinger Mariah , Breheny Patrick , Chimenti Michael S. , Sieren Jessica C. , Monga Varun , Tanas Munir R. , Meyerholz David K. , Darbro Benjamin W. , Dodd Rebecca D. , Quelle Dawn E.
Published: July 2023

Supplementary Table S5. Abbreviated list of top kinase inhibitory compounds predicted to be effective against MPNSTs from C-Map analyses of the MPNST transcriptome from NF1 patients.
Supplementary Table S4 from CDK4/6-MEK Inhibition in MPNSTs Causes Plasma Cell Infiltration, Sensitization to PD-L1 Blockade, and Tumor Regression
Authors: Kohlmeyer Jordan L. , Lingo Joshua J. , Kaemmer Courtney A. , Scherer Amanda , Warrier Akshaya , Voigt Ellen , Raygoza Garay Juan A. , McGivney Gavin R. , Brockman Qierra R. , Tang Amy , Calizo Ana , Pollard Kai , Zhang Xiaochun , Hirbe Angela C. , Pratilas Christine A. , Leidinger Mariah , Breheny Patrick , Chimenti Michael S. , Sieren Jessica C. , Monga Varun , Tanas Munir R. , Meyerholz David K. , Darbro Benjamin W. , Dodd Rebecca D. , Quelle Dawn E.
Published: July 2023

Supplementary Table S4. Primers for qRT-PCR analyses
Supplementary Figure S8 from CDK4/6-MEK Inhibition in MPNSTs Causes Plasma Cell Infiltration, Sensitization to PD-L1 Blockade, and Tumor Regression
Authors: Kohlmeyer Jordan L. , Lingo Joshua J. , Kaemmer Courtney A. , Scherer Amanda , Warrier Akshaya , Voigt Ellen , Raygoza Garay Juan A. , McGivney Gavin R. , Brockman Qierra R. , Tang Amy , Calizo Ana , Pollard Kai , Zhang Xiaochun , Hirbe Angela C. , Pratilas Christine A. , Leidinger Mariah , Breheny Patrick , Chimenti Michael S. , Sieren Jessica C. , Monga Varun , Tanas Munir R. , Meyerholz David K. , Darbro Benjamin W. , Dodd Rebecca D. , Quelle Dawn E.
Published: July 2023

Supplementary Figure S8. Additional MPNST analyses for CDK4/6-MEK inhibition plus anti-PD-L1 therapy study.
Supplementary Table S9 from Validation of Immunotherapy Response Score as Predictive of Pan-solid Tumor Anti-PD-1/PD-L1 Benefit
Authors: Bulen Benjamin J. , Khazanov Nickolay A. , Hovelson Daniel H. , Lamb Laura E. , Matrana Marc , Burkard Mark E. , Yang Eddy Shih-Hsin , Edenfield William J. , Claire Dees Elizabeth , Onitilo Adedayo A. , Buchschacher Gary L. , Miller Alan M. , Parsons Benjamin M. , Wassenaar Timothy R. , Suga Jennifer M. , Siegel Robert D. , Irvin William , Nair Suresh , Slim Jennifer N. , Misleh Jamal , Khatri Jamil , Masters Gregory A. , Thomas Sachdev , Safa Malek M. , Anderson Daniel M. , Mowers Jonathan , Dusenbery Anna C. , Drewery Stephanie , Plouffe Komal , Reeder Travis , Vakil Hana , Patrias Lynnae , Falzetta Amanda , Hamilton Ryan , Kwiatkowski Kat , Johnson D. Bryan , Rhodes Daniel R. , Tomlins Scott A.
Published: July 2023

Supplementary Table S9 shows tumor mutation burden and Immunotherapy Response Score status by self -reported race in relevant tumor types from the Strata Clinical Molecular Database compared to Nasser et al.
Cardiac Magnetic Resonance Imaging–Derived Left Atrial Characteristics in Relation to Atrial Fibrillation Detection in Patients With an Implantable Cardioverter‐Defibrillator
Authors: Hopman Luuk H. G. A. , van der Lingen Anne‐Lotte C. J. , van Pouderoijen Nikki , Krabbenborg Judith , Mulder Mark J. , Rijnierse Mischa T. , Bhagirath Pranav , Robbers Lourens F. H. J. , van Rossum Albert C. , van Halm Vokko P. , Götte Marco J. W. , Allaart Cornelis P.
Published: July 2023

Background

Among patients with an implantable cardioverter‐defibrillator, a high prevalence of atrial fibrillation (AF) is present. Identification of AF predictors in this patient group is of clinical importance to initiate appropriate preventive therapeutic measures to reduce the risk of AF‐related complications. This study assesses whether cardiac magnetic resonance imaging–derived atrial characteristics are associated with AF development in patients with a dual‐chamber implantable cardioverter‐defibrillator or cardiac resynchronization therapy defibrillator, as detected by the cardiac implantable electronic device.

Methods and Results

This single‐center retrospective study included 233 patients without documented AF history at the moment of device implantation (dual‐chamber implantable cardioverter‐defibrillator [63.5%] or cardiac resynchronization therapy defibrillator [36.5%]). All patients underwent cardiac magnetic resonance imaging before device implantation. Cardiac magnetic resonance–derived features of left atrial (LA) remodeling were evaluated in all patients. Detection of AF episodes was based on cardiac implantable electronic device interrogation. During a median follow‐up of 6.1 years, a newly diagnosed AF episode was detected in 88 of the 233 (37.8%) patients with an ICD. In these patients, increased LA volumes and impaired LA function (LA emptying fraction and LA strain) were found as compared with patients without AF during follow‐up. However, a significant association was only found in patients with dilated cardiomyopathy and not in patients with ischemic cardiomyopathy.

Conclusions

LA remodeling characteristics were associated with development of AF in patients with dilated cardiomyopathy but not patients with ischemic cardiomyopathy, suggesting different mechanisms of AF development in ischemic cardiomyopathy and dilated cardiomyopathy. Assessment of LA remodeling before device implantation might identify high‐risk patients for AF.
Using Polygenic Risk Scores for Prioritizing Individuals at Greatest Need of a Cardiovascular Disease Risk Assessment
Authors: Chung Ryan , Xu Zhe , Arnold Matthew , Ip Samantha , Harrison Hannah , Barrett Jessica , Pennells Lisa , Kim Lois G. , Di Angelantonio Emanuele , Paige Ellie , Ritchie Scott C. , Inouye Michael , Usher‐Smith Juliet A. , Wood Angela M.
Published: July 2023

Background

The aim of this study was to provide quantitative evidence of the use of polygenic risk scores for systematically identifying individuals for invitation for full formal cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk assessment.

Methods and Results

A total of 108 685 participants aged 40 to 69 years, with measured biomarkers, linked primary care records, and genetic data in UK Biobank were used for model derivation and population health modeling. Prioritization tools using age, polygenic risk scores for coronary artery disease and stroke, and conventional risk factors for CVD available within longitudinal primary care records were derived using sex‐specific Cox models. We modeled the implications of initiating guideline‐recommended statin therapy after prioritizing individuals for invitation to a formal CVD risk assessment. If primary care records were used to prioritize individuals for formal risk assessment using age‐ and sex‐specific thresholds corresponding to 5% false‐negative rates, then the numbers of men and women needed to be screened to prevent 1 CVD event are 149 and 280, respectively. In contrast, adding polygenic risk scores to both prioritization and formal assessments, and selecting thresholds to capture the same number of events, resulted in a number needed to screen of 116 for men and 180 for women.

Conclusions

Using both polygenic risk scores and primary care records to prioritize individuals at highest risk of a CVD event for a formal CVD risk assessment can efficiently prioritize those who need interventions the most than using primary care records alone. This could lead to better allocation of resources by reducing the number of risk assessments in primary care while still preventing the same number of CVD events.
Clonal Hematopoiesis of Indeterminate Potential From a Heart Failure Specialist's Point of View
Authors: Sikking Maurits A. , Stroeks Sophie L. V. M. , Waring Olivia J. , Henkens Michiel T. H. M. , Riksen Niels P. , Hoischen Alexander , Heymans Stephane R. B. , Verdonschot Job A. J.
Published: July 2023

Clonal hematopoiesis of indeterminate potential (CHIP) is a common bone marrow abnormality induced by age‐related DNA mutations, which give rise to proinflammatory immune cells. These immune cells exacerbate atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease and may induce or accelerate heart failure. The mechanisms involved are complex but point toward a central role for proinflammatory macrophages and an inflammasome‐dependent immune response (IL‐1 [interleukin‐1] and IL‐6 [interleukin‐6]) in the atherosclerotic plaque or directly in the myocardium. Intracardiac inflammation may decrease cardiac function and induce cardiac fibrosis, even in the absence of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. The pathophysiology and consequences of CHIP may differ among implicated genes as well as subgroups of patients with heart failure, based on cause (ischemic versus nonischemic) and ejection fraction (reduced ejection fraction versus preserved ejection fraction). Evidence is accumulating that CHIP is associated with cardiovascular mortality in ischemic and nonischemic heart failure with reduced ejection fraction and involved in the development of heart failure with preserved ejection fraction. CHIP and corresponding inflammatory pathways provide a highly potent therapeutic target. Randomized controlled trials in patients with well‐phenotyped heart failure, where readily available anti‐inflammatory therapies are used to intervene with clonal hematopoiesis, may pave the way for a new area of heart failure treatment. The first clinical trials that target CHIP are already registered.
Compensation and Staffing Challenges in Child Care: Statewide Evidence from Pandemic Relief Applications
Authors: Hall Todd , Fares Isabelle , Markowitz Anna J. , Miller-Bains Kate , Bassok Daphna
Published: July 2023

Child care teachers support young children's learning and development and parents’ ability to work. However, they earn far less and turn over at far higher rates than K–12 teachers. COVID-19 exacerbated staffing challenges, and the child care workforce was 5.9 percent smaller in January 2023 than in January 2020. While low compensation likely drives turnover in early childhood education, there is relatively little large-scale evidence on the link between compensation and staffing challenges. We summarize the limited pre-pandemic evidence and use pandemic-era data from 90 percent of publicly funded child care centers in Louisiana to describe the relationship between sites’ compensation and staffing challenges. In October 2022, 15 percent of centers’ lead teacher positions were unfilled—nearly quadruple the 4 percent national vacancy rate for public school teachers. Of centers with any vacancies or hires in the past six months, 65 percent turned families away and 84 percent hired less-experienced or -qualified teachers than desired due to staffing challenges. Centers with higher wages were significantly less likely to report staffing challenges, turn families away, and hire less-experienced teachers, after controlling for center characteristics and region. Our findings and prior evidence suggest that wage increases are promising for stabilizing the child care workforce.
Exploring Regulatory Interplay in the Health Internet of Everything: Digital Health Technologies, Data Protection and Cybersecurity
Authors: Gerybaite Aiste
Published: July 2023

Against the backdrop of interconnected devices, people, and processes in the Internet of Everything (IoE) an examination of the MDR (Regulation (EU) 2017/745 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 5 April 2017 on medical devices, amending Directive 2001/83/EC, Regulation (EC) No 178/2002 and Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009 and repealing Council Directives 90/385/EEC and 93/42/EE), data protection and cybersecurity rules are carried out with respect to medical devices’ privacy and security. The legal analysis therefore investigates how and to what extent the MDR could cope with the copious challenges of cybersecurity and data protection in the IoE of medical devices. The article sheds light on how the MDR sets a minimal standard of requirements for medical device safety and security. In this respect, an unexpected and complicated regulatory interplay is discussed providing for a well-coordinated approach for digital health technologies. Finally, the article discusses several key points of the proposed EU AI Regulation considering digital health technologies.
A new species of the genus Brachytydeus Thor sensu André (Acari: Tydeidae) and a key to all known species from Peru
Authors: ESCOBAR-GARCIA HECTOR ALONSO , ANDRADE DANIEL JÚNIOR DE , UECKERMANN EDWARD A. , ANDRÉ HENRI M.
Published: July 2023

Brachytydeus juanjosei sp. nov., a new species of Neotropical Tydeidae, is illustrated and described from females, males, and a tritonymph collected from the leaves of a native forest tree, Neltuma piurensis (Fabaceae), from Department of Piura in north-western Peru. The new tydeid mite was found all year long, but more frequently observed during spring in high populations (September/December). A key to the known Peruvian species of the subfamily Tydeinae is provided.
The Golden Mean: How Zhongyong Affects Environmental Behaviors and the Pathways
Authors: Li Dajun , Zhang Nan
Published: July 2023

Zhongyong (golden mean) is a typical Oriental Confucius thought that addresses interpersonal harmony and interdependence. A moderated mediating model was used in this study to examine the relationship between Zhongyong and environmental behavior. The results of our model showed that Zhongyong was positively associated with environmental behavior. In comparison to people with lower levels of Zhongyong, respondents with higher levels of Zhongyong had a significantly higher scores for collective efficacy, personal norms, and environmental behavior. Furthermore, Zhongyong indirectly influenced environmental behavior through collective efficacy and personal norms. More importantly, we introduced two extrinsic moderator variables: environmental concerns and interpersonal communication. The reasons Zhongyong works and how to take advantage of this Oriental cultural heritage to promote an individual’s pro-environmental willingness are further discussed.
Preparation and sound absorption properties of multi-layer composites formed by waste polyphenylene sulfide filters
Authors: Xing Jian , Sun Shaoyang , Zhang Shucheng , Xu Zhenzhen , Ke Huizhen
Published: July 2023

Composite materials with multi-layer structure were prepared by combining polyurethane film and waste polyphenylene sulfide filters by hot melting, which could be used as sound-absorbing materials to contribute to the noise control and reutilization of industrial waste. The structure, mechanical property, pore size distribution and stability of waste polyphenylene sulfide filters were investigated and could directly affect the quality of recycled products. The effects of layer numbers, layering sequence and polyurethane film thickness on sound absorption and insulation properties were also analyzed using an impedance tube absorption test system. The results showed that multi-layer materials had a better sound absorption effect than single-layer polyphenylene sulfide filters at low frequency. The sound absorption coefficients of the single-layer sample was only 0.081 at 1000 Hz, while the sound absorption coefficients of the five-layer sample could reach 0.26. The sound absorption properties of multi-layer materials were slightly affected by layering sequence, but polyurethane film thickness had a significant effect on sound absorption properties. The α of the SUS1 and USU1 samples were 0.151 and 0.170, while the α of the SUS3 and USU3 samples were only 0.076 and 0.056, respectively. Meanwhile, the sound insulation properties of multi-layer materials could be significantly influenced by the polyurethane film position. The sound transmission loss of the SUSUSU3 sample was just 32.83 dB, whereas that of the USUSU3 sample could reach 47.94 dB. Moreover, when polyurethane film was located on the sound facing side of multi-layer materials, the increase in polyurethane film thickness could cause the average sound reduction index of the USUSU sample to increase from 28.76 dB to 47.94 dB.
Day Reporting Centers and Recidivism: The Role of Social Support
Authors: Oselin Sharon S. , Mahutga Matthew C. , Flores Humberto
Published: July 2023

Day reporting centers (DRCs) are increasingly popular alternative to traditional forms of supervision. Yet, studies that describe a fairly common set of programs and services among DRCs produce conflicting results regarding their efficacy, suggesting that as yet unobserved characteristics of DRCs might explain their varying efficacy. This article relies on a mixed-methods analysis of DRCs. Using quasi-experimental regression techniques and a conservative control group to estimate the average treatment effect of DRC participation, we analyze recidivism outcomes (arrests and convictions) after a 2-year follow-up period. We then draw on qualitative interview data to reveal which aspects of the DRC programs’ clients identify as most important for successful re-entry. Our analysis suggests that DRCs reduce recidivism for participants by 10.8 (convictions) to 12.8 (arrests) percentage points. Our interview data suggest that high levels of social support from justice-involved DRC staff amplify the effects of programming to help explain this outcome.
Hierarchical collision-free trajectory planning for autonomous vehicles based on improved artificial potential field method
Authors: Qin Ping , Liu Fei , Guo Zhizhong , Li Zhe , Shang Yuze
Published: July 2023

To enable autonomous vehicles to generate smooth and collision-free trajectories and improve their driving performance on structured roads, this paper proposes a hierarchical trajectory planning algorithm based on an improved artificial potential field method. To improve the applicability of the algorithm to complex scenarios, the Frenet coordinate system was established to address these limitations. First, the safety distance model is applied to the risk assessment of the improved artificial potential field method. Then, the hierarchical solution is carried out, and the road solvable convex space and the rough path solution are solved by combining the artificial potential field method. On this basis, the potential field term and the smoothing term cost function are established, and the sequential quadratic programming (SQP) algorithm is used to solve the exact path that meets the requirements of safety and smoothness. Hierarchical planning shortens the solution time by quickly determining the bounds of the convex space. Finally, in the speed planning, in order to take into account the comfort and safety of the occupants, the speed curve is solved by considering the dynamic constraints of the vehicle. The obstacle avoidance effects of the algorithm on static and dynamic obstacles are tested in different simulation scenarios. The results of the simulation experiment show that the proposed algorithm can successfully achieve obstacle avoidance on complex structured roads.
The anti-inflammatory and haemodynamic effects of levosimendan on advanced heart failure patients: a meta-analysis of published studies
Authors: Zhou Suzhen , Li Denghua , Zhang Lieliang , Li Juxiang
Published: July 2023

Objective

Increasing evidence from randomized controlled trials shows the anti-inflammatory and haemodynamic effects of levosimendan in advanced heart failure (AdHF), however, conflicting results have been reported in some studies. The aim of this study was to estimate the anti-inflammatory and haemodynamic effects of levosimendan on AdHF (registration number: INPLASY202250097).

Methods

The MEDLINE, PubMed, ClinicalTrials.com and Cochrane Library databases were systematically searched for studies published in English up to April 2019. Data were extracted from applicable articles. Meta-analyses were performed to assess interleukin (IL)-6, cardiac index, pulmonary artery pressure (PAP) and New York Heart Association (NYHA) functional class efficacy outcomes, following PRISMA 2020 guidelines.

Results

A total of 11 studies were included (211 patients who received levosimendan and 193 controls). Meta-analyses showed that the levosimendan group displayed significantly reduced IL-6 (standardized mean difference [SMD] −1.05; 95% confidence interval [CI] −1.44, −0.66; I2 = 50.9%), improved cardiac index (SMD 0.59; 95% CI 0.29, 0.88; I2 = 0.0%); reduced PAP (SMD −1.22; 95% CI −1.91, −0.53; I2 = 89.7%) and improved NYHA functional class (SMD −1.66; 95% CI −2.27, −1.04; I2 = 74.6%) versus controls.

Conclusions

Levosimendan infusion was beneficial in patients with AdHF, displayed by anti-inflammatory and improved haemodynamic effects, and improved NYHA functional class.