bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Estimating Rates of Change to Interpret Quantitative Wastewater Surveillance of Disease Trends
Authors: Holcomb David A. , Christensen Ariel , Hoffman Kelly , Lee Allison , Blackwood A. Denene , Clerkin Thomas , Gallard-Góngora Javier , Harris Angela , Kotlarz Nadine , Mitasova Helena , Reckling Stacie , de los Reyes Francis L. , Stewart Jill R. , Guidry Virginia T. , Noble Rachel T. , Serre Marc L. , Garcia Tanya P. , Engel Lawrence S.
Published: April 2024

Background

Wastewater monitoring data can be used to estimate disease trends to inform public health responses. One commonly estimated metric is the rate of change in pathogen quantity, which typically correlates with clinical surveillance in retrospective analyses. However, the accuracy of rate of change estimation approaches has not previously been evaluated.

Objectives

We assessed the performance of approaches for estimating rates of change in wastewater pathogen loads by generating synthetic wastewater time series data for which rates of change were known. Each approach was also evaluated on real-world data.

Methods

Smooth trends and their first derivatives were jointly sampled from Gaussian processes (GP) and independent errors were added to generate synthetic viral load measurements; the range hyperparameter and error variance were varied to produce nine simulation scenarios representing different potential disease patterns. The directions and magnitudes of the rate of change estimates from four estimation approaches (two established and two developed in this work) were compared to the GP first derivative to evaluate classification and quantitative accuracy. Each approach was also implemented for public SARS-CoV-2 wastewater monitoring data collected January 2021 – May 2023 at 25 sites in North Carolina, USA.

Results

All four approaches inconsistently identified the correct direction of the trend given by the sign of the GP first derivative. Across all nine simulated disease patterns, between a quarter and a half of all estimates indicated the wrong trend direction, regardless of estimation approach. The proportion of trends classified as plateaus (statistically indistinguishable from zero) for the North Carolina SARS-CoV-2 data varied considerably by estimation method but not by site.

Discussion

Our results suggest that wastewater measurements alone might not provide sufficient data to reliably track disease trends in real-time. Instead, wastewater viral loads could be combined with additional public health surveillance data to improve predictions of other outcomes.
Organ-on-Chip immunostaining method for three-dimensional identification and study of immune cells responding to drug-treated tumor cells
Authors: Noto Francesco , De Ninno Adele , Falchi Mario , Businaro Luca , Schiavoni Giovanna , Mattei Fabrizio
Published: April 2024

Epigenetic deregulation is implied in cancer initiation and resistance to antitumor drugs. In melanoma, aberrant DNA hypermethylation is frequently observed, resulting in the silencing of several genes involved in cell cycle regulation, apoptosis, tumor growth and drug resistance. DNA hypomethylating agents have been recently evaluated in both preclinical and clinical studies as a strategy to restore tumor suppressor genes and to increase immune recognition by tumors, highlighting their potential in pre-clinical models of melanoma. Advanced microfluidic system for the culture of complex three-dimensional cell, tissue and organ models have proven utility for oncoimmunology studies and drug testing. Here we present a protocol employingad hocfabricated microfluidic devices to reproduce a three-dimensional (3D) tumor microenvironment (TME) to study two aspects of the crosstalk between immune and cancerous cells under the effect of Decitabine (DAC), a DNMT inhibitor (DNMTi). First, we evaluated the preferential migration of immune cells towards treated and non-treated melanoma cells inside the chip. Next, we identified a specific subpopulation of migrated immune cells, with an on-chip immunostaining protocol resulting in the acquisition and evaluation of 3D images on a Laser-Scanning Confocal Microscopy (LSCM) station for in-depth characterization of tumor-immune interactions. This protocol may find broad application for pre-clinical drug testing in cancer studies.
Self-supervised predictive learning accounts for cortical layer-specificity
Authors: Kermani Nejad Kevin , Anastasiades Paul , Hertäg Loreen , Costa Rui Ponte
Published: April 2024

The neocortex constructs an internal representation of the world, but the underlying circuitry and computational principles remain unclear. Inspired by self-supervised learning algorithms, we introduce a computational theory wherein layer 2/3 (L2/3) learns to predict incoming sensory stimuli by comparing previous sensory inputs, relayed via layer 4, with current thalamic inputs arriving at layer 5 (L5). We demonstrate that our model accurately predicts sensory information in context-dependent temporal tasks, and that its predictions are robust to noisy and occluded sensory input. Additionally, our model generates layer-specific sparsity and latent representations, consistent with experimental observations. Next, using a sensorimotor task, we show that the model’s L2/3 and L5 prediction errors mirror mismatch responses observed in awake, behaving mice. Finally, through manipulations, we offer testable predictions to unveil the computational roles of various cortical features. In summary, our findings suggest that the multi-layered neocortex empowers the brain with self-supervised predictive learning.
Braf-mutant Schwann cells divert to a repair phenotype to induce congenital demyelinating neuropathy
Authors: Marechal Elise , Quintana Patrice , Aldea Daniel , Mondielli Grégoire , Bernard-Marissal Nathalie , Moreno Mathias , Delague Valérie , Weiss Lauren A. , Barlier Anne , Etchevers Heather C.
Published: April 2024

RASopathies are developmental disorders associated with mutations leading to constitutive activation of the Mitogen Activated Protein Kinase (MAPK) signaling pathway. Peripheral nerve enlargement and damage are recently reported symptoms in germline RASopathy patients. We characterized mouse models in which a frequent mutation of the MAPK effector Braf (V600E) in mosaic RASopathies is expressed in embryonic progenitors of Schwann cells. Postnatal mice develop an early, fully penetrant degenerative peripheral neuropathy. Symptoms appear before weaning, with sciatic nerve enlargement, loss of hindlimb muscle strength, and failure to thrive relative to littermates. The V600E catalytic domain mutation promotes expansion of a Jun+ Schwann cell repair state at the expense of mature, myelinating Schwann cells, preventing full peripheral myelination. Associated with the germline RASopathy cardio-facio-cutaneous syndrome, theBRAF(Q257R) mutation also prevents terminal differentiation of Schwann cells from patient-derived induced pluripotent stem cells. This study supports the likelihood that some of the genetic heterogeneity in human peripheral neuropathies may be imputed to somatic mosaicism in a contextually underexplored pathway. It also provides a mechanistic explanation for RASopathy-associated neuropathies.
Uncovering Effects of Schizophrenia upon a Maximally Significant, Minimally Complex Subset of Default Mode Network Connectivity Features
Authors: Seraji Masoud , Ellis Charles A. , Sendi Mohammad S.E. , Miller Robyn L. , Calhoun Vince D.
Published: April 2024

A common analysis approach for resting state functional magnetic resonance imaging (rs-fMRI) dynamic functional network connectivity (dFNC) data involves clustering windowed correlation time-series and assigning time windows to clusters (i.e., states) that can be quantified to summarize aspects of the dFNC dynamics. However, those methods can be dominated by a select few features and obscure key dynamics related to less dominant features. This study presents an iterative feature learning approach to identify a maximally significant and minimally complex subset of dFNC features within the default mode network (DMN) in schizophrenia (SZ). Utilizing dFNC data from individuals with SZ and healthy controls (HC), our approach uncovers a subset of features that has a greater number of dFNC states with disorder-related dynamics than is found when all features are present in the clustering. We find that anterior cingulate cortex/posterior cingulate cortex (ACC/PCC) interactions are consistently related to SZ across the most significant iterations of the feature learning analysis and that individuals with SZ tend to spend more time in states with greater intra-ACC anticorrelation and almost no time in a state of high intra-ACC correlation that HCs periodically enter. Our findings highlight the need for nuanced analyses to reveal disorder-related dynamics and advance our understanding of neuropsychiatric disorders.
Investigations of
Λ
states with spin-parity
32±
Authors: Azizi K. , Sarac Y. , Sundu H.
Published: April 2024

The present study provides spectroscopic investigations of spin-32 Λ baryons with both positive and negative parities. The analysis mainly focuses on three states, namely 1P, 2P, and 2S, and corresponding masses are calculated using the QCD sum rule method. To implement the method, we apply two types of interpolating currents with octet and singlet quantum numbers and compare the corresponding results with the reported masses of experimentally observed states. From the comparisons, it is extracted that the results of interpolating current with octet quantum numbers are in good agreement with the experimentally measured masses. The masses obtained with this interpolating current are m=1513.64±8.76  MeV for 1P state with

J

P

=

3

2

−

, m′=1687.91±0.31  MeV for 2P state with JP=32− and m˜=1882.37±11.95  MeV for 2S state with JP=32+ and they are consistent with the experimental masses of Λ(1520), Λ(1690), and Λ(1890), respectively, which confirm their spin-parity quantum numbers. Besides, we calculate the corresponding current coupling constants, which are utilized as inputs in the calculations of different form factors defining the widths of the states under study.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Search for Lorentz violations through the sidereal effect at the
NOνA
experiment
Authors: Mishra Shashank , Shukla Saurabh , Singh Lakhwinder , Singh Venktesh
Published: April 2024

Long-baseline neutrino oscillation experiments offer a unique laboratory to test the fundamental Lorentz symmetry, which is at the heart of both the standard model of particle and general relativity theory. The sidereal modulation in neutrino events will act as the smoking-gun experimental signature of Lorentz and CPT violation. In this study, we investigate the impact of the sidereal effect on standard neutrino oscillation measurements within the context of the NuMI Off-Axis νe Appearance Experiment (NOνA) experiment. Additionally, we assess the sensitivity of the NOνA experiment to detect Lorentz-violating interactions, taking into account the sidereal effect. Furthermore, we highlight the potential of the NOνA experiment to set new constraints on anisotropic Lorentz-violating parameters.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Parametric resonance in Abelian and non-Abelian gauge fields via spacetime oscillations
Authors: Dave Shreyansh S. , Digal Sanatan , Mamale Vinod
Published: April 2024

We study the evolution of Abelian U(1) electromagnetic as well as non-Abelian SU(2) gauge fields, in the presence of spacetime oscillations. Analysis of the time evolution of Abelian gauge fields shows the presence of parametric resonance in spatial modes. A similar analysis in the case of non-Abelian gauge fields, in the linear approximation, shows the presence of the same resonant spatial modes. The resonant modes induce large fluctuations in physical observables including those that break the CP symmetry. We also carry out time evolution of small random fluctuations of the gauge fields, using numerical simulations in 2+1 and 3+1 dimensions. These simulations help to study nonlinear effects in the case of non-Abelian gauge theories. Our results show that there is an increase in energy density with the coupling, at late times. These results suggest that gravitational waves may excite non-Abelian gauge fields more efficiently than electromagnetic fields. Also, gravitational waves in the early Universe and from the merger of neutron stars, black holes, etc., may enhance CP violation and generate an imbalance in chiral charge distributions, magnetic fields, etc.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Engineering underdoped
CuO2
nanoribbons in nm-thick
a
-axis
YBa2Cu3O7−δ
films
Authors: Arpaia Riccardo , Alcalde-Herraiz Núria , D'Alessio Andrea , Stepantsov Evgeny , Wahlberg Eric , Kalaboukhov Alexei , Bauch Thilo , Lombardi Floriana
Published: April 2024

In underdoped cuprate high-Tc superconductors, various local orders and symmetry-breaking states, in addition to superconductivity, reside in the CuO2 planes. The confinement of the CuO2 planes can therefore play a fundamental role in modifying the hierarchy between the various orders and their intertwining with superconductivity. Here we present the growth of a-axis oriented YBa2Cu3O7−δ films, spanning the whole underdoped side of the phase diagram. In these samples, the CuO2 planes are confined by the film thickness, effectively forming unit-cell-thick nanoribbons. The unidirectional confinement at the nanoscale enhances the in-plane anisotropy of the films. By x-ray diffraction and resistance vs temperature measurements, we have discovered the suppression of the orthorhombic-to-tetragonal transition at low dopings, and a very high anisotropy of the normal state resistance in the b−c plane, the latter being connected to a weak coupling between adjacent CuO2 nanoribbons. These findings show that the samples we have grown represent a novel system, different from the bulk, where future experiments can possibly shed light on the rich and mysterious physics occurring within the CuO2 planes.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Morphology of nanoporous glass: Stochastic 3D modeling, stereology and the influence of pore width
Authors: Neumann Matthias , Gräfensteiner Phillip , Santos de Oliveira Cristine , Martins de Souza e Silva Juliana , Koppka Sharon , Enke Dirk , Huber Patrick , Schmidt Volker
Published: April 2024

Excursion sets of Gaussian random fields are used to model the three-dimensional (3D) morphology of differently manufactured porous glasses (PGs), which vary with respect to their mean pore widths measured by mercury intrusion porosimetry. The stochastic 3D model is calibrated by means of volume fractions and two-point coverage probability functions estimated from tomographic image data. Model validation is performed by comparing model realizations and image data in terms of morphological descriptors which are not used for model fitting. For this purpose, we consider mean geodesic tortuosity and constrictivity of the pore space, quantifying the length of the shortest transportation paths and the strength of bottleneck effects, respectively. Additionally, a stereological approach for parameter estimation is presented, i.e., the 3D model is calibrated using merely two-dimensional (2D) cross-sections of the 3D image data. Doing so, on average, a comparable goodness of fit is achieved as well. The variance of the calibrated model parameters is discussed, which is estimated on the basis of randomly chosen, individual 2D cross-sections. Moreover, interpolating between the model parameters calibrated to differently manufactured glasses enables the predictive simulation of virtual but realistic PGs with mean pore widths that have not yet been manufactured. The predictive power is demonstrated by means of cross-validation. Using the presented approach, relationships between parameters of the manufacturing process and descriptors of the resulting morphology of PGs are quantified, which opens possibilities for an efficient optimization of the underlying manufacturing process.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
The influence of rolling on the corrosion and wear resistance of the MAO coating on ZM5 alloy
Authors: Zhang Bo , Zheng Yuqian , Cui Zhiyuan , Song Dongdong , Liu Faqian , Li Weihua
Published: April 2024

Purpose

The impact of rolling on the performance of micro arc oxidation (MAO) coatings on ZM5 alloy has been underreported. The purpose of this study is to explore the correlation between rolling and the failure mechanism of MAO coatings in greater depth.

Design/methodology/approach

The influence of rolling on the corrosion and wear properties of MAO coating was investigated by phase structure, bond strength test (initial bond strength and wet adhesion), electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and wear test. The change of the surface electrochemical properties was studied by first principles analysis.

Findings

The results showed that the MAO coating on rolled alloy had better corrosion and wear resistance compared to cast alloy, although the structure and component content of two kinds of MAO coating are nearly identical. The difference in interface bonding between MAO coating and Mg substrate is the primary factor contributing to the disparity in performance between the two types of samples. Finally, the impact of the rolling process on MAO coating properties is explained through first-principle calculation.

Originality/value

A comprehensive explanation of the impact of the rolling process on MAO coating properties will provide substantial support for enhancing the application of Mg alloy anticorrosion.

Graphical abstract
Distribution fitting and ANOVA test to analyze pavement sensing patterns for condition assessments
Authors: Zhang Dada , Ho Chun-Hsing
Published: April 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the vehicle-based sensor effect and pavement temperature on road condition assessment, as well as to compute a threshold value for the classification of pavement conditions.

Design/methodology/approach

Four sensors were placed on the vehicle’s control arms and one inside the vehicle to collect vibration acceleration data for analysis. The Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) tests were performed to diagnose the effect of the vehicle-based sensors’ placement in the field. To classify road conditions and identify pavement distress (point of interest), the probability distribution was applied based on the magnitude values of vibration data.

Findings

Results from ANOVA indicate that pavement sensing patterns from the sensors placed on the front control arms were statistically significant, and there is no difference between the sensors placed on the same side of the vehicle (e.g., left or right side). A reference threshold (i.e., 1.7 g) was computed from the distribution fitting method to classify road conditions and identify the road distress based on the magnitude values that combine all acceleration along three axes. In addition, the pavement temperature was found to be highly correlated with the sensing patterns, which is noteworthy for future projects.

Originality/value

The paper investigates the effect of pavement sensors’ placement in assessing road conditions, emphasizing the implications for future road condition assessment projects. A threshold value for classifying road conditions was proposed and applied in class assignments (I-17 highway projects).
Tourist confidence: a scale development, testing and application
Authors: Liu-Lastres Bingjie , Cahyanto Ignatius , Edwards Chase
Published: April 2024

Purpose

Tourist confidence plays an important role in people’s decision-making, including decisions related to consuming tourism products. However, little research has explored this concept in depth to provide proper guidance on its operation and measurement. This paper aims to explore the concept of tourist confidence, develop and test a measurement and test the effects of tourist confidence on people’s travel intentions at different periods of time.

Design/methodology/approach

This study used repeated cross-sectional data and collected responses from three waves of national surveys of U.S. residents in 2021.

Findings

The results revealed three underlying dimensions of tourist confidence: (1) confidence in tourism/hospitality service providers, (2) self-confidence in tourist competency and (3) confidence in travel safety. The validity and reliability of the instrument were deemed satisfactory. The results also indicate the positive associations between tourist confidence and people’s travel decisions.

Originality/value

This study developed a measurement that is specific to the domain of tourist confidence. The findings of this paper reveal the multidimensional nature of tourist confidence. When translated into practice, the findings of this study can help practitioners understand how to effectively enhance tourist confidence in challenging, difficult and uncertain times.
Accelerate or delay? Big step internationalization and the speed of subsequent foreign expansion—evidence from Chinese MNEs
Authors: Zhao Shifang , Yu Shu
Published: April 2024

Purpose

In recent decades, emerging market multinational enterprises (EMNEs) have predominantly adopted a big step internationalization strategy to expand their business overseas. This study aims to examine the effect of big step internationalization on the speed of subsequent foreign direct investment (FDI) expansion for EMNEs. The authors also investigate the potential boundary conditions.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors use the random effects generalized least squares (GLS) regression following a hierarchical approach to analyze the panel data set conducted by a sample of publicly listed Chinese firms from 2001 to 2012.

Findings

The findings indicate that implementing big step internationalization in the initial stages accelerates the speed of subsequent FDI expansion. Notably, the authors find that this effect is more pronounced for firms that opt for acquisitions as the entry mode in their first big step internationalization and possess a board of directors with strong political connections to their home country’s government. In contrast, the board of director’s international experience negatively moderates this effect.

Practical implications

This study provides insights into our scholarly and practical understanding of EMNEs’ big step internationalization and subsequent FDI expansion speed, which offers important implications for firms’ decision-makers and policymakers.

Originality/value

This study extends the internationalization theory, broadens the international business literature on the consequences of big step internationalization and deepens the theoretical and practical understanding of foreign expansion strategies in EMNEs.
What is the link between entrepreneurial knowledge, business planning and entrepreneurial intentions? An empirical study on Indian Higher Education Institutions
Authors: Kaur Manpreet , Chawla Sonia
Published: April 2024

Purpose

The study seeks to conduct an empirical investigation on the impact of entrepreneurship education (EE) through its components, i.e. entrepreneurial knowledge (EK) and business planning (BP) on entrepreneurial intentions (EI) in India.

Design/methodology/approach

An electronic questionnaire was used to collect data from 340 engineering students and partial least square-structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) was used to analyze the collected data.

Findings

The findings revealed that EK and BP have no direct impact on EI, however, they have an indirect influence through attitude towards entrepreneurship (ATE) and perceived behavioral control (PBC), whereas subjective norms (SN) have no mediation impact on the relationships.

Research limitations/implications

This research has been conducted on students of engineering background only, future studies can be carried out by incorporating more attitudinal and environmental determinants with larger data sizes from diverse educational streams.

Practical implications

This study is of immense significance to policymakers and educational establishments in designing the purposefully designed EE courses that can drive the entrepreneurial intentionality of students.

Originality/value

The study adds to the paucity of research on the systematic elaboration of EE construct underlining the specific impact of EK and BP as EE dimensions on students' EI. To the best of authors' awareness, this kind of investigation has not been conducted in indian higher educational institution (HEI) context.
Designing an algorithm for predicting plane ticket prices using feedforward neural network modeling
Authors: Mojoodi Amin , Jalalian Saeed , Kumail Tafazal
Published: April 2024

Purpose

This research aims to determine the ideal fare for various aircraft itineraries by modeling prices using a neural network method. Dynamic pricing has been studied from the airline’s point of view, with a focus on demand forecasting and price differentiation. Early demand forecasting on a specific route can assist an airline in strategically planning flights and determining optimal pricing strategies.

Design/methodology/approach

A feedforward neural network was employed in the current study. Two hidden layers, consisting of 18 and 12 neurons, were incorporated to enhance the network’s capabilities. The activation function employed for these layers was tanh. Additionally, it was considered that the output layer’s functions were linear. The neural network inputs considered in this study were flight path, month of flight, flight date (week/day), flight time, aircraft type (Boeing, Airbus, other), and flight class (economy, business). The neural network output, on the other hand, was the ticket price. The dataset comprises 16,585 records, specifically flight data for Iranian airlines for 2022.

Findings

The findings indicate that the model achieved a high level of accuracy in approximating the actual data. Additionally, it demonstrated the ability to predict the optimal ticket price for various flight routes with minimal error.

Practical implications

Based on the significant alignment observed between the actual data and the tested data utilizing the algorithmic model, airlines can proactively anticipate ticket prices across all routes, optimizing the revenue generated by each flight. The neural network algorithm utilized in this study offers a valuable opportunity for companies to enhance their decision-making processes. By leveraging the algorithm’s features, companies can analyze past data effectively and predict future prices. This enables them to make informed and timely decisions based on reliable information.

Originality/value

The present study represents a pioneering research endeavor that investigates using a neural network algorithm to predict the most suitable pricing for various flight routes. This study aims to provide valuable insights into dynamic pricing for marketing researchers and practitioners.
Too tired to not reconsider the way we work: mothers’ lessons learned teleworking during COVID-19
Authors: Rosen Lisa H. , Scott Shannon R. , Poe Darian , Shukla Roshni , Honargohar Michelle , Ahmed Shazia
Published: April 2024

Purpose

Working mothers experienced dramatic changes to their daily routines during the COVID-19 pandemic. Many began to work from home as they simultaneously tried to balance work demands with tending to their children. The purpose of the current study was to examine working mothers’ experiences during the pandemic.

Design/methodology/approach

In order to examine working mothers’ experiences of telework during the pandemic, we conducted a focus group study. 45 working mothers participated, and they answered questions about their experiences.

Findings

Three themes emerged from the focus groups: (1) motivation shifts amongst working mothers; (2) difficulty balancing roles as mother and employee; and (3) workplace expectations and support. Many mothers reported that their overall motivation as employees had decreased and that they experienced difficulty in fully attending to their work and their child(ren)’s needs. As mothers navigated the stress of working during the pandemic, they reported varying levels of workplace support and many credited working with other parents as a primary contributor to feeling supported.

Originality/value

The findings from the current study add to the growing body of literature documenting the dark side of teleworking for mothers who struggled immensely with work–life balance. This study builds on past research by allowing mothers to share their experiences in their own words and offering suggestions for how organizations can support mothers in navigating these ongoing challenges as teleworking continues to remain prevalent. The narratives collected hold important implications for practices and policies to best support the needs of mothers as they continue to work and care for their children within the home.
From tourists to nomads: unveiling the transformative potential of digital nomads in travel and tourism
Authors: Arslan Erdal
Published: April 2024

Purpose

The primary objective of the current study is to unveil this relatively new phenomenon in the context of travel and tourism. In line with this purpose, the study provides a comprehensive overview of the concept of digital nomadism through a tourism perspective, discusses the relationship between digital nomadism, travel and tourism, examines the opportunities and threats of digital nomadism, and finally uncovers its transformative impact.

Design/methodology/approach

This conceptual study examined secondary data, i.e. existing literature. In this data, the focus has been on the tourism aspect of the digital nomad phenomenon.

Findings

The results suggest that digital nomadism introduces a novel perspective on the nature of travel and tourism mobility, along with a distinct tourist typology characterized by unique traits. Moreover, the results indicate that, while digital nomadism contributes to the local economy and cultural change on the one hand, it poses challenges in terms of regulations and taxation on the other. In this context, one can conclude that legislators should establish regulations for the employment of digital nomads, while managers should engage in activities that attract potential digital nomads on an international scale.

Originality/value

The study comprehensively reviews relevant literature in various ways, conducts a conceptualization of digital nomad tourists and makes a noteworthy theoretical contribution within the context of tourism. It addresses the gaps in the existing literature, particularly in specific contexts such as the legal status of digital nomads, taxation, prevention of gentrification, cultural exchanges, identity transformation and the impact on travel and tourism.
Split‐sample reliability estimation in health care quality measurement: Once is not enough
Authors: Nieser Kenneth J. , Harris Alex H. S.
Published: April 2024

Objective

To examine the sensitivity of split‐sample reliability estimates to the random split of the data and propose alternative methods for improving the stability of the split‐sample method.

Data Sources and Study Setting

Data were simulated to reflect a variety of real‐world quality measure distributions and scenarios. There is no date range to report as the data are simulated.

Study Design

Simulation studies of split‐sample reliability estimation were conducted under varying practical scenarios.

Data Collection/Extraction Methods

All data were simulated using functions in R.

Principal Findings

Single split‐sample reliability estimates can be very dependent on the random split of the data, especially in low sample size and low variability settings. Averaging split‐sample estimates over many splits of the data can yield a more stable reliability estimate.

Conclusions

Measure developers and evaluators using the split‐sample reliability method should average a series of reliability estimates calculated from many resamples of the data without replacement to obtain a more stable reliability estimate.
Improvement on wheat bread quality by in situ produced dextran—A comprehensive review from the viewpoint of starch and gluten
Authors: Zhang Yao , Wang Dongxu , Zhang Zhihong , Guan Huanan , Zhang Yanjie , Xu Dan , Xu Xueming , Li Dandan
Published: April 2024

Deterioration of bread quality, characterized by the staling of bread crumb, the softening of bread crust and the loss of aroma, has caused a huge food waste and economic loss, which is a bottleneck restriction to the development of the breadmaking industry. Various bread improvers have been widely used to alleviate the issue. However, it is noteworthy that the sourdough technology has emerged as a pivotal factor in this regard. In sourdough, the metabolic breakdown of carbohydrates, proteins, and lipids leads to the production of exopolysaccharides, organic acids, aroma compounds, or prebiotics, which contributes to the preeminent ability of sourdough to enhance bread attributes. Moreover, sourdough exhibits a “green‐label” feature, which satisfies the consumers’ increasing demand for additive‐free food products. In the past two decades, there has been a significant focus on sourdough with in situ produced dextran due to its exceptional performance. In this review, the behaviors of bread crucial compositions (i.e., starch and gluten) during dough mixing, proofing, baking and bread storing, as well as alterations induced by the acidic environment and the presence of dextran are systemically summarized. From the viewpoint of starch and gluten, results obtained confirm the synergistic amelioration on bread quality by the coadministration of acidity and dextran, and also highlight the central role of acidification. This review contributes to establishing a theoretical foundation for more effectively enhancing the quality of wheat breads through the application of in situ produced dextran.
A pilot study regarding the feasibility and efficacy of an outpatient treatment program for young adult high‐risk offenders (YAHOP)
Authors: van Gisbergen Maarten P. , Hoogsteder Larissa M.
Published: April 2024

This pilot study examines whether the Young Adult Habitual Offender Program (YAHOP), an intensive and outpatient program, is related to a reduction in the general risk of recidivism, common forensic symptomology as well as cognitive distortions. The program integrity (PI) was assessed, with the intent to explore the relationship between the level of PI and any changes in several outcome variables. Additionally, the study examines whether participants with a migration background benefitted equally from YAHOP compared to participants with a native Dutch background. The sample comprised n = 90 high‐risk young adult offenders. Results show a decrease in general risk of recidivism. The dynamic risk factors delinquent social network, insufficient impulse control, and dysfunctional problem‐solving skills also show a decrease, as well as the forensic symptoms of aggression and anger. Effect sizes are small, except for anger, which has a medium effect size. We found no change in cognitive distortions and problematic substance use. YAHOP shows to be responsive and culturally sensitive, as the participants with a migration background show a significant decrease in general risk of recidivism. No moderator analysis was conducted due to an overall low level of program integrity. After improving program integrity, full‐scale quantitative research is needed as YAHOP has the potential as a promising desistance program for high‐risk offenders, as in this study the 56 non‐completers were also included.
Clinical features of patients with rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic and the association of its relapse with infection: Across‐sectional study
Authors: Zhang Yuqi , Xu Peijun , Huang Jianlin , Hu Zaiying
Published: April 2024

Aim

The aim of this study was to investigate the clinical features of patients with rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases (RMDs) infected with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) and the relationship between RMDs relapse and SARS‐CoV‐2 infection.

Methods

We carried out a cross‐sectional observational study among 585 patients with RMDs and 619 individuals without RMDs. Data on demographics, the clinical features of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19), antirheumatic therapy, and RMD relapse were collected. Differences between RMDs and control groups, infected and uninfected groups, relapse and non‐relapse RMDs groups were examined. The influence of COVID‐19 infection on medications and relapse of RMDs was also assessed.

Results

Among 1204 participants finally recruited for analysis, 1030 (85.5%) were infected with COVID‐19. Seven hundred and ninety‐five (77.2%) of infected individuals were female, and the median age was 40 years (IQR 33, 50). Patients in the RMD group had a relatively lower risk of COVID‐19 symptoms whereas were significantly more likely to require hospitalization (6.7% vs. 2.2%). In the RMDs group, younger patients who were under the age of 65 were more likely to report more symptoms. More patients with RMD relapse (27, 34.6%) adjusted their medications during the period of COVID‐19 infection than those without relapse (59, 13.2%).

Conclusion

Patients with RMDs were at lower risk of symptoms of COVID‐19. Rheumatic and musculoskeletal disease patients experience a higher risk of relapse especially when they adjust medications during COVID‐19 infection. The long‐term prognosis of infected RMDs patients need further investigation.
Neuronal microstructural changes in the human brain are associated with neurocognitive aging
Authors: Singh Kavita , Barsoum Stephanie , Schilling Kurt G. , An Yang , Ferrucci Luigi , Benjamini Dan
Published: April 2024

Gray matter (GM) alterations play a role in aging‐related disorders like Alzheimer's disease and related dementias, yet MRI studies mainly focus on macroscopic changes. Although reliable indicators of atrophy, morphological metrics like cortical thickness lack the sensitivity to detect early changes preceding visible atrophy. Our study aimed at exploring the potential of diffusion MRI in unveiling sensitive markers of cortical and subcortical age‐related microstructural changes and assessing their associations with cognitive and behavioral deficits. We leveraged the Human Connectome Project‐Aging cohort that included 707 participants (394 female; median age = 58, range = 36–90 years) and applied the powerful mean apparent diffusion propagator model to measure microstructural parameters, along with comprehensive behavioral and cognitive test scores. Both macro‐ and microstructural GM characteristics were strongly associated with age, with widespread significant microstructural correlations reflective of cellular morphological changes, reduced cellular density, increased extracellular volume, and increased membrane permeability. Importantly, when correlating MRI and cognitive test scores, our findings revealed no link between macrostructural volumetric changes and neurobehavioral performance. However, we found that cellular and extracellular alterations in cortical and subcortical GM regions were associated with neurobehavioral performance. Based on these findings, it is hypothesized that increased microstructural heterogeneity and decreased neurite orientation dispersion precede macrostructural changes, and that they play an important role in subsequent cognitive decline. These alterations are suggested to be early markers of neurocognitive performance that may distinctly aid in identifying the mechanisms underlying phenotypic aging and subsequent age‐related functional decline.
Investigating cognitive and motivational proximal outcomes in a randomized clinical trial of writing about the future self to reduce drinking
Authors: Lindgren Kristen P. , Baldwin Scott A. , Kross Ethan , Ramirez Jason J. , Tristao Ty , Peterson Kirsten P. , Teachman Bethany A. , Wiers Reinout W. , Neighbors Clayton
Published: April 2024

Background

Drinking identity (the extent to which one links the self with drinking alcohol) is a unique risk factor for college students' hazardous drinking that is not directly targeted by existing interventions. We conducted a study that aimed to decrease drinking identity among college students with hazardous drinking. We adapted a writing task about the future self and tested whether three writing sessions could decrease drinking identity and change drinking. We also investigated whether two additional factors (writing perspective and inclusion of participants' social networks) would enhance task impact. The present study evaluated whether posited proximal cognitive and motivational outcomes (drinking identity, self‐efficacy, readiness to change, and drinking intentions) changed immediately after each writing session.

Method

The study is a randomized clinical trial in which hypotheses and analyses were pre‐registered. Participants were 328 college students who met hazardous drinking criteria. The study had a 2 (narrative writing topic: low‐risk drinker vs. reduced smartphone use) × 2 (writing perspective: first‐person vs. non‐first‐person) × 2 (social network instruction: instructed to include vs. not) factorial design. Proximal outcomes were drinking identity, self‐efficacy, readiness to change, and drinking intentions. The clinical outcome was alcohol consumption. Participants completed three laboratory sessions at weekly intervals that included the writing task and pre‐ and post‐task assessments.

Results

Results were largely null, except that readiness to reduce drinking was higher in the low‐risk drinker condition and increased over the lab sessions. Time effects indicated that reductions in drinking identity, drinking intentions, and alcohol consumption, and increases in self‐efficacy were observed but did not change above and beyond control conditions.

Conclusions

Findings indicate the need to strengthen the writing task and select a more appropriate control task to target proposed proximal outcomes. Future studies might try personalizing the task, evaluating its efficacy with individuals motivated to change their drinking, and using a control task that does not involve imagining a future self.
From the classroom to the kitchen: Embodying identity in NYC
Authors: Baines Kristina , Alvarez Jackeline
Published: April 2024

Attending college, for many immigrant families, is a critical step in achieving the American Dream. This essay, written as a reflection and response between professor and student, explores the conflicting messages young community college students negotiate and process as they move through the City, revealing how knowledge learned in the college classroom is imbued with value beyond that knowledge that they have learned in their homes and neighborhoods. It shares how a research interest from their professor in the knowledge and practices their families have to teach was a point of processing and potential reconciliation of these conflicts related shifting identities, and notes the potential therapeutic value of the embodiment of heritage practices as part of ethnographic research and beyond.
Combining 5‐azacitidine with the E‐selectin antagonist uproleselan is an effective strategy to augment responses in myelodysplasia and acute myeloid leukaemia
Authors: Enjeti Anoop K. , Fogler William E. , Smith Theodore A. G. , Lincz Lisa F. , Bond Danielle R. , Magnani John L.
Published: April 2024

The interaction of acute myeloid leukaemic (AML) blasts with the bone marrow (BM) microenvironment is a major determinant governing disease progression and resistance to treatment. The constitutive expression of E‐selectin in the vascular compartment of BM, a key endothelial cell factor, directly mediates chemoresistance via E‐selectin ligand/receptors. Despite the success of hypomethylating agent (HMA)‐containing regimens to induce remissions in older AML patients, the development of primary or secondary resistance is common. We report that following treatment with 5‐azacitidine, promoter regions regulating the biosynthesis of the E‐selectin ligands, sialyl Lewis X, become further hypomethylated. The resultant upregulation of these gene products, in particular α(1,3)‐fucosyltransferase VII (FUT7) and α(2,3)‐sialyltransferase IV (ST3GAL4), likely causes functional E‐selectin binding. When combined with the E‐selectin antagonist uproleselan, the adhesion to E‐selectin is reversed and the survival of mice transplanted with AML cells is prolonged. Finally, we present clinical evidence showing that BM myeloid cells from higher risk MDS and AML patients have the potential to bind E‐selectin, and these cells are more abundant in 5‐azacitidine‐non‐responsive patients. The collective data provide a strong rationale to evaluate 5‐azacitidine in combination with the E‐selectin antagonist, uproleselan, in this patient population.
Pediatric acute promyelocytic leukemia and Fanconi anemia: Case report and literature review
Authors: Freycon Claire , Sepulchre Edith , Lavallée Vincent‐Philippe , Mitchell David , MacMillan Margaret L. , Vezina Catherine , Goudie Catherine
Published: April 2024

Acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL) represents 5%–10% of childhood acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and is the most curable subtype of AML. Fanconi anemia (FA) is one of the most common inherited bone marrow failure syndromes caused by biallelic pathogenic variants (PV) in specific DNA‐repair genes. Biallelic PVs in FANCD1/BRCA2 (FA‐D1) account for 3% of FA and are associated with early‐onset leukemia and a high risk of solid tumors. We report a 4 year‐old boy from non‐consanguineous parents diagnosed with standard risk APL. This child had café‐au‐lait spots and an extra thumb remnant. Genomic sequencing revealed two PV in FANCD1/BRCA2 confirming a diagnosis of FA‐D1. Chromosomal breakage studies were compatible with FA. Each parent carried one variant and had no personal history of cancer. Morphological then molecular remissions were achieved with all‐trans retinoic acid and Arsenic trioxide. This patient underwent haploidentical stem cell transplant. In addition to our patient, a literature search revealed four additional patients with APL/FA, with a total of three patients with FA‐D1. This raises the possibility of an association between such rare disorders. Practical management of APL in the setting of FA‐D1 is discussed with an overview of current evidence and knowledge gaps.
Managing the new wave of weight loss medication in general practice: A qualitative study
Authors: Andreassen Pernille , Jensen Sissel Due , Bruun Jens M. , Sandbæk Annelli
Published: April 2024

In early 2023, a new type of weight loss medication, Wegovy (semaglutide), was made available in Denmark. Both subsequent media coverage and public demand were huge. Wegovy is only available by prescription, primarily via general practitioners. However, there is very little knowledge about how healthcare professionals (HCPs) in general practice might deal with the great demand for and attention surrounding a new weight loss drug. The aim of this qualitative study was, therefore, to explore how Wegovy is managed and negotiated in general practice, particularly in terms of prescribing and follow‐up. We conducted a focused ethnography study based on direct observation of consultations and both formal and informal interviews with seven doctors and four nurses from three general practices in Denmark. Using discourse analysis, we identified four central discourses revolving around trust in medicine, individual responsibility for health, the cost of weight loss medication, and the importance of shared decision‐making. This study shows that the availability of a new, sought‐after weight loss medication presents both opportunities and challenges for HCPs in general practice. The management of Wegovy involves numerous factors, including medical, economic, organizational, interpersonal and moral concerns.