bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
It’s About Time! Understanding the Dynamic Team Process-Performance Relationship Using Micro- and Macroscale Time Lenses
Authors: Klonek Florian , Twemlow Melissa , Tims Maria , Parker Sharon K.
Published: September 2024

Although team processes are conceptualized as temporal phenomena, our theoretical understanding of their unfolding over time is underdeveloped, particularly when “zooming in and out” into their dynamics using different temporal lenses. Team processes might unfold differently over extended project cycles (i.e., macroscale time lens) versus over brief events (microscale time lens). Our goal was to better understand temporal changes of three critical higher-order team processes (i.e., transition, action, and interpersonal processes) over both extended periods (i.e., longer project cycles) and brief time spans (i.e., recurring stand-up meetings). Focusing on two agile software teams, we indexed team processes across these two time spans using computer-aided text analysis (CATA) of meeting transcripts. Macroscale time span processes were captured across 10 sprints (30-week project cycle). Microscale time spans were captured with data from brief stand-up meetings (i.e., using 10 equidistant time intervals from 40 meetings). From a macroscale time lens (i.e., project cycle), an increase in action processes in the early project phase was associated with increases in performance. From a microscale time lens, changes in transition and interpersonal processes around mid-meeting phases were associated with differences in performance. Qualitative analyses of meeting midpoints revealed key differences in proactive planning and interpersonal processes. We discuss how our results provide novel insights for team process dynamics in relation to micro- and macroscale time spans.
Misses or False Alarms? How Error Type Affects Confidence In Automation Reliability Estimates
Authors: Guzman-Bonilla Ebernoe , Patton Colleen E.
Published: September 2024

Prior research has shown that automation errors—false alarms and misses—differentially impact operator behavior, yet it is not clear why this difference exists. This study examined how the type of automation error, the automation’s reliability, and the number of experiences a person has with an automated system impacts their perception of the system. Participants responded to the correctness of an automation recommendation about the match between pairs of Mega Block shapes while automation reliability, number of trials, and error type varied. At the end of each block, participants provided their estimates of the automation’s reliability, ratings of their confidence in their reliability estimate, and their trust in the system. Our findings indicated that the type of automation error does not impact operator perceptions of the system. Instead, factors such as working memory limitations and pre-existing biases impact these perceptions.
User-Centered Design in the Face of Limited User Access
Authors: Born Werner , Erickson Isabel , Hoch Susannah
Published: September 2024

Time with users is a precious commodity that has become increasingly difficult to come by, making it difficult to always employ traditional user study methods. Such methods also run into challenges in sensitive industries, where it is not always possible to openly engage with end-users. These barriers jeopardize good design, and limited user access seeds temptation to bypass user engagement altogether. The primary goal of this work is to share techniques and lessons learned for successful user engagement in the face of limited access to end-users. Three methods are presented here, usage of subject matter experts (SMEs), analogous use cases, and surrogate users, along with key successes and challenges for each. The lessons, limitations, and suggestions presented here reflect work performed across multiple projects over the past several years, where we have utilized combinations of these techniques for conducting user-centered design in the absence of regular direct user engagement.
Characteristics and control of impact vibration and noise in rail belt conveyor
Authors: Zhang Yuan , Wang Zhuang , Sun Changzheng , Chang Xin , Jia Xianghui
Published: September 2024

The rail belt conveyor is an innovative energy-saving belt conveyor. Revolutionizing the traditional roller support, it utilizes interval-spaced carriages to support the conveyor belt. The study of impact vibrations in rail belt conveyors remains underexplored in current research. This paper investigates the impact vibration and noise characteristics of the wheel–rail-steel structure coupling system, as well as their control and optimization strategies. First, vibration and noise measurements were conducted along the track. Results indicate that impact vibrations and noise originating from expansion joints and inserted joints fall within the frequency range of 1.5 kHz–5 kHz. Particularly noteworthy is the pronounced impact noise near inserted joints, with dominant frequencies ranging from 1.5 kHz to 2.5 kHz. Further investigation has revealed that the impacts on inserted joints encompass interactions between the wheel and rail, as well as between different sections of the rail itself. Next, the characteristics of filler materials such as polyurethane rubber, silicone, polyurethane resin, and epoxy resin were analyzed and compared. The experimental results show that filling rubber in expansion joints can reduce lateral impact vibrations by 61% and vertical impact vibrations by 66%. Additionally, the sound pressure level was reduced by approximately 1.7 dBA. Finally, welding the guiding rail to its preceding rail and grinding the welded surface effectively eliminated the composite impact vibrations and sharp noise at the inserted joint, resulting in a decrease of approximately 3 dBA in the sound pressure level. This paper provides guidance on the structural improvement and acoustic optimization of rail belt conveyors.
Disrupting Social Violence Is Everybody's Business
Authors: Lewis-Hunstiger Marty
Published: September 2024

Our overarching theme for Creative Nursing Volume 30 is The Impact of Social Forces on Nursing and Health. The theme of this current journal issue was originally called Social Violence. In planning this issue, our Editorial Board had to confront head-on the many ways in which overt violence or the threat of violence pervades our lives, as nurses and as individuals. We broadened the title to Consequences and Disruptive Solutions for Social Violence, choosing to focus on what we can do to recognize the interlocking processes that enable, promote, reward, and sustain violent behavior, and to mitigate those effects when and where we can. The sobering content in this issue is the business of each of us. The realities of domestic violence and gun violence, the impact of othering and marginalization, the effects of substance use on family members and of students’ experiences of trauma on the school nurses who care for them, and the lethal legacy of unthinking adherence to policies and procedures that is still relevant today—Awareness of this part of our lives and of our practice is where we must start.
Rare Hybrid Perineurioma and Granular Cell Tumor: A Pediatric Case
Authors: Sun Kennedy H. , Goyal Sonia P. , Kim Evelyn M. , Mantilla-Rivas Esperanza , Rogers Gary F. , Gulino Sam P.
Published: September 2024

We present a case of a 13-year-old patient with a distinct tumor with both granular cell and perineurial elements, located on the lower lip. The patient presented with a long-standing lip mass that was clinically felt to most likely represent a mucocele. Following surgical excision, histopathological examination revealed a well-circumscribed tumor composed of granular cells with positive S100 protein staining and spindled cells positive for EMA and GLUT-1, confirming mixed neuroectodermal and perineurial origin. This is the first case documenting a perineurial-granular cell hybrid tumor in a patient under 18 years old, and the first to be reported in the head and neck. This case expands our understanding of hybrid PNSTs, emphasizing the importance of considering diverse clinical presentations, especially in the context of rare pediatric occurrences in atypical locations.
A numerical model for predicting the wear of a piston ring/cylinder liner at the top dead center
Authors: Guo Siyuan , Ning Zhi , Lv Ming , Li Yuhui
Published: September 2024

The cylinder liner-piston ring interface is a critical friction pair in diesel engines, and liner wear can significantly affect engine operation. This study proposes a numerical simulation model under variable operating conditions to quantitatively predict wear at the top dead center (TDC) of the liner, and verifies the model's accuracy. It reveals the influence patterns of engine speed, ambient temperature, and ambient pressure on cylinder liner wear. The research demonstrates good qualitative and quantitative agreement between the wear simulation model and experimental data, particularly with high precision near TDC. Further analysis shows that overall TDC wear depth increases with higher engine speeds. Specifically, wear at 1500 r/min is relatively lower compared to 1300 r/min. Moreover, TDC wear depth exhibits a trend of initially decreasing and then increasing with decreasing ambient pressure and increasing ambient temperature, reaching its minimum at 70 kPa pressure and 25°C temperature.
Progression independent of relapse activity can be predicted by passively acquired tapping speed through a smartphone for 1 month: A prospective study
Authors: Chico-Garcia Juan Luis , Sainz Amo Raquel , Monreal Enric , Sainz de la Maza Susana , Rodriguez Jorge Fernando , Masjuan Jaime , Costa-Frossard Lucienne , Villar Luisa María
Published: September 2024

Background:

Tapping speed (TS) correlates with baseline disability scales in people with multiple sclerosis (pwMS)

Objective:

The study aimed to address if progression independent of relapse activity (PIRA) could be predicted by first-month measurement of TS.

Methods:

Prospective study including pwMS in one referral MS center. Consecutive patients were included and keys/second (Keys/s) were passively measured each day using an in-house smartphone application for 1 month. Median, mean, and maximum keys/s were obtained. Multivariate logistic regression models (including keys/s, age, sex, and baseline disability scores) were obtained for prediction of a PIRA event after 1 year.

Results:

Overall, 59 patients were included in the final analysis (64.4% women, median age of 44.5 years). However, 10 patients presented a PIRA event, without differences regarding baseline characteristics between PIRA and no-PIRA groups. PIRA group presented lower median keys/s (2 vs 4 keys/s, p = 0.002) and mean keys/s (2.8 vs 4.6, p = 0.008), while maximum keys/s were similar ( p = 0.32). A median ⩽ 3 keys/s was independently associated with PIRA (aOR = 16.8, p = 0.03), as did a mean ⩽ 3.7 keys/s (aOR = 17, p = 0.02). These differences were not detected regarding other variables analyzed.

Conclusion:

Low median or mean keys/s obtained during initial month of assessment were indicative of a PIRA event within the next year.
Aldosterone-Cortisol co-secretion in different adrenal tumors: A case series
Authors: Jing Tu , Zeng Jing
Published: September 2024

Primary aldosteronism is the most common cause of endocrine hypertension. It commonly presents as refractory hypertension, carrying an elevated risk of cardiac and renal complications. Concurrent hypercortisolemia exacerbates the susceptibility to metabolic disorders, including obesity, dyslipidemia, abnormal blood glucose levels, and cardiovascular and renal diseases. Among the reported patients with co-secretion of aldosterone, the majority are aldosterone producing adenoma. Cases of bilateral adrenal hyperplasia secreting both aldosterone and cortisol are rarely reported. In this study, we conducted a comparative analysis of the clinical manifestations, laboratory tests, and imaging findings in two cases involving unilateral aldosterone-producing adenomas and bilateral macronodular adrenal hyperplasia respectively. Notably, our patients exhibited a cortisol circadian rhythm during the initial screening, complicating the diagnosis of Cushing's syndrome. The incorporation of early or routine low-dose dexamethasone suppression tests may prove beneficial in identifying co-secretory lesions promptly, assessing the risk of perioperative adrenal insufficiency, and guiding subsequent treatment and prognosis evaluation.
Choice Overload in Crowded Primary Elections
Authors: Goidel Spencer , Armstrong Brenna
Published: September 2024

The number of candidates running in U.S. primary elections is increasing. Contested primary elections force voters to decide between candidates that share party labels and are ideologically similar. Similar to contexts of non-partisan elections, an increase in the number of candidates should exacerbate the cognitive demand of voting in primary elections. We expect large candidate fields in primaries make voters (1) spend less time looking at each candidate profile, (2) more likely to abstain, (3) more likely to vote based on ballot position, and (4) more likely to feel overwhelmed with the decision. All four of these expectations were preregistered. We test the effect of large candidate fields on voter behavior using a survey experiment ( n = 2000) fielded by YouGov. We find large candidate fields cause respondents to spend less time looking at candidate profiles, to select candidates in the first half of the ballot, and to feel overwhelmed by the decision-making process. In contrast to our expectations, we find large candidate fields make respondents less likely to abstain.
Nourishing Love: Documenting the Cookery and Foodways Collections at the Michigan State University Libraries
Authors: Van Veen McRoberts Leslie
Published: September 2024

Food tells stories. All generations of home cooks share commonalities, from poor to rich, recipes and experiences with food for better or worse “feed” one another. Where the art of culinary prose intersects with the palate, the cookery and foodways collections provide unique avenues into lifestyles, nutrition, and the palatable offerings served across the globe. For more than six decades, the Michigan State University Libraries Stephen O. Murray and Keelung Hong Special Collections (MSU) has sought to share these epic life stories through the extensive cookery and foodways collections. This article examines the depth and breadth of the cookery and foodways collections which began as a working collection for undergraduate students and has ballooned to more than 40,000 titles with the 2021 acquisition of the cookery collection of Sheila and Marilynn Brass. Subsequent access through open digital sites provides a landmark resource on culinary history. Overall, the development of this curated collection materials has resulted in a more dynamic and diverse collection for all users.
Endovascular clot removal in small and tortuous arteries: a case series
Authors: Puvvala Gowri Kiran , Psyllas Anastasios , Hinkelmann Jürgen , Herzenstiel Daniel , Korosoglou Grigorios
Published: September 2024

Acute limb ischemia (ALI) due to arterial thromboembolic occlusion is a critical emergency in vascular medicine, requiring attention for rapid diagnosis and intervention, to prevent limb loss and major amputation, which is associated with patient disability in the long term. Traditionally, surgical embolectomy has been used for the treatment of ALI. Endovascular treatment of ALI traditionally involved catheter-directed thrombolysis. This option, however, poses some limitations, including an increased risk for access site and systemic bleeding complications, especially in patients with high bleeding risk. Therefore, in the last decades, several devices have been developed and tested for the mechanical endovascular treatment of ALI. Such devices involve either rotational thrombectomy or continuous thrombus aspiration. While rotational thrombectomy is limited in rather large arteries due to the risk of dissection and perforation in arteries <3 mm, continuous thrombus aspiration can be applied in smaller vessels and tortuous anatomies. In our case series we present a minimal-invasive endovascular approach for the treatment of two patients with ALI due to thrombotic occlusion of tortious and small diameter arteries. Minimal-invasive mechanical thrombectomy using the Penumbra Aspiration System emerged as a successful alternative to surgical embolectomy, enabling prompt treatment and with a short hospital stay for both patients. Our article therefore highlights the use of continuous thrombus aspiration in small diameter vessels and tortuous anatomies, which may represent a contraindication for the use of rotational thrombectomy. In addition, this technique may be applied even in patients with higher bleeding risk since additional lysis is not necessary in patients, where complete thrombus removal can be achieved by this device.
Effects of Processing on Nickel Content and its Relationship with Proximate Composition in dead fresh and canned tuna fish in Iran
Authors: Aberoumand Ali
Published: September 2024

Background: The presence of toxic metals in food can be a risk to food safety and public health. Methods: The Iranian canned tuna was analyzed for nickel level after wet digestion with acids using Graphite Furnace Atomic Absorption Spectrometry (GFAAS). Results: The average concentration of nickel in canned and dead fresh fish found 4.20 ppb and 1.64 ppb. A significant difference in nickel level was observed between canned and dead fresh fish samples in this study. Although the concentration of nickel per g in the fillet after processing was relatively low, but the total amount of nickel in the sample shown change (256.01%). The results in present study showed the protein content in the canned fish increased to 13.17%. The moisture content in the processed fish decreased to 8.80%. The fat content in the canned fish increased to 12.86%. Conclusion: Although the protein and moisture contents significantly increased and decreased respectively after processing, but none of these factors were related to the change in nickel concentration. It may be recommended to regularly monitor the concentration of nickel metal in aquatic food products, so that human health was not at risk.
Three Little Words: A Qualitative Exploration of Special Educational Needs and its Hidden Deceit
Authors: Hodkinson Alan
Published: September 2024

Within this article, the often-used phrase of Special Educational Needs (SENs) is examined by pivoting upon three points of analysis. These being: its history, its definition, and its possible futures. This analysis reveals the hidden deceit contained within the lexicon, history, and the present performative acts of SEN. It is argued that SEN is haunted by the ghost of extant discourse and practices, namely, those of special needs. To move forward and to actually support children labelled with SEN, it is argued that extant discourses and practices must be allowed to pass into history, that a rights discourse should displace the ableist discourse of needs and that governments, all over the world, should listen to, hear, and act upon the voices of those labelled as SEN.
The challenges and potentials of critical Muslim geographies
Authors: Culcasi Karen
Published: September 2024

In this commentary, I engage with the recent dialogue on Sidaway's article, ‘Beyond the Decolonial: Critical Muslim Geographies’. In particular, I highlight four points that he makes about how to advance critical Muslim geographies within critical geography – including drawing directly from Islamic thought, critiquing formative thinkers of critical geography, connecting with Black geographies, and interfacing with area studies. I then shift to discuss why this is a challenging project, but one that is full of potential.
Capitalism, coronavirus, and war in the digital age: Interview with Radhika Desai
Authors: Desai Radhika , Hong Yu
Published: September 2024

In Spring 2024, I met Radhika Desai for the first time at the London School of Economics and Political Science when we both held visiting positions at the Department of International Development as invited scholarly visitors. Although I had not expected her presence, I immediately recognized her after having been a reader of her works on geopolitical economy when developing my own ideas about the political economy of Chinese media and communications. I introduced myself and started talking with her, first at a coffee shop, then in a small office inside LSE’s Connaught House, and later at the Marx Memorial Library in London for a book launch party. Prompted by my questions rooted in the field of media and communication, Radhika Desai shared ideas from her newly published book, Capitalism, Coronavirus, and War: A Geopolitical Economy (Routledge, 2023), which is being translated into Chinese, her critiques about imperialism, globalization and essentially the world order after decades of neoliberalism, and, furthermore, her hopes for China, BRICS, and, ultimately, for the political left. Now, these conversations are turned into a dialogue piece, and with it I hope Communication and the Public readers will sense my gains from Radhika Desai, that is, to paraphrase from the famous line from the Communist Manifesto, in the digital age when all that is solid melts into ostensibly immaterial communication, man/woman is at last compelled to face with sober senses the real conditions of life and his or her relations with their kind.
Highlights of the 18th International Conference on Pediatric Mechanical Circulatory Support Systems and Pediatric Cardiopulmonary Perfusion
Authors: Niebler Robert A. , Undar Akif
Published: September 2024

The 18th International Conference on Pediatric Mechanical Circulatory Support Systems and Pediatric Cardiopulmonary Perfusion was held in Milwaukee, WI, USA, on May 9 and 10, 2024. The conference was hosted by the Herma Heart Institute of Children's Wisconsin at the Pfister Hotel in downtown Milwaukee. This communication provides the highlights of the proceedings.
Perceived Facilitators and Barriers in Implementing Hospice Care: A Qualitative Study Among Health Care Providers in Binzhou, China
Authors: Yu Heshuo , de Medeiros Kate
Published: September 2024

Although many large Chinese cities have begun to implement hospice services, hospice care is still a relatively new concept in many parts of the country, especially in smaller cities. The purpose of this study was to gain a better understanding of health care providers’ (physicians and nurses) perceptions of the facilitators and barriers to hospice care implementation in a fourth-tier city. Using a qualitative descriptive approach, semi-structured, open-ended interviews were conducted with 15 health care providers. Two major categories for developing hospice care were identified: (a) prospective facilitators and (b) perceived barriers. In addition, there is currently much ambiguity regarding what agency should oversee hospice services if implemented, who should be responsible for payment, the importance of developing interdisciplinary care teams and concerns about worker shortages. Future research is encouraged to investigate attitudes towards hospice care across various local healthcare systems and to promote the development of local hospice care support.
Leadership in international populism: How Viktor Orbán’s Hungary shows the way
Authors: Mos Martijn , Macedo Piovezan Igor
Published: September 2024

Although a burgeoning literature explores the international dimensions of populism, we still know little about how populist leaders gain international popularity. This paper describes how Viktor Orbán, the Prime Minister of Hungary, has emerged as the role model of international right-wing populism. It demonstrates that Orbán actively supplied himself as an example that like-minded politicians should follow. We draw on the concept of legitimation strategies to illustrate why Orbán markets himself as the leader of an international movement against liberal ideologues (Wajner, 2022). At the same time, populists in many countries have searched abroad for a successful model to follow. Orbán’s anti-migration policies and his defense of conservative family values constitute chapters of an illiberal playbook that right-wing populists are eager to implement. We use the concept of authoritarian learning to develop this demand-side perspective (Hall and Ambrosio, 2017). Empirically, we demonstrate our argument through an analysis of speeches delivered at a leading gathering of right-wing populists and moral conservatives: the Hungarian editions of the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) that took place in Budapest in 2022 and 2023.
Adverse Effects Associated With Multimodal Analgesic Regimens in Critically Ill, Nonintubated Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Reinert Justin P. , Lee-Smith Wade , Jerousek Cole
Published: September 2024

Objective: To evaluate the safety of utilizing multimodal analgesic regimens in critically ill, nonintubated patients. Data Sources: A systematic review was conducted using Embase, MEDLINE, Cochrane, SciELO, Web of Science, and the Korean Journal Index. Clinical trials of critically ill, nonintubated patients that contained complete safety outcomes date, including the incidence of specific adverse drug effects (ADE) associated with a multimodal analgesic medication or regimen, were included. Study Selection and Data Extraction: The primary outcome was the incidence of adverse drug effects associated with multimodal analgesics in comparison to standard-of-care analgesic strategies in our patient population. The secondary outcome was a subgroup analysis of adverse drug effect by type and by medication. Data Synthesis: 10 trials were included in this systematic review, of which 6 were randomized control trials that were evaluated in the meta-analysis. There was no statistically significant difference with respect to the primary outcome (mean difference = −0.11, P = 0.31, 95% CI = [−0.35, 0.13]). The subgroup analysis, which was conducted on randomized clinical control trials that documented a single adjunctive analgesic rather than a multimodal regimen, was stratified by the type of adverse effect encountered and the medication in question. There were no statistically significant findings regarding the incidence of specific ADE. Nonrandomized data included in this study support these findings. Conclusions: While concerns of the additive deleterious adverse effects commonly encountered in polypharmacy are valid, our findings support the use of multimodal analgesic regimens in the provision of analgesic in critically ill, nonintubated patients.
Protective effect of ghrelin in oxidative stress-induced age-related macular degeneration in vitro and in vivo
Authors: Bai Jie , Wang Yanqing , Li Yanze , Liu Yan , Wang Shan
Published: September 2024

Oxidative damage to human retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells is the main cause of age-related macular degeneration (AMD), in our previous work, we showed that ghrelin has an antioxidative effect on human lens epithelium (HLE) cells, however, the studies of using ghrelin in treating the degenerative diseases of the retina have rarely been reported. In this article, we assessed the effect of ghrelin on preventing oxidative stress induced by hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) in ARPE-19 cells and its mechanism. We observed that pretreatment with ghrelin protected ARPE-19 cells from H2O2-induced cell oxidative injuries and apoptosis responses. Furthermore, an oxidative stress-induced mouse model of AMD was established via injection of sodium iodate (NaIO3) to tail veins, and treatment with ghrelin preserved retinal function, and protected photoreceptors.
The burden of headache disorders in the adult population of Mongolia: estimates, and a health-care needs assessment, from a cross-sectional population-based study
Authors: Luvsannorov Otgonbayar , Tsenddorj Byambasuren , Baldorj Dorjkhand , Enkhtuya Selenge , Purev Delgermaa , Husøy Andreas , Steiner Timothy J.
Published: September 2024

Background

Having previously shown headache disorders to be prevalent in Mongolia, here we elaborate on headache as a public-health concern in this country, reporting symptom burden and headache-attributed impaired participation at individual and societal levels, and conducting a health-care needs assessment.

Methods

The study followed the standardized methodology developed by the Global Campaign against Headache, generating a representative general-population sample through multi-level randomized cluster sampling. Participants aged 18–65 years were interviewed at unannounced household visits by interviewers administering the HARDSHIP questionnaire. Symptom burden was established through questions on frequency, duration and intensity of headache, with proportion of time in ictal state calculated from frequency and duration. Individual impaired participation was established through the HALT questionnaire, enquiring into lost time from paid and household work and from leisure activities. Symptom burden and impaired participation yesterday were also assessed in those reporting headache yesterday. Population-level estimates were derived by factoring in prevalence.

Results

The total sample included 2,043 participants. Those reporting any headache in the last year (n = 1,351) spent, on average, 9.7% of all their time with headache, losing 1.3 workdays and 2.4 household days/3 months. These losses were considerably higher among those with probable medication-overuse headache (37.5%, 3.5 workdays, 6.7 household days) or other headache on ≥ 15 days/month (H15+) (21.9%, 2.4 workdays, 5.1 household days). At population-level (including those with and without headache), 6.2–7.4% of all time was spent with headache, 3.1% with H15+; 0.8 workdays and 1.4 household days/person/3 months were lost to headache, 0.3 workdays and 0.6 household days to migraine (the biggest contributor of all headache types). Our needs assessment estimated that one third (33.2%) of the adult population of Mongolia have headache (mostly migraine or H15+) likely to benefit from health care.

Conclusion

This first population-based study on headache burden in Mongolia shows high levels of individual and societal burden, with H15 + the cause of greater burden at population level than migraine and TTH combined. Migraine, however, has the biggest impact on the nation’s productivity. From a purely economic perspective, Mongolia, with limited health resources, would probably be best served by focusing on mitigating migraine-attributed burden.
Characteristics of lung resistance and elastance associated with tracheal stenosis and intrapulmonary airway narrowing in ex vivo sheep lungs
Authors: Yasuda Yuto , Maksym Geoffrey N. , Wang Lu , Chitano Pasquale , Seow Chun Y.
Published: September 2024

Background

Understanding the characteristics of pulmonary resistance and elastance in relation to the location of airway narrowing, e.g., tracheal stenosis vs. intrapulmonary airway obstruction, will help us understand lung function characteristics and mechanisms related to different airway diseases.

Methods

In this study, we used ex vivo sheep lungs as a model to measure lung resistance and elastance across a range of transpulmonary pressures (5–30 cmH2O) and ventilation frequencies (0.125–2 Hz). We established two tracheal stenosis models by inserting plastic tubes into the tracheas, representing mild (71.8% lumen area reduction) and severe (92.1%) obstructions. For intrapulmonary airway obstruction, we induced airway narrowing by challenging the lung with acetylcholine (ACh).

Results

We found a pattern change in the lung resistance and apparent lung elastance as functions of ventilation frequency that depended on the transpulmonary pressure (or lung volume). At a transpulmonary pressure of 10 cmH2O, lung resistance increased with ventilation frequency in severe tracheal stenosis, whereas in ACh-induced airway narrowing the opposite occurred. Furthermore, apparent lung elastance at 10 cmH2O decreased with increasing ventilation frequency in severe tracheal stenosis whereas in ACh-induced airway narrowing the opposite occurred. Flow-volume analysis revealed that the flow amplitude was much sensitive to ventilation frequency in tracheal stenosis than it was in ACh induced airway constriction.

Conclusions

Results from this study suggest that lung resistance and apparent elastance measured at 10 cmH2O over the frequency range of 0.125-2 Hz can differentiate tracheal stenosis vs. intrapulmonary airway narrowing in ex vivo sheep lungs.
Synthetic redesign of Escherichia coli W for faster metabolism of sugarcane molasses
Authors: Kim Gi Yeon , Yang Jina , Han Yong Hee , Seo Sang Woo
Published: September 2024

Background

Sugarcane molasses, rich in sucrose, glucose, and fructose, offers a promising carbon source for industrial fermentation due to its abundance and low cost. However, challenges arise from the simultaneous utilization of multiple sugars and carbon catabolite repression (CCR). Despite its nutritional content, sucrose metabolism in Escherichia coli, except for W strain, remains poorly understood, hindering its use in microbial fermentation. In this study, E. coli W was engineered to enhance sugar consumption rates and overcome CCR. This was achieved through the integration of a synthetically designed csc operon and the optimization of glucose and fructose co-utilization pathways. These advancements facilitate efficient utilization of sugarcane molasses for the production of 3-hydroxypropionic acid (3-HP), contributing to sustainable biochemical production processes.

Results

In this study, we addressed challenges associated with sugar metabolism in E. coli W, focusing on enhancing sucrose consumption and improving glucose-fructose co-utilization. Through targeted engineering of the sucrose utilization system, we achieved accelerated sucrose consumption rates by modulating the expression of the csc operon components, cscB, cscK, cscA, and cscR. Our findings revealed that monocistronic expression of the csc genes with the deletion of cscR, led to optimal sucrose utilization without significant growth burden. Furthermore, we successfully alleviated fructose catabolite repression by modulating the binding dynamics of FruR with the fructose PTS regulon, enabling near-equivalent co-utilization of glucose and fructose. To validate the industrial applicability of our engineered strain, we pursued 3-HP production from sugarcane molasses. By integrating heterologous genes and optimizing metabolic pathways, we achieved improvements in 3-HP titers compared to previous studies. Additionally, glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (gapA) repression aids in carbon flux redistribution, enhancing molasses conversion to 3-HP.

Conclusions

Despite limitations in sucrose metabolism, the redesigned E. coli W strain, adept at utilizing sugarcane molasses, is a valuable asset for industrial fermentation. Its synthetic csc operon enhances sucrose consumption, while mitigating CCR improves glucose-fructose co-utilization. These enhancements, coupled with repression of gapA, aim to efficiently convert sugarcane molasses into 3-HP, addressing limitations in sucrose and fructose metabolism for industrial applications.
Targeting the EphA2 pathway: could it be the way for bone sarcomas?
Authors: Giordano Giorgia , Tucciarello Cristina , Merlini Alessandra , Cutrupi Santina , Pignochino Ymera
Published: September 2024

Bone sarcomas are malignant tumors of mesenchymal origin. Complete surgical resection is the cornerstone of multidisciplinary treatment. However, advanced, unresectable forms remain incurable. A crucial step towards addressing this challenge involves comprehending the molecular mechanisms underpinning tumor progression and metastasis, laying the groundwork for innovative precision medicine-based interventions. We previously showed that tyrosine kinase receptor Ephrin Type-A Receptor 2 (EphA2) is overexpressed in bone sarcomas. EphA2 is a key oncofetal protein implicated in metastasis, self-renewal, and chemoresistance. Molecular, genetic, biochemical, and pharmacological approaches have been developed to target EphA2 and its signaling pathway aiming to interfere with its tumor-promoting effects or as a carrier for drug delivery. This review synthesizes the main functions of EphA2 and their relevance in bone sarcomas, providing strategies devised to leverage this receptor for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes, with a focus on its applicability in the three most common bone sarcoma histotypes: osteosarcoma, chondrosarcoma, and Ewing sarcoma.
Modulating voltage-gated sodium channels to enhance differentiation and sensitize glioblastoma cells to chemotherapy
Authors: Giammello Francesca , Biella Chiara , Priori Erica Cecilia , Filippo Matilde Amat Di San , Leone Roberta , D’Ambrosio Francesca , Paterno’ Martina , Cassioli Giulia , Minetti Antea , Macchi Francesca , Spalletti Cristina , Morella Ilaria , Ruberti Cristina , Tremonti Beatrice , Barbieri Federica , Lombardi Giuseppe , Brambilla Riccardo , Florio Tullio , Galli Rossella , Rossi Paola , Brandalise Federico
Published: September 2024

Background

Glioblastoma (GBM) stands as the most prevalent and aggressive form of adult gliomas. Despite the implementation of intensive therapeutic approaches involving surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy, Glioblastoma Stem Cells contribute to tumor recurrence and poor prognosis. The induction of Glioblastoma Stem Cells differentiation by manipulating the transcriptional machinery has emerged as a promising strategy for GBM treatment. Here, we explored an innovative approach by investigating the role of the depolarized resting membrane potential (RMP) observed in patient-derived GBM sphereforming cell (GSCs), which allows them to maintain a stemness profile when they reside in the G0 phase of the cell cycle.

Methods

We conducted molecular biology and electrophysiological experiments, both in vitro and in vivo, to examine the functional expression of the voltage-gated sodium channel (Nav) in GSCs, particularly focusing on its cell cycle-dependent functional expression. Nav activity was pharmacologically manipulated, and its effects on GSCs behavior were assessed by live imaging cell cycle analysis, self-renewal assays, and chemosensitivity assays. Mechanistic insights into the role of Nav in regulating GBM stemness were investigated through pathway analysis in vitro and through tumor proliferation assay in vivo.

Results

We demonstrated that Nav is functionally expressed by GSCs mainly during the G0 phase of the cell cycle, suggesting its pivotal role in modulating the RMP. The pharmacological blockade of Nav made GBM cells more susceptible to temozolomide (TMZ), a standard drug for this type of tumor, by inducing cell cycle re-entry from G0 phase to G1/S transition. Additionally, inhibition of Nav substantially influenced the self-renewal and multipotency features of GSCs, concomitantly enhancing their degree of differentiation. Finally, our data suggested that Nav positively regulates GBM stemness by depolarizing the RMP and suppressing the ERK signaling pathway. Of note, in vivo proliferation assessment confirmed the increased susceptibility to TMZ following pharmacological blockade of Nav.

Conclusions

This insight positions Nav as a promising prognostic biomarker and therapeutic target for GBM patients, particularly in conjunction with temozolomide treatment.
Application of omics technologies in studies on antitumor effects of Traditional Chinese Medicine
Authors: Tan Peng , Wei Xuejiao , Huang Huiming , Wang Fei , Wang Zhuguo , Xie Jinxin , Wang Longyan , Liu Dongxiao , Hu Zhongdong
Published: September 2024

Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) is considered to be one of the most comprehensive and influential form of traditional medicine. It plays an important role in clinical treatment and adjuvant therapy for cancer. However, the complex composition of TCM presents challenges to the comprehensive and systematic understanding of its antitumor mechanisms, which hinders further development of TCM with antitumor effects. Omics technologies can immensely help in elucidating the mechanism of action of drugs. They utilize high-throughput sequencing and detection techniques to provide deeper insights into biological systems, revealing the intricate mechanisms through which TCM combats tumors. Multi-omics approaches can be used to elucidate the interrelationships among different omics layers by integrating data from various omics disciplines. By analyzing a large amount of data, these approaches further unravel the complex network of mechanisms underlying the antitumor effects of TCM and explain the mutual regulations across different molecular levels. In this study, we presented a comprehensive overview of the recent progress in single-omics and multi-omics research focused on elucidating the mechanisms underlying the antitumor effects of TCM. We discussed the significance of omics technologies in advancing research on the antitumor properties of TCM and also provided novel research perspectives and methodologies for further advancing this research field.
Gender-specific association of multiple risk factors with neonatal moderate or severe hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Wang Yiran , Zhang Yaodong , Luo Shuying , Wang Kaijuan
Published: September 2024

Background

Neonatal hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) leads to different degrees of neurological sequelae. The incidence of HIE is relatively high, and the causal pathways leading to HIE are still controversial. This study aimed to investigate the risk factors associated with HIE comparing differences between genders.

Methods

A cross-sectional study of 196 neonates diagnosed with HIE was conducted. Based on the severity of clinical findings, HIE was classified as mild, moderate or severe. For mild HIE, the outcomes were relatively less severe, whereas moderate to severe HIE could suffer serious consequences, including death, cerebral palsy, epilepsy. T-test, chi-square test and logistic regression were used to analyze data.

Results

Among the 196 neonatal HIE, 39 (19.9%) had mild HIE,157 (80.1%) had moderate or severe HIE. The logistic regression analysis showed that gender was a specific stratified characteristic of moderate or severe HIE. In the male neonates group, emergency cesarean section, abnormal labor stage and amniotic fluid contamination were associated with an increased risk of moderate or severe HIE, where the adjusted odds ratios (ORs) were 4.378 (95% confidence intervals (CI):2.263–6.382), 2.827 (95% CI:1.743–5.196) and 2.653 (95%CI:1.645–3.972), respectively. As expected, a significant additive effect was found in the interactions between emergency cesarean section and abnormal labor stage, as well as between emergency cesarean section and amniotic fluid contamination, where the relative excess risk of interaction was 2.315(95%CI:1.573–3.652) and 1.896(95%CI: 1.337–3.861) respectively.

Conclusion

Emergency cesarean section, abnormal labor stage and amniotic fluid contamination were risk factors of moderate or severe HIE in neonates, and the associations were significantly correlated with male gender. Notably, coinciding incidences of emergency cesarean section with abnormal labor stage, or emergency cesarean section with amniotic fluid contamination were possibly synergistic in increasing the risk of moderate or severe HIE. These findings may assist clinicians in strengthening their awareness on risks affecting HIE and help reduce the incidence of moderate or severe HIE in clinical practice.
Utility-based performance evaluation of biometric sample quality measures
Authors: Henniger Olaf , Fu Biying , Kurz Alexander
Published: September 2024

The quality score of a biometric sample is intended to predict the sample’s degree of utility for biometric recognition. Different authors proposed different definitions for utility. A harmonized definition of utility would be useful to facilitate the comparison of biometric sample quality assessment algorithms. In this article, we compare different definitions of utility and apply them to both face image and fingerprint image data sets containing multiple samples per biometric instance and covering a wide range of potential quality issues. The results differ only slightly. We show that discarding samples with low utility scores results in rapidly declining false non-match rates. The obtained utility scores can be used as target labels for training biometric sample quality assessment algorithms and as baseline when summarizing utility-prediction performance in a single plot or even in a single figure of merit.
An effective numerical method for solving fractional delay differential equations using fractional-order Chelyshkov functions
Authors: Ahmed A. I. , Al-Sharif M. S.
Published: September 2024

In this paper, the fractional-order Chelyshkov functions (FCHFs) and Riemann-Liouville fractional integrals are utilized to find numerical solutions to fractional delay differential equations, by transforming the problem into a system of algebraic equations with unknown FCHFs coefficients. An error bound of FCHFs approximation is estimated and its convergence is also demonstrated. The effectiveness and accuracy of the presented method are established through several examples. The resulting solution is accurate and agrees with the exact solution, even if the exact solution is not a polynomial. Moreover, comparisons between the obtained numerical results and those recently reported in the literature are shown.
Food policies: balancing health and market in the era of ubiquitous ultra-processed foods
Authors: Ferretti Fabrizio , Malorgio Giulio
Published: September 2024

As the development of modern food systems continues to reshape dietary habits, the need for effective food policies to counter the rise of ultra-processed foods (UPFs) becomes increasingly urgent. UPFs are industrial formulations of several highly refined ingredients and additives with little or no nutritional value but potentially harmful health effects. In this paper, we develop a simple model of duopolistic competition in which food manufacturers compete by choosing the degree of food sophistication of their products (i.e., the degree of food formulation and processing). We show that when firms compete for market shares, an unhealthy degree of food sophistication is a strategically stable Nash–Bertrand equilibrium outcome. Furthermore, we compare the effectiveness of alternative health-related food policies. Our model highlights the shortcomings of nutrient-to-limit regulations and suggests that policy interventions should prioritize whole-food reformulation-based approaches within an 'ecological' regulatory framework.