bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Data from Mechanistic Characterization of Cancer-associated Fibroblast Depletion via an Antibody–Drug Conjugate Targeting Fibroblast Activation Protein
Authors: Gallant Joseph P. , Hintz Hallie M. , Gunaratne Gihan S. , Breneman Matthew T. , Recchia Emma E. , West Jayden L. , Ott Kendahl L. , Heninger Erika , Jackson Abigail E. , Luo Natalie Y. , Rosenkrans Zachary T. , Hernandez Reinier , Zhao Shuang G. , Lang Joshua M. , Meimetis Labros , Kosoff David , LeBeau Aaron M.
Published: June 2024

Abstract
Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAF) are a prominent cell type within the tumor microenvironment (TME) where they are known to promote cancer cell growth and survival, angiogenesis, drug resistance, and immunosuppression. The transmembrane prolyl protease fibroblast activation protein (FAP) is expressed on the surface of highly protumorigenic CAFs found in the stroma of nearly every cancer of epithelial origin. The widespread expression of FAP has made it an attractive therapeutic target based on the underlying hypothesis that eliminating protumorigenic CAFs will disrupt the cross-talk between components of TME resulting in cancer cell death and immune infiltration. This hypothesis, however, has never been directly proven. To eliminate FAP-expressing CAFs, we developed an antibody–drug conjugate using our anti-FAP antibody, huB12, coupled to a monomethyl auristatin E (huB12-MMAE) payload. After determining that huB12 was an effective targeting vector, we found that huB12-MMAE potently eliminated FAP-expressing cells as monocultures in vitro and significantly prolonged survival in vivo using a xenograft engineered to overexpress FAP. We investigated the effects of selectively eliminating CAFs using a layered, open microfluidic cell coculture platform, known as the Stacks. Analysis of mRNA and protein expression found that treatment with huB12-MMAE resulted in the increased secretion of the proinflammatory cytokines IL6 and IL8 by CAFs and an associated increase in expression of proinflammatory genes in cancer cells. We also detected increased secretion of CSF1, a cytokine involved in myeloid recruitment and differentiation. Our findings suggest that the mechanism of FAP-targeted therapies is through effects on the immune microenvironment and antitumor immune response.
Significance:
The direct elimination of FAP-expressing CAFs disrupts the cross-talk with cancer cells leading to a proinflammatory response and alterations in the immune microenvironment and antitumor immune response.
Analisando a qualidade da democracia brasileira: a ascensão de Olavo de Carvalho como um reflexo da desconfiança política e da falta de accountability
Authors: Paiva Mário Jorge de
Published: June 2024

This article aims to understand the importance of the writer/polemist Olavo de Carvalho within a framework of recent politics in the country. Our hypothesis is that their radical ideas found fertile soil, at a time when there are currently major problems involving the quality of democracy in our country. Our analysis is an initial qualitative investigation. Thus, through the theoretical contribution involving the terms accountability and political trust/distrust, we will see how there is an ambivalence of Carvalho, as a public figure with a certain level of influence, regarding his adherence to existing democratic institutions. In which there is an element of radical criticism directed at existing institutions in the country.
Perception-action Dissociations as a Window into Consciousness
Authors: Carrasco Marisa , Spering Miriam
Published: June 2024

Understanding the neural correlates of unconscious perception stands as a primary goal of experimental research in cognitive psychology and neuroscience. In this Perspectives paper, we explain why experimental protocols probing qualitative dissociations between perception and action provide valuable insights into conscious and unconscious processing, along with their corresponding neural correlates. We present research that utilizes human eye movements as a sensitive indicator of unconscious visual processing. Given the increasing reliance on oculomotor and pupillary responses in consciousness research, these dissociations also provide a cautionary tale about inferring conscious perception solely based on no-report protocols.
Dialogue and Conservative Religious Thought
Authors: Ni Buxiao
Published: June 2024

This paper explores the dynamic interplay between Christianity and the Roman Empire as articulated by Tertullian, a prominent figure in early Christian theology. Tertullian delves into the complex relationship between the burgeoning Christian faith and the established structures of the Roman Empire, highlighting the inherent tension between the two. Central to his analysis is the concept of dialogue, wherein Tertullian examines how Christians engage with the broader Roman society while maintaining their distinct religious identity. Furthermore, he discusses the conservative nature of Christian thought, emphasizing the preservation of core beliefs amidst external pressures. This paper provides insights into Tertullian’s perspective on the delicate balance between dialogue and the preservation of Christian values within the context of the Roman Empire.
Valeriana alanyense (Caprifoliaceae): a new species from Southwest Anatolia (Turkey) based on morphological and molecular data
Authors: YÜCEOL FULYA , ÇEÇEN ÖMER , GÖKTÜRK RAMAZAN SÜLEYMAN , KAYA ERGUN , AĞAR HACER
Published: June 2024

Valeriana alanyense a new species to science from Southwestern of Turkey, is described and illustrated. The new species exhibits affinities to V. speluncaria and it differs from it in certain morphological characteristics: leaf shape and size, elongated stems and smaller corolla length. Geographical distribution at lower altitudes also sets it significantly from V. speluncaria. A comprehensive description, photos, information regarding its habitat and ecology, comparisons to related species, a distribution map, and conservation status are additionally considered. Moreover, morphological characterizations of V. alanyense and V. speluncaria were supported by using the ISSR PCR technique in molecular analyses. For molecular analyses, six ISSR primers that gave the most polymorphic band profiles for the Valeriana genus were selected among a total of twenty-five primers. As a result of PCR performed with the six selected ISSR primers, a total of 65 band profiles ranging from 250bp to 1200bp were seored. According to the obtained band profile scores and the constructed dendogram analysis, V. alanyense and V. speluncaria can be separated from each other at the species level. This result supports the data obtained from morphological analysis.
Evaluation of IMERG and MSG-CPP Precipitation Estimates over Europe Using EURADCLIM: A Gauge-Adjusted European Composite Radar Dataset
Authors: van der Plas Emiel , Overeem Aart , Meirink Jan Fokke , Leijnse Hidde , Bogerd Linda
Published: June 2024

A new pan-European climatological dataset was recently released that has a much higher spatiotemporal resolution than existing pan-European interpolated rain gauge datasets. This radar dataset of hourly precipitation accumulations, European Radar Climatology (EURADCLIM) (Overeem et al.), covers most of continental Europe with a resolution of 2 km × 2 km and is adjusted employing data from potentially thousands of government rain gauges. This study aims to use this dataset to evaluate two important satellite-derived precipitation products over the period 2013–19 at a much higher spatiotemporal resolution than was previously possible at the European scale: the IMERG late run and the Meteosat Second Generation (MSG) cloud physical property product from the SEVIRI instrument. The latter is only available during daytime, so the analyses are restricted to daytime conditions. A direct gridcell comparison of hourly precipitation reveals an apparently low coefficient of correlation. However, looking into slightly more detail at statistics pertaining to longer time scales or specific areas, the datasets show good correspondence. All datasets are shown to have their specific biases, which can be transient or more systematic, depending on the timing or location. The MSG precipitation seems to have an overall positive bias, and the IMERG dataset suffers from some transient overestimation of certain events.
Psychological workplace injury and incapacity: A call for action
Authors: Deady Mark , Arena Andrew , Sanatkar Samineh , Gayed Aimee , Manohar Narendar , Petrie Katherine , Harvey Samuel B
Published: June 2024

The financial cost to workplaces associated with mental health conditions is considerable. Consequently, this article explores the last two decades of Australian data pertaining to work-related psychological injuries, work capacity and benefit/compensation pathways. The presented data highlights the increasing costs and duration of mental health-related workers’ compensation claims, indicating a steady intensification of the complexity or severity of psychological injury claims. Equally, psychiatric conditions form the largest proportion of longer-term incapacity benefits received in the working population. This article then considers why there has not been reduction in rates of work-related psychological injury, and moreover, why are workers who functional recovery appears to be worsening in recent years. Firstly, despite regulatory reform, there is little practical direction available to guide preventative change, as such, establishing an evidence base for effective tools to mitigate workplace psychosocial hazards is critical. Secondly, an increased focus on workers who are already unwell is urgently needed. Multi-component work interventions, upskilling managers, and rehabilitation-focused treatments have demonstrated effectiveness and require considered implementation. Finally, at a policy level, it is important to redress aspects of the Workers’ Compensation Scheme that may be impeding recovery.
Hallucinating a political future: Global press coverage of human and post-human abilities in ChatGPT applications
Authors: Yadlin Aya , Marciano Avi
Published: June 2024

In November 2022, the tech company OpenAI launched a groundbreaking chatbot model, ChatGPT. This unprecedented chatbot, characterized by an ease of use for lay internet users, gained immediate popularity and attracted extensive media attention. This article examines global press coverage of ChatGPT in peak reporting dates over the first full year of its existence. Based on a qualitative holistic narrative analysis, our findings point to two narrated scapes of political fear in the coverage of ChatGPT: The fear of the machine and the fear of the human. These attest to the collective imagining of an intensified future, where post-humanist interaction with political information is associated with exploitation, propaganda, and polarization of existing political rifts. We draw on the case study to articulate journalists’ role in signaling instability in the current political media ecosystem, and their construction of a techno-moral framework for society. We discuss an important blind-spot in journalists’ fulfilment of their normative role in fostering technology-informed citizens globally.
Polyether Triols, Tetrahydrofuran-Alkyleneoxides Copolymers for Flexible Polyurethane Foams
Authors: Ionescu Mihail , Mihalache Ioana , Zugravu Viorica , Mihai Stanca , Sever Serban
Published: June 2024

The study presents a new process for the synthesis of polyether triols, tetrahydrofuran (THF)-alkyleneoxides copolymers for flexible polyurethane foams, by the cationic ring opening copolymerization of THF and propyleneoxide (PO) and/or ethyleneoxide (EO), initiated by glycerol or trimethylolpropane as starters. By using the principles of “activated monomer mechanism", (a new achievement in the cationic polymerization of alkyleneoxides), in the adopted reaction conditions, the equilibrium polymerization of THF and the formation of undesired cyclic oligomers (from alkyleneoxides) are suppressed. Thus, a great variety of copolyether triols having molecular weight 3000-6000 were synthesized (THF-PO, THF-EO, THF-EO-PO, THF-PO-EO etc.). The excellent properties of the flexible polyurethane foams based on these new telechelic intermediates, as compared with classical polyether triols based exclusively on PO and EO, were investigated.
Impact of Rigid Polyurethane Post Consumer Waste on the Texaco Gasification Process
Authors: Hicks D.A. , Soderberg D.J. , Winter J.D. , Cantero H.
Published: June 2024

Gasification is a leading feedstock recycling process for managing large volumes of post-consumer plastics waste. ICI Polyurethanes, Texaco and Gent University have conducted an experimental evaluation of adding polyurethanes from Dutch refrigerator waste to a mixed plastics gasifier feed.

Results show that polyurethanes are an acceptable feedstock for gasification. Nitrogen in the polyurethanes is shown to be beneficial to the process, reducing the impact of chlorine content and giving a “gate fee” equivalent to mixed plastics waste. Details of the experimental work, process economics and commercial possibilities are given. Gasification is shown to be applicable to a wide range of polyurethanes waste streams.
Further Studies on the Use of Pulverised Flexible Polyurethane Foam Particles as Fillers in Natural Rubber Compounds
Authors: Sombatsompop N. , Sims G.L.A.
Published: June 2024

Carbon black and cryogenically pulverised polyester polyurethane foam particles of average size 200μm were introduced alone and blended into natural rubber formulations to assess their affect on mechanical properties. Vulcanisates containing either carbon black or polyurethane particles showed maximum reinforcement at 60 and 30 parts per hundred rubber (pph) respectively. Directly comparing 30 pph filler loading, polyurethane particles showed similar ultimate strength but improved elastic properties compared with carbon black. Varying blend ratios of the two additives showed that the optimum addition concentration for balanced properties was equivalent to the addition of the optimum concentrations of each additive when incorporated alone i.e. 60 pph carbon black and 30 pph polyurethane particles. Whilst ultimate strength reduced ≈15% (compared with 60 pph carbon black alone), modulus reduced and substantial improvements in breaking strain and elongation set were observed, i.e. a small reduction in ultimate stress was accompanied by significant improvements in elastic properties.
Effects of radial extracorporeal shock wave therapy on flexor spasticity of the upper limb in post-stroke patients: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Fan Tao , Chen Rong , Wei Mingyang , Zhou Xiangying , Zheng Peng , Zhou Jing , He Peichen , Zhan Xiaojia , Xie Jingyu , Li Rongdong , Li Rihui , Cao Peihua , Huang Guozhi
Published: June 2024

Objective

This study aimed to assess the efficacy of radial extracorporeal shock wave therapy in treating upper limb spasticity after a stroke.

Design

Randomized controlled trial.

Setting

Zhujiang Hospital of Southern Medical University.

Subjects

This study included 95 people with stroke.

Intervention

The active ( n = 47) and sham-placebo ( n = 48) radial extracorporeal shockwave therapy groups received three treatment sessions (every third day).

Main measures

The Modified Ashworth Scale, Hmax/Mmax ratio, root mean square, co-contraction ratio, mechanical parameters of the muscle and temperature were measured at baseline and days 2, 5 and 8.

Results

Among the 135 potential participants screened, 100 were enrolled and allocated randomly, with 95 participants ultimately being included in the intent-to-treat analysis dataset. The active group showed significantly better improvements in upper limb spasticity and muscle function than did the sham-placebo group. Greater improvements in the Modified Ashworth Scale were observed in the active group than in the sham-placebo group (difference, −0.45; 95% CI, −0.69 to −0.22; P < 0.001). Moreover, significant differences in root mean square, co-contraction ratio and Hmax/Mmax ratio were observed between the two groups (all P < 0.001). The mechanical parameters of the biceps muscle were significantly better in the active group than in the sham-placebo group ( P < 0.001). The active group had a higher temperature than the sham-placebo group, although the difference was not significant ( P = 0.070).

Conclusions

This study revealed that the treatment with extracorporeal shockwave therapy can relieve upper limb spasticity in people with stroke.
Renal alterations in cats (Felis catus) housed in shelters and affected by systemic AA-amyloidosis: Clinicopathological data, histopathology, and ultrastructural features
Authors: Ferri Filippo , Ferro Silvia , Benali Silvia Lucia , Aresu Luca , Muscardin Lorenza , Porporato Federico , Rossi Francesco , Guglielmetti Chiara , Gallo Enrico , Palizzotto Carlo , Callegari Carolina , Ricagno Stefano , Mazza Maria , Coppola Luigi Michele , Gerardi Gabriele , Lavatelli Francesca , Caminito Serena , Mazzini Giulia , Palladini Giovanni , Merlini Giampaolo , Zini Eric
Published: June 2024

AA-amyloidosis is frequent in shelter cats, and chronic kidney disease is the foremost cause of death. The aims were to describe kidney laboratory and microscopic findings in shelter cats with AA-amyloidosis. Cats were included if kidney specimens were collected post-mortem and laboratory data were available within 6 months before death. Renal lesions were evaluated with optical and electron microscopy. Mass spectrometry was used to characterize amyloid. Nine domestic short-hair cats were included; 4 females and 5 males with a median age of 8 years (range = 2–13). All cats had blood analyses and urinalyses available. Serum creatinine concentrations were increased in 6 cats and symmetric dimethylarginine was increased in all of the cats. All of the cats had proteinuria. Eight of 9 cats had amyloid in the medulla, and 9 had amyloid in the cortex (glomeruli). All cats had amyloid in the interstitium. Six cats had concurrent interstitial nephritis and 1 had membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis. All cats had extrarenal amyloid deposits. Amyloid was AA in each case. In conclusion, renal deposition of amyloid occurs in both cortex and medulla in shelter cats and is associated with azotemia and proteinuria. Renal involvement of systemic AA-amyloidosis should be considered in shelter cats with chronic kidney disease. The cat represents a natural model of renal AA-amyloidosis.
Temporal resolution relates to sensory hyperreactivity independently of stimulus detection sensitivity in individuals with autism spectrum disorder
Authors: Kaneko Ayako , Atsumi Takeshi , Ide Masakazu
Published: June 2024

Researchers have been focusing on perceptual characteristics of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in terms of sensory hyperreactivity. Previously, we demonstrated that temporal resolution, which is the accuracy to differentiate the order of two successive vibrotactile stimuli, is associated with the severity of sensory hyperreactivity. We currently examined whether an increase in the perceptual intensity of a tactile stimulus, despite its short duration, is derived from high temporal resolution and high frequency of sensory temporal summation. Twenty ASD and 22 typically developing (TD) participants conducted two psychophysical experimental tasks to evaluate detectable duration of vibrotactile stimulus with same amplitude and to evaluate temporal resolution. The sensory hyperreactivity was estimated using self-reported questionnaire. There was no relationship between the temporal resolution and the duration of detectable stimuli in both groups. However, the ASD group showed severe sensory hyperreactivity in daily life than TD group, and the ASD participants with severe sensory hyperreactivity tended to have high temporal resolution, not high sensitivity of detectable duration. Contrary to the hypothesis, there might be different processing between temporal resolution and sensitivity for stimulus detection. We suggested that the atypical temporal processing would affect to sensory reactivity in ASD.
Indication of coprophilous fungal spores for monitoring grazing intensity in the Horqin Sandy Land, Northern China
Authors: Wei Yuanxiang , Gao Guizai , Jie Dongmei , van Asperen Eline Naomi , Song Lina , Meng Meng , Yang Zhuo , Chen Niankang , Yu Jihuai , Li Yuqiang
Published: June 2024

Coprophilous fungal spores are an emerging and potential proxies for indicating the long-term pastoral history. However, the indication of coprophilous fungal spores for dung and grazing intensity remains uncertain. In this study, in Horqin Sandy Land, 27 livestock dung samples and 33 surface soil samples were collected, and the indication of coprophilous fungal spores was discussed for the first time. The results showed that a total of 38 fungal spore types were recognized in the modern samples from the Horqin Sandy Land, including seven coprophilous fungal spore types. The coprophilous fungi assemblages vary in different dung types and may enable the diagnosis of specific livestock taxa. Coprophilous fungal spores, especially Sporormiella and Podospora are the most reliable dung indicators and can indicate the presence of herbivores. Moreover, some fungal spores, including Helminthosporium, Apiosordaria, HdV-104, and Glomus A were also potential indicators of grazing activities in the Horqin Sandy Land. On this basis, the concentration of coprophilous fungal spores may have the potential to be a quantitative indicator of grazing intensity. This study clarifies the indication of coprophilous fungal spores on dung and grazing intensity in the Horqin Sandy Land and provides a theoretical reference for further research on pastoral history in the region.
Effect of Bright Light Therapy on Perinatal Depression: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis: Effet de la luminothérapie sur la dépression périnatale: une revue systématique et une méta-analyse
Authors: Chen Yujia , Zhao Jing , Wang Jiarun , Peng Li , Cai Zhongxiang , Zou Zhijie , Chen Xiaoli
Published: June 2024

Objective

This study represents the inaugural attempt to systematically review and analyse the efficacy of bright light therapy on depression among women experiencing major depressive disorder or depressive symptoms during the perinatal period, encompassing its efficacy on depression scores, remission rates, and response rates.

Methods

We searched 10 databases for randomized controlled trials examining bright light therapy's efficacy on perinatal depression up to January 2024. Data extraction was performed independently by 2 investigators. The Cochrane Handbook guidelines appraised the study quality, and the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluations (GRADE) approach assessed evidence certainty.

Results

We incorporated 6 studies, encompassing 151 participants. When contrasted with dim light therapy, bright light therapy did not significantly alter depression scores (standard mean difference = −0.29, 95% confidence interval [CI], −0.62 to 0.04, P = 0.08, I² = 34%) or response rates (risk ratio [RR] = 1.56, 95% CI, 0.98 to 2.49, P = 0.06, I² = 0%) in women experiencing perinatal depression. Conversely, bright light therapy was associated with a substantial increase in remission rates (RR = 2.63, 95% CI, 1.29 to 5.38, P = 0.008, I² = 2%).

Conclusion

Bright light therapy did not show efficacy in treating perinatal depression in terms of depression scores and response rates. However, regarding the remission rate, bright light did show efficacy compared to control conditions. Due to the limited sample size in the included studies, type II err or may occur. To obtain more conclusive evidence, future studies must employ larger sample sizes.
Volunteering Trajectories and the COVID-19 Pandemic: Persistent, Emergent, and Former Volunteers and Personal, Moral, and Prudential Reasoning
Authors: Grant Emma M. , French Jillian I. , Bolic Marija , Hammond Stuart I.
Published: June 2024

Although trajectories of youth volunteering were disrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic, nevertheless some youth persisted in volunteering, and others emerged as volunteers. To understand volunteering trajectories, the present mixed method study proposed a model adapted from prior literature and examined volunteer trajectories during the pandemic. Youths’ volunteer trajectories were categorized (as persistent, emergent, or former volunteer, or persistent non-volunteer), and their justifications for their volunteer decisions were classified using social domain theory (personal, social, moral, and prudential). A sample of 461 youth ( Mage = 19.26; 68.8% female; 41.6% European or North American) from a large Canadian university completed a retrospective survey on pandemic volunteering and volunteer decisions. Volunteer decisions were coded using conventional and directed qualitative content analysis. Although the pandemic disrupted the volunteering trajectories of former volunteers, overall, more youth persisted or emerged as volunteers during the pandemic, a finding framed in both the trajectory and emergency and disaster literature. Volunteers were more likely to use moral justifications, whereas prudential justifications were more frequent among non-volunteers. The present study offers insight into the impact of the pandemic on youth volunteering and is one of the first studies to find a substantive role for prudential reasoning in youth decision making.
‘Follow the science’: Popular trust in scientific experts during the coronavirus pandemic
Authors: Seyd Ben , Hamm Joseph A , Jennings Will , McKay Lawrence , Valgarðsson Viktor , Anness Meridith
Published: June 2024

The coronavirus pandemic increased the role played by scientific advisers in counselling governments and citizens on issues around public health. This raises questions about how citizens evaluate scientists, and in particular the grounds on which they trust them. Previous studies have identified various factors associated with trust in scientists, although few have systematically explored a range of judgements and their relative effects. This study takes advantage of scientific advisers’ heightened public profile during the pandemic to explore how people’s trust in scientists is shaped by perceptions of their features and traits, along with evaluations of their behaviour and role within the decision-making process. The study also considers people’s trust in politicians, thereby enabling us to identify whether trust in scientists reflects similar or distinctive considerations to trust in partisan actors. Data are derived from specially designed conjoint experiments and surveys of nationally representative samples in Britain and the United States.
Digital Circular Economy and the Global Ecotourism Sector: A Critical Perspective
Authors: Kanupriya Kanupriya
Published: June 2024

This perspective seeks to build meaningful linkages between the digital circular economy and the global ecotourism sector. The ‘new normal’ in a post-pandemic world calls for innovative solutions to the challenge of low revenue growth in the traditional tourism sector. Ecotourism or sustainable tourism can be the way forward, provided it is coupled with emergent digital technologies of the likes of artificial intelligence, big data and the internet of things, among many others. This article relies on an existing review of literature from all over the world on the theme in order to arrive at meaningful inter-relationships between the digital circular economy and the global ecotourism sector. The main conclusion of this opinion piece is as follows. For ensuring a prosperous global ecotourism sector (or sustainable tourism), moving towards a digital circular economic framework ensures not just a reduction in the depletion of finite natural resources but also an enhancement in biodiversity and a significant reduction in business costs. Thus, ecotourism and digital circular economy aim at creating sustainable value both for businesses and the environment in more ways than one. Additionally, some of the major policy and managerial implications of this study pertain to the need for, first, greater local community involvement in the ecotourism sector; second, constant upskilling of the workforce in the sector with regard to latest digital technologies for their long-term benefit; and last, building a robust digital framework and ensuring last mile connectivity for all ecotourist destinations.
Wind energy harvesting using electromagnetic dual and multi cantilever flutter array
Authors: Velusamy Venod Reddy , Foong Faruq Muhammad , Nik Mohd Nik Ahmad Ridhwan , Thein Chung Ket
Published: June 2024

This study investigates wind energy harvesting from electromagnetic dual cantilever flutter (DCF) and multi cantilever flutter (MCF) arrays. Initially, the bare DCF was tested under several wind speeds at four different gap distances to analyse and verify its behaviour. Results suggest that the characteristics of the DCF is ideal for electromagnetic energy harvesting. Two identical sets of wounded coils and magnets were then fixed onto the DCF to generate an induced voltage output from the anti-phase motion. Experimental findings demonstrated a significant power density of 11 × 10−3 mW/cm3 at a wind speed of 18.0 ms−1 when using shorter and thicker beams, which is comparable to previous flutter-based energy harvesters. An additional magnet-holding beam was then added beside the DCF beams to form a multi cantilever flutter (MCF) array of three identical beams. Visual observation confirms that alternate beams in the MCF array also flutter in an anti-phase motion. The power output per beam and power density recorded for the MCF array was 38.0% higher than the DCF harvester due to the increase in functional coil output and magnetic flux density. Finally, further analysis suggest that an odd number of beams is more favourable for electromagnetic MCF array harvesters.
Periconceptional Non-medical Maternal Determinants Influence the Tryptophan Metabolism: The Rotterdam Periconceptional Cohort (Predict Study)
Authors: van Zundert Sofie KM , van Rossem Lenie , Mirzaian Mina , Griffioen Pieter H , Willemsen Sten P , van Schaik Ron HN , Steegers-Theunissen Régine PM
Published: June 2024

Background:

The vital role of the maternal tryptophan (TRP) metabolism in maternal health and pregnancy is well established. However, non-medical maternal determinants influencing the TRP metabolism have been poorly investigated. We hypothesise that periconceptional maternal non-medical determinants alter the TRP metabolism, affecting both kynurenine (KP) and serotonin pathway (SP) metabolite concentrations. Therefore, we investigated the influence of non-medical maternal determinants on the TRP metabolism during the periconception period.

Methods:

About 1916 pregnancies were included from the Rotterdam Periconceptional Cohort between November 2010 and December 2020. Data on periconceptional non-medical maternal determinants were collected through questionnaires. Serum samples were collected at 8.5 (SD = 1.6) weeks of gestation and TRP, kynurenine (KYN), 5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP), 5-HT (5-hydroxytryptamine) and 5-hydroxyindole acetic acid (5-HIAA) were determined using validated liquid chromatography (tandem) mass spectrometry. Mixed models were used to determine associations between periconceptional non-medical maternal determinants and these metabolites.

Results:

In total 11 periconceptional non-medical maternal determinants were identified. Protein intake was positively associated with TRP ( β = .12, 95% CI = 0.07-0.17), while age, energy intake and body mass index (BMI) ( β = −.24, 95% CI = −0.37 to −0.10) were negatively associated with TRP. Age, BMI and total homocysteine were associated with higher KYN, whereas non-western geographical origin was associated with lower KYN ( β = −.09, 95% CI = −0.16 to −0.03). Protein intake and total homocysteine ( β = .07, 95% CI = 0.03-0.11) had a positive association with 5-HTP, while a negative association was found for energy intake. A non-western geographical origin and drug use were associated with higher 5-HT, and BMI with lower 5-HT ( β = −6.32, 95% CI = −10.26 to −2.38). Age was positively associated with 5-HIAA ( β = .92, 95% CI = 0.29-1.56), and BMI negatively.

Conclusions:

Periconceptional non-medical maternal determinants, including age, geographical origin, drug use, energy and protein intake, BMI and total homocysteine, influence KP and SP metabolite concentrations.
Academic learning challenges and links to vocational outcomes in young autistic adults
Authors: Grosman Hannah E , Aragon-Guevara Diego , McQuaid Goldie A , Wallace Gregory L , Lee Nancy Raitano
Published: June 2024

Obtaining and maintaining employment can be a challenge for autistic adults and learning challenges may be related to vocational outcomes in this population. The present study sought to evaluate the Learning Needs Screening Tool to identify autistic job seekers who may benefit from additional services to obtain employment. A total of 401 autistic adults participated in this study. Internal consistency of Learning Needs Screening Tool items was evaluated. A principal component analysis was then completed to understand the measure’s factor structure and evaluations of external validity were completed. Evaluation of the screening items of the Learning Needs Screening Tool revealed high internal consistency. Three factors (Orthography, Arithmetic, and Retrospective Learning and Service Receipt) emerged. Overall, 56% of the sample screened positive on the Learning Needs Screening Tool, indicating a history of learning challenges. Analysis of history of special education receipt and vocational outcomes showed strong external validity for the measure. Results support the utility of the Learning Needs Screening Tool as a possible screening tool to evaluate learning challenges in autistic job seekers. As those who screened positive were more likely to have no vocational/educational activities, knowledge of retrospective learning needs may help vocational counselors identify autistic adults who need greater supports when seeking and obtaining jobs.

Lay abstract

Finding a job can be hard for autistic adults. No studies have been completed that look into whether having difficulties learning and troubles finding a job are related in this population. The current study did so by evaluating the Learning Needs Screening Tool, a measure of learning challenges used in vocational rehabilitation settings, or places meant to help people find work. A total of 401 autistic adults completed this study online. Specifically, the study evaluated (a) the characteristics of the Learning Needs Screening Tool, including the relationships between questions that ask about similar learning challenges, and (b) the ability of the measure to relate to real-world outcomes that are associated with learning difficulties, namely prior special education receipt and difficulties finding a job. Evaluation of the questions asked on the Learning Needs Screening Tool revealed that they were highly related and that learning difficulties fell into different categories. Fifty-six percent of the people in the study showed learning challenges on the measure. People who were identified as having learning difficulties on the Learning Needs Screening Tool had higher rates of receiving special education services in the past and lower rates of current employment. These results suggest that the Learning Needs Screening Tool may help to identify autistic job seekers who have learning difficulties and may have more challenges finding a job.
Queer mountains: Migrant drag performers reimagining sexual citizenship in Germany
Authors: Altay Tunay
Published: June 2024

This article seeks to understand how staging, performing and re-narrating experiences of queer migration can be utilized to radically reimagine queer migrants’ subjectivities and politics in today’s Germany. Informed by ethnographic research conducted between 2020 and 2023, including 22 qualitative interviews with drag performers, I focus on the emerging scene of ‘migrant drag’ in Germany, informed by transnational histories of queer performance and border-crossing. Through acts of migrant drag, ‘building queer mountains’ appears as a queer migrant practice of finding alternative pathways to overcome obstacles that limit queer migrant subjectivities and to claim locality and stages for queer migrant politics beyond the normative scripts of sexual citizenship. Ultimately, ‘building queer mountains’ shows that sexual citizenship, sustained by (homo)normative sexualizations and hierarchical racialization, could be ‘crossed’ and reimagined through the collective and creative work of a community in search of alternative worlds.
The femme factor: Transforming pop culture analyses through femme theory
Authors: Hoskin Rhea Ashley , Blair Karen
Published: June 2024

Scanning the indices of popular culture textbooks reveals an asymmetry: numerous entries on masculinities but not a single femininities entry. What does this asymmetry say about gender theory and, more specifically, femininity? While feminist theorists have produced important scholarship illuminating femininity as a patriarchal tool wielded through popular culture, these analyses often overlook how various axes of identity intersect with femininity, leaving a sizeable gap in both the conceptualization of femininity and the analysis of popular culture. This article examines how femme theory can help to both highlight and remedy gender theory’s tendency to privilege masculinity and overlook femininity. After providing an overview of femme theory and its core theoretical concepts, this article highlights femme theory’s utility in enriching our interpretations of representation.
Hysteretic behavior of the corroded recycled aggregate concrete columns with ultra-high strength bars
Authors: Zhang Jianwei , Wang Fei , Zhao Di , Cao Wanlin
Published: June 2024

The seismic behavior of six corroded recycled aggregate concrete (RAC) columns with ultra-high-strength bars (UHSB) was investigated through quasistatic test and numerical analysis. The main parameters include different corrosion ratios, axial load ratios (ALR), and stirrup ratios. The results revealed that: The damage development of the corroded specimen sped up with increasing corrosion ratio and ALR, and the corroded specimens suffered brittle shear failure due to the stirrup fracture or the concrete failure. The difference in carrying capacity of the specimens with low corrosion ratios and ALR was relatively small, while the deformation capacity was significantly reduced with increasing corrosion ratios and ALR. Reinforcement corrosion had a minor effect on the strength and stiffness degradation but would reduce the maximum cumulative energy dissipation capacity. By combining residual drift and residual crack width, the corroded specimens all could meet the limit of repairable residual drift and crack width before 4% drift, showing satisfactory resilient performance. Based on the modified corrosion models of materials, the numerical analysis showed the detrimental and coupling impact of the high ALR, high corrosion ratio, and low stirrup ratio on the carrying and deformation capacity. Through numerical analysis data, an equation was proposed that can satisfactorily predict the peak drift of the corroded columns with UHSB.
To see, or not to sea: Differing performance outcomes from visible and private health inspections in the U.S. cruise travel industry
Authors: Desai Vinit M
Published: June 2024

Regulators and rating agencies can reassure consumers by monitoring firms and by publicizing these efforts and their results. However, consumers are not always uniformly aware of these monitoring efforts. I adapt theory about reputational mechanisms to predict that organizations will perform better in response to monitoring that is visible to market participants, versus monitoring that is conducted privately. I also examine two moderators, each involving the theorized mechanisms driving this effect, that could strengthen the relationship between visible inspections and performance. I test associated hypotheses using a natural experiment that randomly allocated health inspections across cruise ships within and outside of passenger sailings. Findings contribute to the literature on organizational reputation, by revealing differences driven by the visibility of information about organizations in the marketplace.
Exploring the factors influencing prison incentive scheme status among adult males: A prospective longitudinal study
Authors: Butler Michelle , McNamee Catherine B. , Kelly Dominic
Published: June 2024

Despite its impact on imprisonment, no quantitative study has examined the factors related to people's status on prison incentive schemes. This study addresses this gap by using administrative data to explore the factors related to the status of 405 men on a prison incentive scheme. Results revealed that those who had a prior history of passing prison drug tests at time 1, and spent more time imprisoned during the follow-up period, were more likely to be on the highest level of the scheme one year later at time 2. In contrast, those who had a history of past involvement in misconduct, referrals for serious self-harm/attempted suicide in prison, not taken a prison drug test, property offences, and greater periods of custody at time 1 were more likely to be on the lower levels of the scheme at time 2. The potential implications for theory, policy, and practice are discussed.
Aerodynamic optimization method of intake grille of active clearance control system for turbines based on modified social spider algorithm (MSSA)
Authors: Xie Hong , Zhang Shuyi , Shi Xiangfeng , Yang Bo , Wang Chunrong
Published: June 2024

During the operation of an active clearance control (ACC) system of a turbine, the aerodynamic performance of the intake grille indirectly influences its control. To improve the performance, an aerodynamic optimization method is proposed, consisting of parameterization, an optimization algorithm, and a fitness evaluation. During parameterization, its geometry is represented by seven geometric variables. A modified social spider algorithm is used as the optimization algorithm. To evaluate the aerodynamic performance of the grille, a special fitness function is adopted, obtained using an adaptive topological multi-layer feedforward artificial neural network. To verify the feasibility of this method, experiments and numerical calculations are carried out on the original and optimized intake grilles. The results show that the average intake flow rate and average total pressure recovery coefficient of the optimized grille have increased by 17.3% and 4.9%, respectively.
Biosafety considerations for laboratory work with SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Mousavi Mohammad Javad , Arefinia Nasir , Sokhanvar Mobin , Motaarefi Hossein , Behboudi Emad
Published: June 2024

Today, the world is affected by a COVID-19 epidemic. Early diagnosis can play an important role in the control and prevention of this disease, so the study and practice of biosafety among staff of diagnostic laboratories have a key role in the healthiness of health fighters against COVID-19. In this study, we will review laboratory biosafety considerations for the diagnosis process of SARS-CoV-2 in three phases: (1) the preanalytical phase, (2) the analytical phase, and (3) the postanalytical phase. It should be noted that employees with high-risk underlying health conditions, like lung or heart disease or diabetes, should be moved to lower-risk environments. We believe that this review will help to restrict the risk of developing COVID-19, while working in clinical laboratories.
Knowledge and attitudes of physicians in Chile toward Do-Not-Attempt-Resuscitation orders: A cross-sectional nation-wide study
Authors: Picón-Jaimes Yelson Alejandro , Lozada-Martinez Ivan David , Rahman Sabrina , Cantón Álvarez Maria Belén
Published: June 2024

Objective:

Do-Not-Attempt-Resuscitation orders originated in the early 1960s with the establishment of advanced cardiopulmonary resuscitation. These orders aim to limit therapeutic efforts in cases where it may be futile. The decision not to resuscitate a patient is a process that involves a series of ethical, legal, and clinical considerations. Still, it also requires a process in which priority is given to the patients and their autonomy. The objective of this study was to describe the knowledge and attitudes of physicians working in Chile toward Do-Not-Attempt-Resuscitation orders.

Methods:

A cross-sectional study was conducted, in which a digital questionnaire was sent to physicians from different regions of Chile. Quantitative variables were analyzed using measures of central tendency and dispersion (e.g., median and interquartile range), while qualitative variables were evaluated using frequencies and percentages.

Results:

Four hundred and thirty-one physicians completed the survey. 85.4% were familiar with the ethical and legal guidelines for cardiopulmonary resuscitation and the rights and duties of the patient. 39.2% believed that patients should have the final decision Do-Not-Attempt-Resuscitation orders, especially if they themselves requested not to be resuscitated. 87.7% mentioned that the Do-Not-Attempt-Resuscitation orders should be reassessed if the patient’s prognosis improves. In addition, it was found that the decision not to resuscitate was not always discussed with the patient or their family.

Conclusions:

The study revealed an ethical conflict regarding Do-Not-Attempt-Resuscitation orders and their management by Chilean physicians. Therefore, it is necessary to create recommendations and provide training to guide professionals in this process, which should also involve patients and their families.
Intralesional sclerotherapy for angiokeratoma of Fordyce: A case report
Authors: Velusamy Breethiga , Jatoth Surender , Suvvari Tarun Kumar , Kamaraj Balakrishnan , Nimmagadda Kethana , Rathore Anshita , Dargan Riya , Thomas Vimal
Published: June 2024

A 46-year-old male presented with a 6-year history of progressive, purplish-red, hyperkeratotic papules on the scrotum. These lesions bled during intercourse and routine activities, causing significant distress. Clinical examination and pathological evaluation confirmed the diagnosis of angiokeratoma of Fordyce. Due to patient preference and cost-effectiveness, sclerotherapy with 3% sodium tetradecyl sulfate was chosen. Following topical anesthesia, the lesions were injected with the sclerosing agent. After two sessions spaced 2 weeks apart, complete resolution of both the smaller and larger lesions was achieved. This case report expands the therapeutic options for angiokeratoma of Fordyce and highlights the successful utilization of 3% sodium tetradecyl sulfate sclerotherapy in achieving complete clearance with minimal invasiveness and cost.