bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Unmasking Individual and Institutional HIV Stigma in Hospitals: Perspectives of Dutch Healthcare Providers
Authors: Jordans C. C. E. , Vliegenthart-Jongbloed K. J. , van Bruggen A. W. , van Holten N. , van Beek J. E. A. , Vriesde M. , van der Sluis D. , Verbon A. , Roukens A. H. E. , Stutterheim S. E. , Rokx C.
Published: June 2024

People with HIV continue to experience HIV stigma. Quantitative data on HIV stigma perpetrated by healthcare providers of hospitals providing HIV care in high-income countries are limited. The aim of this study is to investigate factors associated with HIV stigma in Dutch healthcare settings from the healthcare providers’ perspective. We conducted a cross-sectional study using the questionnaire ‘Measuring HIV Stigma and Discrimination Among Health Facility Staff – Monitoring Tool for Global Indicators’ to assess HIV stigma among healthcare providers (n = 405) in two academic hospitals. Healthcare providers licensed to provide medical care were eligible for inclusion. The primary outcome was the self-reported prevalence of at least one manifestation of HIV stigma measured by six stigma indicators (four individual, two institutional). Secondary outcomes were the prevalence of HIV stigma per indicator, per occupation, per department, and factors associated with individual stigma indicators. HIV stigma was prevalent among 88.1% (95%CI 84.5% − 91.2%) of participants. Stigma was mostly driven by negative attitudes towards people with HIV and worry to acquire HIV. Multivariate analysis showed that several factors were associated with HIV stigma, including younger age, male sex, working at one of the surgical departments, and working as a nurse. Having received any training on HIV stigma and/or discrimination was associated with less HIV stigma among all indicators. In conclusion, HIV stigma is highly prevalent among Dutch healthcare providers. Targeted approaches, including training on HIV stigma and discrimination, are needed to reduce HIV stigma in healthcare and should, among others, focus on younger healthcare providers.
The Associations Between Attachment Insecurity and Compulsive Sexual Behavior Disorder or Problematic Pornography Use: The Mediating Role of Emotion Regulation Difficulties
Authors: Wizła Magdalena , Lewczuk Karol
Published: June 2024

Compulsive sexual behavior disorder (CSBD) was previously considered an attachment disorder, while emotion dysregulation was thought to potentially be a key characteristic of it. However, this theoretical model was not tested in previous empirical research. In our cross-sectional study, we tested whether emotional regulation (ER) difficulties can be adopted as an explanatory mechanism for the relationships between attachment avoidance and anxiety, as well as CSBD and its most prevalent behavioral presentation—problematic pornography use (PPU). Participants (n = 1002; Mage = 50.49 years, SD = 13.32; men: 50.2%) completed an online survey regarding the investigated variables. In mediation analyses, attachment avoidance and anxiety were treated as simultaneous predictors, ER difficulties as a mediating variable, with CSBD/PPU severity as dependent variables. Emotion regulation difficulties and attachment anxiety had a direct positive effect on both CSBD and PPU. The direct effect of attachment avoidance on PPU was non-significant, and significant for CSBD depending on the measure used. Moreover, all the relationships between both insecure attachment dimensions and CSBD/PPU symptom severity were at least partially mediated by ER difficulties. Our results corroborate the theoretical claim that ER difficulties may be a useful framework for explaining the impact of attachment insecurity on CSBD/PPU. Theoretical and practical implications of the findings are discussed.
BET-directed PROTACs in triple negative breast cancer cell lines MDA-MB-231 and MDA-MB-436
Authors: Teufelsbauer Maryana , Stickler Sandra , Eggerstorfer Marie-Therese , Hammond Dennis Clyde , Hamilton Gerhard
Published: June 2024

Purpose

This study aims to find whether the proliferation and migration of triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) cell lines can be reduced by treatment with bromodomain and extra-terminal domain (BET) inhibitor JQ1 and BET protein targeting chimeras (PROTACs) ARV-771 and MZ1.

Methods

Cytotoxicity tests, scratch migration assays and western blot proteome profiler arrays for protein expression of cancer-related proteins were used to evaluate the impact of a BET-inhibitor and two BET-directed PROTACs on cell viability, migration and on protein expression.

Results

JQ1 and the PROTACs MZ1 and ARV-771 significantly inhibited the growth and migration of the KRAS G13D-mutated MDA-MB-231 cells. In this cell line, the PROTACs suppressed the residual expression of ERBB2/HER2, 3 and 4 that are essential for the proliferation of breast cancer cells and this cell line proved sensitive to HER2 inhibitors. In contrast, the effects of the PROTACs on the protein expression of MDA-MB-436 cells mostly affected cytokines and their cognate receptors.

Conclusion

The degradation of BET-protein by PROTACs demonstrated significant anti-proliferative effects. The KRAS-mutated MDA-MB-231 cells belong to the low-HER2 expressing tumors that have a poorer prognosis compared to HER2-null patients. Since first oral PROTACs against tumor hormone receptors are in clinical trials, this mode of tumor therapy is expected to become an important therapeutic strategy in the future treatment of TNBC.
Negotiating becoming: a Nietzschean critique of large language models
Authors: Fischer Simon W. S. , Boer Bas de
Published: June 2024

Large language models (LLMs) structure the linguistic landscape by reflecting certain beliefs and assumptions. In this paper, we address the risk of people unthinkingly adopting and being determined by the values or worldviews embedded in LLMs. We provide a Nietzschean critique of LLMs and, based on the concept of will to power, consider LLMs as will-to-power organisations. This allows us to conceptualise the interaction between self and LLMs as power struggles, which we understand as negotiation. Currently, the invisibility and incomprehensibility of LLMs make it difficult, if not impossible, to engage in such negotiations. This bears the danger that LLMs make reality increasingly homogeneous by recycling beliefs and creating feedback loops that ultimately freeze power struggles and thus consolidate the status quo. In view of this, LLMs constrain self-formation. Based on our critique, we provide some recommendations on how to develop interactions with LLMs that enable negotiations that allow for different ways of being
Synthesis and characterization of copper tin sulfide counter electrode for enhanced performance in third-generation solar cells
Authors: Salunke Supriya A. , Shelke Harshad D. , Mujawar Almas , Bhujbal Pankaj K. , Shaikh Shoyebmohamad F. , Pathan Habib M. , Kowshik Suhas , Naik Nithesh
Published: June 2024

This paper presents the fabrication of a copper tin sulfide (CTS) counter electrode for application in third-generation solar cells. The fabrication process involved modified chemical bath deposition (M-CBD) or a successive ionic layer adsorption reaction (SILAR). Initially, a ZnO seed layer was deposited onto a fluorine-doped tin oxide (FTO) substrate via CBD. Subsequently, a mesoporous layer of ZnO was deposited onto the FTO substrate using the doctor-blade method. The mesoporous ZnO layer was sensitized with CdS nanocrystals deposited using the SILAR method. Various characterization techniques, including UV–Vis spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), were employed to analyze the optical, structural, and morphological properties of the photoanode and CTS counter electrode. The results demonstrate the successful synthesis of a CTS counter electrode with desirable properties for solar-cell applications. The fabricated CTS counter electrode exhibited a conversion efficiency of 0.49%, which was significantly higher than that of carbon-based counter electrodes.
Highly Non-contractive Iterated Function Systems on Euclidean Space Can Have an Attractor
Authors: Leśniak Krzysztof , Snigireva Nina , Strobin Filip , Vince Andrew
Published: June 2024

Iterated function systems (IFSs) and their attractors have been central to the theory of fractal geometry almost from its inception. Moreover, contractivity of the functions in the IFS has been central to the theory of iterated functions systems. If the functions in the IFS are contractions, then the IFS is guaranteed to have a unique attractor. The converse question, does the existence of an attractor imply that the IFS is contractive, originates in a 1959 work by Bessaga which proves a converse to the contraction mapping theorem. Although a converse is true in that case, it is known that it does not always hold for an IFS. In general, there do exist IFSs with attractors and which are not contractive. However, in the context of IFSs in Euclidean space, this question has been open. In this paper we show that a highly non-contractive iterated function system in Euclidean space can have an attractor. In order to do that, we introduce the concept of an L-expansive map, i.e., a map that has Lipschitz constant strictly greater than one under any remetrization. This is necessitated by the absence of positively expansive maps on the interval.
Supervised maximum variance unfolding
Authors: Yang Deliang , Qi Hou-Duo
Published: June 2024

Maximum Variance Unfolding (MVU) is among the first methods in nonlinear dimensionality reduction for data visualization and classification. It aims to preserve local data structure and in the meantime push the variance among data as big as possible. However, MVU in general remains a computationally challenging problem and this may explain why it is less popular than other leading methods such as Isomap and t-SNE. In this paper, based on a key observation that the structure-preserving term in MVU is actually the squared stress in Multi-Dimensional Scaling (MDS), we replace the term with the stress function from MDS, resulting in a model that is usable. The property of the usability guarantees the “crowding phenomenon” will not happen in the dimension reduced results. The new model also allows us to combine label information and hence we call it the supervised MVU (SMVU). We then develop a fast algorithm that is based on Euclidean distance matrix optimization. By making use of the majorization-mininmization technique, the algorithm at each iteration solves a number of one-dimensional optimization problems, each having a closed-form solution. This strategy significantly speeds up the computation. We demonstrate the advantage of SMVU on some standard data sets against a few leading algorithms including Isomap and t-SNE.
A new method to calculate LED’s thermal impedance and a new voltage-current formula of LED
Authors: Ozuturk Erdem
Published: June 2024

The thermal impedance and voltage-current relation of LEDs can be obtained using a photodetector response to pulsed light emitted by LEDs. In this study, LEDs have been driven by pulsed high currents. Photodetector voltage is proportional to the radiant power of LED. A triangle has been drawn on the top of the photodetector voltage figure, and some geometrical magnitudes have been measured. The junction temperature can be calculated using these magnitudes and the LED’s relative radiant power-junction temperature coefficient. Thermal impedance can be calculated if junction temperature and ambient temperature difference are divided by thermal power dissipated from the LED. In this study, the thermal impedance of LEDs and their error have been calculated and a new voltage-current formula for LEDs has been given. The formulas for LED junction temperature-time and thermal impedance-time variations have been obtained. Besides these, the maximum pulse duration of the current pulse that the LED can work without breaking down has been calculated.
Impact of pharmacist-evaluated clinical decision support system alerts on potentially missing or inappropriately prescribed proton pump inhibitors at hospital discharge: a retrospective cross-sectional study
Authors: Flückiger Lee , Zaugg Claudia , Fiumefreddo Rico
Published: June 2024

Background

Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are among the most prescribed drugs. A clinical decision support system (CDSS) could improve their rational use.

Aim

The impact of an electronic algorithm (e-algorithm) implemented in a CDSS on potentially missing or inappropriately prescribed PPIs at hospital discharge, its specificity and sensitivity, and the outcome of the alerts issued were analysed.

Method

An e-algorithm continuously monitored patients of a tertiary care hospital for missing or inappropriate PPIs. Following relevance assessment by a pharmacist, the alerts raised were either displayed in the patients’ electronic record or dismissed. After a three-month period, all adult patients’ records were retrospectively reviewed for missing or inappropriate PPIs at discharge. The results were compared with a corresponding period before CDSS introduction. Sensitivity, specificity and outcome of alerts were quantified.

Results

In a 3-month period with 5018 patients, the CDSS created 158 alerts for missing PPIs and 464 alerts for inappropriate PPIs. PPI prescribing was proposed 81 times and PPI termination 122 times, with acceptance rates of 73% and 34%, respectively. A specificity of 99.4% and sensitivity of 92.0% for missing PPIs and a specificity of 97.1% and a sensitivity of 69.7% for inappropriate PPIs were calculated. The algorithm reduced incidents of missing PPIs by 63.4% (p < 0.001) and of inappropriate PPIs by 16.2% (p = 0.022).

Conclusion

The algorithm identified patients without necessary gastroprotection or inappropriate PPIs with high specificity and acceptable sensitivity. It positively impacted the rational use of PPIs by reducing incidents of missing and inappropriate PPIs.
Deliberate Ignorance and Myopic Intellectualist Understandings of Expertise: Are Philosophers of Education Epistemic Trespassers in Initial Teacher Education Programmes?
Authors: Dunne Gerry
Published: June 2024

This paper considers in conceptual terms the extent to which pre-service teachers’ disengagement with philosophy of education might usefully be explained in terms of the mistaken charge of (1) ‘epistemic trespassing’ frequently levelled against philosophers of education. This cohort charge philosophers of education with being ultracrepidarians—those who proffer opinions on subjects that they know nothing about. Contra this view, I argue that casting philosophers as epistemic trespassers—lofty theorists with nothing meaningful to contribute to professional practice—is a wrongful charge, or ‘epistemic vice’, based on a series of epistemic mistakes. These, individually and collectively, lead to a series of troubling costs in terms of impoverished professional formation and practice. To diagnose a plausible explanatory account of this phenomenon, I briefly turn to what I consider the main causes of this misattribution—more precisely—the four secondary category mistakes pre-service teachers make. Naturally a qualification is required. I contend these epistemic mistakes can rightfully be attributed to *some pre-service teachers in such determinations, which include: (2) misunderstanding standpoint epistemology (SE) in terms of automatic privilege being coextensive with first-personal authority (FPA); (3) overestimating the added value of deliberate/rational ignorance; (4) misguided intellectualist views of skills and expertise; and, (5) uncritical technicist attempts to emulate TikTok Exemplars with the allure of ‘Insta results’.
Prediction of daily global solar radiation in different climatic conditions using metaheuristic search algorithms: a case study from Türkiye
Authors: Bakır Hüseyin
Published: June 2024

Today’s many giant sectors including energy, industry, tourism, and agriculture should closely track the variation trends of solar radiation to take more benefit from the sun. However, the scarcity of solar radiation measuring stations represents a significant obstacle. This has prompted research into the estimation of global solar radiation (GSR) for various regions using existing climatic and atmospheric parameters. While prediction methods cannot supplant the precision of direct measurements, they are invaluable for studying and utilizing solar energy on a global scale. From this point of view, this paper has focused on predicting daily GSR data in three provinces (Afyonkarahisar, Rize, and Ağrı) which exhibit disparate solar radiation distributions in Türkiye. In this context, Gradient-Based Optimizer (GBO), Harris Hawks Optimization (HHO), Barnacles Mating Optimizer (BMO), Sine Cosine Algorithm (SCA), and Henry Gas Solubility Optimization (HGSO) have been employed to model the daily GSR data. The algorithms were calibrated with daily historical data of five input variables including sunshine duration, actual pressure, moisture, wind speed, and ambient temperature between 2010 and 2017 years. Then, they were tested with daily data for the 2018 year. In the study, a series of statistical metrics (R2, MABE, RMSE, and MBE) were employed to elucidate the algorithm that predicts solar radiation data with higher accuracy. The prediction results demonstrated that all algorithms achieved the highest R2 value in Rize province. It has been found that SCA (MABE of 0.7023 MJ/m2, RMSE of 0.9121 MJ/m2, and MBE of 0.2430 MJ/m2) for Afyonkarahisar province and GBO (RMSE of 0.8432 MJ/m2, MABE of 0.6703 MJ/m2, and R2 of 0.8810) for Ağrı province are the most effective algorithms for estimating GSR data. The findings indicate that each of the metaheuristic algorithms tested in this paper has the potential to predict daily GSR data within a satisfactory error range. However, the GBO and SCA algorithms provided the most accurate predictions of daily GSR data.
Integrating Digital Tools to Enhance Access to Learning Opportunities in Project-based Science Instruction
Authors: Fitzgerald Miranda S. , Evans Kaitlyn B.
Published: June 2024

Digital technologies and the instructional contexts in which they are embedded can increase students’ access to meaningful learning opportunities. Although there is a tradition of designing and integrating digital tools in secondary-grades project-based science instruction to enhance learners’ access to disciplinary learning, the elementary grades have received less attention. This has left classroom teachers with limited guidance for leveraging affordances of digital tools in project-based learning (PBL) with younger learners. In this article, we describe the design and integration of digital tools in Multiple Literacies in Project-based Learning, a recent elementary-grade project-based science curriculum that integrates literacy and mathematics. We use the principles of Universal Design for Learning to characterize the affordances of these digital tools, with attention to how the interplay of the tools and the PBL environment in which they were embedded enhanced access to learning opportunities for all students.
0–1 Laws for Pattern Occurrences in Phylogenetic Trees and Networks
Authors: Bienvenu François , Steel Mike
Published: June 2024

In a recent paper, the question of determining the fraction of binary trees that contain a fixed pattern known as the snowflake was posed. We show that this fraction goes to 1, providing two very different proofs: a purely combinatorial one that is quantitative and specific to this problem; and a proof using branching process techniques that is less explicit, but also much more general, as it applies to any fixed patterns and can be extended to other trees and networks. In particular, it follows immediately from our second proof that the fraction of d-ary trees (resp. level-k networks) that contain a fixed d-ary tree (resp. level-k network) tends to 1 as the number of leaves grows.
Azimuthal crustal variations and their implications on the seismic impulse response in the Valley of Mexico
Authors: Aguilar-Velázquez Manuel J. , Pérez-Campos Xyoli , Tago Josué , Villafuerte Carlos
Published: June 2024

Previous studies have suggested prominent variations in the seismic wave behavior at the 5 s period when traveling across the Valley of Mexico, associating them with the crustal structure and contributing to the anomalous seismic wave patterns observed each time an earthquake hits Mexico City. This article confirms the variations observed at 0.2 Hz by analyzing the Green tensor diagonal retrieved from empirical Green functions (EGF) calculated using seismic noise data cross-correlations of the vertical and horizontal components. We observe time and phase shifts between the east and north EGF components and show that they can be explained by the crustal structure from the surface up to 20 km depth; we also observe that the time and phase shifts are more significant if the distance between the source and the station increases. Additionally, the article presents an updated version of the velocity model from receiver functions and dispersion curves (VMRFDC v2.0) for the crustal structure under the Valley of Mexico. To validate this model, we compare the EGFs with synthetic Green functions determined numerically. To do so, we adaptatively meshed this model using an iterative algorithm to numerically simulate the impulse response up to 0.5 Hz. Finally, the comparisons between noise and synthetic EGF showed that the VMRFDC v2.0 model explains the time shifts and phase differences at 0.2 Hz, previously observed by independent studies, suggesting it correctly characterizes the crustal structure anomalies beneath the Valley of Mexico.
A Systematic Review to Summarise and Appraise the Reporting of Surgical Innovation: a Case Study in Robotic Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass
Authors: Huttman Marc M. , Smith Alexander N. , Robertson Harry F. , Purves Rory , Biggs Sarah E. , Dewi Ffion , Dixon Lauren K. , Kirkham Emily N. , Jones Conor S. , Ramirez Jozel , Scroggie Darren L. , Pathak Samir , Blencowe Natalie S. ,   on behalf of the RoboSurg collaborative group, Main Barry , Blazeby Jane , Dawson Sarah , Wilkinson Aimee , Jones Annabel , Abbas Aya , Turner Benedict , Thomas Charlie , Henshall David , Boden Eleanor , Gull Emma , Sewart Emma , Wood Fergus , Loro Francesca , Hollowood Freya , Fowler George , Higginbotham George , Sellers Grace , Hughes Ioan , Handa Ishita , Leandro Lorna , Paynter Louisa , Huppler Lucy , Gourbault Lysander , Wijeyaratne Manuk , Dewhurst Maximilian , Shah Max , Kiandee Miraen , Dada Mo , Brewster Oliver , Lok Pat , Winayak Rahul , Ranat Reesha , Lawrence Ruby , Millar Ryan , Lawday Sam , Dalmia Sanjush , Rozwadowski Sophie , Robinson Tanya , Perra Teresa , Leow Tjun Wei , Brankin-Frisby Tom , Baker William , Hurst William , Embury-Young Ysabelle , Vallance Abigail , Young Amber , Zucker Ben , Hoffmann Christin , Richards Hollie , Olivier James , Rees Jonathan , Lee Keng Siang , Macefield Rhiannon , Cousins Sian
Published: June 2024

Robotic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RRYGB) is an innovative alternative to traditional laparoscopic approaches. Literature has been published investigating its safety/efficacy; however, the quality of reporting is uncertain. This systematic review used the Idea, Development, Exploration, Assessment and Long-term follow-up (IDEAL) framework to assess the reporting quality of available literature. A narrative summary was formulated, assessing how comprehensively governance/ethics, patient selection, demographics, surgeon expertise/training, technique description and outcomes were reported. Forty-seven studies published between 2005 and 2024 were included. There was incomplete/inconsistent reporting of governance/ethics, patient selection, surgeon expertise/training and technique description, with heterogenous outcome reporting. RRYGB reporting was poor and did not align with IDEAL guidance. Robust prospective studies reporting findings using IDEAL/other guidance are required to facilitate safe widespread adoption of RRYGB and other surgical innovations.
How does robotic surgery affect gynecology patient care?
Authors: Arslan Sibel , Vehviläinen-Julkunen Katri , Parviainen Anndra
Published: June 2024

The aim of this review is to map the current research on the needs of gynecological patients treated with robotic surgery. Systematic Rapid Review. Pubmed, Web of Science, Google Scholar. Search was limited from the years 2017–2021. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) statement was followed. Rapid review is a synthesis of information produced in a shorter time than systematic reviews, which allows clinical nurses to access evidence in the decision-making process. The methodological steps implemented were the following: (1) needs assessment and topic selection, (2) study development, (3) literature search, (4) screening and study selection, (5) data extraction, (6) risk-of-bias assessment and (7) knowledge synthesis. The search yielded 815 articles, 746 were excluded after screening the title and abstract, and 69 full-text syntheses were performed. Only 10 articles were included in the final analysis. This research evaluated the effects of robotic surgery on the patient under seven themes; operative time, length of stay, complications, estimated blood loss, pain, survivor, and conversion. Five studies were on endometrial cancer, one study on gynecologic cancer, two studies on hysterectomy, one study on patient safety, and one study on cervical cancer. The results show that robotic surgery can change the needs of patients by solving ongoing problems in gynecological patients. This requires a better understanding of robotic surgery procedures while facilitating nursing care over patient care.
The constrained equal losses family of rules for claims problems
Authors: Giménez-Gómez José-Manuel , Salekpay Foroogh , Vilella Cori
Published: June 2024

In this study, we introduce a family of rules for claims problems called the CEL-family. The family is defined by means of a parameter $$\theta \in [0,1]$$

θ
∈
[
0
,
1
]

as a notion of solidarity and contribution. It contains the constrained equal losses and the constrained equal awards rules. We perform an axiomatic analysis considering the main properties in the literature, for the sake of comparison. We apply the family to the distribution of the European Regional Development Funds to study how the rules in the family treat regions with relatively smaller claims compared to regions with relatively larger claims.
Working as a Sensitivity Reader: Just Another Step on the Way to Publication
Authors: Withers D-M , Díaz-Andreu Elio Smith , Kamsika Georgina
Published: June 2024

The use of sensitivity readers has become increasingly prevalent in the publishing industry over the past decade (Brouillette 2023; Jilani 2023; Kingsbury 2024; Sharma 2023; Thomalla 2023; West-Knights 2023). To some, sensitivity readers are controversial figures who seek to censor writers’ voices, while for others they are much-needed defences against the perpetuation of discrimination in literature (Lawrence 2020). Given the relatively novel application of sensitivity reading in publishing processes, there remains a scarcity of research into, and understanding of, the practical implications of this editorial process. The following transcript of a discussion between University of Exeter Master of Arts (Publishing) student, D-M Withers, and sensitivity reader and published author Georgina Kamsika reflects on the specificities of this industry role, providing insight into our understanding of sensitivity reading as a unique editorial layer within the publishing chain.
Atmosphere and ocean interactions
Authors: Zardi Dino
Published: June 2024

The nature and extent of the main interactions between the Earth’s atmosphere and the ocean are briefly reviewed, introducing the main properties of these two planetary systems, the hierarchy of timescales and spatial scales characterizing their processes, and the main mechanisms involved. To clarify these mechanisms, a few examples of exchanges of momentum, energy, and mass exchanges are briefly outlined. The paper aims at stimulating students to discover the fascinating interplay among two of the most relevant components of our planet, such as the atmosphere and the ocean, and suggests resources for further exploration.

Graphical abstract
Interplay between YAP/TAZ and metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease progression
Authors: Lee Na Young , Choi Myeung Gi , Lee Eui Jin , Koo Ja Hyun
Published: June 2024

Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is becoming an increasingly pressing global health challenge, with increasing mortality rates showing an upward trend. Two million deaths occur annually from cirrhosis and liver cancer together each year. Yes-associated protein (YAP) and transcriptional coactivator with PDZ-binding motif (TAZ), key effectors of the Hippo signaling pathway, critically regulate tissue homeostasis and disease progression in the liver. While initial studies have shown that YAP expression is normally restricted to cholangiocytes in healthy livers, the activation of YAP/TAZ is observed in other hepatic cells during chronic liver disease. The disease-driven dysregulation of YAP/TAZ appears to be a critical element in the MASLD progression, contributing to hepatocyte dysfunction, inflammation, and fibrosis. In this study, we focused on the complex roles of YAP/TAZ in MASLD and explored how the YAP/TAZ dysregulation of YAP/TAZ drives steatosis, inflammation, fibrosis, and cirrhosis. Finally, the cell-type-specific functions of YAP/TAZ in different types of hepatic cells, such as hepatocytes, hepatic stellate cells, hepatic macrophages, and biliary epithelial cells are discussed, highlighting the multifaceted impact of YAP/TAZ on liver physiology and pathology.
Een ongunstig binnenmilieu als mediërende variabele tussen energiearmoede en gezondheid: een verkenning
Authors: Bosman Charley , Kroesbergen Ike , Stoopendaal Marjolein
Published: June 2024

Samenvatting

Doel

Het doel van dit onderzoek is inzicht krijgen in welke mate een ongunstig binnenmilieu een mediërende variabele is in de samenhang tussen energiearmoede en gezondheid.

Methode

Data uit de Gezondheidsenquête 2022 zijn verrijkt met enkele registratiedata uit de Monitor Energiearmoede 2020, resulterend in een onderzoekspopulatie van 16.210 volwassenen. Met behulp van Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) is in R het mediatie-effect van een ongunstig binnenmilieu (vocht, schimmel en/of gebrekkige ventilatie in huis) op de relatie tussen energiearmoede en verschillende gezondheidsuitkomsten onderzocht. Analyses zijn gecorrigeerd voor verschillende covariaten.

Resultaten

Energiearmoede hangt negatief samen met sociaal kapitaal en afwezigheid van psychische klachten, en positief met het risico op een angststoornis of depressie, een negatieve beoordeling van de eigen gezondheid, fysieke beperkingen in het dagelijks leven, eenzaamheid en stress. Deze verbanden worden deels gemedieerd door een ongunstig binnenmilieu (mediatieproportie: 5,5–10,8%). Bij de subgroep huurders van woningcorporaties ligt de mediatieproportie tussen de 8,3% en 20,1%.

Conclusie

Een ongunstig binnenmilieu is een van de factoren die een mediërende rol speelt in de relatie tussen energiearmoede en gezondheid. Het tegengaan van gezondheidseffecten van energiearmoede vergt een brede en structurele aanpak, waar het binnenmilieu onderdeel van is. Zowel in onderzoek als in beleid is meer verbinding tussen energiearmoede, binnenmilieu en gezondheid nodig.
Suppressing internet bottleneck with Kudryashov’s extended version of self-phase modulation and fractional temporal evolution
Authors: Murad Muhammad Amin S. , Arnous Ahmed H. , Biswas Anjan , Yildirim Yakup , Alshomrani Ali Saleh
Published: June 2024

The current paper employs Kudryashov’s approach to suppress Internet bottleneck effect for the model with factional temporal evolution, linear chromatic dispersion and Kudryahov’s proposed form of extended self-phase modulation with power-law embedded in it. Kudryasov’s approach to integration yielded soliton solutions that is used to transmit solitons across intercontinental distances with a controlled speed which can regulate the internet traffic flow.
A Modified Bayesian Optimization Approach for Determining a Training Set to Identify the Best Genotypes from a Candidate Population in Genomic Selection
Authors: Tu Hui-Ning , Liao Chen-Tuo
Published: June 2024

Training set optimization is a crucial factor affecting the probability of success for plant breeding programs using genomic selection. Conventionally, the training set optimization is developed to maximize Pearson’s correlation between true breeding values and genomic estimated breeding values for a testing population, because it is an essential component of genetic gain in plant breeding. However, many practical breeding programs aim to identify the best genotypes for target traits in a breeding population. A modified Bayesian optimization approach is therefore developed in this study to construct training sets for tackling such an interesting problem. The proposed approach is based on Monte Carlo simulation and data cross-validation, which is shown to be competitive with the existing methods developed to achieve the maximal Pearson’s correlation. Four real genome datasets, including two rice, one wheat, and one soybean, are analyzed in this study. An R package is generated to facilitate the application of the proposed approach. Supplementary materials accompanying this paper appear online.
Obstacle encounter probability dependent local path planner for UAV operation in urban environments
Authors: Thoma Andreas , Gardi Alessandro , Fisher Alex , Braun Carsten
Published: June 2024

Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) are well-suited for various short-distance missions in urban environments. However, the path planner of such UAV is constantly challenged with the choice between avoiding obstacles horizontally or vertically. If the path planner relies on sensor information only, i.e. the path planner is a local planner, usually predefined manoeuvres or preferences are used to find a possible way. However, this method is stiff and inflexible. This work proposes a probabilistic decision-maker to set the control parameters of a classic local path planner during a flight mission. The decision-maker defines whether performing horizontal or vertical avoidance is preferable based on the probability of encountering a given number of obstacles. Here, the decision-maker considers predictions of possible future avoidance manoeuvres. It also defines an ideal flight altitude based on the probability of encountering obstacles. This work analyses the building height of all European capital cities and the probability of encountering obstacles at different altitudes to feed the decision-maker. We tested the feasibility of the proposed decision-maker with the 3DVFH*, a commonly used local path planner, in multiple simulations. The proposed probabilistic decision-maker allows the local path planner to reach the goal point significantly more often than the standard version of the 3DVFH*.
Behavior of jittering potential before and after impulse blockings: a preliminary study in myasthenia gravis
Authors: Artuğ N. Tuğrul
Published: June 2024

Neuromuscular junction disorders lead to secession of bioelectrical activity transmission between motor nerve endings and muscle fibers. In diseases that are severe enough, impulse blockings are observed. This study aims to reveal the behavior of neuromuscular junction before and after impulse blockings. Fourteen recordings harboring impulse blockings from nine myasthenia gravis (MG) patients were included. Recordings were made from frontalis muscle by using concentric needle electrode during voluntary contraction. One hundred traces were acquired in each session. In addition to well-known jitter parameters, new parameters were calculated such as number of consecutive impulse blocking groups, number of impulse blockings in each group, ratio of maximum number of consecutive impulse blockings to all number of blockings. Graphics were composed to show location change behavior of jittering potential in all traces. For jittering potential, before or after a single impulse blocking the amount of getting further away from trigger peak was greater than getting closer to trigger peak. However, after consecutive impulse blockings the amount of getting closer to trigger peak was greater than the amount of getting further away. The behavior of neuromuscular junction before and after impulse blockings was demonstrated in MG patients. Moreover, new features were extracted for jitter studies. Building models for different diseases according to their impulse blockings may be possible with the developed algorithm.

Graphical abstract
Activation of the MAPK network provides a survival advantage during the course of COVID-19-induced sepsis: a real-world evidence analysis of a multicenter COVID-19 Sepsis Cohort
Authors: Witowski Andrea , Palmowski Lars , Rahmel Tim , Nowak Hartmuth , Ehrentraut Stefan F. , Putensen Christian , von Groote Thilo , Zarbock Alexander , Babel Nina , Anft Moritz , Sitek Barbara , Bracht Thilo , Bayer Malte , Weber Maike , Weisheit Christina , Pfänder Stephanie , Eisenacher Martin , Adamzik Michael , Katharina Rump , Koos Björn , Ziehe Dominik ,   the CovidDataNet.NRW research group, Bazzi Maha , Bergmann Lars , von Busch Alexander , Ehrentraut Stefan F. , Eisennacher Martin , Ramesh Sai Spoorti , Haberl Helge , Meersch-Dini Melanie , Marcus Katrin , Rump Katharina , Schewe Jens-Christian , Orlowski Jennifer , Marco Britta , Unterberg Matthias , Kühn Daniel , Wolf Alexander , Zuelch Birgit
Published: June 2024

Purpose

There is evidence that lower activity of the RAF/MEK/ERK network is associated with positive outcomes in mild and moderate courses of COVID-19. The effect of this cascade in COVID-19 sepsis is still undetermined. Therefore, we tested the hypothesis that activity of the RAF/MEK/ERK network in COVID-19-induced sepsis is associated with an impact on 30-day survival.

Methods

We used biomaterial from 81 prospectively recruited patients from the multicentric CovidDataNet.NRW-study cohort (German clinical trial registry: DRKS00026184) with their collected medical history, vital signs, laboratory parameters, microbiological findings and patient outcome. ERK activity was measured by evaluating ERK phosphorylation using a Proximity Ligation Assay.

Results

An increased ERK activity at 4 days after diagnosis of COVID-19-induced sepsis was associated with a more than threefold increased chance of survival in an adjusted Cox regression model. ERK activity was independent of other confounders such as Charlson Comorbidity Index or SOFA score (HR 0.28, 95% CI 0.10–0.84, p = 0.02).

Conclusion

High activity of the RAF/MEK/ERK network during the course of COVID-19 sepsis is a protective factor and may indicate recovery of the immune system. Further studies are needed to confirm these results.
Methods to Assess Energy Expenditure of Resistance Exercise: A Systematic Scoping Review
Authors: Mitchell Lachlan , Wilson Luke , Duthie Grant , Pumpa Kate , Weakley Jonathon , Scott Christopher , Slater Gary
Published: June 2024

Background

Nutrition guidance for athletes must consider a range of variables to effectively support individuals in meeting energy and nutrient needs. Resistance exercise is a widely adopted training method in athlete preparation and rehabilitation and therefore is one such variable that will influence nutrition guidance. Given its prominence, the capacity to meaningfully quantify resistance exercise energy expenditure will assist practitioners and researchers in providing nutrition guidance. However, the significant contribution of anaerobic metabolism makes quantifying energy expenditure of resistance exercise challenging.

Objective

The aim of this scoping review was to investigate the methods used to assess resistance exercise energy expenditure.

Methods

A literature search of Medline, SPORTDiscus, CINAHL and Web of Science identified studies that included an assessment of resistance exercise energy expenditure. Quality appraisal of included studies was performed using the Rosendal Scale.

Results

A total of 19,867 studies were identified, with 166 included after screening. Methods to assess energy expenditure included indirect calorimetry (n = 136), blood lactate analysis (n = 25), wearable monitors (n = 31) and metabolic equivalents (n = 4). Post-exercise energy expenditure was measured in 76 studies. The reported energy expenditure values varied widely between studies.

Conclusions

Indirect calorimetry is widely used to estimate energy expenditure. However, given its limitations in quantifying glycolytic contribution, indirect calorimetry during and immediately following exercise combined with measures of blood lactate are likely required to better quantify total energy expenditure. Due to the cumbersome equipment and technical expertise required, though, along with the physical restrictions the equipment places on participants performing particular resistance exercises, indirect calorimetry is likely impractical for use outside of the laboratory setting, where metabolic equivalents may be a more appropriate method.
Unusual application of twinkling artifact
Authors: Drudi Francesco M. , Maroncelli Roberto , Angelini Flavia , Renda Maurizio , Maglia Gianluca , Bertolotto Michele , Cantisani Vito
Published: June 2024

Introduction

The aim of this paper is to show how to improve diagnostic accuracy using CDUS and twinkling artifact in patients experiencing discomfort due to the presence of small FBs in the soft tissues not clearly visible at US grayscale examination.

Materials and methods

We enrolled 7 adult patients presenting with small (2–4 mm) superficial FBs located in the subcutaneous and muscle tissues, barely or not detectable on US grayscale. All patients underwent US grayscale and CDUS examinations.

Results

We identified superficial FB with twinkling artifact in all 7 patients. All of these were confirmed to represent foreign bodies after surgical excision.

Conclusion

TA is useful in the evaluation of subcutaneous and muscular FBs and provides information on their location, depth and shape, which is useful if surgical excision is required.
Metabolic Perturbations Associated with both PFAS Exposure and Perinatal/Antenatal Depression in Pregnant Individuals: A Meet-in-the-Middle Scoping Review
Authors: Suthar Himal , Tanghal Roselyn B. , Chatzi Lida , Goodrich Jesse A. , Morello-Frosch Rachel , Aung Max
Published: June 2024

Purpose of Review

Depression during the perinatal or antenatal period affects at least 1 in 10 women worldwide, with long term health implications for the mother and child. Concurrently, there is increasing evidence associating maternal exposure to per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) to adverse pregnancy outcomes. We reviewed the body of evidence examining both the associations between PFAS exposure and perturbations in the maternal metabolome, and the associations between the maternal metabolome and perinatal/antenatal depression. Through this, we sought to explore existing evidence of the perinatal metabolome as a potential mediation pathway linking PFAS exposure and perinatal/antenatal depression.

Recent Findings

There are few studies examining the metabolomics of PFAS exposure—specifically in pregnant women—and the metabolomics of perinatal/antenatal depression, let alone studies examining both simultaneously. Of the studies reviewed (N = 11), the majority were cross sectional, based outside of the US, and conducted on largely homogenous populations. Our review identified 23 metabolic pathways in the perinatal metabolome common to both PFAS exposure and perinatal/antenatal depression.

Future studies may consider findings from our review to conduct literature-derived hypothesis testing focusing on fatty acid metabolism, alanine metabolism, glutamate metabolism, and tyrosine metabolism when exploring the biochemical mechanisms conferring the risk of perinatal/antenatal depression due to PFAS exposure. We recommend that researchers also utilize heterogenous populations, longitudinal study designs, and mediation approaches to elucidate key pathways linking PFAS exposures to perinatal/antenatal depression.
Motivation to Change Direction in Life with a Little Help from a Digital Companion or a Professional Assistance
Authors: Allemand Mathias , Pfund Gabrielle N. , Hill Patrick L.
Published: June 2024

This article examines whether people are motivated to change their life direction at all, who is currently changing their purpose, and whether they prefer the assistance of a digital companion or a professional when changing their purpose. Adults (N = 792, 50.3% women) participated in a survey that addressed these questions. Across all participants, 53.4% said they wanted to change their life direction or were currently working on it, and among those respondents, 56.5% preferred support from a professional or digital companion. Results showed that lower life satisfaction, younger age, and identifying as a woman were associated with a greater likelihood of being motivated to change their purpose and a greater likelihood of actually making an effort to change their purpose, relative to not wanting to change their purpose. In addition, demographic variables helped distinguish participants who preferred support from a professional or a digital companion compared to those who did not.
The Message in a New Phase of Television: An Exploration of the Dichotomy of Good and Evil
Authors: Bingham Kevin P , Czapnik Slawomir
Published: June 2024

Drawing on the ideas of several key sociologists, and the central argument that reality and representation have become blurred, this conceptual paper sets out to explore how television, one of the Big Seven leisure pursuits, has a damaging impact upon moral sightedness in a world where modernity has entered a state of flux. To link seemingly abstract ideas – those of ‘synopticism’, ‘reterotopia’ and ‘adiaphorization’ for example – and the language of poet-intellectuals with events and consequences occurring in people’s everyday lives, a selection of popular reality television shows and TV celebrities are considered. In its second part, the paper goes on to embrace intimations of hope. This is the hope that television can be used in experimental ways to stimulate moral consciousness. To further unpack this suggestion, the paper considers how television networks such as Channel 4, and shows such as Squid Games and Black Mirror, can excite moral impulses for the ‘Other’. In its conclusions, the paper explores whether the presiding message of television can be different to encourage viewers to question what is right and wrong.
Ein kritischer Blick auf die Idee eines Patient Preference ‚Predictors‘
Authors: Hiekel Susanne
Published: June 2024

Wenn Patient*innen die Fähigkeit verlieren, in klinische Maßnahmen einzuwilligen, aber keine Patient*innen-Verfügung vorliegt, ist der mutmaßliche Wille zu ermitteln. Um dies besser als bislang gewährleisten zu können, wird der Einsatz eines Patient Preference Predictors diskutiert: ein Instrument, das auf der Basis algorithmischer Korrelationen (PPP) bzw. mit Hilfe eines Large Language Models (personalisierter PPP (P4)) die mutmaßliche Präferenz einer Person ermitteln soll. Ein Einsatz von PPPs/P4s ist allerdings kritisch zu sehen, da sowohl von epistemischer als auch von normativer Seite Bedenken anzumelden sind. So stellen nämlich rein korrelative Zusammenhänge keine adäquate Grundlage für die Ermittlung zu respektierender individueller (kontrafaktisch) autonomer Präferenzen dar. Der PPP ist daher abzulehnen. Bei einem P4 ist es fraglich, ob die notwendige Individualität und hinreichende Qualität der Präferenzermittlung gewährleistet werden kann. Sollte ein Ersatz menschlicher Stellvertreter*innen durch einen P4 erwogen werden, so ist zu kritisieren, dass notwendige Bedingungen zur Erfüllung des Prinzips des Respekts vor der Autonomie nicht erfüllt werden bzw. der darauf basierende Standard für stellvertretende Entscheidungen nicht gut eingehalten werden kann. Ein P4 sollte daher, wenn überhaupt, nur zur Unterstützung bei der Entscheidungsfindung herangezogen werden – und dies auch nur dann, wenn nachprüfbare Begründungen für eine Präferenzbestimmung durch den P4 bereitgestellt werden.