bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Retrospective study of cancer patients’ predictive factors of care in a large, Hungarian tertiary care centre
Authors: Koch Márton , Szabó Éva , Varga Csaba , Soós Viktor , Prenek Lilla , Porcsa Lili , Bellyei Szabolcs , Girán Kyra , Girán János , Kiss István , Pozsgai Éva
Published: May 2023

Objectives

To identify predictive factors of multiple emergency department (ED) visits, hospitalisation and potentially preventable ED visits made by patients with cancer in a Hungarian tertiary care centre.

Design

Observational, retrospective study.

Setting

A large, public tertiary hospital, in Somogy County, Hungary, with a level 3 emergency and trauma centre and a dedicated cancer centre.

Participants

Patients above 18 years with a cancer diagnosis (International Classification of Diseases, 10th Revision codes of C0000–C9670) who visited the ED in 2018, who had received their diagnosis of cancer within 5 years of their first ED visit in 2018 or received their diagnosis of cancer latest within the study year. Cases diagnosed with cancer at the ED (new cancer diagnosis-related ED visits) were also included, constituting 7.9% of visits.

Primary outcome measures

Demographic and clinical characteristics were collected and the predictors of multiple (≥2) ED visits within the study year, admission to inpatient care following the ED visit (hospitalisation), potentially preventable ED visits and death within 36 months were determined.

Results

2383 ED visits made by 1512 patients with cancer were registered. Predictive factors of multiple (≥2) ED visits were residing in a nursing home (OR 3.09, 95% CI 1.88 to 5.07) and prior hospice care (OR 1.87, 95% CI 1.05 to 3.31). Predictive factors for hospitalisation following an ED visit included a new cancer diagnosis-related visit (OR 1.86, 95% CI 1.30 to 2.66) and complaint of dyspnoea (OR 1.61, 95% CI 1.22 to 2.12).

Conclusions

Being a resident of a nursing home and receiving prior hospice care significantly increased the odds of multiple ED visits, while new cancer-related ED visits independently increased the odds of hospitalisation of patients with cancer. This is the first study to report these associations from a Central-Eastern European country. Our study may shed light on the specific challenges of EDs in general and particularly faced by countries in the region.
Immunotherapy resistance driven by loss of NY-ESO-1 expression in response to transgenic adoptive cellular therapy with PD-1 blockade
Authors: Frankiw Luke , Singh Arun , Peters Cole , Comin-Anduix Begoña , Berent-Maoz Beata , Macabali Mignonette , Shammaie Kiana , Quiros Crystal , Kaplan-Lefko Paula , Baselga Carretero Ignacio , Ribas Antoni , Nowicki Theodore Scott
Published: May 2023

Background

The tumor antigen NY-ESO-1 has been shown to be an effective target for transgenic adoptive cell therapy (ACT) for the treatment of sarcoma and melanoma. However, despite frequent early clinical responses, many patients ultimately develop progressive disease. Understanding the mechanisms underlying treatment resistance is crucial to improve future ACT protocols. Here, we describe a novel mechanism of treatment resistance in sarcoma involving loss of expression of NY-ESO-1 in response to transgenic ACT with dendritic cell (DC) vaccination and programmed cell death protein-1 (PD-1) blockade.

Methods

A HLA-A*02:01-positive patient with an NY-ESO-1-positive undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcoma was treated with autologous NY-ESO-1-specific T-cell receptor (TCR) transgenic lymphocytes, NY-ESO-1 peptide-pulsed DC vaccination, and nivolumab-mediated PD-1 blockade.

Results

Peripheral blood reconstitution with NY-ESO-1-specific T cells peaked within 2 weeks of ACT, indicating rapid in vivo expansion. There was initial tumor regression, and immunophenotyping of the peripheral transgenic T cells showed a predominantly effector memory phenotype over time. Tracking of transgenic T cells to the tumor sites was demonstrated in on-treatment biopsy via both TCR sequencing-based and RNA sequencing-based immune reconstitution, and nivolumab binding to PD-1 on transgenic T cells was confirmed at the tumor site. At the time of disease progression, the promoter region of NY-ESO-1 was found to be extensively methylated, and tumor NY-ESO-1 expression was completely lost as measured by RNA sequencing and immunohistochemistry.

Conclusions

ACT of NY-ESO-1 transgenic T cells given with DC vaccination and anti-PD-1 therapy resulted in transient antitumor activity. NY-ESO-1 expression was lost in the post-treatment sample in the setting of extensive methylation of the NY-ESO-1 promoter region.

Biological/clinical Insight

Antigen loss represents a novel mechanism of immune escape in sarcoma and a new point of improvement in cellular therapy approaches.

Trial registration number

NCT02775292.
Mapping language literacy at scale: a case study on Facebook
Authors: Lin Yu-Ru , Wu Shaomei , Mason Winter
Published: May 2023

Literacy is one of the most fundamental skills for people to access and navigate today’s digital environment. This work systematically studies the language literacy skills of online populations for more than 160 countries and regions across the world, including many low-resourced countries where official literacy data are particularly sparse. Leveraging public data on Facebook, we develop a population-level literacy estimate for the online population that is based on aggregated and de-identified public posts written by adult Facebook users globally, significantly improving both the coverage and resolution of existing literacy tracking data. We found that, on Facebook, women collectively show higher language literacy than men in many countries, but substantial gaps remain in Africa and Asia. Further, our analysis reveals a considerable regional gap within a country that is associated with multiple socio-technical inequalities, suggesting an “inequality paradox” – where the online language skill disparity interacts with offline socioeconomic inequalities in complex ways. These findings have implications for global women’s empowerment and socioeconomic inequalities.
Forward–backward multiplicity distribution with the Chou–Yang model for pp collisions at s = 0.9, 7 and 8 TeV from the CMS experiment
Authors: Ong Z. , Agarwal P. , Ang H. W. , Chan A. H. , Oh C. H.
Published: May 2023

In this paper, a Chou–Yang-type multiplicity distribution comprising a total multiplicity component and a binomial asymmetry component is used to describe charged hadron multiplicity data at [Formula: see text] = 0.9, 7 and 8 TeV from the CMS experiment at CERN. The data was obtained and processed from the CERN Open Data Portal. For the total multiplicity component, it was found that a weighted superposition of a Negative Binomial Distribution (NBD) and a Furry–Yule Distribution (FYD) is able to describe the shoulder-like structure characteristic of Koba–Nielsen–Olesen (KNO) scaling violation well. The mean cluster size produced from collisions was also found to increase with collision energy. A prediction is given for pp collisions at [Formula: see text] = 14 TeV.
Numerical studies on holographic paramagnetic-ferromagnetic phase transition in Gauss–Bonnet gravity
Authors: Binaei Ghotbabadi B. , Sheykhi A. , Bordbar G. H. , Montakhab A.
Published: May 2023

Based on the shooting method, we numerically investigate the properties of holographic paramagnetism-ferromagnetism phase transition in the presence of higher-order Gauss–Bonnet (GB) correction terms on the gravity side. On the matter field side, however, we consider the effects of Power-Maxwell (PM) nonlinear electrodynamics on the phase transition of this system. For this purpose, we introduce a massive 2-form coupled to PM field, and neglect the effects of 2-form fields and gauge field on the background geometry. We observe that increasing the strength of both the power parameter [Formula: see text] and GB coupling constant [Formula: see text] decreases the critical temperature of holographic model, and leads to the harder formation of magnetic moment in the black hole background. Interestingly, we find out that at low temperatures, the spontaneous magnetization and ferromagnetic phase transition happen in the absence of external magnetic field. In this case, the critical exponent for magnetic moment has the mean field value, [Formula: see text], regardless of the values of [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text]. In the presence of external magnetic field, however, the magnetic susceptibility satisfies the Curie–Weiss law.
The consequence of heat radiation on MHD flow of Carreau nanofluid on a nonlinear stretchable surface with chemical process
Authors: Sagheer M. , Rashid I. , Hussain S. , Khan M. Qayyum
Published: May 2023

In this paper, we examine the Carreau nanofluid flow past a nonlinearly stretchable surface accompanied by chemical reactions, thermal slip parameter and thermal radiation. A two-phase nanofluid criterion is considered to examine the behavior of flowing fluid and temperature profile. We used the similarity transition to change the basic equations into the set of ordinary differential equations in order to obtain the results. Shooting criteria are applied to calculate the solution of momentum, energy, and concentration fields using MATLAB. The effects of physical entities on the velocity, concentration, and temperature fields are analyzed by numeric tabular data. Furthermore, it is analyzed that the temperature field and concentration profile are diminished while velocity and thermal slip parameters are increased. The increasing nature of Brownian movement [Formula: see text] corresponds to a lower nanoparticle profile concentration is observed. The temperature profile is a growing function of magnetic parameter. As the Eckert number rises, so does the thermal pattern.
Fault States Diagnosis of Marine Diesel Engine Valve Based on a Modified VGG16 Transfer Learning Method
Authors: Cai Yijie , Xu Zhe , Wen Quan , Shi Jinni , Zhong Fei , Yang Xiaojun , Yang Jianguo , Zhou Hongdi
Published: May 2023

The marine diesel engine is an important power machine for ships. Traditional machine learning methods for diesel engine fault diagnosis usually require a large amount of labeled training data, and the diagnosis performance may decline when encounters vibrational and environmental interference. A transfer learning convolutional neural network model based on VGG16 is introduced for diesel engine valve leakage fault diagnosis. The acquired diesel engine cylinder head vibration signal is first converted to time domain, frequency domain, and wavelet decomposition images. Secondly, the VGG16 deep convolutional neural network is pretrained using the ImageNet dataset. Subsequently, fine tuning the network based on the pretrained basic parameters and image enhancement methods. Finally, the well‐trained model is adopted to train and test the target dataset. In addition, the cosine annealing learning rate setting method is used to make the learning rate close to the global optimal solution. Experimental results show that the proposed method has higher accuracy and better robustness against noise with a small sample dataset than traditional methods and deep learning models. This study not only demonstrates a novel view for the diagnosis of marine diesel engine valve leakage, but also provides an applicable diagnosis method for other similar issues.
Experimental, Numerical, and Analytical Studies of Uniaxial Compressive Behavior of Concrete Confined by Ultra-High-Performance Concrete
Authors: Wang Shijun , Liu Chun , Tian Yunfei , Wang Xing , Tong Teng , Zhuo Saiyang
Published: May 2023

This research examines the uniaxial behavior of core concrete, which is confined by a UHPC (ultra-high-performance concrete) shell, through experimental, numerical, and analytical methods. Various configurations, including different UHPC shell shapes, thicknesses, and core concrete compressive strengths, were tested until failure occurred. Results indicate that the UHPC shell altered the failure modes and enhanced the maximum stress and corresponding strain in uniaxial loading. Additionally, in square and rectangular specimens, debonding between the UHPC and NC (normal concrete) interfaces was observed. Furthermore, we constructed numerical models which integrate the concrete damage plasticity model for NC/UHPC and the coupled adhesive-frictional model implemented in cohesive elements. The model accurately reflects the crack and debonding evolution of the tested specimen. Subsequently, an analytical stress-strain model for uniaxial loading was created based on the experimental results. The confining pressure for square/rectangular specimens was determined using Airy’s function. The validity of the analytical model was verified by comparing its predictions with the experimental results.
Modeling the Effects of Algal Bloom on Dissolved Oxygen in Eutrophic Water Bodies
Authors: Hasan B. M. Rakibul , Islam Md. Shaiful , Kundu Pulak , Mallick Uzzwal Kumar
Published: May 2023

Algal blooms have a wide variety of detrimental effects on both the aquatic environment and human activities unfortunately, including a decrease in dissolved oxygen levels in water. In this study, a nonlinear mathematical model has been developed to study the effects of algal bloom on the depletion of dissolved oxygen in eutrophic water sources considering nutrient concentrations, density of algal population, detritus, and concentration of dissolved oxygen as variables. The model’s existence and uniqueness, stability at the equilibrium points, and characteristics with respect to state variables have been performed as some parts of analytical solution, whereas the numerical solution has been performed using the Runge–Kutta

4

t
h

order technique. The findings of this research reveal that an increase in the quantity of nutrients causes an algal bloom, which in turn lowers the equilibrium level of dissolved oxygen. However, higher levels of detritus (

>

4.7 mg/litre) are hazardous to the generation of dissolved oxygen in water systems. Maximum detritus of 1.0 mg/liter is required for fast algal and dissolved oxygen growth in water bodies; beyond that, algal and dissolved oxygen growth rates are lower. Therefore, increasing public awareness is an essential step in controlling this growing issue; failing to do so will result in problems for our water supply, which will in turn pose a danger to our ecosystem.
New Foundation Treatment Technology Using Cement Soil Composite Tubular Piles Supported by Optical Fiber Sensing Technology
Authors: Sun Fan
Published: May 2023

The purpose is to optimize the foundation’s treatment process and improve the foundation’s construction effect to better apply the cement soil composite tubular piles. This exploration is to study the cement composite tubular piles. First, the principle and application of optical fiber sensing technology are discussed. Then, the application design and conditions of the cement composite tubular pile are discussed. Finally, a new foundation treatment technology supported by optical fiber sensing technology is proposed and comprehensively evaluated based on the application of cement soil composite tubular piles. The research results show that: (1) the new foundation treatment technology reflects the optimization of the optical fiber sensing technology for the foundation treatment. Moreover, it is further optimized through the application of cement soil composite tubular piles. (2) When subjected to the same load, the longer the core pile is, the smaller the cement soil composite pile’s settlement is. When the inner core pile is 20 m ~24 m long, the settlement of the cement soil composite pile is small. When the length of the inner core pipe pile is 16 m ~20 m, the settlement range of cement soil composite pile becomes larger. (3) With the increase of friction coefficient, the settlement distance of cement soil composite tubular pile will decrease. The above data show that compared with the traditional foundation treatment technology, the new foundation treatment technology designed based on the application of composite tubular piles, supported by optical fiber sensing technology, can well solve the foundation construction problems, avoid pavement settlement, cracking, and other phenomena, and ensure the overall safety of the road. This exploration fully reflects the advantages of the new technology of foundation treatment and ensures the quality of road engineering. It provides a reference for the development of foundation treatment technology of construction projects and contributes to the development of the construction industry.
The Optimization of the Fillet Size of Autoclave Tooth Based on the Experiment and Numerical Simulation
Authors: Ouyang Xiaoping , Ye Zhijian , Lin Pengcheng , Li Yanping
Published: May 2023

Focusing on the phenomenon of the crack on the autoclave flange, a three-dimensional model of the autoclave was established based on the Ansys Workbench platform. A new finite element analysis flow for optimizing the design of autoclave teeth was established using the Fluent, Static Structure, and Direct Optimization modules. The paper analyzed and discussed the maximum stress and minimum fatigue life at the corresponding position. The variation trend of stress and fatigue life at the corresponding position after fillet optimization was also discussed. The results showed that the equivalent stress of autoclave teeth without fillet optimization reached the maximum under different fillet sizes. The equivalent stress and fatigue life of the autoclave tooth were the same as the rounded corner size obtained by the optimization design. The optimal global solution could be obtained through the optimization design process.
Acid–Base Pretreatment and Enzymatic Hydrolysis of Palm Oil Mill Effluent in a Single Reactor System for Production of Fermentable Sugars
Authors: Deb Nibedita , Alam Md. Zahangir , Rahman Tawfikur , Al-Khatib Ma’an Fahmi Rashid , Jami Mohammed Saedi , Mansor Mariatul Fadzillah Bt.
Published: May 2023

Palm oil mill effluent (POME) is one of the main agro-industrial wastewaters in Malaysia. Highly polluting POME is a serious threat to the environment. In recent years, the methods used to treat POME are inefficient and complex in terms of cost or environmental preservation. The main object of this research is to propose a single reactor system (SRS) obtained from POME wastewater discharge as a promising low-cost treatment and high-energy method for harvesting the fermentable sugar by applying acid–base–enzyme pretreatment and hydrolysis of POME by locally produced cellulase enzymes to enhance biofuel production. Several experiments were conducted to produce fermentable sugars through the statistical methods, including the characterization of POME, acid-base pretreatment, and enzymatic hydrolysis process for reducing sugar production. The one-factor-at-a-time (OFAT) results showed that the highest reducing sugar yield, 23.5 mg/mL of POME, was achieved by enzymatic hydrolysis in an SRS without having a separation and purification. Based on OFAT performance, optimization of two factors such as substrate concentration (total suspended solids, TSS %w/v) and enzyme loading (μmol/min) was carried out by applying face-centered central composite design (FCCCD) under the response surface methodology (RSM) to develop a second-order regression model. The optimum reducing sugar production was 26.6 mg/mL (53.14%) with the conditions of 5% w/v, TSS, and 80 μmol/min/mL of the enzyme dose. In addition, the results of this research can be further considered in biofuel production using other wastewaters to enhance biofuel production as well as wastewater treating functions and minimize the negative environmental impacts.
Dexamethasone-Loaded Pseudo-Protein Nanoparticles for Ocular Drug Delivery: Evaluation of Drug Encapsulation Efficiency and Drug Release
Authors: Kantaria Temur , Kantaria Tengiz , Heiduschka Peter , Eter Nicole , Tugushi David , Katsarava Ramaz
Published: May 2023

Ophthalmic drug delivery for treating various eye diseases still remains a challenge in ophthalmology. One perspective way of overcoming this problem is to use nanoscale biodegradable drug carriers that are able to safely deliver pharmaceuticals directly to the locus of disease and maintain a therapeutic concentration of drug for a long time. The goal of the present study was the preparation of drug- (dexamethasone-, DEX-) loaded pseudo-protein nanoparticles (NPs) and investigation of drug encapsulation efficiency and drug release kinetics. DEX-loaded pseudo-protein NPs (DEX-NPs) were successfully prepared by the nanoprecipitation method. DEX-NPs were characterized by size (average diameter, AD), size distribution (polydispersity index, PDI), and surface charge (zeta-potential, ZP) using the dynamic light scattering technique. DEX encapsulation characteristics were determined using the UV-spectrophotometric method, and kinetics of DEX release from DEX-NPs was studied according to the dialysis method in PBS at 37°C. The obtained results showed that size of DEX-NPs varies within 143.6–164.1 nm depending on DEX content during the preparation. DEX incorporation characteristics were determined—encapsulation efficiency (EE) and actual drug loading (DL) were high enough and reached 55.1 and 10.2%, respectively. The kinetics of DEX release from DEX-NPs showed a typical biphasic release pattern—an initial rapid (burst) release and further much more continuous slow release. Based on the obtained data, we can conclude that the elaborated DEX-NPs have potential for the application in ophthalmology as ocular drug delivery nanocarriers.
Situation of Pediatric Patients with Testicular Torsion in Times of COVID-19
Authors: Komarowska Marta , Kowalska Małgorzata , Grubczak Kamil , Pawelczyk Alicja , Hermanowicz Adam , Debek Wojciech , Matuszczak Ewa
Published: May 2023

Purpose. To assess whether the COVID-19 pandemic had an influence on presentation of testicular torsion and/or increase in the frequency of orchiectomy. Patients and Methods. This retrospective study included boys under 18 years of age with testicular torsion divided in two groups: pre-COVID operated in 2019 vs. COVID-19 group from 2020. We compared demographic data as well as local and general symptoms. We analyzed additional tests, intraoperative findings, length of operation and hospitalization, and followup. Results. We analyzed the data collected from 44 patients (24 boys from first group vs. 20 boys from second group). The median age was 13.4 years vs. 14.5 years in the latter. The median time of symptoms duration was 6.5 hours and 8.5 hours, respectively. The main manifestation was testicular pain without additional signs. The results of the laboratory tests did not reflect local advancement. In the 2019 group, Doppler ultrasound showed absent blood flow in the affected testicle in 62% vs. 80% in 2020. The mean time from admission to surgery was virtually identical: 75 minutes in 2019 vs. 76 minutes in 2020. The mean duration of scrotal revision was similar in both groups. There was only one significant difference: the degree of twisting. In 2019, the mean was 360° vs. 540° in 2020. Incidence of orchiectomy also did not significantly vary between the analyzed time periods, with 21% during the pandemic and 35% during the pre-COVID-19 period. Conclusion. We did not observe an increase in the number of testicular torsion cases during the COVID-19 pandemic. Most importantly, the rates of orchiectomy did not significantly differ between the patients with testicular torsion presenting during the COVID-19 outbreak.
Nível de inteligência tática entre atletas das categorias sub-14 e sub-16 de um clube de futebol
Authors: Lopes Marcelo Santos , Carneiro Felipe Ferreira Barros , Nazário Murilo Eduardo dos Santos
Published: May 2023

Esta pesquisa assume como objetivo analisar a inteligência tática (IT) de atletas sub 14 e sub 16 da categoria de base de um clube de futebol. Em um primeiro momento, foi realizada uma pesquisa bibliográfica a partir de artigos publicados em dois periódicos específicos da área do futebol, "Revista Brasileira de Futebol” e “Revista Brasileira de Futebol e Futsal”, com o intuito de investigar como a questão tática no futebol é discutida na área acadêmica. A partir dos descritores: “tática” e “tático”, empregados na ferramenta de busca dessas revistas, foram encontrados 30 artigos científicos ligados à tática no futebol entre os anos de 2008 a 2015. Dentre eles, a análise tática, a IT e a valorização do treinamento técnico-tático foram os aspectos mais abordados pelos autores. Apesar disso, a tática enquanto objeto de estudo no campo acadêmico, nas fontes selecionadas, apresenta uma condição incipiente quando se compara com outras estruturas componentes do futebol, tais como técnica, preparação física e iniciação esportiva. A partir desta lacuna na produção científica brasileira, foi aplicado o teste FUT-SAT nos jogadores sub-16 e sub-14. Os resultados apontaram uma discrepância entre os Índices de Performance Tática (IPT) Ofensivos e Defensivos. Nas duas categorias as ações ofensivas foram mais efetivas que as defensivas. Já em relação à comparação entre os grupos de jogadores, no IPT Ofensivo houve similaridade entre as categorias, mas com ligeira vantagem do sub-14. Na questão defensiva os números também apontaram uma melhor performance dos mais jovens. A partir da análise, faz-se necessário aplicar um treinamento tático no sentido mais coletivo, trabalhando princípios como Unidade Ofensiva, Concentração e Unidade Defensiva, fundamentais para o equilíbrio e desempenho de uma equipe.
Efeitos do treinamento funcional sobre a capacidade funcional de cardiopatas isquêmicos
Authors: Petry Thalia , Rodrigues Deivid Ribeiro , Barbosa Igor Martins , Oliveira Josi Mara Saraiva de , Franzoni Leandro Tolfo , Santos Daniela Lopes dos
Published: May 2023

O objetivo do presente estudo foi investigar os efeitos do treinamento funcional (TF) na capacidade funcional (CF) de pacientes de um programa de reabilitação cardíaca (PRC) fase 3. A amostra foi composta por 13 pacientes de ambos os sexos, com idade entre 54 e 81 anos, que obtiveram progressão da fase 2 para a fase 3 em um PRC da cidade de Santa Maria/RS. O TF ocorreu 2 vezes por semana (45 minutos cada sessão) e possuiu duração total de 6 meses (48 sessões), com cada sessão contendo uma parte de aquecimento (5 minutos de caminhada), exercícios funcionais (3 séries de 6 a 7 exercícios, dispostos de forma circular) e desaquecimento (5 minutos de exercícios de flexibilidade e relaxamento). Para as avaliações, foram aplicados os testes Shuttle Run, Tandem Walk Test e o Teste de Caminhada de 6 Minutos, antes do início e após as 48 sessões de TF. Após as reavaliações, foi observado um aumento significativo no desempenho do teste Shuttle Run, enquanto nos testes Tandem Walk Test e Teste de Caminhada de 6 Minutos houve a manutenção do desempenho. É possível concluir que o TF pode promover o incremento da CF de pacientes cardiopatas por meio do aumento da agilidade, assim como manter os níveis de equilíbrio dinâmico e resistência aeróbica.
Epidemiology of Diabetes and Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease Among Asian American Adults: Implications, Management, and Future Directions: A Scientific Statement From the American Heart Association
Authors: Kwan Tak W. , Wong Sally S. , Hong Yuling , Kanaya Alka M. , Khan Sadiya S. , Hayman Laura L. , Shah Svati H. , Welty Francine K. , Deedwania Prakash C. , Khaliq Asma , Palaniappan Latha P. ,   on behalf of the American Heart Association Council on Epidemiology and Prevention; Council on Lifestyle and Cardiometabolic Health; Council on Arteriosclerosis, Thrombosis and Vascular Biology; Council on Clinical Cardiology; Council on Cardiovascular and Stroke Nursing; and Council on Genomic and Precision Medicine
Published: May 2023

Asian American individuals make up the fastest growing racial and ethnic group in the United States. Despite the substantial variability that exists in type 2 diabetes and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease risk among the different subgroups of Asian Americans, the current literature, when available, often fails to examine these subgroups individually. The purpose of this scientific statement is to summarize the latest disaggregated data, when possible, on Asian American demographics, prevalence, biological mechanisms, genetics, health behaviors, acculturation and lifestyle interventions, pharmacological therapy, complementary alternative interventions, and their impact on type 2 diabetes and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. On the basis of available evidence to date, we noted that the prevalences of type 2 diabetes and stroke mortality are higher in all Asian American subgroups compared with non-Hispanic White adults. Data also showed that atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease risk is highest among South Asian and Filipino adults but lowest among Chinese, Japanese, and Korean adults. This scientific statement discusses the biological pathway of type 2 diabetes and the possible role of genetics in type 2 diabetes and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease among Asian American adults. Challenges to provide evidence-based recommendations included the limited data on Asian American adults in risk prediction models, national surveillance surveys, and clinical trials, leading to significant research disparities in this population. The large disparity within this population is a call for action to the public health and clinical health care community, for whom opportunities for the inclusion of the Asian American subgroups should be a priority. Future studies of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease risk in Asian American adults need to be adequately powered, to incorporate multiple Asian ancestries, and to include multigenerational cohorts. With advances in epidemiology and data analysis and the availability of larger, representative cohorts, furthering refining the Pooled Cohort Equations, in addition to enhancers, would allow better risk estimation in segments of the population. Last, this scientific statement provides individual- and community-level intervention suggestions for health care professionals who interact with the Asian American population.
Effects of Phytoncide Extracts on Antibacterial Activity, Immune Responses, and Stress in Dogs
Authors: Kim Yae Ji , Hong Geum Lan , Kim Kyung Hyun , Lee Hui Ju , Cho Sung Pil , Joung Dawou , Pack Bum Jin , Jung Ju Young
Published: May 2023

Background and objective: Phytoncides are volatile and antibacterial organic compounds emitted by plants. In humans, these compounds are known to confer anti-bacterial, antioxidative, anti-inflammatory, immune-response-enhancing, and stress-reducing benefits. However, it remains largely unknown if phytoncides have parallel effects on dogs. Therefore, the aim of this study is to determine if phytoncides exhibit antibacterial activity, initiate an immune response, or alter stress hormone dynamics in dogs.Methods: Phytoncide extracts used in the study were obtained from Hinoki cypress (Chamaecyparis obtuse) and Korean red pine (Pinus densiflora). To examine the effectiveness of the extracts at initiating and sustaining anti-microbial activity in dogs, we conducted a disc diffusion experiment on bacteria that cause skin diseases in the dog. Furthermore, we evaluated the effects of phytoncides on the immune response and stress hormone levels of dogs by spraying the phytoncide extract on the skin of the beagle twice a day for eight weeks.Results: In this study, we investigated the effectiveness of phytoncides in eliminating bacteria cause skin infections in dogs. Our results confirm that mixed phytoncide extract was more effective than either phytoncide extract alone. After eight weeks, blood was collected from the common carotid artery of the beagle; we then measured the levels of immune response factors and cortisol. We found that with regards to the composition of white blood cells (WBCs), phytoncides significantly increased the proportion of lymphocytes and mononucleotides. They also increased the levels of immunoglobulin G and interferon-γ, while decreasing cortisol levels. Effects on several other immune markers were not significant.Conclusion: We suggest that mixed phytoncide extracts have antibacterial effects in dogs. Additionally, these compounds seem to enhance immunity and reduce stress in dogs.
A survey of the Phrurolithidae (Arachnida: Araneae) of Damingshan National Natural Reserve, south China
Authors: LIU KEKE , XU XIANG , YIN HAIQIANG
Published: May 2023

Species of the spider family Phrurolithidae of Damingshan National Natural Reserve, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, China are surveyed. Five species from two genera are described as new to science, accompanied with photographs, SEM images and line drawings: Grandilithus bialatus sp. nov. (♀), Otacilia damingshanica sp. nov. (♂, ♀), O. haitun sp. nov. (♂, ♀), O. longissima sp. nov. (♂, ♀), and O. tingwei sp. nov. (♂, ♀). Furthermore, G. nonggang (Liu, Xu, Xiao, Yin & Peng, 2019) is recorded in this reserve. Distributions records of all treated species are mapped.
Illuminating a Dark Taxon: Revision of European Trichacis Förster (Hymenoptera: Platygastridae) reveals a glut of synonyms
Authors: AWAD JESSICA , KROGMANN LARS , TALAMAS ELIJAH
Published: May 2023

The parasitoid wasp genus Trichacis Förster is revised for Europe. Examination of historical and modern collections combined with DNA barcoding revealed the presence of only a single species in Europe, Trichacis tristis (Nees, 1834), redescribed here. Fourteen new synonymies are proposed for T. tristis: T. abdominalis Thomson, 1859 syn.nov.; T. bidentiscutum Szabó, 1981 syn.nov.; T. didas (Walker, 1835) syn.nov.; T. fusciala Szabó, 1981 syn.nov.; T. hajduica Szabó, 1981 syn.nov.; T. illusor Kieffer, 1916 syn.nov.; T. nosferatus Buhl, 1997 syn.nov.; T. pisis (Walker, 1835) syn.nov.; T. persicus Asadi & Buhl, 2021 syn.nov.; T. pulchricornis Szelényi, 1953 syn.nov.; T. quadriclava Szabó, 1981 syn.nov.; T. remulus (Walker, 1835) syn.nov.; T. vitreus Buhl, 1997 syn.nov.; T. weiperti Buhl, 2019 syn.nov.. Four species are transferred to Amblyaspis Förster: A. afurcata (Szabó, 1977) comb. nov., A. hungarica (Szabó, 1977), comb. nov., A. pannonica (Szabó, 1977) comb. nov., and A. tatika (Szabó, 1977) comb. nov. Intraspecific variation, biological associations, and taxonomic history are discussed. DNA barcodes are provided and analyzed in the context of worldwide Trichacis and its sister genus Isocybus Förster.
A synoptic review of the Amphibians of Iran: bibliography, taxonomy, synonymy, distribution, conservation status, and identification key to the eggs, larvae, and adults
Authors: SAFAEI-MAHROO BARBOD , GHAFFARI HANYEH , NIAMIR AIDIN
Published: May 2023

This study provides an illustrated account, a comprehensive update of the systematics, and a bibliography of the 15 species of anurans in five families, eight genera; and of the six species of urodeles in two families, four genera in Iran. Bufonidae, with eight species, is the most diverse family; Salamandridae has five species and Ranidae has four species. This study also presents updated identification keys for the eggs, larvae, and metamorphosed amphibians of Iran. We designated specimen NMW 19855.1 as neotype of Pelophylax persicus (Schneider, 1799) comb. nov.. Along with distribution maps obtained from all the reliable localities and museum specimens known at this time, the modelled habitat of species, and for the first time, the National Red List of amphibians based on the IUCN red list categories and criteria. Based on our evaluation we propose to categorize Bufo eichwaldi, Paradactylodon persicus, Neurergus derjugini, and N. kaiseri as Vulnerable at National Red List, and to move Bufotes (Calliopersa) luristanicus, B. (C.) surdus, Firouzophrynus olivaceus, and Rana pseudodalmatina from the category of Least Concern (LC) to Near Threatened (NT). The National Red List of amphibians that we propose has significant implications for endangered species management and conservation. Forty-one percent of amphibian species in Iran are endemic to the country, and more than forty percent of the Iranian amphibians are at risk of extinction. Zagros Mountain forest and Hyrcaniain forests have more than 80% (i.e. 18 species) of the diversity of Iranian amphibians. A considerable amount of scientific literature published on Iranian amphibians in Persian language is not easily accessible to researchers outside Iran. This monograph attempts to remedy the situation and provides broader access to international herpetology. We recognize that taxonomy is always in a state of flux, and the names and synonymies used here reflect our current view.
Outcomes and Histological Variations of Neuroblastoma and Ganglioneuroblastoma with Paraneoplastic Syndromes
Authors: Mina Alexander S. , Nashed Gloria N. , Hermina Andrew M. , Schauwecker Suzanne M. , Phelps Hannah M. , Benedetti Daniel J. , Correa Hernan , Lovvorn Harold N.
Published: May 2023

Background

Neuroblastomas are the most common extracranial solid malignancy in children with variable manifestations and complications depending on the presence of paraneoplastic syndromes.

Materials and Methods

We performed a single institution retrospective cohort study of all patients less than 18 years old diagnosed with neuroblastoma or ganglioneuroblastoma between January 2002 and July 2022. Patients were identified through the pathology and cancer registry and cross-referenced with pediatric records. Patient demographics, clinical presentation, treatment, and outcomes were collected. A univariate descriptive analysis of the collected data was conducted.

Results

In our study period, 130 children were diagnosed with neuroblastoma, and 15 were diagnosed with ganglioneuroblastoma. There were 12 children with a paraneoplastic syndrome identified, 8 with NBL and 4 with ganglioneuroblastoma (GNBL). The average age at diagnosis was 22 months. All but 1 underwent resection prior to treatment of paraneoplastic syndrome, and 4 children required neoadjuvant therapy. Neurological complications were the most common with 10 children (83%). The average time from symptom onset to diagnosis was 0.7 months. Eight children had complete resolution of their symptoms after treatment and resection, 2 children recently started treatment within a year, 1 had partial resolution, and 1 died during treatment. The presence of tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes occurred in 4 children with neurologic paraneoplastic syndromes. Six children had neuropil rich tumors.

Conclusion

The histological profile of paraneoplastic syndromes of neuroblastoma and ganglioneuroblastoma and their treatment across a single institution can be highly variable. The presence of tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes and neuropil may have an impact on paraneoplastic pathology.
Effect of Sample Plates and Sample Matrix on the Quantification Capabilities of Surface-Assisted Flowing Atmospheric-Pressure Afterglow Mass Spectrometry (SA-FAPA-MS)
Authors: Heide Maximilian , Engelhard Carsten
Published: May 2023

Ambient desorption/ionization mass spectrometry (ADI-MS) has been broadly applied to accomplish direct analysis without sample preparation or separation. However, quantification capabilities and analytical performance are sometimes limited. Here, we report signal enhancement effects and improved quantification capabilities in plasma-based ADI-MS, when a flowing atmospheric-pressure afterglow (FAPA) source is used to probe analytes on tailored thin-layer chromatography (TLC) plates. It was found that quantitative results could be achieved when the TLC plate merely served as a sampling plate without a preceding separation step. Specifically, the dynamic response of caffeine, nicotine, acetaminophen, and progesterone was investigated with FAPA-MS on a variety of different TLC surfaces (normal-phase silica, reversed-phase-modified silica, cyano [CN]-modified silica, and dimethyl [RP2]-modified silica). All analytes were studied as single-analyte standards and in a multianalyte mixture to evaluate the effect of sample plates and sample matrix on analytical performance and competitive ionization processes. Overall, dimethyl (RP2)- and CN-modified silica resulted in superior performance compared to other TLC materials. After careful optimization and without the use of internal standards, linear ranges of five orders of magnitude were accessible for caffeine and nicotine. Limits of detection down to femtomole amounts of analyte were achieved. Quantitation limits using RP2-TLC and FAPA-MS were 0.062, 0.062l, 0.31, and 14 pmol for caffeine, nicotine, progesterone, and acetaminophen, respectively. Interestingly, the presence of nicotine at relatively high amounts reduced the signal of the other analytes, an observation that was found to correlate with the differences in the enthalpy of vaporization (Δ Hvap) and proton affinity. To prove the quantitative capabilities, nicotine quantification in a real matrix-heavy e-liquid sample was demonstrated using an isotopically labeled standard. The use of TLC-based surfaces with FAPA-MS can aid in the direct and quantitative mass spectrometric investigation of complex mixtures.
The Persistence of Islamist Political Parties in Bangladesh: A Rational Choice Argument
Authors: Hajjaj Bobby
Published: May 2023

In 1971, the new country of Bangladesh was carved into the world political map. The country’s first government identified it as a secular nation primarily due to the religious identity averred by the Pakistani state apparatus, its former oppressor. Over half a century after its independence, the country has seen a considerable impact of religion in politics, with many academic publications on Islamist movements and politics since the early 2000s. A conspicuous gap in this literature is the lack of focus on Islamist political parties, even though all Islamist political movements emerged from within those parties. This paper argues that the continued existence of Islamist parties is due to two specific factors: institutional change and large madrasa networks. This paper adopts a ‘rational choice’ approach to investigate these two factors critically.
Does the Study of Culture Enrich Our Understanding of Autism? A Cross-Cultural Exploration of Life on the Spectrum in Japan and the West
Authors: Atherton Gray , Morimoto Yuko , Nakashima Satoshi , Cross Liam
Published: May 2023

Autism spectrum condition is a neurodevelopmental condition in which people are characterized by their social differences. As such, autistic behaviors are often identified as deviating from what is considered normal or neurotypical ways of interacting with the world as dictated by a particular culture. This theoretical article explores a cultural model of disability concerning autism spectrum condition and how Western ideals of “normality” dominate autism-related discourses. To illustrate this point, the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (5th ed.; DSM-5; American Psychiatric Association [APA]) descriptors are discussed concerning Western and, in contrast, Japanese cultural practices. Cross-cultural research from several domains reveals the subjectivity inherent to what is considered “normal” across cultures. In addition, research into the prevalence and lived experiences of autistic people and their families in Japan reveals the complexity of understanding neurodevelopmental conditions in non-Western countries. The article discusses autism in the context of culture and suggests further areas for cross-cultural research that can further build on the cultural model of disability.
A Psychometric Analysis of the Spanish Version of the Grief Impairment Scale: A Screening Tool of Biopsychosocial Grief-Related Functional Impairment in a Salvadoran Sample
Authors: Caycho-Rodríguez Tomás , Lee Sherman A. , Vilca Lindsey W. , Lobos-Rivera Marlon Elías , Flores-Monterrosa Angélica Nohemy , Tejada Rodríguez Jennyfer Carolina , Chacón-Andrade Edgardo René , Marroquín-Carpio Wendy Carolina , Carbajal-León Carlos , Reyes-Bossio Mario , Delgado-Campusano Mariel , Torales Julio
Published: May 2023

The objective of this study was to translate and psychometrically evaluate a Spanish version of the Grief Impairment Scale (GIS) using a sample of bereaved adults from El Salvador ( N = 579). The results confirm the unidimensional structure of the GIS, and solid reliability, item characteristics, and criterion-related validity, where the GIS scale significantly and positively predicts depression. However, this instrument only showed evidence of configural and metric invariance between different sex groups. Overall, these results support the Spanish version of the GIS as a psychometrically sound screening tool for health professionals and researchers to use in their clinical work.
Obliged smart freedom: The Singaporean experience of advanced neoliberal-developmental governance
Authors: Sobey Aisha
Published: May 2023

Despite criticism, the smart city solutionist rhetoric has gained popularity and investment across the world. In response, this paper interrogates the notion of neutrality in smart city projects and investigates the resulting rationales of the smart brand as a technology of control. The paper develops Nikolas Rose’s argument that a central tenet of liberal governance is to create, and then obligate, a desirable form of freedom, through a framework of economic maximisation, self-responsibility and autonomy. This framework is applied to the Singaporean Smart Nation as a neoliberal-developmental state to consider how the Smart City can be understood as a governance technique. The research is undertaken through a mixed method analysis to unpick the discursive frameworks shaping how individuals navigate the smart city. This approach identifies one of the many ways realities have become governable, to provide a relational perspective through the juxtaposition of government and citizen experiences. Data is drawn from three key government documents, an online survey of Singaporean residents ( n = 255), and key informant interviews ( n = 9). The results demonstrate the potential of the digital environment of Singapore to oblige freedom to engender a compliant population. In addition, the Singaporean case highlights the need for contextualised analysis of smart city projects to explore the governance potential, especially beyond the western perspective.
By yourself, yet not alone: Making space for loneliness
Authors: Heu Luzia Cassis , Brennecke Tom
Published: May 2023

Urban designers often aim to reduce the subjective feeling of loneliness through more opportunities for social interaction in (semi-)public space. These approaches may benefit people who feel lonely because they are socially isolated, but they neglect a wide range of other loneliness experiences. Indeed, there are various reasons for feeling lonely, which can often not (quickly) be erased by more social contact. Strikingly, many lonely people have even been found to prefer, and sometimes benefit from, spending time by themselves. This does, however, not imply that they necessarily prefer to remain in private space. Trying to ‘plan away’ aloneness and negative feelings – as visual representation of loneliness – from public space may then exacerbate loneliness: it signals that lonely people are alone with their experiences and can exclude them from the community of people using the same space. We therefore propose a ‘paradoxical loneliness intervention’, where more space for loneliness eases its painfulness. More specifically, we offer ideas for spaces that cater to the diverse needs of lonely people by (1) de-stigmatising loneliness, (2) providing opportunities to reflect on loneliness, (3) allowing the development pf a sense of belonging and (4) allowing a mental escape of loneliness.