bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
New Germline TP53 Variant Detected After Radiotherapy‐Induced Angiosarcoma of the Chest Wall in a Previously Treated Breast Cancer Patient: A Case Report and Review of Li–Fraumeni Syndrome and Radiotherapy‐Induced Sarcoma
Authors: David Bruna Bianca Lopes , Silva Sávio Solon Alves , Dinoa Vanessa , Diniz Tadeu , Pereira Emilio , Bustamante Carolina , Garicochea Bernardo
Published: December 2024

Li–Fraumeni syndrome (LFS) is one of the most common hereditary cancer predisposition syndromes in Brazil. The high frequency of the syndrome is due to a founding variant (R337H) in the country. LFS is characterized by a wide variety of malignant phenotypes. Despite the great epidemiological importance of the R337H variant, the frequency of other types of pathogenic variants is like other populations, with the majority of these being missense variants. There is strong evidence that radiotherapy is associated with secondary sarcomas, including angiosarcomas, and this finding is especially true for LFS patients. Angiosarcoma is not described as overrepresented in individuals with LFS, except in patients submitted to radiotherapy. Germline testing in all breast cancer patients under 65 will reveal many germline mutations in TP53 without a family history of cancers associated with the syndrome. We present a case of a previously undescribed pathogenic variant in TP53 (c788del, pAns263llefs ∗82) in a patient with no family history of cancer, with a previous diagnosis of breast carcinoma treated with radiotherapy, who developed angiosarcoma after a few years leading to germline testing. The presence of angiosarcoma in a radiotherapy bed should raise suspicion for LFS. The recent recommendation of testing breast cancer patients under the age of 65, even without any family history, can be a source of discoveries of new mutations and assist in therapeutic decisions.
Topological Properties of Prime Filters and Minimal Prime Filters on a Paradistributive Latticoid
Authors: Ajjarapu Suryavardhani , Bandaru Ravikumar , Kotha Ramakoteswara Rao , Shukla Rahul
Published: December 2024

In this paper, we study the concepts of prime filters and minimal prime filters on a paradistributive latticoid (PDL) and discuss various results. In addition, we prove that the annihilator filter S• is equal to the intersection of all prime filters not containing S. Furthermore, we explore minimal prime filters and study certain results associated with them. We provide some equivalent conditions for a PDL to be relatively complemented. Additionally, we derive some topological properties of the space of prime filters and minimal prime filters.
A Graph Neural Network‐Based Approach With Dynamic Multiqueue Optimization Scheduling (DMQOS) for Efficient Fault Tolerance and Load Balancing in Cloud Computing
Authors: Kalaskar Chetankumar , S. Thangam
Published: December 2024

Currently, cloud computing is increasing on a daily basis and has evolved into an efficient and flexible paradigm for addressing large‐scale issues. It is recognized as an internet‐based computing model where various cloud users share computing and virtual resources such as services, applications, storage, servers and networks. In the present study, we propose an innovative strategy for enhancing the fault tolerance and load balancing capabilities of cloud computing environments: we combined graph neural networks (GNNs) with dynamic multiqueue optimization scheduling (DMQOS). The present study uses GNNs and DMQOS to provide a novel solution to these challenges. GNN–DMQS uses a DMQOS system that adjusts to the dynamic nature of cloud workloads. This dynamic method develops response times and resource consumption, which improve load balancing and system effectiveness. Using GNNs to predict and mitigate probable faults grows fault tolerance and safeguards service accessibility. We evaluate the proposed method, GNN–DMQOS, using extensive experiments on real‐world cloud computing datasets. The results demonstrate significant developments: 95.66% in fault tolerance, 97.13% in adaptability, 1598.14 kbps in throughput, 94.78% in resource utilization, 96.77% in reliability, 2.876 ms in response time, 0.141 s in network lifetime, 1.627 s in end‐to‐end delay and 129.34 ms in time complexity compared with traditional methods. In addition, our method, GNN–DMQOS, exhibits adaptability to varying workloads, making it suitable for dynamic cloud environments.
Design and Optimization of Double‐Tail Dynamic Latch CMOS Comparator With Modified Widlar Current Source
Authors: Singh Tejender , Tripathi Suman Lata
Published: December 2024

The comparator plays a vital role in analog‐to‐digital converters. In the emerging communication era, these converters are useful to connect the analog field to the digital field. Also, the upcoming IoT‐enabled portable devices have a requirement of energy‐efficient high‐speed conversions at low power consumption for a longer battery lifetime. In this paper, a double‐tail dynamic latch CMOS comparator (DTDLC) with a modified Widlar current source (MWCS) has been proposed that will be suitable for high‐speed applications at a low voltage and low power consumption. Use of MWCS reduces random offset voltages to avoid transistor mismatch along with the reduced power dissipation due to low operating voltage. Here, the design simulation method includes Corner analysis for power consumption and Monte Carlo histogram analysis for transistor mismatch at different random offset voltages. All the design blocks were verified and simulated by Cadence’s virtuoso schematic editor with a TSMC model file at 45‐nm technology by applying 500 mV and 1 V of the supply voltage. The proposed design has a transient power consumption of 41 nW, static power consumption of 17 nW, total delay of 1 ns, and power delay product (PDP) as 17 with a FOM of 1.83 (fJ/D). By using the proposed optimized design, a total of 80% power dissipation reduction was observed. Therefore, the proposed design is more efficient in terms of metrics like delay, power, and PDP at reduced offset voltage variations and reduced effect of process variations when compared to other existing comparators. The proposed comparator circuit is also simulated and verified through layout at 45‐nm CMOS process technology.
Effect of Coconut Powder as a Drying Carrier Medium on Long‐Term Preservation of Lactobacillus plantarum and Streptococcus thermophilus for Development of Starter Cultures With Potential Application in Traditionally Fermented Foods
Authors: Zulu Nontobeko Xolisiwe , Kunadu Angela Parry-Hanson , Kayitesi Eugenie , Dlamini Bhekisisa
Published: December 2024

Fermentation is of great importance to the food industry as it extends the shelf life of food while imparting desirable nutritional and sensory properties. However, the unpredictable fermentation period, inconsistency of the final product quality, and contamination with spoilage microorganisms of spontaneously fermented food remain a challenge. The aim of this study was to explore the storage stability of Lactobacillus plantarum and Streptococcus thermophilus prepared by freeze‐drying using coconut powder (CCN) (25%) as a carrier medium in comparison to skim milk powder (SMP). Freeze‐dried lactic acid bacteria (LAB) were evaluated for cell viability, vitality, moisture content, water activity (aw), acidification kinetics, cell morphology, and glass transition temperature (Tg). In general, LAB stored at 4°C showed better survival after 112 days than LAB stored at room temperature (RT). With cell viability, the reduction in S. thermophilus and L. plantarum counts was not significantly (p < 0.05) affected by the type of carrier media (CCN or SMP) after 112 days at 4°C. SMP supported better cell vitality (approx. 2.0) at 4°C than CCN after 112 days for L. plantarum. The moisture content and aw were within acceptable levels throughout storage on all samples. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) depicted a normal cell structure at 4°C for S. thermophilus and L. plantarum in SMP and CCN, while negative changes were observed at RT. The Tg on all samples was above 75°C, and this suggested long‐term stability of the LAB strains. Overall, our findings show that CCN shows similar protection of L. plantarum and S. thermophilus strains to that of SMP during storage at 4°C. Further work is needed to confirm the fermentation performance of CCN‐preserved strains.
Aluminum Silicate Organic Framework for the Removal of Industrial Organic Toxins
Authors: Hamd Ahmed , Yafei Huda F. , El-Reedy Ahmed A. M. , Al-Saeedi Sameerah I. , Al-Ghamdi Azza , Shaban Mohamed , El-Sayed Refat , Debbabi Khaled F. , Sari Abdullah Ali A. , Soliman N. K.
Published: December 2024

An initial investigation was followed by a semi‐industrial analysis aimed at evaluating the ability of our new adsorbent system in various sectors to eliminate specific environmental hazards. A novel nanocomposite was fabricated through the impregnation of pulverized marine plant organic products into an aluminum silicate (AS) framework, resulting in the formation of an AS mixed organic structure framework (ASMOSF). Different characterization techniques including scanning electron microscope (SEM), X‐ray diffraction (XRD), X‐ray fluorescence (XRF), and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy were applied. The adsorption capacity of our innovative ASMOSF nanocomposite is notably greater than that of AS and mixed organic structure (MOS) nanocomposites, particularly when exposed to Congo red (CR) concentrations below 20 ppm. Using batch experiments, the kinetics and isotherms of CR dye adsorption, in addition to the effects of a multitude of experimental parameters, were investigated. The CR removal percentage is significantly influenced by the operating temperature, the quantity of adsorbent utilized, and the pH level. In an aqueous solution with a neutral pH, the optimum temperature for CR adsorption onto ASMOSF is 40°C. Depending on the concentration of CR, AS and MOS employ two distinct kinetic adsorption models; however, for CR adsorption on ASMOSF, the first‐order diffusion model is efficacious. Lastly, field testing demonstrated that the ASMOSF nanocatalyst effectively eliminated mixed colors from industrial wastewater with a removal rate of 95%. This finding provides a foundation for the development of novel eco‐friendly nanoadsorbents that can facilitate the reutilization of industrial wastewater.
Efficacy of Scapular Functional and Cervical Isometric Exercises in the Management of Chronic Mechanical Neck Pain: A Randomized Comparative Trial
Authors: Bharti Nasrin , Ahmed Hashim , Hasan Shahnaz , Iqbal Amir , Uddin Shadab , Ahamed Waseem M. , Ahmad Fuzail , Mujtaba Md. Ali , Alghadir Ahmad H.
Published: December 2024

Background: The global rise in work‐related musculoskeletal ailments has led to issues like neck discomfort, scapular muscle dysfunction, reduced neck mobility, and functional limitations. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of scapular functional exercises (SFE) and cervical isometric exercises (CIE) on pain, cervical range of motion (CROM), and functional limitations in individuals with chronic mechanical neck pain (CMNP).

Methods: A two‐arm, parallel group pretest‐post‐test randomized comparative trial was conducted. Thirty participants (21 females, 9 males; average age 28.94 ± 3.77 years) were randomly divided into two groups, 1 and 2 (n = 15/group). Both groups received common treatments of CIE and hot packs, while Group 1 was given SFE additionally. To assess the outcomes, which included pain, cervical range of motion (CROM), and functional limitations, measurements were taken using a numeric pain rating scale (NPRS), a standard universal goniometer, and a neck disability index (NDI) questionnaire at the beginning of the study and 4 weeks after the interventions. A one‐way multivariate followed by univariate analysis of covariance (MANCOVA and ANCOVA) was applied to examine the outcomes disparities within‐group and between‐group, with a significance level at 95% (i.e., p < 0.05).

Results: MANCOVA analysis revealed a significant impact of interventions on CROM in all directions, NPRS, and NDI scores, even after adjusting for initial scores (F (8, 13) = 90.1; p = 0.001). Univariate ANCOVA showed significant improvements in outcomes for Group 1 compared to Group 2.

Conclusions: Adding SFE to CIE and conventional physiotherapy was more effective than just using CIE and conventional physiotherapy alone. This approach better alleviated neck pain, improved CROM (particularly in forward and left‐side flexion), and reduced functional limitations in individuals with CMNP.

Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT05624021.
Experimental and Numerical Analysis of Omnidirectional Steel Moment Connection With Through‐Plate Panel Zone Under Cyclic Loading
Authors: Askarian Hadi , Sohrabi Mohammad Reza , Kazemi Seyed Morteza
Published: December 2024

This paper proposes a new beam to column connection, namely, the omnidirectional steel moment connection with through‐plate panel zone, which enables the connection of more than four beams to a column in moment frames at any arbitrary angle. The proposed connection was experimentally and numerically analyzed under cyclic loading. A numerical model using finite element method in ABAQUS is created and validated using hysteretic moment‐rotation curves. Subsequently, a sensitivity analysis is conducted on the key components of the proposed connection, including the connection panel zone, web plate, and bolts. The aim of this study is to optimize the design and configuration of the connection panel zone by simplifying it and removing the intersection of the through plates. Furthermore, the effect of changing the axial load of the column, removing the web plate, and altering the bolt size on the connection panel zone is investigated. The results of this sensitivity analysis demonstrate the efficiency and effectiveness of the proposed designs. The findings indicated that the experimental specimen showcased remarkable seismic compliance, adhering to AISC seismic provisions for special moment frames, even with minor buckling. It sustained a 0.04 radians drift without brittle fracture, aligning with expected mechanical behavior. The finite element‐based model revealed stress concentrations at beam‐to‐plate connections, and the average difference between the experimental and numerical model was 11.82%, verifying model accuracy. Hexagonal prism panels and internal through plates contribute minimally to parameter variations. In contrast, the web shear plate significantly affects the behavior. Bolt material substitution and axial loading introduce significant changes, while the combined effect of axial load and hexagonal prism panel removal shows distinctive alterations.
China’s Diaspora Policy Implications for Overseas Chinese in Peru and Argentina
Authors: Lau Nifta , Denardi Luciana
Published: December 2024

As a form of ‘transnationalism from above’—that is, promoted by the state—diaspora strategies and policies have become a topic of interest for the Chinese state and academics alike over the past two decades. Although different aspects of the Chinese diaspora have been addressed, we seek to contribute to this field of study by exploring the ways in which the policies of the country of origin are experienced by, and concern the actions and subjectivities of, members of the Chinese overseas communities. We analyse the characteristics, evolution and reception of the PRC’s governance over its diaspora in Lima, Peru and Buenos Aires, Argentina. We complement this with a social anthropological analysis to describe the moral categories by which the members of the Chinese diaspora define themselves. We round off with some words about the repercussions of the PRC’s diaspora policy on the associations and the subjectivities of Chinese migrants and their descendants in these two Latin American countries.
Intersections of Religion and Climate-Related Security Risks
Authors: Tarusarira Joram , Scartozzi Cesare M. , Elnur Rawie Ibrahim
Published: December 2024

This study explored the significance of religion in the climate security discussion. Despite being extensively explored in conflict studies, the role of religion in climate security discourse is still largely overlooked. This is surprising, given that it significantly impacts decision-making during crises. The intersection of climate change and religious beliefs and diversity exacerbates conflicts across Africa. Recent studies have highlighted the pivotal role of religion in shaping responses to climate-induced security risks, yet it is often sidelined in climate security discourse. Through a systematic literature review, this study identifies gaps and proposes future research directions. The findings underscore the peripheral role of religion in climate security literature and the lack of interdisciplinary coherence. By recognizing the multifaceted role of religion in crises, this study aims to provide crucial insights into the complex dynamics of the religion-climate-climate security nexus.
Niche dynamics and climate change sensitivity in western Palearctic Zamenis ratsnakes (Reptilia: Colubridae)
Authors: Vaissi Somaye , Kürşat Şahin Mehmet , Kurnaz Muammer
Published: December 2024

Climate change poses a significant threat to ectothermic, dispersal-limited reptiles such as Zamenis snakes in the western Palearctic. This study used ensemble ecological models to assess the potential distribution of six Zamenis species under climate change scenarios (SSP1-2.6 and SSP5-8.5). In addition, we examined niche dynamics through overlap, equivalency, and similarity analyses. Results reveal distinct ecological niches for each species, primarily influenced by temperature and precipitation. Projected distribution shifts vary across species, with some species like Z. persicus and Z. situla showing potential for range expansion, while others such as Z. lineatus and Z. scalaris face significant habitat loss. Z. hohenackeri and Z. longissimus exhibit complex patterns of both expansion and contraction. Niche analyses indicate varying degrees of overlap among species, with a trend toward niche conservatism. This study underscores the importance of niche ecology in understanding climate change impacts and highlights the need for species-specific conservation strategies.
Effectiveness of camera traps for maximizing the detection of different species of large and medium-sized mammals: effect of the climatic, environmental, and seasonal conditions
Authors: Espartosa Elisa , Vivas Ilad , Barja Isabel
Published: December 2024

Although most mammals live in terrestrial environments, it is difficult to see them in the wild. However, there is a wide variety of techniques for their detection. Currently, camera trapping is the most widely used non-invasive detection technique for terrestrial mammals. Thus, we used this methodology to determine the optimal variables to carry out assessments of mammals by camera trapping in the wild. Therefore, we placed 20 camera traps in Os Montes do Invernadeiro Natural Park (Ourense, Galicia) between 2016 and 2020, resulting in 8044 records, including photographs and videos. We found significant differences in the frequency of records across categories of season, period, lunar cycle, location, habitat and sex. Atmospheric temperature, location, and period were the most influential variables in correlating detection events for different species. A generalized linear model (GLM) analysis revealed a higher number of records in deciduous and pine forests, during summer and autumn, and on nights of waxing and waning moon that holds for both predators, such as Iberian wolf, red fox, pine marten and European wildcat, and prey, such as red deer, wild boar, European roe deer and Iberian hare. Predators were observed more frequently at crossroads, whereas prey tended to avoid these areas. However, it can be stated that there are optimal climatic, such as the temperature, environmental, such as the habitat, and seasonal conditions to carry out camera trapping studies on mammal species. Altogether, understanding the optimal conditions for camera trapping of different mammal species could ultimately reduce the sampling effort.
6. Occupational Therapy
Authors: Smith Justin
Published: December 2024

With the end of the war in Europe, the principal task of ANCXF became the management of German naval disarmament, alongside its ongoing logistical oversight of the liberated ports whose repair and re-opening were vital to the supply lines of the Allied forces amassed in Europe. Their move from France into Germany, on 15 June 1945, marked the transition from liberation to occupation. It also changed the nature of the Wrens’ work somewhat, and their social and cultural lives considerably.

Minden, in Westphalia, became the site of Admiral Burrough’s (Ramsay’s replacement as ANCXF) headquarters in Germany. The reports of Joan Prior and her fellow Wrens on the bomb damage, hunger and destitution throughout Holland and Germany brought home for the first time the scale of the ravages of war and its bitter legacy. At first, their base compound was heavily guarded and strict orders were issued forbidding fraternisation with locals. Later there is more freedom and opportunity to explore, locally and regionally. Joan is as fascinated with the scenic route to attend a court martial in Plӧn as she is with the celebrated landscape of the Harz Mountains on a short break with her close companion Ginge. And having left behind the convenient pleasures of Paris, Brussels becomes the next best thing. If greater freedom to travel as ‘tourists’ was one development of this strange post-conflict occupation, another was the semi-official encouragement for Wrens to provide entertainment (at the very least as dance partners) for the locally-stationed allied troops - ‘something for the boys’ as Joan writes home. Although there was no let-up in the pressure of their work, from the typing pool to the camp swimming pool this was, by then, war work of a very different kind.

As VJ-Day gave occasion for the historic Naval order to ‘Splice the Mainbrace’, and war was finally over, Joan Prior’s attentions, like those of her fellow Wrens, turned to demobilisation and post-war careers. The book concludes with reflections on these Wrens’ contributions to narratives about women’s war work and play. It considers the legacy of the experiences of the ordinary women who became ‘Ramsay’s Wrens’, and thus contributed so much to the extraordinary events of the liberation of Europe, from conception to conclusion.
Canadian Organization on Health Effects from Radiation Exposure (COHERE) strengthening co-operation within the Canadian Government on radiation research
Authors: Randhawa K. , Wilkins R. , Burtt J.J. , Lane R.S.D. , Ivanova A. , Leblanc J. , Sadi B. , Beaton L. , Quayle D. , Chauhan V.
Published: December 2024

The Canadian Organization on Health Effects from Radiation Exposure (COHERE) is a collaborative initiative between two federal organisations, Health Canada (HC) and the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC). COHERE will work to advance knowledge on biological mechanisms and human health risks from exposures to ionising radiation relevant to environmental and occupational settings. The objectives of the initiative include: better aligning Health Canada's and the CNSC's radiation science research priorities to focus and leverage resources; maintaining and enhancing expertise in radiobiology and epidemiology within the Government of Canada; providing an informed and consistent federal message to the public and stakeholders on matters involving low dose and low dose-rate ionising radiation; and strengthening Canada's contribution towards international efforts on the assessment of ionising radiation doses and health effects. These objectives support the application of international recommendations, Canadian regulations, and national guidance. COHERE's vision is to contribute knowledge to reduce scientific uncertainties from low dose and dose-rate exposures. It will advance our understanding by bridging the knowledge gap between human health outcomes, and linkages to molecular- and cellular-level responses to radiation. Research priorities focus on identifying sensitive, early, and key molecular events of relevance to risk assessment. The initiative will address questions of relevance to better apprise Canadians, including radiation workers, members of the public and indigenous peoples, on health risks from low dose and low dose-rate radiation exposure and inform radiation protection frameworks at a national and international level. Furthermore, it will support global efforts to conduct collaborative undertakings and better coordinate research. The strategic research agenda (SRA) developed by COHERE specifically considers the areas of research identified by many international radiation agencies to support the current and evolving system of radiological protection. The evolution of COHERE, its SRA and its activities since inception are discussed.
Radiation protection strategies in high-grade underground uranium mines
Authors: Toews K.L. , Takala J.M.
Published: December 2024

Mining high-grade uranium ore in an underground environment presents a number of potential challenges and exposure sources that must be addressed and controlled. Specific sources include radon progeny, gamma, and long-lived radioactive dust (LLRD). Workplace conditions, including grade and proximity to ore, worker positioning, and shielding impact gamma exposure potential, while ground conditions and the presence of radon gas in water can create highly temporal and spatially variable radon progeny conditions. High-grade uranium ore grade also presents a strong source term for LLRD that must be controlled. Cameco has implemented numerous physical and administrative control strategies in an integrated fashion to address these hazards. These controls start at the design of the mine and extend into operational practices. The radiation protection program provides the overall framework that guides the various activities including training of workers and radiation protection staff, dosimetry and engineering monitoring programs, research into better characterisation of hazards, shielding design and administrative controls. Cameco has continued to optimise radiation protection strategies in high-grade underground uranium mining environments over the past two decades and has kept doses well below the national dose limits and implemented numerous ALARA initiatives to further lower doses where practical.
Ethical aspects in the use of radiation in medicine: public consultation of the report from ICRP Task Group 109
Authors: Bochud F. , Cantone M.C. , Applegate K. , Coffey M. , Damilakis J. , Perez M.R. , Fahey F. , Kurihara-Saio C. , Le Guen B. , Malone J. , Reid L. , Zölzer F.
Published: December 2024

ICRP Publication 138 defines the ethical foundations of the System of radiological protection, based on four core values (beneficence/non-maleficence, dignity, justice and prudence) and three procedural values (accountability, transparency and inclusiveness). The mission of Task Group 109 mission was to propose a practical application in the medical field. As this field was already infused with a strong culture of biomedical ethics, the first action was to identify the values and define a common language. The core values are very similar, with the autonomy of biomedical ethics, which can be seen as a corollary of dignity, and the precautionary principle, which can be understood as the implementation of prudence. In recent years, medicine has been experiencing an emphasis on the values of solidarity, honesty, and empathy. We therefore proposed a grouping of these values in order to allow a structured review of practical situations from an ethical perspective. For the sake of concreteness, the report proposes 21 realistic scenarios (11 in imaging and 10 in therapy), which are all presented and analysed in a one-page format. Sensitising questions are provided to stimulate reflection. We hope that this report will allow all professionals in the medical and radiological protection fields to discuss situations and dilemma on a common ground. To achieve this, we also propose a strategy for the implementation of education and training, based on the Bloom taxonomy. In order to assist the reader in a theoretically complex subject, key messages are distributed throughout the text, as fixed points that can easily be understood. The report will soon be made available for public consultation and we look forward to any suggestions for improvement.
ICRU Report 95: new operational quantities for external radiation exposure
Authors: Otto T.
Published: December 2024

Measurable operational dose quantities approximate the protection quantities for external exposure, which can generally not be measured directly. In 2020, the International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP) and the International Commission on Radiation Units and Measurements (ICRU) have jointly published ICRU Report 95 with improved definitions for operational quantities, and with conversion coefficients for a wide range of particles and energies. For whole-body exposure, personal dose H p and ambient dose H* are the new operational quantities approximating effective dose E. They are based on the same phantoms and weighting coefficients as E and provide a better approximation of the protection quantity as well as a simplification of the system of radiation protection dose quantities. The paper briefly explains the definition of the new operational quantities It then analyses which changes in practical radiation protection and dosimetry are implied by the future introduction of these quantities.
Between headlines and hunger: Media framing of food poverty on the island of Ireland
Authors: Kerrigan Páraic , McCartan Aodheen , Kerins Claire , Furey Sinéad , Kelly Colette , Vaughan Elena
Published: December 2024

Food poverty has emerged as public health issues in the Republic of Ireland (ROI) and Northern Ireland (NI) in the last decade. Concurrently, food poverty has emerged as a significant news story across broadcast media in both ROI and NI. While research has emerged in relation to how food poverty is framed in the media, there is a dearth of literature on this in the Irish context. This article seeks to address this gap by setting out to understand the ways in which food poverty emerges as a news story in broadcast media on the island of Ireland. Through gathering broadcast material from media archives, between November 2017 and April 2023, this article deployed analysis using Entman’s framing theory as the a priori framework. In doing so, much of the media framing tended to orientate food poverty around discursive frames relating to the working poor, the ‘deservingness’ of help through food banks or through government failure. From these findings, the article makes two central recommendations: (i) the voices of those affected by food poverty need to be centrally included in news stories when it is helpful and (ii) news production cultures need to focus on more constructive journalism approaches.
Fresh off the boat again? The conversion of cultural capital and distinction-making among Western-educated returnee scholars in China
Authors: Wang Zizhen
Published: December 2024

This article investigates how Western-educated scholars negotiate the distinction-making process and strategise the conversion of acquired cultural capital to social capital upon return to China. Building on Bourdieusian theory, it finds anti-Western distinction constructed by local scholars monopolises their privileged positions in Chinese academic reproduction. Cultural capital obtained by returnee scholars is often devalorised by nationalist rhetoric, posing obstacles to its convertibility to other forms of capital. Some returnees tactically hide their acquired cultural capital to demonstrate easiness with Chinese culture and to marginalise their returnee peers as too ‘Westernised’ to fit in. Others stress their cosmopolitan cultural capital as sources of distinction, claiming they do not want to play the Chinese game, but are more likely to be excluded from the core academic network, thus disadvantaging their career progression. This study highlights how transnational mobility across fields affects the revalorisation of rule-specific cultural capital in the process of distinction-making.
Optimisation of an oxygen supply prediction model based on the K-nearest neighbours (KNN) algorithm using the Pearson correlation coefficient
Authors: Peng Qian , Fan DingDong , Zhou XiaoBin , Xia Yunjin , Liu YuJie
Published: December 2024

Accurately predicting the oxygen supply in the basic oxygen furnace (BOF) steelmaking process is crucial for improving product quality, enhancing production efficiency and reducing costs. In this study, oxygen supply prediction models based on the K-nearest neighbours (KNN) algorithm were developed and compared using actual production data from the BOF. To further improve the accuracy of oxygen supply predictions for the BOF, this study optimises the algorithm using two methods: distance weighting and feature vector weighting based on the Pearson correlation coefficient. Experimental results indicate that the feature vector weighting method based on the Pearson correlation coefficient achieves better optimisation results compared to the distance weighting KNN algorithm. The prediction accuracy for oxygen supply reached 77.6% for an oxygen consumption error within ±200 Nm3, 89.8% for ±300 Nm3, and 95.7% for ±400 Nm3; additionally, this optimisation improved the endpoint hit rate for oxygen supply by 10.3% compared to the original algorithm. This model provides an effective reference for actual production and offers reliable insights for optimising other algorithms. Future research could further explore the application of other machine learning algorithms in oxygen supply prediction to achieve higher accuracy and broader applicability, thereby advancing the intelligent development of the BOF steelmaking process.
Interventions targeting work-related skills in adults with autism spectrum disorders: A comprehensive literature review
Authors: Yarrow Emily , Tereshko Lisa M. , Weiss Mary Jane , Gerhardt Peter , Magrauth Megan
Published: December 2024

Background

Although the population of individuals with autism aging into adulthood continues to rise, the rate of employment remains exceptionally low. While adults with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) experience several social, communicative, or behavioral impairments that hinder their ability to obtain or maintain jobs, several interventions have been helpful in work-related skill acquisition.

Objective

This systematic literature review focuses on strategies that improve numerous employment skills for adults diagnosed with ASD.

Methods

A systematic literature review using the PRISMA guidelines identified a total of 44 articles that met inclusion criteria to analyze across several dimensions (participant characteristics, skills targeted, measurement systems, settings, interventions, experimental designs, and outcome/maintenance).

Results

Many empirical practices were implemented and demonstrated an impact on the development of work-related skills in adults with ASD. Each study demonstrated an increase in work-related skills, with 63.6% of studies reporting changes in performance that were maintained after completion of the intervention, and/or led to paid employment positions at the end of the study.

Conclusion

The review clearly indicates that behavior analytic supports in the workplace hold promise to further improve employment and quality of life outcomes for adults with ASD.
Evaluation of Response to Weight-based Dosing Strategies of Continuous, Fixed-Rate Atracurium Infusions in Critically Ill, Obese Adults With Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome
Authors: Patel Krishn S. , Sacha Gretchen L. , Torbic Heather , Bass Stephanie , Wang Lu , Duggal Abhijit , Rudoni Michael A.
Published: December 2024

Background:

Fixed-rate infusions of weight-based neuromuscular blocking agents (NMBAs) were adopted during the COVID pandemic to limit caregiver exposure during titrations. Although fixed-rate infusions are supported in studies of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), the optimal scalar for weight-based NMBAs in patients with obesity remains controversial.

Objective:

This study sought to compare change in oxygenation using two weight-based dosing strategies for atracurium in obese patients with ARDS. Secondary outcomes included total atracurium dose, mortality, and intensive care unit (ICU) and ventilator-free days.

Methods:

Following an institutional practice update to use ideal body weight (IBW) for patients with obesity, we retrospectively compared adults (≥18 years) with ARDS and a body mass index (BMI) ≥ 30 kg/m2 who received atracurium (15 µg/kg/min) based on actual body weight (ABW) with those using IBW. The primary outcome was change in PaO2/FiO2 ratio (P/F) 48 hours after atracurium initiation. Analysis-of-covariance compared change in P/F between groups after adjustment for confounders.

Results:

The IBW group ( n = 123), compared with the ABW group ( n = 133), had lower baseline P/F (85.0 [71.0, 118.3] vs 93.3 [76.0, 128.3], P = 0.025) and sequential organ failure assessment (SOFA) score (9.7 ± 2.6 vs 10.5 ± 2.6, P = 0.015), with greater use of steroids (96% vs 89%, P = 0.032) and prone positioning (72% vs 58%, P = 0.015). No difference was detected in change in P/F at 48 hours (adjusted least squares mean [95% confidence interval, CI]: 55.8 [37.0, 74.5] vs 56.9 [39.6, 74.1], P = 0.90). Atracurium doses were higher in the ABW group (97.4 mg/h [84.4, 110.3] vs 55.4 [47.2, 65.7], P < 0.001). There was no difference in hospital mortality, ICU mortality, and ICU-free days or ventilator-free days.

Conclusion and Relevance:

In patients with obesity with ARDS receiving fixed-rate atracurium infusions, the change in P/F at 48 hours did not differ based on weight. Atracurium dosed on IBW may use less total drug without compromising ability to improve oxygenation. This is the first study comparing the dosing weight used for continuous infusion atracurium in hospitalized, critically ill ARDS patients with obesity. Additional studies are warranted to optimize dosing in obese patients.
Cognitive function and its longitudinal predictability by intensity of physical activity in Chinese middle-aged and older adults
Authors: Temesgen Worku Animaw , Cheng Ho Yu , Chong Yuen Yu
Published: December 2024

Background

The aging population faces several health problems, including cognitive decline that can progress to Alzheimer's disease. Regular physical activity is widely recognized for its extensive benefits, including physical and mental health improvements especially for older adults.

Objective

This study aimed to examine the prediction of physical activity intensities on cognitive function of older adults.

Methods

Data from 8 years prospective survey among Chinese population aged 45 years and older is used. Cognitive function was measured by word recall, orientation, numeric subtraction, and copying a picture. Physical activity was assessed with three intensity levels. General estimating equations (GEE) with unstructured correlation matrix is used to test the prediction of physical activity intensity on cognitive function.

Results

Cognitive function of participants significantly declined from 9.81 at baseline to 8.81 after 8 years. Moderate-intensity physical activity for 3 days/week was strongest positive predictor of cognitive function with a betta coefficient of 0.64. Light-intensity physical activity also positively predicted cognitive function, however vigorous physical activity for more than 3 days/week negatively predicted cognitive function.

Conclusions

Cognitive function of the Chinese population is found to continuously decline after 60 years old age. Fortunately, this decline can be delayed with age-tolerable light to moderate-intensity physical activities.
Wilbur Kraak: The coach of coaches and researchers
Authors: Solomons Jocelyn , Brown James , Jones Ben , Hendricks Sharief
Published: December 2024

As a coach, coach educator and researcher, Wilbur contributed significantly to the field rugby science, both as an author and reviewer. The aim of this research note, structured as a ‘short report’, is to highlight some of Wilbur's many work achievements.
Chronic active lesions in multiple sclerosis: classification, terminology, and clinical significance
Authors: Dal-Bianco Assunta , Oh Jiwon , Sati Pascal , Absinta Martina
Published: December 2024

In multiple sclerosis (MS), increasing disability is considered to occur due to persistent, chronic inflammation trapped within the central nervous system (CNS). This condition, known as smoldering neuroinflammation, is present across the clinical spectrum of MS and is currently understood to be relatively resistant to treatment with existing disease-modifying therapies. Chronic active white matter lesions represent a key component of smoldering neuroinflammation. Initially characterized in autopsy specimens, multiple approaches to visualize chronic active lesions (CALs) in vivo using advanced neuroimaging techniques and postprocessing methods are rapidly emerging. Among these in vivo imaging correlates of CALs, paramagnetic rim lesions (PRLs) are defined by the presence of a perilesional rim formed by iron-laden microglia and macrophages, whereas slowly expanding lesions are identified based on linear, concentric lesion expansion over time. In recent years, several longitudinal studies have linked the occurrence of in vivo detected CALs to a more aggressive disease course. PRLs are highly specific to MS and therefore have recently been incorporated into the MS diagnostic criteria. They also have prognostic potential as biomarkers to identify patients at risk of early and severe disease progression. These developments could significantly affect MS care and the evaluation of new treatments. This review describes the latest knowledge on CAL biology and imaging and the relevance of CALs to the natural history of MS. In addition, we outline considerations for current and future in vivo biomarkers of CALs, emphasizing the need for validation, standardization, and automation in their assessment.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Healthcare: An Intensivist’s Perspective
Authors: Sampath Sriram
Published: December 2024

Artificial intelligence (AI) has been put forth as a technological innovation which can change the way in which healthcare will be delivered in the near future. AI developers plan to deploy tools that will aid diagnosis, improve therapy, minimize errors, increase safety, and optimize systems and bring down costs. In addition, a paradigmatic shift in the scientific method has been suggested where causation will be inferred by empirical methods from data. A more cautious view suggests that the epistemic basis of AI and the predictions based on AI need independent external validation prior to widespread use. Whether the aim of the AI developers and the society it serves are aligned is difficult to ascertain as there exists a technological and information asymmetry between the AI developers and public stakeholders.
Exploitation of phylum-spanning omics resources reveals complexity in the nematode FLP signalling system and provides insights into flp-gene evolution
Authors: McCoy Ciaran J. , Wray Christopher P. , Freeman Laura , Crooks Bethany A. , Golinelli Luca , Marks Nikki J. , Temmerman Liesbet , Beets Isabel , Atkinson Louise E. , Mousley Angela
Published: December 2024

Background

Parasitic nematodes significantly undermine global human and animal health and productivity. Parasite control is reliant on anthelmintic administration however over-use of a limited number of drugs has resulted in escalating parasitic nematode resistance, threatening the sustainability of parasite control and underscoring an urgent need for the development of novel therapeutics. FMRFamide-like peptides (FLPs), the largest family of nematode neuropeptides, modulate nematode behaviours including those important for parasite survival, highlighting FLP receptors (FLP-GPCRs) as appealing putative novel anthelmintic targets. Advances in omics resources have enabled the identification of FLPs and neuropeptide-GPCRs in some parasitic nematodes, but remaining gaps in FLP-ligand libraries hinder the characterisation of receptor-ligand interactions, which are required to drive the development of novel control approaches.

Results

In this study we exploited recent expansions in nematode genome data to identify 2143 flp-genes in > 100 nematode species across free-living, entomopathogenic, plant, and animal parasitic lifestyles and representing 7 of the 12 major nematode clades. Our data reveal that: (i) the phylum-spanning flps, flp-1, -8, -14, and − 18, may be representative of the flp profile of the last common ancestor of nematodes; (ii) the majority of parasitic nematodes have a reduced flp complement relative to free-living species; (iii) FLP prepropeptide architecture is variable within and between flp-genes and across nematode species; (iv) FLP prepropeptide signatures facilitate flp-gene discrimination; (v) FLP motifs display variable length, amino acid sequence, and conservation; (vi) CLANS analysis provides insight into the evolutionary history of flp-gene sequelogues and reveals putative flp-gene paralogues and, (vii) flp expression is upregulated in the infective larval stage of several nematode parasites.

Conclusions

These data provide the foundation required for phylum-spanning FLP-GPCR deorphanisation screens in nematodes to seed the discovery and development of novel parasite control approaches.
Genetic and neuro-epigenetic effects of divergent artificial selection for feather pecking behaviour in chickens
Authors: de Haas Elske N. , Pértille Fábio , Kjaer Joergen B. , Jensen Per , Guerrero-Bosagna Carlos
Published: December 2024

Feather pecking (FP) is a repetitive behaviour in chickens, influenced by genetic, epigenetic, and environmental factors, similar to behaviours seen in human developmental disorders (e.g., hyperactivity, autism). This study examines genetic and neuro-epigenetic factors in the thalamus of chickens from lines selected for seven generations for high or low FP behaviour (HFP or LFP). We integrate data on Differentially Methylated Regions (DMRs), Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNPs), and Copy Number Variations (CNVs) in this controlled artificial selection process. Significant differences in behaviour, immunology, and neurology have been reported in these lines. We identified 710 SNPs in these lines that indicate new potentially important genes for FP such as TMPRSS6 (implicated in autism), and SST and ARNT2 (somatostatin function). CNV were the omic level most affected during selection. The largest CNVs found were in RIC3 (gain in HFP) and SH3RF2 (gain in LFP) genes, linked to nicotinic acetylcholine receptor regulation and human oncogenesis, respectively. Our study also suggests that promoters and introns are hotspots for CpG depletion. The overlapping of the omic levels investigated here with data from a public FP Quantitative Trait Loci (QTL) database revealed novel candidate genes for understanding repetitive behaviours, such as RTKN2, associated with Alzheimer’s disease in humans. This study suggests CNVs as a crucial initial step for genomic diversification, potentially more impactful than SNPs.