bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Internationalization at a distance via virtual mobility in the Global South: Advances and challenges
Authors: Ngalomba Simon , Mkwananzi Faith , Mukwambo Patience
Published: December 2024

Internationalization of higher education (HE) has increasingly been a subject of interest among scholars, due to developments in the field, such as increased student and staff mobility, inter‐university research and teaching partnerships, and rapid technological advancements. Internationalization efforts have mainly focused on the recruitment of international students and staff to universities in the Global North, the establishment of satellite campuses overseas and research collaborations. To compete on a more even footing, countries in the Global South have increasingly invested in their HE systems and actively promoted themselves as international destinations in this changing global landscape. In this paper, we discuss the strategies and limitations of internationalization at a distance (IaD) with a specific focus on Tanzania. As an emerging destination for international students, the country's expanding HE sector is positioning itself as a global and competitive international destination through diverse efforts such as virtual mobility. This paper draws on interviews with key staff from an open and distance‐learning university in Tanzania to examine and theorize the challenges relating to the provision of online distance learning (ODL) to non‐mobile international students. The theoretical lens is informed by the capabilities approach and ideas of conversion factors and agency. The paper looks beyond existing limitations and proposes the idea of a responsive agency that draws on international collaborations as a way of overcoming contextual challenges through pooling and sharing resources where they exist. In this way, institutions are not independent of their affiliation with others, they belong to a community. This broadens the practice of internationalization to fostering supportive collaboration aimed at improving access to quality international HE.

Practitioner notes

What is already known about this topic

Rising technology‐supported activities have created new opportunities for universities internationalization.

Education plays a key role in intercultural understanding.

Internationalization of educational research and services improve quality by requiring respective higher education institutions improve academic standards.

What this paper adds

Bring together the concepts of capabilities and third space in IaD.

IaD opportunities are yet to be fully tapped by both higher education institutions and various government policies.

The third space enables hybridity, culture translation and the emergence of new forms of identity.

Implications for practice and/or policy

To engage and sustain IaD universities must have reliable ICT infrastructure and staff with requisite skills to cope with rapid technological advancement.

Widening participation to those who are excluded from conventional, campus‐based universities is critical to ensure achievement of SDG 4.
Variant Spectrum of Renal Ciliopathies in Turkish Cohort and Genotype–Phenotype Association Specifically in Autosomal Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease
Authors: Ercoskun Pelin , Aydin Gumus Aydeniz , Gokpinar Ili Ezgi , Yilmaz Celik Lale , Dogan Mustafa , Yavuz Sevgi , Yildiz Gursel , Gezdirici Alper
Published: December 2024

Renal ciliopathies are a genetically and phenotypically heterogeneous group of diseases characterized by cystic and dysplastic kidneys. The aim of this study was to investigate the correlation between genetic changes that cause renal ciliopathies and phenotypic outcomes. The study group consisted of 137 patients diagnosed with renal ciliopathy disease. One hundred nineteen patients had ADPKD phenotype, 7 patients had ARPKD phenotype, 4 patients had nephronophthisis, 1 patient had Senior‐Loken syndrome, 4 patients had Bardet‐Biedl syndrome, 1 patient had Joubert syndrome and 1 patient had Meckel Gruber syndrome phenotype. Among patients with autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease, patients with the PKD1 gene mutation had higher creatinine levels (p value: 0.020) and no arachnoid cysts were revealed in the PKD2 group (p value: 0.014). When the domains were compared, the finding of arachnoid cyst in patients with mutations in the transmembrane domain was statistically significant (p value: 0.021). Homozygous likely pathogenic variant in the TCTN1 gene was reported in a fetus who had findings of Meckel‐Gruber syndrome; microphthalmia and cardiac hypoplasia were reported as novel findings. As a conclusion, we identified variant spectrum of renal ciliopathies in Turkish cohort and revealed the association between the transmembrane domain and arachnoid cyst.
The Social Embeddedness of Socioemotional Wealth: A Review and Future Research Agenda
Authors: Heo Yoonjeoung , Chung Chi‐Nien , Chen Danyang
Published: December 2024

Research Questions/Issues

Scholarly interest in family firm governance and its strategic decision‐making has increased since the invention of socioemotional wealth (SEW). However, the widespread use of the SEW concept raises concerns on its reification and tautology. To address these concerns, we propose analyzing the social embeddedness of family firms to shed light on SEW‐driven governance practices and decision‐making.

Research Findings

Our two‐step method reviewed 85 papers utilizing social network perspectives, institutional theory, and SEW concepts. Our analysis demonstrates that integrating social embeddedness into SEW can help clarify the origins of SEW and its impact on decision‐making and governance and practices within family firms. Nonetheless, our analysis also highlights research gaps that future studies should address.

Theoretical Implications

By integrating the social embeddedness perspective with SEW, we offer a novel framework that systematically illustrates the social rationales underpinning diverse SEW‐driven behaviors and the evolution of governance practices in family firms. This framework, drawing from social network and institutional theory, elucidates the formation of SEW as driven by multidimensional social motivations, thus reconciling mixed findings from previous SEW research. Furthermore, our review provides a comprehensive research agenda for future studies in family business and corporate governance, encouraging exploration of multiple institutional logics, social networks, and their confounding effects on the SEW of family businesses.

Practical Implications

Our findings guide financial investors and nonfinancial stakeholders to better comprehend family firms' economic and noneconomic concerns, their distinct strategic behaviors from other firms, and their hybrid governance practices. Our discussion suggests practitioners incorporating social context of controlling families into decision.
Revolutionising Cancer Immunotherapy: Advancements and Prospects in Non‐Viral CAR‐NK Cell Engineering
Authors: Zhou Zhaokai , Chen Yifeng , Ba Yuhao , Xu Hui , Zuo Anning , Liu Shutong , Zhang Yuyuan , Weng Siyuan , Ren Yuqing , Luo Peng , Cheng Quan , Zuo Lulu , Zhu Shanshan , Zhou Xing , Zhang Chuhan , Chen Yukang , Han Xinwei , Pan Teng , Liu Zaoqu
Published: December 2024

The recent advancements in cancer immunotherapy have spotlighted the potential of natural killer (NK) cells, particularly chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)–transduced NK cells. These cells, pivotal in innate immunity, offer a rapid and potent response against cancer cells and pathogens without the need for prior sensitization or recognition of peptide antigens. Although NK cell genetic modification is evolving, the viral transduction method continues to be inefficient and fraught with risks, often resulting in cytotoxic outcomes and the possibility of insertional mutagenesis. Consequently, there has been a surge in the development of non‐viral transfection technologies to overcome these challenges in NK cell engineering. Non‐viral approaches for CAR‐NK cell generation are becoming increasingly essential. Cutting‐edge techniques such as trogocytosis, electroporation, lipid nanoparticle (LNP) delivery, clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats–associated protein 9 (CRISPR‐Cas9) gene editing and transposons not only enhance the efficiency and safety of CAR‐NK cell engineering but also open new avenues for novel therapeutic possibilities. Additionally, the infusion of technologies already successful in CAR T‐cell therapy into the CAR‐NK paradigm holds immense potential for further advancements. In this review, we present an overview of the potential of NK cells in cancer immunotherapies, as well as non‐viral transfection technologies for engineering NK cells.
Single‐Cell Transcriptomics Uncovers Core Signature for Regulating Mitochondrial Homeostasis During Testicular Ageing
Authors: Xu Weijie , Huang Qiuru , Qi Yujuan , Hu Qingqing , Shen Cong , Chen Xia , Li Jiaxin , Xia Qiushi , Pan Ziyue , Zhang Yi , Han Guoqing , Huang Jingqi , Liu Yiheng , Cao Ziyu , Zheng Ying , Zheng Bo , Gu Zhifeng , Yu Jun , Sun Chi
Published: December 2024

Testicular ageing is accompanied by a series of morphological changes, while the features of mitochondrial dysfunction remain largely unknown. Herein, we observed a range of age‐related modifications in testicular morphology and spermatogenic cells, and conducted single‐cell RNA sequencing on young and old testes in Drosophila. Pseudotime trajectory revealed significant changes in germline subpopulations during ageing. Our examination unveiled that genes showing bias in spermatids exhibited higher dN/dS than those in GSCs_Spermatogonia. Genes biased towards young GSCs_Spermatogonia displayed higher dN/dS than those in old GSCs_Spermatogonia. Interestingly, genes biased towards young spermatids demonstrated lower dN/dS in contrast to those in old spermatids, revealing the complexity of evolutionary adaptations during ageing. Furthermore, mitochondria associated events, including oxidative phosphorylation, TCA cycle and pyruvate metabolism, were significantly enriched in germline subpopulations. Specifically, mitochondrial function was significantly impaired during the process of testicular ageing, concurrently emphasising the role of several key nuclear genome‐encoded mitochondrial regulatory genes, such as Hsp60B, fzo, Tim17b1 and mRpL12. Our data offer insights into testicular homeostasis regulated by mitochondrial function during the ageing process.
Psychopathological Characteristics and Subjective Dimensions of Suicidality in Adolescents at Ultra High Risk (UHR) for Psychosis
Authors: Monducci Elena , Mammarella Valeria , Maffucci Alessia , Colaiori Michela , Cox Olivia , Cesario Serena , Cammisa Luca , Terrinoni Arianna , Ardizzone Ignazio , Battaglia Claudia , Colafrancesco Giada , Casini Maria Pia , Pisani Francesco , Ferrara Mauro , Raballo Andrea
Published: December 2024

Background and Hypothesis

Suicide and suicidal behaviour are among the most frequent and serious complications in severe mental disorders, especially in the developmental years. From the early stages of psychosis, i.e., in ultra high risk (UHR) and first psychotic episode (FEP) subjects, the suicide risk (SR) is higher than in the general population. Therefore, assessing suicidal thoughts during the high psychotic risk period is extremely important. This study aims to assess SR in a group of UHR adolescents compared to FEP and clinical help‐seeking controls (CHSC) peers.

Study Design

95 adolescents (13–18 years) were evaluated through psychopathological interviews and self‐report questionnaires to assess UHR, FEP or CHSC condition, clinical suicidal behaviour and suicide thoughts, global functioning, self‐disorders, and other psychiatric comorbidities.

Study Results

We identified 17 FEP, 33 UHR, and 45 CHSC. 54.7% of the total sample is at SR, identified in 70.6% of FEP subjects, 81.8% of UHR subjects and 28.9% of CHSC patients. Furthermore, SR correlated with positive symptoms (p = 0.013), negative symptoms (p = 0.032), general symptoms (p = 0.009), and global functioning (p < 0.001) as well as with the total EASE score (p < 0.001). An increasing rate of self‐disorders was associated with an increased likelihood of SR.

Conclusions

Monitoring UHR adolescents not only for psychotic onset but also for SR is crucial due to their higher suicidality and worse prognosis. Rigorous management and monitoring can enable more targeted interventions and suicide prevention strategies.
Crack Arrest Analysis of Components With Compressive Residual Stress
Authors: Xiao Xuran , Okorokov Volodymyr , Mackenzie Donald
Published: December 2024

A finite element analysis and fracture mechanics methodology for determining the autofrettage pressure required to cause crack arrest in components under varying pressure loading are presented. Superposition of the autofrettage residual stress distribution and working load stress distribution is combined with ANSYS Separating Morphing and Adaptive Remeshing Technology (SMART) to determine the effective stress intensity factor as the crack grows. The condition for crack arrest is identified by comparison with a crack arrest model defining the crack propagation threshold stress intensity factor range for microstructurally short, physically short, and long cracks. The crack propagation threshold models of El Haddad and Chapetti are implemented and applied to fatigue analysis of stainless steel and low carbon steel double notch tensile test specimens with preinduced compressive residual stress. Based on comparison with fatigue test results, the Chapetti model is selected for use in the analysis of a 3D aluminum alloy valve body. The calculated minimum autofrettage pressure required to give crack arrest under a given working load cycle is found to be in good agreement with experimental observations from the literature.
NIR spectroscopy: Developing predictive models for chemical attributes and in vitro dry matter digestibility of Megathyrsus maximus cv. Tanzania
Authors: Serafim Camila Cano , do Carmo João Pedro Monteiro , Franconere Erica Regina Rodrigues , Melquiades Fábio Luiz , Calixto Odimári Pricila Prado , Vendrame Pedro Siqueira , Galbeiro Sandra , Cavalheiro Junior Elias Rodrigues , Miorin Renan , Mizubuti Ivone Yurika
Published: December 2024

Pastures in animal production are widely used, but production is conditioned to several factors. The nutritional composition of forage can be altered by soil conditions, season, plant maturity and morphology, so it is important to monitor its quality through chemical analysis. To optimize this type of analysis and speed up decision‐making by farmers and technicians, the use of near‐infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) is a tool that has been successfully applied. This research aimed to develop predictive models for chemical components of Megathyrsus maximus cv. Tanzania using NIR spectroscopy. Laboratory determinations of ash, crude protein (CP), in vitro dry matter digestibility (IVDMD), neutral detergent fiber (NDF) and acid detergent fiber (ADF) of 345 forage samples were used as reference data and correlated with their NIRS spectra. To calibrate the models, principal component analysis and partial least squares regression were applied. The results indicated that the prediction models of the studied parameters presented a coefficient of determination (R2) equal to or greater than 0.90; residual predictive deviation rate (RPD) greater than 3.0; error interval ratio (RER) greater than 12; close mean square error values between calibration and validation; and optimal number of latent variables (LV) between seven and eight for model calibration. For CP and IVDMD prediction, the regions with the highest simultaneous contribution were 1,414, 1996 and 2,384 nm; while for NDF and ADF, 1714, 1784, 1786, 2,160, 2,320 and 2,450 nm. The success in the development of predictive models by NIR spectroscopy to evaluate dry matter digestibility and other main chemical attributes of M. maximus cv. Tanzania shows that the quality of the models developed in this study enables them to be used alternatively in routine laboratory analysis in a quick, reliable and accurate way.
Risk prediction criteria for the primary hepatic perivascular epithelioid cell tumour family, including angiomyolipoma: analysis of 132 cases with a literature review
Authors: Yoo Youngeun , Kim Jihun , Song In Hye
Published: December 2024

Aims

The hepatic perivascular epithelioid cell tumour (PEComa), including angiomyolipoma, exhibits diverse morphology and clinical behaviour; however, its prognostic features remain undefined. This study aimed to investigate its histological features and prognostic factors.

Methods and Results

In total, 132 patients were included. Clinical data and histopathological slides were assessed along with the p53 and Ki‐67 immunohistochemistry. Targeted next‐generation sequencing was performed in three cases. Based on the histologic subtypes, 7 (10%), 36 (51%), 13 (18%), and 15 (21%) patients were classified as inflammatory angiomyolipoma, conventional angiomyolipoma, epithelioid angiomyolipoma, and PEComa not otherwise specified (NOS), respectively, among 71 patients who underwent surgical resection. We proposed the risk prediction criteria after defining primary tumour size ≥7 cm, infiltrative border, mitotic rate >1/10 mm2, necrosis, vascular invasion, and PEComa NOS as worrisome features, as follows: high‐risk: ≥3 worrisome features; intermediate‐risk: 1–2 features; low‐risk: none of the features. Applying these criteria, 4 (6%), 31 (44%), and 36 (51%) patients were classified into high‐, intermediate‐, and low‐risk groups, respectively. One patient each in the high‐risk (25%) and intermediate‐risk (3%) groups developed peritoneal metastases and intrahepatic recurrence, respectively, whereas none in the low‐risk group showed disease progression. A literature review of clinically malignant hepatic PEComa family tumours was conducted, and upon application of our criteria, 62% (16/26) of the patients were classified as high‐risk and 35% (9/26) as intermediate‐ or high‐risk.

Conclusion

Our risk prediction criteria can effectively predict the clinical outcomes in primary hepatic PEComa.
Dynamic changes in the avian gut microbiome in response to diverse lifestyles
Authors: Li Lingxue , Ye Julan , Yu Meichen , Jiang Jiaxuan , Guo Xinyu , Yu Weijian , Rong Ke
Published: December 2024

Investigating the intestinal microbiome and its interactions with the host is crucial for understanding the adaptation mechanisms, functional dynamics and co‐evolution of these microbiomes in wild birds. This review examines how gut microbiomes interact with their avian hosts, focusing on the establishment of gut microbiomes, the dynamic changes occurring throughout different life stages and the factors that influence microbial variations. It also explores the evolutionary relationship between birds and their microbial symbionts, and identifies key areas for future research on avian gut microbes to advance wildlife microbiology.
Molecular Characterization of δβ Thalassemia/Hereditary Persistence of Fetal Hemoglobin and Its Correlation With Clinical and Hematological Profile; a Single Center Study in North India
Authors: Gupta R. , Shah A. , Gupta K. , Chandra D. , Sharma A. , Rahman K. , Singh M. K. , Yadav S. , Kashyap R.
Published: December 2024

Background

δβ‐thalassemia/HPFH is an uncommon hemoglobinopathy characterized by decreased or the total absence of production of δ‐ and β‐globin and increased HbF levels. Both these disorders have variable genotype and phenotype, but significant overlap in the clinical and laboratory findings. Given the lack of literature in this regard, the study aimed to estimate the prevalence of the disease and evaluate its clinical, hematological, and molecular profile in India.

Material and Methods

This was a retrospective study where all samples with HbF level ≥ 5% and suspected to be δβ‐thalassemia/HPFH, based on the HPLC, were included in the study over 3.5 years. The demographic and clinical details were retrieved from the electronic medical records. Gap‐PCR was carried out to characterize the molecular defect for the HbF determinant, while amplification refractory mutation system (ARMS—PCR) was carried out for β‐thalassemia genoyping. Clinical and laboratory parameters of heterozygous and homozygous/compound heterozygous δβ thalassemia deletions were compared.

Results

A total of 65 individuals (0.8%) were diagnosed with δβ‐thalassemia/HPFH; these included 45 (69%) patients in the heterozygous group and 20 (31%) cases in the homozygous/compound heterozygous subgroup. While all the carrier states were asymptomatic, 80% of the patients in the homozygous/compound heterozygous state were symptomatic with a thalassemia intermedia‐like profile. The median Hb levels were 12.3 g/dL (range −9.5–18.2) and 8.0 g/dL (range 3.8–15.1) respectively. Molecular profiling identified heterozygous Asian Indian inversion deletion Gγ(Aγδβ)0 mutation in 50% of cases, heterozygous HPFH‐3 (Indian HPFH, 48.5 kb deletion) in 14% cases, and homozygous Gγ(Aγδβ)0‐thalassemia in 21% cases. Compound heterozygous HPFH‐3/Gγ(Aγδβ)0 mutation with β‐thalassemia was observed in 8.9% and 3.5%, respectively. In one case, the HbF determinant could not be identified. Heterozygous (HBB:c. 92+5G>C), was the most frequent co‐inherited β‐thalassemia mutation in the compound heterozygous patients.

Conclusion

The study highlights that high HbF determinants, like δβ thalassemia and HPFH, are relatively more frequent in the Indian subcontinent, and their co‐inheritance with β‐thalassemia results in a moderately severe disease. Accurate identification of molecular defects is important for prenatal diagnosis and genetic counseling.
Structural Immunology of SARS‐CoV‐2
Authors: Yuan Meng , Wilson Ian A.
Published: December 2024

The SARS‐CoV‐2 spike (S) protein has undergone significant evolution, enhancing both receptor binding and immune evasion. In this review, we summarize ongoing efforts to develop antibodies targeting various epitopes of the S protein, focusing on their neutralization potency, breadth, and escape mechanisms. Antibodies targeting the receptor‐binding site (RBS) typically exhibit high neutralizing potency but are frequently evaded by mutations in SARS‐CoV‐2 variants. In contrast, antibodies targeting conserved regions, such as the S2 stem helix and fusion peptide, exhibit broader reactivity but generally lower neutralization potency. However, several broadly neutralizing antibodies have demonstrated exceptional efficacy against emerging variants, including the latest omicron subvariants, underscoring the potential of targeting vulnerable sites such as RBS‐A and RBS‐D/CR3022. We also highlight public classes of antibodies targeting different sites on the S protein. The vulnerable sites targeted by public antibodies present opportunities for germline‐targeting vaccine strategies. Overall, developing escape‐resistant, potent antibodies and broadly effective vaccines remains crucial for combating future variants. This review emphasizes the importance of identifying key epitopes and utilizing antibody affinity maturation to inform future therapeutic and vaccine design.
Diagnostic Accuracy of Novel Protein Biomarkers in Saliva to Detect Periodontitis Using Untargeted ‘SWATH’ Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Blanco‐Pintos T. , Regueira‐Iglesias A. , Relvas M. , Alonso‐Sampedro M. , Bravo S. B. , Balsa‐Castro C. , Tomás I.
Published: December 2024

Aim

To discover new salivary biomarkers to diagnose periodontitis and evaluate the impact of age and smoking on predictive capacity.

Material and Methods

Saliva samples were collected from 44 healthy periodontal individuals and 41 with periodontitis. Samples were analysed by sequential window acquisition of all theoretical mass spectra (SWATH‐MS), and proteins were identified by employing the UniProt database. The diagnostic capacity of the molecules was determined with generalized additive models. The models obtained were single‐protein unadjusted and adjusted for age and smoking status, besides two‐protein combinations.

Results

Eight single salivary proteins had a bias‐corrected accuracy (bc‐ACC) of 78.8%–86.8% (bc‐sensitivity/bc‐specificity of 62.5%–86.9%/60.9%–98.1%) to diagnose periodontitis. Predictive capacity increased more by adjusting for age (bc‐ACC: 94.1%–98.2%; bc‐sensitivity/bc‐specificity: 90.2%–98.6%/93.6%–97.2%) than smoking (bc‐ACC: 83.9%–90.4%; bc‐sensitivity/bc‐specificity: 73.6%–89.9%/76.2%–96.4%). These proteins were keratin, type II cytoskeletal 1, protein S100‐A8, β‐2‐microglobulin, neutrophil defensin 1, lysozyme C, ubiquitin‐60S ribosomal protein L40, isoform 2 of tropomyosin α‐3 chain and resistin. Two dual combinations showed bc‐sensitivity/bc‐specificity of > 90%: β‐2‐microglobulin with profilin‐1, and lysozyme C with zymogen granule protein 16 homologue B.

Conclusions

New salivary biomarkers show good or excellent ability to diagnose periodontitis. Age has a more significant influence on the accuracy of the single biomarkers than smoking, with results comparable to two‐protein combinations.
First Results About Pollination of Silene migjornensis, an Endemic Plant Species of the Southern Dunes of Mallorca
Authors: Cortés‐Giménez Fernando D. , Far Antoni J. , Cerrato Marcello D. , Pinya Samuel , Cursach Joana
Published: December 2024

Silene migjornensis is a plant species restricted to a unique location in the south of Mallorca. Its floral syndrome suggests nocturnal pollination by lepidopterans, but pollinators of this species remain unknown. Several surveys were conducted along the flowering period, and potential pollinators were captured for pollen load analyses. Additionally, pollinator surveys were performed by counting the number and identity of floral visitors in groups of 100 flowers every 2 h at nighttime. A total of 210 specimens were analysed, and the efficacy and fidelity of floral visitors were obtained. Up to 16 taxa were identified as potential pollinators, including moths, spiders, harvestmen, beetles, cockroaches and true bugs, many of which are neglected pollinators. Beetles showed higher efficacy compared with harvestmen and cockroaches, while no statistical differences were found in fidelity among groups. However, the harvestman Phalangium clavipus was the most frequent floral visitor. Overall, the initial hypothesis that S. migjornensis has a pollination specialised towards lepidopterans is not confirmed. Finally, this study describes the first case of an endemic harvestman participating in the pollination of a plant species in Mallorca.
A Transfer Learning Radiomics Nomogram to Predict the Postoperative Recurrence of Advanced Gastric Cancer
Authors: Huang Liebin , Feng Bao , Yang Zhiqi , Feng Shi‐Ting , Liu Yu , Xue Huimin , Shi Jiangfeng , Chen Qinxian , Zhou Tao , Chen Xiangguang , Wan Cuixia , Chen Xiaofeng , Long Wansheng
Published: December 2024

Background and Aim

In this study, a transfer learning (TL) algorithm was used to predict postoperative recurrence of advanced gastric cancer (AGC) and to evaluate its value in a small‐sample clinical study.

Methods

A total of 431 cases of AGC from three centers were included in this retrospective study. First, TL signatures (TLSs) were constructed based on different source domains, including whole slide images (TLS‐WSIs) and natural images (TLS‐ImageNet). Clinical model and non‐TLS based on CT images were constructed simultaneously. Second, TL radiomic model (TLRM) was constructed by combining optimal TLS and clinical factors. Finally, the performance of the models was evaluated by ROC analysis. The clinical utility of the models was assessed using integrated discriminant improvement (IDI) and decision curve analysis (DCA).

Results

TLS‐WSI significantly outperformed TLS‐ImageNet, non‐TLS, and clinical models (p < 0.05). The AUC value of TLS‐WSI in training cohort was 0.9459 (95CI%: 0.9054, 0.9863) and ranged from 0.8050 (95CI%: 0.7130, 0.8969) to 0.8984 (95CI%: 0.8420, 0.9547) in validation cohorts. TLS‐WSI and the nodular or irregular outer layer of gastric wall were screened to construct TLRM. The AUC value of TLRM in training cohort was 0.9643 (95CI%: 0.9349, 0.9936) and ranged from 0.8561 (95CI%: 0.7571, 0.9552) to 0.9195 (95CI%: 0.8670, 0.9721) in validation cohorts. The IDI and DCA showed that the performance of TLRM outperformed the other models.

Conclusion

TLS‐WSI can be used to predict postoperative recurrence in AGC, whereas TLRM is more effective. TL can effectively improve the performance of clinical research models with a small sample size.
Rural‐urban divide in risk perception of LSD: Implications for psychedelic‐assisted therapy
Authors: Bradley Melissa , Grossman Daniel , Simonsson Otto , Copes Heith , Hendricks Peter S.
Published: December 2024

Background

Recent legislative initiatives in the United States have focused on the medical and legal status of psychedelics, prompting interest in understanding public perceptions of their risks. This study investigates rural‐urban differences in the perception of LSD and cannabis risks using national survey data.

Methods

Data from the National Survey of Drug Use and Health (NSDUH) between 2015 and 2021 were analyzed. Logistic regression models were used to compare risk perceptions of LSD and cannabis between rural and urban respondents, adjusting for relevant factors.

Results

Rural residents were 1.2 to 1.4 times more likely to perceive using LSD once or twice as of great risk compared to urban residents during the survey period. However, the perception of monthly cannabis use as having great risk was slightly higher among rural residents only until 2019, with no significant differences observed in 2020 and 2021.

Conclusion

The study highlights a significant rural‐urban divide in the perception of LSD risk, which could impact policymaking on psychedelic therapies. Understanding these differences is crucial for developing effective and equitable policies regarding psychedelic substances and treatments.
A descriptive examination of rurality in the Environmental influences on Child Health Outcomes Cohort: Implications, illustrations, and future directions
Authors: McCormack Lacey A. , MacKenzie Debra A. , Deutsch Arielle , Beene Daniel , Hockett Christine W. , Ziegler Katherine , Knapp Emily A. , Kress Amii M. , Li Zone R. , Bakre Shivani , Habre Rima , Jacobson Lisa , Karagas Margaret R. , LeWinn Kaja , Nozadi Sara S. , Alshawabkeh Akram , Aris Izzuddin M. , Bekelman Traci A. , Bendixsen Casper G. , Camargo Carlos , Cassidy‐Bushrow Andrea E. , Croen Lisa , Assiamira Ferrara , Fry Rebecca , Gebretsadik Tebeb , Hartert Tina , Hirko Kelly A. , Karr Catherine J. , Kloog Itai , Loftus Christine , Magee Kelsey E. , McEvoy Cindy , Neiderhiser Jenae M. , O'Connor Thomas G. , O'Shea Mike , Straughen Jennifer K. , Urquhart Audrey , Wright Rosalind , Elliott Amy J. ,   for the ECHO Cohort Consortium
Published: December 2024

Purpose

The Environmental influences on Child Health Outcomes (ECHO) Cohort has enrolled over 60,000 children to examine how early environmental factors (broadly defined) are associated with key child health outcomes. The ECHO Cohort may be well‐positioned to contribute to our understanding of rural environments and contexts, which has implications for rural health disparities research. The present study examined the outcome of child obesity to not only illustrate the suitability of ECHO Cohort data for these purposes but also determine how various definitions of rural and urban populations impact the presentation of findings and their interpretation.

Methods

This analysis uses data from children in the ECHO Cohort study who had residential address information between January 2010 and October 2023, including a subset who also had height and weight data. Several rural‐urban classification schemes were examined with and without collapsing into binary rural/urban groupings (ie, the Rural‐Urban Continuum Codes, 2010 Rural‐Urban Commuting Area [RUCA] Codes, and Urban Influence Codes).

Findings

Various rural/urban definitions and classification schemes produce similar obesity prevalence (17%) when collapsed into binary categories (rural vs urban) and for urban participants in general. When all categories within a classification scheme are examined, however, the rural child obesity prevalence ranges from 5.8% to 24%.

Conclusions

Collapsing rural‐urban classification schemes into binary groupings erases nuance and context needed for interpreting findings, ultimately impacting health disparities research. Future work should leverage both individual‐ and community‐level datasets to provide context, and all categories of classification schemes should be used when examining rural populations.
A Qualitative Systematic Review of Barriers and Facilitators to Hepatitis B and C Programmes in Prisons
Authors: Emery Heidi , Evans Catrin , Jack Kathryn , Martello Elisa , Seripenah Princella , Aiyelabegan Fatima , Dhungana Surakshya , Joseph Titus , Koboto Dirontsho , Morling Joanne R. , Stewart‐Evans James , Wilson Emma , Leonardi‐Bee Jo
Published: December 2024

The prevalence of viral hepatitis among people in prisons is higher than in the general population. Screening, treatment and vaccination programmes exist within prisons to reduce the incidence of hepatitis, although lower uptake has often been reported compared to similar programmes outside of prisons. We conducted a systematic review of qualitative evidence to explore the barriers and facilitators to hepatitis B and C reduction programmes in prisons from the perspectives of people in prison, custodial staff and prison healthcare staff. Comprehensive searches of five databases (to November 2023) yielded 28 studies for review inclusion. Four synthesised findings were identified: (i) accurate, up‐to‐date knowledge of viral hepatitis disease and treatment among people in prison and staff is a facilitator to programme uptake, particularly when imparted by a trusted source; (ii) personal subjective and relative views have a bearing on participation with the programme; (iii) social interactions and relationships both within the community of people in prison and between them and staff groups influence participation in the programmes; and (iv) the organisational structure of the prison and healthcare services within it affect programme participation. Based on these findings, we make recommendations for the adaptation of viral hepatitis programmes to individual custodial settings thereby improving equitable programme access and hepatitis B and C reduction in this complex environment.
Clinical Efficacy of Nasoalveolar Moulding Using Aligner NAM During Presurgical Infant Orthopaedics (PSIO) in Infants With Unilateral Cleft Lip and Palate (UCLP): A Retrospective Study
Authors: Puneet Batra , Gribel Bruno Frazao , Aditya Talwar , Garima Arora
Published: December 2024

Objective

The study compares and evaluates planned virtual outcomes with actual post‐treatment outcomes to assess the accuracy and predictability of clinical results during presurgical infant orthopaedics (PSIO) with AlignerNAM in infants with unilateral cleft lip and palate.

Setting

Institutional study. Participants: 14 UCLP patients.

Materials and Methods

Digital models for infants with unilateral cleft lip and palate (UCLP) who had undergone PSIO with AlignerNAM between 1 and 6 weeks were obtained at three stages—pretreatment (To), planned (Tp) and post‐treatment (T1). Linear and angular measurements were made on these using the OrthoAnalyser software (3Shape, Copenhagen, Denmark). A paired t‐test and Bland–Altman analysis assessed the accuracy between predicted and achieved movements, while inter‐ and intra‐rater reliabilities were also calculated using digital records of seven patients.

Results

The study found no significant difference (p > 0.05) between the clinical outcome (post‐treatment) values and the predicted values (obtained from the virtual post‐treatment simulation/planned movement). The sagittal reduction in the cleft defect demonstrated the highest accuracy (97.71%), followed by the transverse reduction (95.1%). Overall, linear measurements achieved an accuracy of 94.57% and angular measurements an accuracy of 93.64%. All measurements were within the limits of agreement based on the Bland–Altman plots. The widths of limits of agreement were narrow and similar for both linear and angular measurements showing high levels of agreement.

Conclusion

AlignerNAM showed high accuracy in reducing cleft size and aligning alveolar segments in UCLP patients, achieving accuracy rates above 90% in both linear and angular dimensions. AlignerNAM appliance is a suitable alternative to conventional PSIO techniques.
Concluding essay: imperial humanism and challenge of defining the nature of the state
Authors: McManus Stuart M.
Published: December 2024

This concluding essay reflects on the relationship between intellectual life and state building as elucidated by the essays in this special issue on Humanism in Greater Venice. Drawing comparisons with Asian empires and the Hispanic Monarchy (often called the ‘Spanish Empire’) in the Americas and elsewhere, it argues that we must be alive to the precise nature of the state championed by humanist writers and to eschew value‐laden terms that are not actor’s categories, e.g. commonwealth. It ends with a call to avoid either whitewashing the actions of states or creating new Black Legends, in the Renaissance or any other period.
Does Increasing Ethnic Diversity Challenge the Rural Idyll? An Analysis of Frames on Ethnic Diversity in Relation to Rurality in the Flemish Written Press (Belgium)*
Authors: Van Damme Willemien , De Decker Pascal , Leinfelder Hans
Published: December 2024

The social construction of rurality remains a collective fantasy of a safe, green, ethnically homogeneous environment. This fantasy, called “the rural idyll,” still dominates the way in which people give meaning to their lives, the lives of others, and the places where they live. This idyll is based on an interrelated urban/ethnic diverse versus rural/white dichotomy, even as rural areas are in fact becoming more ethnically diverse. The question of how ethnic diversity is understood, in traditional media, through the fantasy of the rural idyll is central to this paper. Drawing on recurring stories in 450 newspaper articles in the Flemish written press covering rural ethnic diversity, we identify four different ideal‐type frames: growing ethnic diversity as a (1) threat to the rural idyll, (2) confirmation of the rural idyll, (3) the consequence of rural deprivation, and (4) the solution to rural deprivation. Our analysis shows that a large proportion of the newspaper articles use “ethnic diversity as a threat to the rural idyll.” This connects with the long‐standing anti‐urban discourse in Flanders (Belgium). Nevertheless, the presence and emergence of other frames indicate that this discourse does not remain not unchallenged.
A Deccan Large Igneous Province related Maastrichtian regolith of Lameta Formation, Central India: Insights into the genesis and development of calcrete profiles and implications for palaeoclimate variability
Authors: Kumari Vandana , Tandon Sampat Kumar , Ghatak Arundhuti , Srivastava Pankaj , Bera Melinda Kumar , Chakrabarti Ramananda
Published: December 2024

Emplacement of volcanics of the Deccan Large Igneous Province in the late‐Maastrichtian to early‐Danian has been linked to global climatic perturbations and the related biotic crisis. Sedimentary sequences associated with these lavas, known as infra‐trappean and inter‐trappean successions, preserve records of this Large Igneous Province induced climatic and biotic changes. The Lameta Formation of Jabalpur is the type section for the infra‐trappean succession; it preserves a unique stack of 13 calcrete profiles and one calcic‐vertisol, which together constitute the Mottled Nodular Beds. This stratigraphic unit evolved over a significant time period, most likely a few hundred thousand years in Chron C29R, making it a unique section suitable for obtaining insights on terminal Cretaceous palaeoclimatic variability. Micromorphological, clay‐mineralogical, geochemical and stable carbon‐isotopic (organic matter) data of calcretes of the Mottled Nodular Beds have been used to understand their genesis and obtain insights on climatic variability during their formation. These calcretes/calcareous palaeosol profiles are largely characterized by alpha‐fabric with the development of some biogenic features indicating predominantly evaporation/evapotranspiration driven carbonate precipitation with minor biochemically induced precipitation, respectively. Strontium isotopic compositions of the carbonate fraction of these calcretes indicate derivation of calcium from the Precambrian Mahakoshal Group marbles. On the basis of multiple datasets, these calcretes are interpreted to be pedogenic having formed in the soil‐vadose zone following the per descensum model. Based on a multiproxy approach that includes micromorphology, clay‐mineralogy, geochemistry (Mean Annual Precipitation and salinization) and stable carbon isotope ratio (organic matter), the conditions of formation of the Mottled Nodular Beds in C29R are interpreted to have varied mostly from semi‐arid to sub‐humid, with two intervening shorter arid episodes in the middle and upper parts of this succession. This climatic variability broadly aligns with the recently suggested changes in eruptive dynamics in the neighbouring Malwa Plateau of the Deccan volcanic province.
Riders on the Storm
Authors: Cona Andrea , Luppi Mario , Kodiyanplakkal Rosy Priya , Perra Simone , Mularoni Alessandra , Malinis Maricar
Published: December 2024

This case involves a 52‐year‐old male, who underwent a deceased donor orthotopic liver transplant 7 months prior, presented with a 2‐week history of persistent fever, anemia, thrombocytopenia, and mild elevation of liver enzymes. Upon hospital admission, the patient was febbrile, alert and oriented, hemodynamically stable. Laboratory exams revealed worsening leukopenia, anemia, thrombocytopenia, hyponatremia, and elevated ferritin. On hospital day 5, the general condition of the patient rapidly deteriorated with dyspnea, asthenia, and worsening fever and pancytopenia.Computed tomography revealed splenomegaly and minimal bilateral pleural effusion.
The Effectiveness and Safety of the Short‐Course Therapy in Liver Transplant Recipients With Uncomplicated Gram‐Negative Bacteremia: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Miwa Toshiki , Okamoto Koh , Ishikawa Shotaro , Ikeuchi Kazuhiko , Yamamoto Shinya , Ikeda Mahoko , Okugawa Shu , Ichida Akihiko , Akamatsu Nobuhisa , Hasegawa Kiyoshi , Tsutsumi Takeya
Published: December 2024

Introduction

The appropriate duration of therapy for uncomplicated gram‐negative bloodstream infection (GN‐BSI) in liver transplant (LTx) recipients remains unknown. This study aims to explore the effectiveness of a short‐course antimicrobial therapy.

Methods

This retrospective study was performed in a single LTx center in Japan. All LTx recipients with GN‐BSI receiving 6–16 days of therapy with adequate source control between 2010 and 2022 were included. We collected data on demographics, underlying medical conditions, clinical manifestations, laboratory and microbiology data, ID consultation, oral switch therapy, and subsequent clinical course through chart review. We compared the 30‐day composite outcome comprising mortality and recurrence of BSI or local infection between patients receiving a short‐course (6–10 days) therapy and those receiving a long‐course (11–16 days) therapy.

Results

Of 91 study participants, 27 (29.7%) and 64 (70.3%) received short‐course and long‐course antimicrobial therapy, respectively. Cholangitis was the most common source of BSI (57/91 [62.6%]). Overall, the primary composite outcome occurred in 18 patients (19.8%), most of which was the recurrence of local infection (n = 14). The primary composite outcome was numerically compatible between these groups (5/27 [18.5%] vs. 13/64 [20.3%]; p = 0.84).

Conclusions

A short‐course therapy may be an effective option in selected LTx recipients with uncomplicated GN‐BSI. Whether a short‐course oral switch therapy is a viable option or not warrants further research.

image
Optimization of a solidified floating organic drop microextraction procedure through an experimental design for the simultaneous determination of four non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs in river water
Authors: Pinheiro Jeiza F. , Silva Lanna K. , Fonseca Naldirene N. , Sousa Érika M. L. , Lima Diana L. D. , Sousa Eliane R. , Silva Gilmar S.
Published: December 2024

To simultaneously determine the non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs ketoprofen, nimesulide, diclofenac and ibuprofen in river water, a simple and cost‐effective solidified floating organic drop microextraction method coupled with high‐performance liquid chromatography was developed. Through multivariate optimization, the variables extracting volume, dispersive volume, sample pH and ionic strength were optimized by a full factorial design 24 and Doehlert matrix. The optimized experimental conditions were 30 μL of extracting solvent (1‐dodecanol), 300 μL of dispersive solvent (acetonitrile) and sample pH of 2. The optimized method showed low limits of detection (0.05 to 0.09 μg L−1), satisfactory recoveries (up to 118%) and enrichment factors ranging from 67 to 197. The optimized method applied in river water samples showed low matrix effects, making it possible to apply this method successfully for the quantification of four NSAIDs in river water samples.
Media Representations of Islam and Muslims in Global Contexts (2002-2022): A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Khan Muhammad Riaz , Zin Zuhana Bt Mohamed , Fakhruddin Wan Farah Wani Wan
Published: December 2024

The systematic review is a narrative on Islamic representation and Islamophobia in global media from 2002 to 2022, synthesizing studies with high impact as indexed in Web of Science, Scopus, and ProQuest. The main trends confirm the consistent image of Muslims as cultural outsiders, posing a threat to security; on recurring themes of fear-based discourses and binary oppositions of "Us" (Western societies) and "Them" (Muslim communities). This review evaluates how these representations endorse and reinforce Islamophobic sentiments, shape the public perception and policies that affect the Muslim community, and underscore the role of media in reinforcing social gaps. This evaluative insight calls on more balanced journalism and ethical media practices, journalistic responsibility, and methodological rigour, oriented toward inclusive media.
Analyzing Competitive Demands in Mountain Running Races: A Running Power-Based Approach
Authors: Rodríguez-Medina Juan , Carballo-Leyenda Belén , Gutiérrez-Arroyo Jorge , García-Heras Fabio , Rodríguez-Marroyo Jose A.
Published: December 2024

Purpose: This study aimed to analyze the competitive demands of mountain running races of varying lengths. Methods: Sixty-six male athletes competed in Vertical race (∼3 km and ∼1000 m of total elevation change), Sky race (∼25 km and ∼3000 m of total elevation change), and SkyUltra race (∼80 km and ∼9000 m of total elevation change). Exercise intensity and competition load (TL) were assessed using running power, heart rate, and rating of perceived exertion (RPE). Results: The highest exercise intensity was observed in Vertical race (3.9 [0.4] W·kg−1, 93.6% [2.8%] HRmax, and 9.5 [0.7] RPE) compared to Sky race (3.5 [0.5] W·kg−1, 89.9% [2.4%] HRmax, and 8.5 [1.2] RPE), and SkyUltra (2.7 [0.6] W·kg−1, 73.4% [1.1%] HRmax, and 8.2 [1.1] RPE). Vertical races had the highest mean maximal power outputs for periods <10 minutes. They also had the highest proportion of time spent >5 W·kg−1 and the most time spent above the respiratory compensation threshold. The majority of time in SkyUltra was spent at low intensity. The highest TLs were observed in these races (6200.5 [708.0] kJ, 842.0 [35.7] AU for TLHR, and 4897.3 [940.7] AU for TLRPE). However, when normalized to competition time, the SkyUltra event showed the lowest values compared with the Vertical and Sky races (∼11 vs ∼14.5 kJ·min−1, ∼1.5 vs ∼2.5 AU·m−1 for TLHR). Conclusion: The results of this study expand knowledge about the effort demands of mountain races and demonstrate how these demands are affected by race duration. Additionally, the study highlights the potential use of running power for quantifying exercise in this sport.