bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Venetoclax Induces BCL-2–Dependent Treg to TH17 Plasticity to Enhance the Antitumor Efficacy of Anti–PD-1 Checkpoint Blockade
Authors: Liao Rosy , Hsu Jocelyn Y. , Aboelella Nada S. , McKeever Joshua A. , Thomas-Toth Anika T. , Koh Andrew S. , LaBelle James L.
Published: May 2024

The specific BCL-2 small molecule inhibitor venetoclax induces apoptosis in a wide range of malignancies, which has led to rapid clinical expansion in its use alone and in combination with chemotherapy and immune-based therapies against a myriad of cancer types. While lymphocytes, and T cells in particular, rely heavily on BCL-2 for survival and function, the effects of small molecule blockade of the BCL-2 family on surviving immune cells is not fully understood. We aimed to better understand the effect of systemic treatment with venetoclax on regulatory T cells (Treg), which are relatively resistant to cell death induced by specific drugging of BCL-2 compared to other T cells. We found that BCL-2 blockade altered Treg transcriptional profiles and mediated Treg plasticity toward a TH17-like Treg phenotype, resulting in increased IL17A production in lymphoid organs and within the tumor microenvironment. Aligned with previously described augmented antitumor effects observed when combining venetoclax with anti–PD-1 checkpoint inhibition, we also demonstrated that Treg-specific genetic BCL-2 knockout combined with anti–PD-1 induced tumor regression and conferred overlapping genetic changes with venetoclax-treated Tregs. As long-term combination therapies using venetoclax gain more traction in the clinic, an improved understanding of the immune-modulatory effects caused by venetoclax may allow expansion of its use against malignancies and immune-related diseases.
Non-O Blood Group Is Associated with High Thrombus Burden and Poor Short- and Long-Term Prognosis in ST-Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction Patients
Authors: Toprak Kenan , Kaplangöray Mustafa , Omar Muhammed Bahadır , Dursun Ayten , Toprak İbrahim Halil , Acar Osman , Demirbağ Recep
Published: May 2024

Introduction: This study investigated how non-O blood groups relate to thrombus burden (TB) and prognosis in ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) patients, aiming to shed light on their association with thrombotic complications in cardiovascular diseases. Methods: Retrospectively, 1,180 STEMI patients undergoing primary percutaneous coronary intervention were included. The study population was divided into groups according to TB status and the groups were compared in terms of basic clinical characteristics, laboratory parameters and ABO blood group types. In addition, short-term (30 days) and long-term (12 months) clinical outcomes were assessed to evaluate the prognostic implications. Results: The analysis revealed a significant association between non-O blood groups and increased TB in STEMI patients (p = 0.001). Non-O blood group was independently associated with high TB (OR: 1.726, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.279–2.330, p < 0.001). Additionally, patients with non-O blood groups had higher short and long-term mortality rates (hazard ratio [HR]: 2.480, 95% CI: 1.361–4.520, p = 0.003; HR: 2.347, 95% CI: 1.433–3.844, p = 0.001; respectively). Conclusions: This study emphasizes the significance of the ABO blood group system in STEMI outcomes, associating non-O blood groups with higher TB and poorer clinical outcomes. While proposing personalized treatment strategies based on blood group status to improve reperfusion interventions and outcomes, additional trials are needed to comprehensively evaluate their impact.
Nutritional Status Indicators Predict Tolerability to Adjuvant Chemotherapy in Patients with Stage II/III Rectal Cancer Undergoing Neoadjuvant Chemoradiotherapy
Authors: Abe Shinya , Nozawa Hiroaki , Sasaki Kazuhito , Murono Koji , Emoto Shigenobu , Yokoyama Yuichiro , Matsuzaki Hiroyuki , Nagai Yuzo , Shinagawa Takahide , Sonoda Hirofumi , Ishihara Soichiro
Published: May 2024

Introduction: Adjuvant chemotherapy (AC) after radical surgery following preoperative chemoradiotherapy (CRT) for locally advanced rectal cancer (LARC) is now the standard of care. The identification of risk factors for the discontinuation of AC is important for further improvements in survival. We herein examined the prognostic impact of chemotherapy compliance and its relationship with the prognostic nutritional index (PNI) before surgery. Methods: A total of 335 stage II–III LARC patients who underwent preoperative CRT between 2003 and 2022 at the University of Tokyo Hospital were retrospectively reviewed. We excluded patients with recurrence during AC and those who had not received AC. The relationship between AC and long-term outcomes and that between PNI values and the duration of AC were examined. Results: Thirty-one patients discontinued AC and 62 continued AC. Recurrence-free survival (RFS) was significantly shorter in patients who discontinued AC (p = 0.0056). The discontinuation of AC was identified as an independent risk factor for RFS (hazard ratio [HR]: 2.24, p = 0.0233). Twenty-one patients were classified as having low PNI (less than 40), which correlated with an older age, low body mass index, and incomplete AC. Low PNI was an independent risk factor for a shorter duration of AC (HR: 2.53, p = 0.0123). Conclusion: The discontinuation of AC was related to poor RFS in patients with LARC undergoing preoperative CRT. Furthermore, a low PNI value was identified as a risk factor for a shorter duration of AC.
Oratura, etnotexto, oralitura: origen y destino de la palabra actante
Authors: Destéfanis Laura , Castells Mario
Published: May 2024

El objetivo de este artículo es brindar una revisión de las diversas tensiones que prevalecen entre cultura oral y cultura letrada en las sociedades latinoamericanas. Por una parte, hace foco en aquellos movimientos literarios que se plantearon esta problemática y la abordaron mediante diversos programas, tales como el indigenismo o la producción en lenguas originarias. Por otra parte, confronta las distintas instancias de formulación de un corpus heterogéneo que desde una perspectiva comunitaria, popular, plurilingüe y multiétnica denuncia la ideología del mestizaje y su estrategia monolingüizadora. Por último, pone en cuestión las relaciones entre transmisión oral y transmisión escrita considerando sus posibilidades y limitaciones diferenciales, y coteja los programas político-culturales levantados por diversos grupos intelectuales.
Evaluation and Management of Chronic Heart Failure in Children and Adolescents With Congenital Heart Disease: A Scientific Statement From the American Heart Association
Authors: Amdani Shahnawaz , Conway Jennifer , George Kristen , Martinez Hugo R. , Asante-Korang Alfred , Goldberg Caren S. , Davies Ryan R. , Miyamoto Shelley D. , Hsu Daphne T. ,   on behalf of the American Heart Association Council on Lifelong Congenital Heart Disease and Heart Health in the Young; Council on Arteriosclerosis, Thrombosis and Vascular Biology; Council on Cardiovascular Surgery and Anesthesia; and Council on Cardiovascular and Stroke Nursing
Published: May 2024

With continued medical and surgical advancements, most children and adolescents with congenital heart disease are expected to survive to adulthood. Chronic heart failure is increasingly being recognized as a major contributor to ongoing morbidity and mortality in this population as it ages, and treatment strategies to prevent and treat heart failure in the pediatric population are needed. In addition to primary myocardial dysfunction, anatomical and pathophysiological abnormalities specific to various congenital heart disease lesions contribute to the development of heart failure and affect potential strategies commonly used to treat adult patients with heart failure. This scientific statement highlights the significant knowledge gaps in understanding the epidemiology, pathophysiology, staging, and outcomes of chronic heart failure in children and adolescents with congenital heart disease not amenable to catheter-based or surgical interventions. Efforts to harmonize the definitions, staging, follow-up, and approach to heart failure in children with congenital heart disease are critical to enable the conduct of rigorous scientific studies to advance our understanding of the actual burden of heart failure in this population and to allow the development of evidence-based heart failure therapies that can improve outcomes for this high-risk cohort.
Five new records of Collybiopsis (Agaricales, Omphalotaceae) in Thailand: a significant addition to the species diversity and global distribution of the genus
Authors: PHONROB WIPHAWANEE , KUMLA JATURONG , SUWANNARACH NAKARIN , KHUNA SURAPONG , NUTARATAT PUMIN , WANNATHES NOPPARAT , LUMYONG SAISAMORN
Published: May 2024

The genus Collybiopsis is known to be found in tropical and temperate regions throughout the world. Currently, 66 species have been validated and assigned to this genus. In this study, we have updated a brief review of the genus Collybiopsis through an overview of species diversity, geographic distribution, and recently published literature. Prior to this study, only four Collybiopsis species have been reported from Thailand. During surveys of macrofungi in northern and southern Thailand from 2018 to 2022, nine Collybiopsis specimens were collected. These nine specimens were identified as belonging to five species, namely C. gibbosa, C. indocta, C. melanopus, C. menehune, and C. nonnulla based on morphological characteristics and molecular data of the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) and large subunit (nrLSU) of nuclear ribosomal DNA sequences. The present study offers the first record of these five Collybiopsis species in Thailand. Detailed morphological descriptions, photographs, illustrations, comparisons with related taxa, and a phylogenetic tree to show the placement of these five species from Thai specimens are provided. Moreover, a new key to the species of Collybiopsis found in Thailand is presented.
Begonia isadorae (Begoniaceae), a new endemic species from Ilha Grande, an island in southeastern Brazil, with notes on leaf anatomy
Authors: LIMA JACQUES ELIANE DE , ELLIOT FERNANDES PINTO MAHAT , BORGES DA COSTA FERNANDES ANA LUIZA , DOS SANTOS TOZIN LUIZ RICARDO
Published: May 2024

Begonia isadorae is a new species endemic to an island of Brazilian Atlantic Rainforest, a biome rich in endemism and species diversity, and it is described and illustrated herein. Begonia isadorae belongs to B. sect Pritzelia (Klotzsch) A.DC. and it is morphologically similar to B. rubropilosa A.DC. sharing the same leaf blade shape and habit but differs in its puberulous to glabrescent adaxial leaf blades (vs. scabrous), puberulous tepals (vs. squamulose), and ovary with entire placentae (vs. bilamellate). A diagnosis, description, ecological comments, taxonomic and leaf anatomy notes, illustrations, and color photographs are provided. Begonia isadorae is preliminarily classified as Vulnerable (VU) due to its very small populations and restricted distribution.
Taxonomy of the Rhampholeon boulengeri Complex (Sauria: Chamaeleonidae): Five New Species from Central Africa’s Albertine Rift
Authors: HUGHES DANIEL F. , BEHANGANA MATHIAS , LUKWAGO WILBER , MENEGON MICHELE , DEHLING J. MAXIMILIAN , WAGNER PHILIPP , TILBURY COLIN R. , SOUTH TRISAN , KUSAMBA CHIFUNDERA , GREENBAUM ELI
Published: May 2024

In a recent molecular study, the pygmy chameleon Rhampholeon boulengeri Steindachner, 1911 was shown to contain six genetically distinct, but phenotypically cryptic lineages. Phylogenetic analyses of genetic data demonstrated that several well-supported clades occurred in non-overlapping elevational ranges across the Albertine Rift in Central Africa. In order to resolve the taxonomy of the R. boulengeri complex, we examined the morphology of specimens representing all six genetic lineages, including the type specimens. Results supported the notion that the current taxonomy does not reflect species diversity and further uncovered the extent to which morphological differences were dissociated from genetic divergence in this complex. We formally describe five new species of Albertine Rift Rhampholeon, which reflects the species diversity more accurately within the region. All of the species are morphologically conserved and seem to exhibit a pattern of cryptic speciation similar to that observed in the genus and in other chameleon genera. Several of the new species are distributed in adjacent habitats, but occur in parapatry where they are separated by elevation, while species that overlap in elevation are allopatric. At least one of the new species exhibited bone fluorescence from its facial tubercles when examined under ultraviolet light, which is the first published account for the genus. Our results highlight the importance of investigating cryptic diversity using an integrative framework, especially for widespread species that look similar, and the description of these new species reinforces the Albertine Rift as one of the world’s richest biodiversity hotspots.
Introduction
Authors: Mehl Margaret
Published: May 2024

The Introduction outlines the case for treating music, in the broad sense of music-related activities, as part of the general history of human activity, with reference to relevant (albeit scarce) scholarship. The author argues that examining music provides a valuable path to understanding global processes such as globalization in the sense of global integration, and the formation of national identity. The main argument is stated, namely that music was central to the making of modern Japan, and a brief chapter-by-chapter outline relates their respective topics to the overall theme.

The main section of the book is divided into three interconnected parts, relating to the global, the national, and the local level. Globalization and nation-building, two major trends in the nineteenth and twentieth centuries, can only be fully understood if developments in the different and diverse localities within the nation’s borders are taken into account: a nation-state has to unite the people within its borders. The chapters in Part Three are central to the book (which is reflected in their length and level of detail), because it is at the local level that we see most clearly the vital role played by music in drawing together the Japanese people in order to actively participate in the nation as well as experiencing themselves as part of a world of nation. It is also at the local level that the importance of personal initiative by individuals is most evident.
1. Global History, Musical Modernity, and the Globalization of Western Music
Authors: Mehl Margaret
Published: May 2024

Chapter 1, ‘Global History, Musical Modernity, and the Globalization of Western Music’ discusses the concepts of global history, globalization, modernity, and musical modernity, and relates them to the themes explored in this book. The global historical context is then described in more detail. The introduction of Western music to Japan has usually been treated in isolation, or from a bilateral perspective rather than as a part of a global process. While Western music was disseminated to varying degrees in most parts of the world, Japan was unique in the nineteenth century in that its government took the adoption of Western music to the extreme of privileging it over indigenous music, which was increasingly marginalized.
2. Under Reconstruction
Authors: Mehl Margaret
Published: May 2024

Chapter 2, ‘Under Reconstruction: Japan, the United States, and the European Model’, examines similarities between two nations whose relationship is usually regarded as asymmetrical. The United States played a dominant role in forcing Japan to give up its isolation policy in the mid-nineteenth century. Culturally, however, there were remarkable parallels, as well as synchronicity, in the two countries’ efforts to develop a national music as part of the general nation-building process by adopting European art music. Post-Civil War America and Meiji Japan engaged in an intense process of nation-building, and seeking to create an individual musical identity was part of the process. Both countries treated European music as a model, as they endeavoured to develop a national music by merging local and imported musical elements. European ideas, including ideas about music, were often introduced to Japan via the United States. While a full-scale comparison if beyond the scope of the book, the brief outline shows one of the most powerful Western nations in a position of perceived inferiority in relation to music compared to European nations and thus challenges facile assumptions about ‘the West’.
5. Isawa Shūji
Authors: Mehl Margaret
Published: May 2024

Chapter 5, ‘Isawa Shūji: Music, Movement, Science, and Language’ revisits the role of Isawa Shūji as the most important figure in the introduction of Western music into the education system is in. His pivotal role in the introduction of Western music into the education system is well known. It cannot, however, be fully appreciated unless it is considered in the context of his other concerns, particularly language reform, and moral and physical education, as well as his preoccupation with the scientific basis for musical harmony. For Isawa, music was part of what in modern parlance might be called holistic education. Combined with language and physical movement, music became a powerful tool for educating the citizens of the new nation state.
6. Civilizing Citizens
Authors: Mehl Margaret
Published: May 2024

Chapter 6, ‘Civilizing Citizens: Music Reform’ discusses Isawa’s goal of reforming Japanese music with the help of Western music. In this he was joined by other members of the Meiji elite, and the topic is discussed in. Strongly influenced by their education in the Chinese classics (kangaku), reformers argued that reforming music was an essential means to reform the manners and customs of the people. Japanese music was perceived to be unsuited to the purpose, while Western music was perceived to have desirable characteristics that Japanese music lacked. The need for music reform became a major argument in defence of the Tokyo Academy of Music when it was threatened by budget cuts in 1890. Ultimately, official efforts at blending Western and Japanese music were short-lived.

Compared to Isawa, the role of non-state actors in the dissemination of Western music has received little attention.
7. Shikama Totsuji
Authors: Mehl Margaret
Published: May 2024

Chapter 7, ‘Shikama Totsuji: Music Reform and a Nationwide Network’ introduces one of them, whose importance is equal to Isawa’s. In 1890, just before the debate about the role of the Tokyo Academy of Music took off, Shikama Totsuji founded Japan’s first magazine devoted to music: Ongaku zasshi, with the additional English title, The Musical Magazine. Shikama had completed a short training course for music teachers at the Academy, and his stated purpose was to promote music reform. In addition, Shikama Totsuji engaged in several other music-related activities to further his agenda. They underline the scope of his ambitions and illustrate the way individual actors, often (like Shikama himself) with minimal training in Western music, contributed to transforming musical culture.

Shikama and other individual actors continued to pursue music reform after official efforts had ceased.
10. Foreign Actors: Kate I. Hansen
Authors: Mehl Margaret
Published: May 2024

Chapter 10, ‘Foreign Actors: Kate I. Hansen’ discusses the role of foreign actors is discussed in. Hansen was both typical and unique. Missionaries in general played an important role in education and in introducing musical education; at the very least they taught hymns. Unlike most of them, however, Hansen had professional training as a musician. She continued her training during her furloughs, and in 1930 she even received an honorary doctorate from Chicago Musical College (now part of Chicago College of Performing Arts). Hansen spent most of her working life in Sendai (from 1907 to 1941 and again from 1946 to 1951), where she was instrumental in building a music department at Miyagi School for Girls (now Miyagi College) that offered training at conservatoire level at a time when few schools outside Tokyo did so. None of the foreign teachers at the Tokyo Academy of Music stayed in Japan for so long. Hansen was, moreover, an astute observer of musical life, and her detailed descriptions of local concerts as well as of the methods she developed in order to teach her students Western-style singing give us unique insights into the changing musical landscape. As well as highlighting the contribution of the most significant foreign actor to the dissemination of Western music in northern Japan, this chapter sheds light on local musical activities from a different perspective than in the other two chapters, which are based on Japanese sources.
Investigation of Medical Student and Resident Physician Palliative Care Consulting Practices
Authors: Roess Brendan J. , Martyak Michael T.
Published: May 2024

Palliative care (PC) underutilization stems from provider conflicts and the belief that PC involvement may confuse patients. We hypothesized medical students, less exposed to these barriers and misconceptions, would be more likely to consult PC than residents/fellows. A survey of 88 medical students, residents, and fellows was conducted, querying the appropriateness of PC utilization in clinical scenarios. Students were more likely to consult PC than trainees when PC was not indicated (47.2% vs 22.9%, P = .02). In the two cases where PC was indicated, there was no difference in PC utilization among students and trainees (92.5% vs 91.4%, P = .86; 90.6% vs 100%, P = .06). When stratifying participants into medical and surgical specialties, or career interests regarding students, there was no difference in rates of PC consultation. This suggests medical education advancements are producing physicians adept at identifying patients needing PC and willing to integrate a PC service into patient care.
On the Practical Implications of Universalism and its Relation to Suffering
Authors: Scott Jessica
Published: May 2024

The doctrine of universalism, which asserts that all will find salvation in the life to come, can be critiqued on the grounds that it appears to underplay the real and lasting significance of suffering and injustice in this life, potentially placing its adherents in an improper relation to suffering and sufferers. In this essay, I engage with this problem, first, through examining how Karen Kilby’s critique of conceptual clarity might problematize the doctrine. I argue, however, in this essay’s second part, that the conceptual clarity we might first see is not the full story of universalism. In seeking a fuller story, I approach universalism from the perspective of its practical implications, here borrowing from ideas explored by Simeon Zahl, taking up his call to attend to the concrete outworking of doctrine in human experience. Two possible ‘affects’ of universalism are suggested, which, in a third part, I argue might nurture in the believer a heightened sensitivity to the wrongness of death and the problem of sin. Universalism, examined from the perspective of its practical implications, problematizes in this life some of the suffering that it might appear to resolve in the next.
Evaluation of Biomechanical and Mental Workload During Human–Robot Collaborative Pollination Task
Authors: Yerebakan Mustafa Ozkan , Gu Yu , Gross Jason , Hu Boyi
Published: May 2024

Objective

The purpose of this study is to identify the potential biomechanical and cognitive workload effects induced by human robot collaborative pollination task, how additional cues and reliability of the robot influence these effects and whether interacting with the robot influences the participant’s anxiety and attitude towards robots.

Background

Human–Robot Collaboration (HRC) could be used to alleviate pollinator shortages and robot performance issues. However, the effects of HRC for this setting have not been investigated.

Methods

Sixteen participants were recruited. Four HRC modes, no cue, with cue, unreliable, and manual control were included. Three categories of dependent variables were measured: (1) spine kinematics (L5/S1, L1/T12, and T1/C7), (2) pupillary activation data, and (3) subjective measures such as perceived workload, robot-related anxiety, and negative attitudes towards robotics.

Results

HRC reduced anxiety towards the cobot, decreased joint angles and angular velocity for the L5/S1 and L1/T12 joints, and reduced pupil dilation, with the “with cue” mode producing the lowest values. However, unreliability was detrimental to these gains. In addition, HRC resulted in a higher flexion angle for the neck (i.e., T1/C7).

Conclusion

HRC reduced the physical and mental workload during the simulated pollination task. Benefits of the additional cue were minimal compared to no cues. The increased joint angle in the neck and unreliability affecting lower and mid back joint angles and workload requires further investigation.

Application

These findings could be used to inform design decisions for HRC frameworks for agricultural applications that are cognizant of the different effects induced by HRC.
Subversive Narratives and Status-Seeking: A Look at Russia's Outreach to the Developing World After the Ukraine War
Authors: Šćepanović Janko
Published: May 2024

The amplification of the Russo-Ukrainian War in 2022 marked a turning point in relations between Russia and the “Collective West.” Moscow was cut off from Europe and subjected to sanctions and diplomatic isolation. In response, Russia turned to new partners in the Global South (especially in Africa) and intensified its criticism of the Western-dominated liberal international order. It has also unleashed propaganda narratives that depict the existing world system as a hegemonic and oppressive arrangement aimed at preserving the privileged position of the West at the expense of the non-West. This paper contextualizes these developments using the popular Larson-Shevchenko framework of social identity theory. I argue that Russia not only challenges the existing order by invading countries, but seeks to undermine its normative foundations with weaponized narratives, while also cynically attempting to frame Russia's illegal actions in Ukraine as an anti-colonial response to Western hegemony.
Using AI to Support Special Education Teacher Workload
Authors: Goldman Samantha R. , Taylor Juli , Carreon Adam , Smith Sean J.
Published: May 2024

There is a nationwide shortage of special education teachers (SETs) due, in part, to unmanageable workload expectations, which has reached crisis level. SETs are expected to modify, adapt, and accommodate general education curriculum to meet the needs of their students, communicate and collaborate with parents and general education teachers, and progress monitor on IEP goals, to name a few. SETs, especially those in more restrictive self-contained settings, report spending almost half of their time completing non-teaching tasks. One emerging and innovative solution to help SETs accomplish these tasks is using Artificial Intelligence (AI). AI powers many popular educational tools, such as predictive text, adaptive learning platforms, and digital assistants. The launch of ChatGPT, Bard, and other generative pre-trained transformers (GPTs), provides an opportunity to support SETs with some of the paperwork requirements. This is due to the GPTs ability to craft human-like responses via drafting essays, emails, lists, and the like. In this article, we provide step-by-step directions to use ChatGPT. Additionally, we illustrate how GPTs can be used to operationalize, automate, and streamline many of the SET’s non-teaching tasks through specific examples of its use in (1) collaboration, (2) adapting readings, and (3) developing progress monitoring assessments.
Integrating Traditional and Social Media Data to Predict Bilateral Migrant Stocks in the European Union
Authors: Yildiz Dilek , Wiśniowski Arkadiusz , Abel Guy J. , Weber Ingmar , Zagheni Emilio , Gendronneau Cloé , Hoorens Stijn
Published: May 2024

Although up-to-date information on the nature and extent of migration within the European Union (EU) is important for policymaking, timely and reliable statistics on the number of EU citizens residing in or moving across other member states are difficult to obtain. In this paper, we develop a statistical model that integrates data on EU migrant stocks using traditional sources such as census, population registers and Labour Force Survey, with novel data sources, primarily from the Facebook Advertising Platform. Findings suggest that combining different data sources provides near real-time estimates that can serve as early warnings about shifts in EU mobility patterns. Estimated migrant stocks match relatively well to the observed data, despite some overestimation of smaller migrant populations and underestimation for larger migrant populations in Germany and the United Kingdom. In addition, the model estimates missing stocks for migrant corridors and years where no data are available, offering timely now-casted estimates.
Food insecurity and use of electronic vapor products among high school students
Authors: Sanjeevi Namrata
Published: May 2024

Background: Studies have shown that food insecurity is associated with electronic vapor products (EVP) use in adults; however, an understanding of this relationship in adolescents is needed to inform prevention efforts in this age group. Aim: Examine the relationship of food insecurity with EVP use patterns, frequency and source of acquisition in high school students. Methods: This cross-sectional study used Youth Risk Behavior Survey (YRBS) 2019 data from states that incorporated the YRBS' optional food insecurity question. The data included 42,154 high school students with complete information on food insecurity and two EVP-related questions. Responses to EVP-related questions identified “ever users,” “current users,” “former users,” “current dual EVP-cigarette users,” and assessed “frequency of EVP use among current users” and “source of EVP acquisition.” Logistic regression examined associations of food insecurity with EVP-related outcomes. Results: The proportion of high school students who ever used EVP was 48.3% and the proportion of food-insecure students was about 12%. Food security status significantly differed by race/ethnicity of students, such that the proportion of food insecure students classified as “non-Hispanic White” was lower than the proportion of food secure students classified as “non-Hispanic White.” Food insecurity was significantly associated with greater odds of ever EVP use (odds ratio (OR) = 1.75; 95% confidence interval (CI) = (1.55, 1.96)), current EVP use (OR = 2.07; 95% CI = (1.80, 2.37); using never users as reference category) and current dual use of EVP and cigarettes (OR = 2.91; 95% CI = (2.38, 3.55)). Food insecurity also was associated with greater odds of current EVP use (OR = 1.54; 95% CI = (1.28, 1.84)) when former users were used as reference category. In current users, food insecurity was related to greater odds of daily EVP use (OR = 1.40; 95% CI = (1.14, 1.70)) compared to occasional use. Conclusions: Study findings imply that efforts targeting prevention/cessation of EVP use should consider reducing food insecurity in high school students.
Exploring the FAO Minimum Dietary Diversity Indicator as a Suitable Proxy of Micronutrient Adequacy in Men and Women Across Reproductive and Non-reproductive Ages in 8 Latin American Countries
Authors: Gómez Georgina , Monge-Rojas Rafael , Vargas-Quesada Rulamán , Previdelli Agatha Nogueira , Quesada Dayana , Kovalskys Irina , Herrera-Cuenca Marianella , Cortes Lilia Yadira , García Martha Cecilia Yépez , Liria-Domínguez Reyna , Rigotti Attilio , Fisberg Regina Mara , Ferrari Gerson , Fisberg Mauro , Brenes Juan C
Published: May 2024

Background:

Women’s Dietary Diversity Score (WDDS) is an indicator of dietary diversity, a key component of diet quality in women of reproductive age (WRA). Limited information is available regarding its applicability in other population groups.

Objective:

To examine the ability of the Minimum Dietary Diversity for Women (MDD-W) of 5-food groups cutoff to predict micronutrient adequacy in men and women 15 to 65 years old from 8 Latin American countries.

Methods:

We used a 24-hour recall from 9216 participants in the Latin American Study on Nutrition and Health (ELANS) to determine Dietary Diversity Score (DDS) based on the consumption of 10 food groups. The Mean Probability of Adequacy (MPA) was associated with DDS for the overall sample, for men, WRA, and women of nonreproductive age (WNRA). Sensitivity and specificity analyses were performed to determine if the 5-food groups cutoff point for MDD can be used to correctly identify men, WRA, and WNRA with adequate micronutrient adequacy (MPA ≥ 0.70).

Results:

We found a mean DDS of 4.78 ± 1.33 and an MPA of 0.64 ± 0.16, with 59% of participants showing a diverse diet (DDS ≥ 5). The 5-food groups-cutoff point showed a better balance between sensitivity and specificity predicting an MPA ≥0.70 in men, WRA, and WNRA. MPA was significantly associated with DDS in WRA and for men and WNRA, as well.

Conclusion:

The 5-food group MDD, originally intended to be used in WRA, performed equally well in predicting MPA ≥0.70 in men, WRA, and WNRA, and can be used as a proxy of micronutrient adequacy in Latin American population.
Correlation Between Lifestyle Patterns and Cognitive Function Among Community-Dwelling Older Chinese Adults in the Pre-Dementia Stages: A Latent Class Analysis
Authors: Miao Weiwei , Xiao Yuhua , Lu Yanling , Sha Jinghua , Zheng Chen , Yang Wenwen , Qian Xiangyun , Geng Guiling
Published: May 2024

Lifestyle activity engagement is a modifiable factor for cognitive decline. We aimed to identify lifestyle patterns (LPs) among community-dwelling older adults in the pre-dementia stages and to explore the links between LPs, cognitive function, and individual characteristics. 702 older Chinese adults were recruited. Three LPs were identified by latent class analysis: active aging lifestyle pattern (AALP), leisure lifestyle pattern (LLP), and work-centered lifestyle pattern (WLP). AALP refers to participation in various activities that are meaningful to individuals and benefit their well-being. LLP is the pattern of activities aimed at recreation. WLP refers to the LP where individuals are most likely to engage in work-related activities. However, only AALP is protected against mild cognitive impairment (MCI). Multinomial logistic regression models revealed the differences in individual characteristics among participants with different LPs, indicating the importance of tailored intervention strategies. As a protective factor against MCI, AALP should be highlighted in community-based care.
Fifty Observations About the Health Promotion Discipline: Tributes, Cautions and a Call to Action (Part One)
Authors: Terry Paul E.
Published: May 2024

In observance of having worked for going on five decades in the health promotion profession, this editorial shares fifty observations about the state of our field. In part one, I offer these first twenty five observations that focus on societal trends that have shifted how we frame our work and the movement from wellness to well-being. I reflect on why the wellness term fell out of favor, the roots of the well-being term and attendant definitions of health promotion. Seminal professional text books, popular readership books and key studies that have informed the health promotion discipline are reviewed. I summarize several conundrums that need solving for and conclude with calls to action for health promotion professionals.
Clinical Staging for Personality Disorders in Older Adults
Authors: Conjaerts Jeroen A. P. , Videler Arjan C. , Schepman Roel , Elfeddali Iman , Rosowsky Erlene , van Alphen Sebastiaan P. J.
Published: May 2024

Objective

This scientific research aimed to investigate the feasibility of implementing a clinical staging (CS) model for personality disorders (PDs) in older adults. The CS model could provide valuable insights into the life course of personality pathology, prognosis, and treatment decisions for PDs in older adults.

Methods/Design

The study employed an international Delphi methodology with three rounds and involved 21 experts.

Results

Consensus was achieved on 12 out of 17 statements, confirming the viability of a CS model for PDs in older adults. The proposed model incorporates the Alternative Model for PDs, criterion A, and integrates life course information, distinguishing between chronic PD, re-emergent PD, late-onset PD, and past PD.

Conclusion

The findings suggest that international experts support the implementation of a CS model for PDs in older adults, considering both the severity of personality functioning and the retrospective life course of PD expression.
Building supply chain management programs for the economic development of the region
Authors: Daigle Jamie , Hall Ashley
Published: May 2024

At times, universities are charged with helping stimulate the local economy. This study considered how the supply chain management programs at a regional university could be modified in order to provide a positive impact on the economic development of the region. Through a mixed methods action research approach that incorporated a neural network, key themes were uncovered that led to the modification, design, and implementation of strategic supply chain management curricular offerings that were targeted towards addressing the local businesses’ felt needs. As a result of this study, adjustments were made to the supply chain management program that were helpful to the local industry and provided an added revenue stream for the department.
Analyses of gas pulsation characteristics in the discharge pipeline of a hyper compressor
Authors: Xiao Jun , Geng Maofei
Published: May 2024

For the analysis of gas pulsation characteristics in the pipeline systems of low density polyethylene (LDPE) hyper compressors, a time-domain calculation method for compressor pipeline gas pulsation based on real gas properties is proposed. First the thermophysical property tables are prepared with gas state parameters as independent and dependent variables. Then one-dimensional unsteady flow equations and characteristic equations for pipeline flow are established based on real gas properties. After setting pipeline parameters and boundary conditions, the flow equations are discretized using a two-step method at the inner points of the pipeline. The characteristic equations are discretized using the trapezoidal integration method at the boundary points. Thus, the time-domain solving of pulsating flow field in the pipeline is realized. A self-developed numerical code was used to conduct the time-domain calculation and analysis of gas pulsation in the discharge pipeline of a two-stage hyper compressor. The calculated pressure pulsation curves based on real gas properties are in good agreement with experimental data, with a maximum difference lower than 4% of the local average pressure, which is smaller than the difference between the results calculated based on the plane wave theory and the measured data. The analysis of gas pulsation characteristics shows that the pressure pulsation in the main pipeline is mainly contributed by the fundamental and second harmonics. The pressure pulsation in the safety valve branch is higher than that in the main pipeline, and the harmonic components falling into the acoustic resonance frequency range of this branch have significant amplitudes. The acoustic resonance frequency of the branch pipeline is not affected by the main pipeline. Pressure pulsation varies with changes in rotational speed and back pressure, and the pulsation level is more significantly affected by rotational speed compared to back pressure. The renovation scheme of connecting the safety valve branch and expansion tube in series can effectively reduce the pressure pulsation levels of the main pipeline and branch pipeline.
Maintaining the validity of inference from linear mixed models in stepped-wedge cluster randomized trials under misspecified random-effects structures
Authors: Ouyang Yongdong , Taljaard Monica , Forbes Andrew B , Li Fan
Published: May 2024

Linear mixed models are commonly used in analyzing stepped-wedge cluster randomized trials. A key consideration for analyzing a stepped-wedge cluster randomized trial is accounting for the potentially complex correlation structure, which can be achieved by specifying random-effects. The simplest random effects structure is random intercept but more complex structures such as random cluster-by-period, discrete-time decay, and more recently, the random intervention structure, have been proposed. Specifying appropriate random effects in practice can be challenging: assuming more complex correlation structures may be reasonable but they are vulnerable to computational challenges. To circumvent these challenges, robust variance estimators may be applied to linear mixed models to provide consistent estimators of standard errors of fixed effect parameters in the presence of random-effects misspecification. However, there has been no empirical investigation of robust variance estimators for stepped-wedge cluster randomized trials. In this article, we review six robust variance estimators (both standard and small-sample bias-corrected robust variance estimators) that are available for linear mixed models in R, and then describe a comprehensive simulation study to examine the performance of these robust variance estimators for stepped-wedge cluster randomized trials with a continuous outcome under different data generators. For each data generator, we investigate whether the use of a robust variance estimator with either the random intercept model or the random cluster-by-period model is sufficient to provide valid statistical inference for fixed effect parameters, when these working models are subject to random-effect misspecification. Our results indicate that the random intercept and random cluster-by-period models with robust variance estimators performed adequately. The CR3 robust variance estimator (approximate jackknife) estimator, coupled with the number of clusters minus two degrees of freedom correction, consistently gave the best coverage results, but could be slightly conservative when the number of clusters was below 16. We summarize the implications of our results for the linear mixed model analysis of stepped-wedge cluster randomized trials and offer some practical recommendations on the choice of the analytic model.
Evaluation of Methods to Obtain Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells From Deceased Donors for Tolerance-Induction Protocols
Authors: Yao Ming , Henriksson Jarmo , Fahlander Henrik , Guisti Coitinho Pablo , Lundgren Torbjörn , Ågren Nils , Ericzon Bo-Göran , Kumagai-Braesch Makiko
Published: May 2024

Regulatory cell therapies have shown promise in tolerance-induction protocols in living donor organ transplantation. These protocols should be pursued in deceased donor transplantation. Donor peripheral mononuclear cells (PBMCs) are an optimal source of donor antigens for the induction of donor-specific regulatory cells. During the development of a regulatory cell tolerance-induction protocol with organs from deceased donors, we compared 3 methods of obtaining PBMCs from deceased donors focusing on cell yield, viability, and contamination of unwanted cell types.

 PBMC procurement methods:

 1. During organ procurement at the time of cold perfusion, blood was collected from the vena cava and placed into a 10-liter blood collection bag, and thereafter transported to Karolinska University Hospital, where leukapheresis was performed (BCL).

 2. Blood was collected via the vena cava into blood donation bags before cold perfusion. The bags underwent buffy coat separation and thereafter automated leukocyte isolation system (BCS).

 3. To collect PBMCs, leukapheresis was performed via a central dialysis catheter on deceased donors in the intensive care unit (ICU) prior to the organ procurement procedure (LEU).

All 3 methods to obtain PBMC from deceased donors were safe and did not affect the procurement of organs. BCL contained around 50% of NK cells in lymphocytes population. LEU had a highest yield of donor PBMC among 3 groups. LEU had the lower amount of granulocyte contamination, compared to BCS and BCL. Based on these results, we choose LEU as the preferred method to obtain donor PBMC in the development of our tolerance-induction protocol.
The effect of modified carbon black and nano-silica, individually and in combination, on the curing, mechanical, and dynamical properties of butyl rubber (IIR)
Authors: Mofrad Farzaneh Jaberi , Ahmadpour Ali , Ostad Movahed Saeed
Published: May 2024

This study evaluates the effectiveness of a developed surface-modified carbon black, both alone and combined with nano-silica, as a hybrid filler for butyl rubber (IIR) compounds. The modification process, followed by coupling agent treatment, influenced crucial curing properties, including torque, cross-link density, viscosity, stiffness, and curing time. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis revealed improved filler dispersion and enhanced filler-rubber compatibility due to surface modification. The ∆Torque for compounds containing modified carbon black surpassed others by 13%. Mechanical properties such as tensile strength, elongation at break, modulus, tearing strength, and hardness were significantly influenced by filler type and surface modification. The harness (Shore A) increased to the value of 45 after surface amendment. Dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) provided insights into storage modulus, loss modulus, and tan δ, showing the impact of filler type and surface modification. The utilization of coupling agent-modified carbon black decreased [Formula: see text] from −24°C to −30°C. Thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA) indicated consistent thermal stability across compounds, while solvent resistance improved with surface modification, as evidenced by swelling ratios. The thermodynamic analysis underscored the importance of filler type and surface modification on compound elasticity and flexibility. Overall, precise selection and optimization of filler materials and surface modifications are crucial for tailoring rubber compound properties to meet specific performance requirements across applications, impacting various aspects including curing, mechanical, dynamic, thermal, solvent resistance, and thermodynamic parameters.
Technology and monetary sovereignty: Understanding motivations for central bank digital currencies
Authors: Chia Colin
Published: May 2024

Central bank digital currency (CBDC) projects have advanced the furthest in small or developing economies. In contrast, central banks in wealthy countries where technologies that fuelled this trend developed are holding back on such plans. What explains this divergence? I argue that CBDCs are attractive to states which see them as useful to increase and reinforce sovereignty over economic territory. They have thus been adopted in states with high currency substitution, large informal economies, or limited reach of the banking system. For similar reasons, wealthier states see less need for CBDCs. This paper contributes to understanding the impacts of digital money on the spatial dynamics of monetary politics.