bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Computation of Outer Inverse of Tensors Based on t‐Product
Authors: Behera Ratikanta , Sahoo Jajati Keshari , Wei Yimin
Published: November 2024

Tensor computations play an essential role in various fields of science and engineering, including multiway data analysis. In this study, we established a few basic properties of the range and null space of a tensor by using block circulant matrices and a discrete Fourier matrix. We then discuss the outer inverse of the tensors based on ‐product with a prescribed range and kernel of third‐order tensors. We address the relation of this outer inverse with other generalized inverses, such as the Moore–Penrose inverse, group inverse, and Drazin inverse. In addition, we present a few algorithms for computing the outer inverses of the tensors. In particular, a ‐QR decomposition based algorithm was developed to compute outer inverses. It is well known that the confidentiality of information transmitted through the virtual world grows exponentially, and color image and video security have become a significant concern when communicating over the internet. As an application, a ‐QR decomposition based algorithm was demonstrated for concealing secret color images and videos.
Evaluation of depression at 6 and 12 months postpartum by examining depressive symptoms and self‐harm ideation during the early postpartum period: Tohoku Medical Megabank Project Birth and Three‐Generation Cohort Study
Authors: Orui Masatsugu , Obara Taku , Ishikuro Mami , Noda Aoi , Shinoda Genki , Murakami Keiko , Iwama Noriyuki , Chiba Ippei , Nakaya Kumi , Hatanaka Rieko , Kogure Mana , Kobayashi Natsuko , Kikuchi Saya , Metoki Hirohito , Kikuya Masahiro , Nakaya Naoki , Hozawa Atsushi , Tomita Hiroaki , Kuriyama Shinichi
Published: November 2024

Aim

The aim of this study was to evaluate depression at 6 and 12 months postpartum, using the Edinburgh Postpartum Depression Scale (EPDS) total score and its subitem regarding self‐harm ideation (SHI) at 1 month postpartum.

Methods

A sample of 12,358 postpartum women answered the EPDS and questionaries at 1, 6, and 12 months postpartum longitudinally.

Results

For participants with postpartum depression (PPD; EPDS total score ≥9) and SHI (SHI sub‐score ≥1) at 1 month postpartum, the risk of depression at 6 and 12 months postpartum (odds ratio [95% confidence interval] at 6 and 12 months postpartum: 20.03 [16.8–23.8] and 14.55 [12.3–17.2], respectively) was higher than for those with PPD but without SHI at 1 month postpartum (OR: 8.57 [7.36–10.0], and 6.24 [5.38–7.24], respectively). Additionally, SHI even without depressive symptoms at 1 month postpartum is also a risk for depression at 6 and 12 months postpartum. To support our longitudinal evaluation of depression at 6 and 12 months postpartum, these related factors were examined: traumatic events or relocations after the Great East Japan Earthquake, employment status, household income, personality traits, sleep status, psychological distress, and social networks. The result showed employment status, low household income and poor social networks were significantly associated with depression at 12 months postpartum but not at 6 months postpartum.

Conclusion

This study showed a high risk of depression at 6 and 12 months postpartum for those who had depressive symptoms with SHI at 1 month postpartum. Our findings may contribute to the precise evaluation of depression at 6 and 12 months postpartum while considering sleep status, psychological distress and social network during pregnancy.
Rapid estimation of carbon footprints in agrochemical development: correlation of process mass intensity with CO2 emissions
Authors: Rohanna John , Tenzeldam Audra , Jenkins Robin , Li Yuan , Schuitman Abe
Published: November 2024

BACKGROUND

The agricultural sector faces a challenge in balancing increasing food demand while minimizing environmental impacts. Crop protection products are crucial for achieving high crop yields and ensuring food security. However, life cycle assessment (LCA), the standard framework for evaluating environmental impact, is time‐consuming and costly, especially during early product development. To address this, a novel tool correlating process mass intensity (PMI) with greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions has been developed as a streamlined alternative.

RESULTS

A strong linear correlation (R2 = 0.95) was identified between PMI and product GHG emissions, enabling rapid carbon footprint estimation using simplified PMI data. The model was validated using 13 small molecule active ingredients (AIs), showing a mean absolute error (MAE) of 55 g CO₂/kg AI and a root mean square error (RMSE) of 64 kg CO₂/kg AI. Residual analysis demonstrated random distribution, suggesting reliable predictions.

CONCLUSION

The PMI‐based tool provides rapid, accurate estimates of product carbon footprint (PCF), supporting early‐stage decision‐making in research and development for agrochemical processes. Its simplicity makes it applicable across various chemical sectors and valuable for sustainability efforts. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Identification and synthesis of a long‐chain antimicrobial peptide from the venom of the Liocheles australasiae scorpion
Authors: Miyashita Masahiro , Sakai Shoichi , Okabe Ryota , Kawai Sayaka , Kishimoto Takumi , Kitanaka Atsushi , Mitani Naoya , Nakagawa Yoshiaki
Published: November 2024

Scorpion venom contains linear peptides without disulfide bonds in addition to peptides with disulfide bonds. Many such linear peptides have an amphiphilic α‐helical structure, often with antimicrobial activity and can be classified into three groups based on their molecular size. Among them, long‐chain antimicrobial peptides consisting of more than 40 residues have not been thoroughly studied due to the difficulty of synthesizing them. We have previously reported a transcriptome analysis of the venom gland of Liocheles australasiae that revealed precursor sequences of long‐chain antimicrobial peptides. In the study reported here, we identified the mature structure of one such long‐chain antimicrobial peptide, LaCT1, which we synthesized using chemical ligation to confirm its structure and evaluate its biological activities. The result showed that LaCT1 exhibited significant antimicrobial activity. In addition, we identified its partial peptides consisting of an N‐ or C‐terminal region, which may be generated by enzymatic cleavage in the venom. Among them, only the peptide containing the N‐terminal half region was active. LaCT1 also not only showed insecticidal activity but also synergistically enhanced the effects of another insecticidal peptide identified in L. australasiae venom as well. These results provide insights into the role of antimicrobial peptides in scorpion venom.
Influence of Cosolvents on the Pressure Stability of Human Serum Albumin
Authors: Savelkouls Jaqueline , Schneider Eric , Woo Chang Hee , Paulus Michael
Published: November 2024

A small‐angle X‐ray scattering study on the pressure‐dependent behavior of human serum albumin (HSA) is presented. HSA is able to absorb cosolvents such as drugs or other hydrophobic substances and transport them, for example, in the human body. It is shown that the uptake of various substances is associated with increased pressure stability, which can be used as an indicator of protein–substance interaction. Especially the interaction between the substances and the hydrophobic pockets of the protein is an important aspect, which mainly depends on the hydrophobicity as well as the size of the used cosolvents. Specifically, drugs such as ibuprofen and theophylline increase the pressure stability of the protein enormously, while caffeine or TMAO, for example, has no strong influence.
Atmospheric warming during rapid sea ice loss over the Barents–Kara seas in winter
Authors: Hu Xia , Jiang Zhina , Dai Guokun
Published: November 2024

The atmospheric temperature change associated with rapid sea ice loss events over the Barents–Kara Seas (BKS) is explored. Rapid sea ice loss events are defined as periods with a tendency for sea ice concentration averaged over BKS to be below the fifth percentile of the probability density function distribution during the winters of 1979–2020 for at least three consecutive days. Composite analysis shows that there is a significantly positive bottom‐amplified temperature anomaly ahead of the rapid sea ice loss, which is closely associated with a wave train composed of a Ural blocking and an upstream positive phase of the North Atlantic Oscillation. This structure is favorable for the transport of warm and moist air into the BKS, and therefore, the tropospheric temperature, including the surface air temperature, increases through horizontal warm‐temperature advection, specifically through warm advection of the climatological temperature by the anomalous wind. The cooling over the BKS due to the adiabatic effect and vertical mixing opposes the horizontal warm‐temperature advection above and below about 900 hPa, respectively. However, an increase in skin temperature prominently results from enhanced downward long‐wave radiation, which is also the main contributor to the rapid sea ice loss.
Exploring Chlorinated Solvents as Electrolytes for Lithium Metal Batteries: A DFT and MD Study
Authors: Li Zhe , Zhang Jingwei , Xie Weiwei , Zhao Qing
Published: November 2024

Electrolytes with fluorinated solvents have been regarded as a promising strategy to stabilize high‐voltage cathodes and the interphase of lithium anode in lithium metal batteries (LMBs). However, the rigorous synthesis approach and high cost have led to a demand for developing cost‐effective solvents with suitable properties for LMBs. Herein, we explored the possibility of using chlorinate solvents as electrolytes using density functional theory (DFT) and classical molecular dynamics (MD) simulation. Taking ether (1,2‐dimethoxyethane [DME], 1,3‐dioxolane [DOL]), carbonate (dimethyl carbonate [DMC], and ethylene carbonate [EC]) as examples, we first compared the energy variation of the highest occupied molecular orbital (HOMO) and lowest unoccupied molecular orbital (LUMO) upon Cl and F substitution. In particular, we found that 1,2‐bis(chloromethoxy)ethane (DME‐2Cl‐2) has the lowest HOMO and the highest LUMO level among the chlorinated DME after coordinating with Li+, enabling a potentially wide voltage stability. Further MD simulation reveals that lithium ions in DME‐2Cl‐2 has a weaker solvation coordination with solvents but stronger interaction with anions than DME and 1,2‐bis(Fluoromethoxy)ethane (DME‐2F‐2), which is more beneficial for forming stable anion‐derived solid electrolyte interphase (SEI). Our findings suggest that chlorinated solvents can be used as promising electrolytes for LMBs.
Unraveling contemporary trends on United Nations sustainable development goals: A new global bibliometric and literature review analysis
Authors: Gyimah Prince , Appiah Kingsley Opoku , Appiagyei Kwadjo
Published: November 2024

This review presents a bibliometric performance and systematic literature review of research publications related to the 17 United Nations (UN) sustainable development goals (SDGs) in business studies. The study employs the 2020 revised Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses (PRISMA) framework to systematically evaluate and identify 583 articles sourced from esteemed academic databases, including Scopus and Web of Science, as well as seven reputable publishers and digital libraries, for subsequent analysis and synthesis. The identified 583 papers on SDGs, authored by 1610 scholars and published in 207 peer‐reviewed sources, are analyzed using VOSviewer and R Studio software. The analysis reveals the existence of nine independent clusters of SDGs business research: artificial intelligence and digitalization (red cluster), business collaboration (green cluster), corporate sustainability (blue cluster), circular economy and corporate social responsibility (yellow cluster), entrepreneurship and innovation (purple cluster), education for developing countries (aqua‐cluster), climate change and tourism (orange‐cluster), Africa perspectives (brown cluster), and sustainable investment (black cluster). This review highlights the foundation of the business studies debate linked to the advancement of the SDGs after the adoption by the United Nations. Key insights, future research directions and conclusion including implications are discussed.
A gigantic new terror bird (Cariamiformes, Phorusrhacidae) from Middle Miocene tropical environments of La Venta in northern South America
Authors: Degrange Federico J. , Cooke Siobhan B. , Ortiz‐Pabon Luis G. , Pelegrin Jonathan S. , Perdomo Cesar A. , Salas‐Gismondi Rodolfo , Link Andrés
Published: November 2024

Our knowledge of the fossil avifauna from the Middle Miocene La Venta locality in Colombia is limited almost entirely to aquatic birds. Phorusrhacidae, popularly known as ‘terror birds’, are a group of highly diversified cursorial birds that played the role of apex predators during most of the Cenozoic. Here we present the first record of a phorusrhacid from the La Venta locality. This terror bird can be assigned to the ‘Phorusrhacinae’, a subfamily for which the monophyly is under debate. The fragment of left distal tibiotarsus represents the most northern record of this group for South America and may correspond to the largest terror bird that ever existed. This suggests that terror birds might also have inhabited more tropical ecosystems, providing evidence that they were apex predators in tropical palaeocommunities. Additionally, our research contributes to an understanding of the biogeographical patterns of the Phorusrhacidae lineage dispersal into northern South America and subsequent colonization of North America.
A Method for Determining Ten Alkaloids in Feed: Rapid and Accurate Quantification Based on Ultra‐High Performance Liquid Chromatography‐Tandem Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Zhao Juan , He Xiwen , Hong Wei , Wang Junming , Xue Nini , Zhao Caihui , Lei Yiyue
Published: November 2024

In this study, ultra‐high performance liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC‐MS/MS) was employed for the rapid detection and analysis of 10 alkaloids in feed, such as morphine, caffeine, and sanguinarine. The methodology involved sample extraction using methanol, purification with an amino column (NH2), separation via a Hypersil GOLD C18 column (100 × 2.1 mm, 1.9 µm), and elution using a methanol‐0.1% formic acid aqueous solution as the mobile phase, with a flow rate of 0.3 mL min−1 and a column temperature of 40°C. Ten compounds showed a good linear range within the range of 0.01–5 ng mL−1, with a correlation coefficient (R2) exceeding 0.99. The limit of detection (LOD) ranged from 0.002 to 0.01 mg kg−1. Peak areas demonstrated excellent linearity across various concentrations. Furthermore, the study determined the LOD and LOQ for the 10 alkaloids. The recovery rate for different feed types ranged from 95.1% to 116.8%, with a relative deviation (RSDn = 6) of 0.86% to 1.31%. Overall, this method offers good reproducibility, high sensitivity, and stability, making it suitable for the detection and analysis of alkaloids in feed.
Determination of Species‐Specific Differences in Intracranial Volume of Tuj Sheep and Hair Goats Using Stereology and Computed Tomography Methods
Authors: Koçyiğit Ali , Kanik Betül , Demircioğlu İsmail , Demiraslan Yasin
Published: November 2024

The intracranial cavity contains vitally important organs. The brain, cerebellum, meninges and the vessels that supply these organs are located in the intracranial cavity. Therefore, it is important to learn about the intracranial cavity and to study it. However, there is limited information about the intracranial cavity in the veterinary field. The aim of this study was to determine the differences between the intracranial cavities of different species of animals by using stereology and tomography methods, volume calculations and morphometric measurements. In addition, the compatibility of the methods used with each other was investigated. In the study, six male adult goats and six male adult sheep were used. In this study, the intracranial cavities of sheep and goats were calculated by using Cavalieri's principle and 3D modelling using tomography sections. Morphometric measurements were taken over the intracranial space, and index calculations were made. In 3D models using computed tomography, the intracranial volume was 153.31 ± 24.06 cm3 in goats and 128.07 ± 7.93 cm3 in sheep. In the calculation using Cavalieri's principle, it was determined to be 152.73 ± 22.73 cm3 in goats and 126.15 ± 8.38 cm3 in sheep. As a result of the study, the MWCC (maximum width of the cranial cavity) parameter was found to be statistically significant between species (p < 0.05). The two methods used in Bland‐Altman analysis were found to be within the limits of agreement, and the methods can be alternative to each other.
Effects of Housing Systems on Production Performance, Egg Quality, Tonic Immobility and Feather Score in Laying Hens
Authors: Erek Mert , Matur Erdal
Published: November 2024

Background

This study was designed to investigate the effects of different housing systems on production performance, egg quality and welfare in laying hens.

Methods

One hundred and twenty 42‐week‐old “Atak S” laying hens, purchased from a manufacturing company, were randomly assigned to 4 housing systems: conventional cages, furnished cages, deep‐litter system and free‐range. Each system housed 30 hens, which were kept in these systems for 6 weeks. Parameters regarding production performance, egg quality, plumage condition scores and tonic immobility were assessed at the end of the housing period.

Results

Egg production and egg mass were lower in cage‐free rearing systems than in caged systems. Mean egg weight in free‐range hens, and albumen height and Haugh unit in deep‐litter hens, were lower than in other housing systems. Eggshell weight in hens housed in furnished cages was greater than in free‐range hens, while eggshell strength was better compared to that of hens in conventional cages. The housing system did not impact fearfulness; however, the deep‐litter housing increased the sensitivity to touch or capture. Whole body and regional plumage condition scores of free‐range hens elicited more favourable results than those kept in conventional cages. Because the plumage condition indicates welfare, the results proved the superiority of free‐range over conventional rearing regarding welfare.

Conclusions

Concerning the parameters, such as egg production, animal welfare and fear level, overall data revealed the pros and cons of all housing systems investigated. We consider that this study's findings might contribute to the researchers and breeders seeking alternative housing for laying hens.
Biomaterial‐Mediated Metabolic Regulation of Ferroptosis for Cancer Immunotherapy
Authors: Liu Yingqi , Tao Dan , Li Menghuan , Luo Zhong
Published: November 2024

Ferroptosis is a lipid peroxidation‐driven cell death route and has attracted enormous interest for cancer therapy. Distinct from other forms of regulated cell death, its process is involved with multiple metabolic pathways including lipids, bioenergetics, iron, and so on, which influence cancer cell ferroptosis sensitivity and communication with the immune cells in the tumor microenvironment. Development of novel technologies for harnessing the ferroptosis‐associated metabolic regulatory network would profoundly improve our understanding of the immune responses and enhance the efficacy of ferroptosis‐dependent immunotherapy. Interestingly, the recent advances in bio‐derived material‐based therapeutic platforms offer novel opportunities to therapeutically modulate tumor metabolism through the in situ delivery of molecular or material cues, which not only allows the tumor‐specific elicitation of ferroptosis but also holds promise to maximize their immunostimulatory impact. In this review, we will first dissect the crosstalk between tumor metabolism and ferroptosis and its impact on the immune regulation in the tumor microenvironment, followed by the comprehensive analysis on the recent progress in biomaterial‐based metabolic regulatory strategies for evoking ferroptosis‐mediated antitumor immunity. A perspective section is also provided to discuss the challenges in metabolism‐regulating biomaterials for ferroptosis‐immunotherapy. We envision that this review may provide new insights for improving tumor immunotherapeutic efficacy in the clinic.
Elemental Analysis of Particulate Matter Produced During Firework Events in the City of Rijeka, Croatia
Authors: Žauhar Gordana , Ravlić‐Gulan Jagoda , Čargonja Marija
Published: November 2024

Particulate matter (PM) is one of the most important air pollutants that can hurt human health. Fireworks are rare but important sources of ambient PM and can therefore lead to short‐term exposure to high concentrations of PM with potentially toxic components. For the first time in the city of Rijeka, Croatia, the characteristics of fireworks PM during 6 celebrations (New Year 2015, 2017, and 2018 and 3 football events in May 2017) were investigated and compared with the average concentrations during the surrounding period. The elemental composition of the PM samples was determined using the X‐ray fluorescence technique, where the concentrations of 15 elements from S to Pb were determined. Although the total PM concentrations were in the range of values previously measured at the same locations, the concentrations of several elements were substantially larger during the fireworks. A significant increase in concentrations was observed for K, Ti, Cr, Cu, Sr, and Ba, with the largest increase in concentration for Sr and Ba. The most noticeable increase in concentrations compared to the seasonal average was observed during the 2018 New Year's sampling when the average 8‐h concentrations were elevated as follows: 11 times for K, 14 times for Ti, 5 times for Cr, 9 times for Cu, 691 times for Sr, and 243 times for Ba. The increase in concentrations at other events where 24‐h samples were taken was present but not as pronounced and was lowest at football celebration events.
The Impact of Intimate Partner Violence on the Mental and Physical Health of Sexual and Gender Minorities: A Comprehensive Review of Quantitative Research
Authors: Rodrigues Mariana , Neaman Annaliese , Ditzer Julia , Talmon Anat
Published: November 2024

The aim of this review was to investigate the mental and physical health outcomes of intimate partner violence (IPV) victimization among sexual and gender minority (SGM) individuals. This study addressed an existing gap in research concerning IPV outcomes among SGM populations. A systematic review was conducted through PubMed, APA PsycInfo, APA PsycNet, and manual searches on Google Scholar using specific keywords. Inclusion criteria included peer-reviewed publications and quantitative studies specifically assessing the impacts of IPV among SGM individuals. A total of 35 studies meeting these criteria were included in the review. Our review showed significant associations between IPV victimization and adverse mental and physical health outcomes, including posttraumatic stress disorder, depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation and attempts, substance use, and risky sexual behaviors among SGM individuals. IPV victimization poses mental and physical health risks for SGM populations. Our findings highlight the need for comprehensive, tailored intervention and prevention efforts that consider the diverse needs of individuals with multiple minoritized identities in the context of IPV victimization.
Bernhard Blechmann’s Body: The “Jewish Race” in Nineteenth-Century Physical Anthropology in Transnational Perspective
Authors: Kohler Noa Sophie
Published: November 2024

The dissertation “Ein Beitrag zur Anthropologie der Juden” (A Contribution to the Anthropology of the Jews) by Berhard Blechmann was the first major study in physical anthropology that focused on the examination of Jews. It has been hitherto discussed as an early example of the othering of Jews in German nineteenth-century anthropology. Based on close reading and by exploring the circumstances of its writing, this essay reclassifies the dissertation in several ways. It emerges that the work belongs in the Russian (Baltic) academic and political context, and that Blechmann was Jewish. With this new perspective, the article discusses Blechmann’s conception of what constitutes a scientific approach to anthropology and to Jews as a racial group. Moreover, it sheds light on the transnational space in which the dissertation was created and enquires into Blechmann’s self-conception as a Jew.
Exploring the Interplay of Wavelength, Quantum Yield, and Penetration Depth in In Vivo Fluorescence Imaging
Authors: Harel Meital , Ankri Rinat
Published: November 2024

The intricate interplay between the irradiation wavelength, the fluorophore quantum yield (QY) and penetration depth profoundly influences the efficacy of in vivo fluorescence imaging in various applications. Understanding the complex behavior of fluorescence in vivo, specifically how variations in wavelength affect the QY of commonly used dyes and the depth of imaging is crucial for optimizing fluorescence imaging techniques, as it directly impacts the accuracy and efficiency of imaging in biological tissues. In our study, we explore these dynamics through Monte Carlo simulations conducted under conditions reflective of wide-field fluorescence imaging, examining how variations in wavelength impact the dye’s QY and depth of imaging, and consequently, the fluorescence behavior. A transition in the exponential decay of the emission depth exponent is observed around the 500–600 nm range, indicating varying degrees of influence of depth on the fluorescence emission. The analysis of the fluorophore’s QY reveals wavelength-dependent variations, with the most significant impact observed in the 600–700 nm range. Moreover, we continued our investigation to explore multiplexing, unveiling insights into the spacing between identical spots in multiplexing images across various depths and wavelengths.
Childhood Maltreatment, School Social Bonds, and Dating Violence Victimization: Mediational Model Differences by Disability Status
Authors: Cho Minhae , Ombayo Bernadette , Lightfoot Elizabeth , Ihm Jungjoon
Published: November 2024

Purpose

Childhood maltreatment (CM) and dating violence victimization (DVV) are significant social concerns with far-reaching consequences for the well-being and development of young adults. The purpose of this study is to understand the role of school social bonds (SSB) in the association between CM and DVV during young adulthood and to compare these relationships between young adults with and without disabilities.

Methods

Using a weighted sample consisting of 21.1% youth with disabilities and 78.9% youth without disabilities from the National Longitudinal Study for Adolescent to Adult Health (Add Health), Structural equation models (SEM) were tested for both the non-disabled and disabled groups.

Results

Results from SEM indicated a direct relationship between CM and DVV for both groups with significant path coefficients. CM had a negative influence on SSB for the disabled group. Mediation analyses underscored the significance of SSB, demonstrating that higher CM levels were associated with increased rates of DVV, while stronger SSB was correlated with a reduced risk of DVV. The indirect effect of CM on DVV through SSB was statistically significant only for young adults with disabilities.

Conclusions

This study emphasizes the importance of evidence-based policies, practices, and interventions aimed at breaking the pathways from CM to DVV by establishing positive SSB and promoting the well-being of young adults, particularly those with disabilities.
Combining Natural Language Processing with Epistemic Network Analysis to Investigate Student Knowledge Integration within an AI Dialog
Authors: Li Weiying , Chang Hsin-Yi , Bradford Allison , Gerard Libby , Linn Marcia C.
Published: November 2024

In this study, we used Epistemic Network Analysis (ENA) to represent data generated by Natural Language Processing (NLP) analytics during an activity based on the Knowledge Integration (KI) framework. The activity features a web-based adaptive dialog about energy transfer in photosynthesis and cellular respiration. Students write an initial explanation, respond to two adaptive prompts in the dialog, and write a revised explanation. The NLP models score the KI level of the initial and revised explanations. They also detect the ideas in the explanations and the dialog responses. The dialog uses the detected ideas to prompt students to elaborate and refine their explanations. Participants were 196 8th-grade students at a public school in the Western United States. We used ENA to represent the idea networks at each KI score level for the revised explanations. We also used ENA to analyze the idea trajectories for the initial explanation, the two dialog responses, and the final explanation. Higher KI levels were associated with more links and increased frequency of mechanistic ideas in ENA representations. Representation of the trajectories suggests that the NLP adaptive dialog helped students who started with descriptive and macroscopic ideas to add more microscopic ideas. The dialog also helped students who started with partially linked ideas to keep linking the microscopic ideas to mechanistic ideas. We discuss implications for STEM teachers and researchers who are interested in how students build on their ideas to integrate their ideas.
Branched-chain amino acids and their metabolites decrease human and rat hepatic stellate cell activation
Authors: Trillos-Almanza Maria Camila , Aguilar Magnolia Martinez , Buist-Homan Manon , Bomer Nils , Gomez Karla Arevalo , de Meijer Vincent E. , van Vilsteren Frederike G. I. , Blokzijl Hans , Moshage Han
Published: November 2024

Background

End-stage liver diseases (ESLDs) are a significant global health challenge due to their high prevalence and severe health impacts. Despite the severe outcomes associated with ESLDs, therapeutic options remain limited. Targeting the activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs), key drivers of extracellular matrix accumulation during liver injury presents a novel therapeutic approach. In ESLDs patients, branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs, leucine, isoleucine and valine) levels are decreased, and supplementation has been proposed to attenuate liver fibrosis and improve regeneration. However, their effects on HSCs require further investigation.

Objective

To evaluate the efficacy of BCAAs and their metabolites, branched-chain α-keto acids (BCKAs), in modulating HSCs activation in human and rat models.

Methods

Primary HSCs from rats and cirrhotic and non-cirrhotic human livers, were cultured and treated with BCAAs or BCKAs to assess their effects on both preventing (from day 1 of isolation) and reversing (from day 7 of isolation) HSCs activation.

Results

In rat HSCs, leucine and BCKAs significantly reduced fibrotic markers and cell proliferation. In human HSCs, the metabolite of isoleucine decreased cell proliferation around 85% and increased the expression of branched-chain ketoacid dehydrogenase. The other metabolites also showed antifibrotic effects in HSCs from non-cirrhotic human livers.

Conclusion

BCAAs and their respective metabolites inhibit HSC activation with species-specific responses. Further research is needed to understand how BCAAs influence liver fibrogenesis. BCKAs supplementation could be a strategic approach for managing ESLDs, considering the nutritional status and amino acid profiles of patients.

Graphical abstract

The antifibrotic effects of BCAAs and BCKAs in various conditions are depicted for human HSCs (left) and rat HSCs (right) The symbol ‘↓’ indicates a downregulation or a decrease. α-SMA alpha-smooth muscle actin, BCAAs branched-chain amino acids, BCKAs branched-chain keto acids, HSCs hepatic stellate cells, KMV α-keto-β-methylvalerate. Figure created with Biorender.com
The implication of TET1, miR-200, and miR-494 expression with tumor formation in colorectal cancer: through targeting Wnt signaling
Authors: Tajali Raziye , Zali Neda , Naderi Noukabadi Fatemeh , Jalili Meysam , Valinezhad Morteza , Ghasemian Farnaz , Cheraghpour Makan , Savabkar Sanaz , Nazemalhosseini Mojarad Ehsan
Published: November 2024

Objective

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a diverse and multifaceted disease characterized by genetic and epigenetic changes that contribute to tumor initiation and progression. CRC pathophysiology has been linked to the deregulation of the Wnt signaling pathway and the ten-eleven translocation (TET) DNA demethylases. This study aimed to evaluate the expression level of selective miRNAs (miR-200 and miR-494), TET1, and Wnt1 in colorectal polyps, actual colorectal tumors, and normal adjacent tissues. We also evaluated the effect of 5-aza cytidine on the expression level of TET1 and wnt1 in the HT29 cell line.

Materials and methods

In this study, we assessed TET1 and Wnt1 expression in 5-azacytidine-treated HT29 cells, a demethylating agent commonly used in cancer therapy. Additionally, we enrolled 114 individuals who underwent radical surgical colon resection, including 47 with cancerous tissues and 67 with polyps. We utilized qRT-PCR to measure miR-200, miR-494, TET1, and Wnt1 mRNA levels in colorectal polyps, actual colorectal tumors, and normal adjacent tissues.

Results

Our study revealed that TET1 expression was notably lower in both polyps and CRC tissue compared to adjacent normal tissue, with higher TET1 expression in tumors than polyps. We also observed significant differences in miR-200 and miR-494 expression in tumor samples compared to adjacent normal tissue. Our in vitro experiments revealed that 5-azacytidine administration increased TET1 and decreased Wnt1 expression in CRC cell lines. This suggests that DNA-demethylating drugs may have a therapeutic role in modifying TET1 and Wnt signaling in the development of CRC.

Conclusions

Overall, our findings shed light on the intricate interactions between TET1, Wnt1, and specific miRNAs in colorectal cancer (CRC) and their potential implications for diagnosis and treatment.
A Systems Thinking Approach to Improving Firms’ Competitive Capabilities and Firm Performance
Authors: Siriram R. , Plessis C. Du
Published: November 2024

This research aims to establish how systems thinking (ST) can be used to develop firm competitive capabilities (CC) and improve firm performance (FP). The focus is on ST applications in the South African information and communications technology (ICT) industry. The methodology includes Structural text condensation of relevant literature combined with interviews involving a selection of participants. From the analysis, some of the key findings are that ST enables the firm to contextualize itself in the wider systems environment, which results in improvements in FP. The research stream is specifically on soft ST and its contribution to improvements in firm CC and FP. This research creates an opportunity for further research into how soft ST can be leveraged in delivering firm CC and improvements in FP. The theoretical contribution made in this paper is exploring the relationship/linkage between the different concepts of soft ST, CC and FP.
Strategic management of tax disclosure: asymmetric timeliness of tax footnote modifications
Authors: Ullmann Robert , Wörle Sophia
Published: November 2024

Previous studies have shown that qualitative disclosure contains information that facilitates the assessment of future firm outcomes. We first connect to this literature on early signals by showing that qualitative disclosure also specifically contains information about future ETR as one relevant firm outcome. Using the tax footnote from 10-K filings of all publicly traded U.S. firms over the period from 2000 to 2021, we show that year-over-year tax footnote modifications are an early signal of impending changes in ETR. When specifically considering the timeliness of this signal, we find that tax footnote modifications are associated with future changes in ETR at least three years in advance. Second, we investigate, as our main focus of analysis, asymmetry in timeliness. Here, we find that tax footnote modifications preceding increases in ETR occur relatively earlier (and are greater) than do (are) tax footnote modifications preceding decreases in ETR. We additionally use word lists to directly identify relevant underlying processes for changes in ETR and to investigate asymmetric timeliness conditional on the underlying process. Overall, our results indicate that firms strategically manage their tax disclosure in accordance with the ”accounting conservatism” hypothesis proposed by Basu (1997).
Cultural normative beliefs in the U.S. as a determinant of negative dental experiences and dental anxiety: a preliminary investigation
Authors: Geers Andrew L. , Seligman Laura D. , Pituch Keenan A. , Clemens Kelly S. , Francis Sarah , Kramer Lauren , Spotts Emily K. , Vang Michael
Published: November 2024

Dental anxiety, a predictor of both dental treatment avoidance and health outcomes, has been linked with early negative dental experiences. The causes of this relationship remain largely unexplored. This study provides a preliminary exploration of within-cultural variations of dental normative beliefs on the perception of negative dental experiences and the subsequent experience of dental anxiety in the U.S. A sample of 190 U.S. adults recruited from Amazon’s MTurk completed measures of cultural normative beliefs about oral health care, age and fear at first dental visit, history of negative dental experiences, and dental anxiety. Factor analysis yielded support for a three-factor model (daily maintenance, regular check-up, and dental treatment) of the dental cultural normative beliefs scale. Correlations and structural equation modeling found support for a previously posited theoretical model in which negative dental experiences and fear at first dental visit mediate associations between the cultural normative beliefs and dental anxiety. Most notably, cultural normative beliefs favoring a prevention orientation to dental treatment and daily maintenance of oral health predicted less fear at the first dentist visit, which in turn, related to fewer negative dental experiences and less dental anxiety. This preliminary survey suggests that dental cultural normative beliefs within the U.S. shape fear during initial dental visits. Future research should build on this initial work and explore between-cultural norm variations as well as strategies for changing cultural normative beliefs to improve perceptions of dental experiences and lessen dental anxiety.
The Gel’fand Problem on Expanding Tubular Domains in $$\mathbb {R}^2$$: Existence and the Morse Index of Solutions
Authors: Ghergu Marius , Miyamoto Yasuhito
Published: November 2024

We discuss the existence and the Morse index of solutions to the problem

$$\begin{aligned} {\left\{ \begin{array}{ll} \Delta U+\lambda e^U=0 & \text {in}\ \Omega _{R},\\ U=0 & \text {on}\ \partial \Omega _{R}, \end{array}\right. } \end{aligned}$$

Δ
U
+
λ

e
U

=
0

in

Ω
R

,

U
=
0

on

∂

Ω
R

,

where

$$\Omega _R$$

Ω
R

is a tubular domain in the plane with fixed width. We obtain the existence of an increasing sequence

$$R_k\rightarrow \infty $$

R
k

→
∞

as

$$k\rightarrow \infty $$

k
→
∞

and a corresponding sequence of solutions

$$\{U_{R_k}\}_{k\ge 1}$$

{

U

R
k

}

k
≥
1

to the above problem. We investigate the energy of such solutions and show that their Morse index

$${{\textsf{m}}}(U_{R_k})$$

m
(

U

R
k

)

satisfies

$${{\textsf{m}}}(U_{R_k})/R_k\rightarrow 2\sqrt{-\eta _1}$$

m

(

U

R
k

)

/

R
k

→
2

-

η
1

as

$$k\rightarrow \infty $$

k
→
∞

, where

$$\eta _1<0$$

η
1

<
0

is the first eigenvalue of the linearized 1D Gel’fand problem.
Recent developments in marginal zone lymphoma
Authors: Raderer Markus , Kiesewetter Barbara
Published: November 2024

Marginal zone lymphoma is a relatively rare disease with a usually indolent clinical course. In clinical terms, three major subtypes—i.e., extranodal, nodal, and splenic marginal zone lymphomas—are encountered, which have specific clinical features. Clinical progress, however, has been limited in recent years as they are mostly lumped together with follicular lymphoma under the term “indolent lymphomas” in clinical trials. A talk given at the 2024 Annual Meeting of the Austrian Society of Hematology and Oncology aimed to summarize clinically relevant topics and progress in the field of marginal zone lymphoma, which is summarized in the current article.
Establishment and drug resistance characterization of paired organoids using human primary colorectal cancer and matched tumor deposit specimens
Authors: Deng Jiao , Qin Jerry H. , Li Xiaolan , Tao Deding , Feng Yongdong
Published: November 2024

Tumor deposits (TDs) represent a specific form tumor metastasis observed in colorectal cancer (CRC). The lack of successfully established cell lines for TDs, as well as the molecular mechanisms by which TDs occur remain largely unknown. Here, we established paired CRC organoids, including a human primary cancer organoid and its TD organoid, from a 46-year-old male patient with CRC. Further analysis revealed that, compared with primary tumor-derived cells, TD-derived cells exhibited enhanced proliferative, invasive and metastatic capabilities, and increased expression of stemness-related proteins. Furthermore, the present findings also demonstrated that TD-derived cells were more resistant to oxaliplatin or 5-FU. Transcriptomic profiling and qPCR revealed that TD-derived cells exhibited more alterations in fatty acid metabolism signaling and enhanced lipid synthesis ability compared to primary tumor-derived cells. Inhibition of lipid synthesis markedly decreased resistance to oxaliplatin in TD-derived cells. Taken together, the paired organoids established using CRC primary tumor and its TD specimens will provide valuable tools to study tumorigenicity, metastasis and chemoresistance in CRC. Notably, these models will provide novel insights to study tumor heterogeneity and lipid metabolism in CRC.
Dayuan Yin alleviates symptoms of HCoV-229E-induced pneumonia and modulates the Ras/Raf1/MEK/ERK pathway
Authors: Li Rui , Zhang Wen , Huang Bei , Sun Guotong , Xie Yifei , Song Junke , Wang Shumei , Du Guanhua
Published: November 2024

Viral pneumonia is characterized by inflammation in the lungs triggered by respiratory viruses. Dayuan Yin (DYY), a traditional Chinese medicine formula known for treating infectious diseases, is hypothesized to offer therapeutic benefits in treating viral pneumonia, although its specific molecular impacts remain understudied. This study aimed to evaluate the therapeutic effects of DYY in mitigating HCoV-229E virus-induced pneumonia in mice. This study employed an HCoV-229E virus-infected mouse model to investigate the therapeutic potential and underlying molecular mechanisms of DYY on virus-induced pneumonia. The respiratory function and organ indices post-treatment were assessed. Lung tissue and tracheal lesions were evaluated via immunohistochemistry. Spleen immune cell composition was analyzed using flow cytometry. Inflammatory cytokines and viral loads were quantified using hypersensitive multiplex electrochemiluminescence method and PCR analysis, respectively. The expression levels of MAS1, Ras, Raf1, MEK1/2, and ERK1/2 in lung tissues were determined through western blot analysis. DYY significantly improved respiratory function, and reduced organ pathology in infected mice. It effectively decreased viral loads and inflammatory cytokines such as IL-6, IL-1β, and TNF-α in lung tissues. Enhancements in immune response were evidenced by increased CD4/CD8 ratios in the spleen. DYY also notably upregulated MAS1 protein levels and suppressed the activation of the Ras/Raf1/MEK/ERK signaling pathway. DYY enhanced respiratory function and exerted significant antiviral and immunomodulatory effects in mice infected with the HCoV-229E virus, primarily by modulating MAS1 expression and inhibiting the Ras/Raf1/MEK/ERK pathway.

Graphical Abstract
In Vitro Assessment of Injectable Bone Marrow Aspirate Concentrates Compared to Injectable Platelet-Rich Fibrin
Authors: Fujioka-Kobayashi Masako , Koyanagi Masateru , Inada Ryo , Miyasaka Ayako , Satomi Takafumi
Published: November 2024

BACKGROUND:

Injectable platelet-rich fibrin (iPRF), a liquid form of PRF that is prepared from peripheral blood without anticoagulants, promotes tissue wound healing and regeneration. The present study focused on iPRF-like bone marrow aspirate concentrate (iBMAC) prepared without anticoagulant, and the regenerative potential of iPRF and iBMAC was compared in vitro.

METHODS:

iPRF and iBMAC were prepared from the same New Zealand white rabbits. The cytocompatibility and regenerative potential of each concentrate were evaluated using primary rabbit gingival fibroblasts and osteoblasts.

RESULTS:

Both gingival fibroblasts and osteoblasts treated with each concentrate exhibited excellent cell viability. Interestingly, compared to cells treated with iPRF, cells treated with iBMAC demonstrated significantly greater migration potential. Furthermore, higher mRNA levels of transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), and collagen I (COL1) were observed in gingival fibroblasts treated with iBMAC than in those treated with iPRF. Compared with osteoblasts treated with iPRF, osteoblasts treated with iBMAC exhibited greater differentiation potential, as indicated by increased osteocalcin (OCN) expression and mineralization capability.

CONCLUSION:

The results of the in vitro study suggest that, compared with iPRF, iBMAC may promote wound healing and bone regeneration more effectively. However, further preclinical and clinical studies are needed to confirm the regenerative potential of iBMAC in the body.
Transcultural adaptation and validation of the Eating Self-Efficacy Brief Scale (ESEBS): the Brazilian version
Authors: Feoli Ana Maria Pandolfo , da Silva Tainá Lopes , de Souza Urbanetto Janete , D’Amico Monica , Cerolini Silvia , Lombardo Caterina
Published: November 2024

Purpose

This study aimed to develop and validate the Brief Eating Self-Efficacy Scale (ESEBS-BR) in Brazilian Portuguese, addressing the lack of tools to assess eating self-efficacy beliefs in Portuguese-speaking populations.

Method

The study sought to cross-culturally adapt the scale, evaluate its internal structure, validate its reliability and validity, and explore potential associations between eating self-efficacy and eating behaviors. The cross-cultural adaptation process involved translation and back-translation, expert committees, and pre-testing. Scale validation was conducted with 228 participants, including reliability analyses, confirmatory factor analysis, and correlations with established measures of eating behavior.

Results

The ESEBS-BR, maintaining all 8 original items, demonstrated high reliability, with a two-factor structure model confirmed by confirmatory factor analysis. Significant correlations were found between ESEBS-BR scores and measures of binge eating and eating behaviors, validating its criterion validity.

Conclusions

The development and validation of the ESEBS-BR represent a significant contribution to the assessment of eating self-efficacy in the Brazilian population. The scale proved to be sensitive, reliable, and valid, offering an important tool for research and clinical interventions related to eating behavior.

Level of evidence: V, descriptive cross-sectional study.