bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Linear Model for Measuring the Experimental Resolution, Minimum Detection Limit, and Accuracy of Common Analytical Techniques
Authors: He Lijuan , Xu Henggui , Shi Min , Liu Na , Liu Hui
Published: December 2024

Objective: This study aims to establish methods based on linear models to measure the experimental resolution, minimum detection limit, and accuracy of flame atomic absorption spectrometry (FAAS), gas chromatography (GC), and liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC–MS) and explore their applications.

Methods: A series of equally diluted samples (copper, benzene, and renin) are measured. A linear regression analysis is performed between the detected concentrations and the expected concentrations. Under the optimal detection state, the minimum dilution gradient corresponding to the linear regression equation is defined as the experimental resolution. Meanwhile, the resolution of the measurement result using zero as the baseline is considered as the minimum detection limit of the detection system. The accuracy is calculated by using the deviations of the coefficient of determination, slope, and intercept. When the fluctuation range is less than 5%, the accuracy is considered acceptable.

Results: The experimental resolutions of FAAS, GC, and LC–MS all reach 10% or better, which can be used for quantitative detection. The minimum detection limits of FAAS, GC, and LC–MS are 0.064, 0.001 μg/mL, and 0.088 ng/mL, respectively. The sensitivity of LC–MS is higher than that of the other two instruments according to the present data. When the coefficient of determination is greater than 0.98, the accuracy is further calculated. The accuracy results (relative errors) of FAAS, GC, and LC–MS are 1.015%, 1.430%, and 3.475%, respectively. FAAS is considered to be the most accurate.

Conclusions: The method for measuring the experimental resolution, minimum detection limit, and accuracy based on linear models is simple and reasonable. The experimental performance is evaluated from multiple perspectives, which simplifies and improves the process and effect of the evaluation in order to suggest improvement strategies for analysis experiments and related equipment.
The Influence of Residential Segregation, Urbanicity, and Population Density on Hepatocellular Carcinoma Incidence among a Low Socioeconomic Population
Authors: Johnson Corianne R. , Muhimpundu Sylvie , Han Xijing , Mumma Michael T. , Shrubsole Martha J. , Zheng Wei , Spalluto Lucy B. , Lipworth Loren , Sudenga Staci L.
Published: December 2024

Background:

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is becoming a leading cause of cancer-related mortality in the United States, with notable disparities observed among racial and ethnic minorities. The objective of this study is to examine the association between social determinants of health (SDoH) and HCC incidence by race (White and Black individuals) using data from the Southern Community Cohort Study.

Methods:

The Southern Community Cohort Study is a prospective cohort study with participants recruited from 2002 to 2009. Incident HCC cases were identified during follow-up. Exposure measures, including residential segregation, social vulnerability, population density, rurality, and poverty, were assessed at baseline. Cox proportional hazards regression models were used to estimate HRs associated with SDoH by race with the adjustment of known HCC risk factors.

Results:

Among the 79,367 eligible participants, there were 491 incident HCC cases diagnosed, 378 of whom were in Black individuals. In Black individuals, increased population density and urban residency were associated with an increased risk of HCC, even after adjusting for potential confounders [HR = 1.49; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.04–2.13; HR = 1.70; 95% CI, 1.20–2.41, respectively]. White individuals living in the least segregated areas (HR = 2.83; 95% CI, 1.39–5.78) and in urban settings (HR = 2.34; 95% CI, 1.17–4.65) had an increased HCC risk, whereas population density was not associated with risk.

Conclusions:

We found that individuals residing in urban populations had an increased risk of HCC. These findings underscore the complex interplay of SDoH factors and geographic influences on HCC disparities.

Impact:

Our findings highlight the need for targeted interventions and further research to address HCC health inequities.
RORing CAR T Cells in Solid and Hematologic Cancers: Same but Different
Authors: Kobold Sebastian
Published: December 2024

A recent phase I clinical study tested anti-ROR1 chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells in patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia, non–small cell lung cancer, and triple-negative breast cancer. The product could be safely administered and had activity in chronic lymphocytic leukemia but less so in non–small cell lung cancer and triple-negative breast cancer.

See related article by Jaeger-Ruckstuhl et al., p. 503
Selecting the Right Dose to Move Breast Cancer Prevention Forward
Authors: King Tari A. , DeCensi Andrea
Published: December 2024

The uptake and adherence of preventive therapy of breast cancer in clinical practice are low because of fear of serious adverse events and menopausal symptoms. Low-dose tamoxifen has been shown to retain efficacy while reducing toxicity in high-risk women. In this issue of the journal, Cornell and colleagues evaluated uptake, adherence, and tolerability of low-dose tamoxifen in high-risk women. More than 70% of patients reported that they took low-dose tamoxifen after counseling and were still taking the medication at 1 year. This paradigm shift may move the field of breast cancer prevention forward and reduce breast cancer incidence and mortality.

See related article by Cornell et al., p. 565
CD33–CD123 IF-THEN Gating Reduces Toxicity while Enhancing the Specificity and Memory Phenotype of AML-Targeting CAR-T Cells
Authors: Jambon Samy , Sun Jianping , Barman Shawn , Muthugounder Sakunthala , Bito Xue Rachel , Shadfar Armita , Kovach Alexandra E. , Wood Brent L. , Thoppey Manoharan Varsha , Morrissy A. Sorana , Bhojwani Deepa , Wayne Alan S. , Pulsipher Michael A. , Kim Yong-Mi , Asgharzadeh Shahab , Parekh Chintan , Moghimi Babak
Published: December 2024

Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy has remarkably succeeded in treating lymphoblastic leukemia. However, its success in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) remains elusive because of the risk of on-target off-tumor toxicity to hematopoietic stem/progenitor cells (HSPC) and insufficient T-cell persistence and longevity. Using a SynNotch circuit, we generated a high-precision “IF-THEN” gated logical circuit against the combination of CD33 and CD123 AML antigens and demonstrated antitumor efficacy against AML cell lines and patient-derived xenografts. Unlike constitutively expressed CD123 CAR-T cells, those expressed through the CD33 SynNotch circuit could preserve HSPCs and lower the risk of on-target off-tumor hematopoietic toxicity. These gated CAR-T cells exhibited lower expression of exhaustion markers (PD-1, TIM-3, LAG-3, and CD39), higher frequency of memory T cells (CD62L+CD45RA+), and enhanced expansion. Although targeting AML, the moderated circuit CAR signal also helped mitigate cytokine release syndrome, potentially addressing one of the ongoing challenges in CAR-T immunotherapy.

Significance:

Our study demonstrates the use of “IF-THEN” SynNotch-gated CAR-T cells targeting CD33 and CD123 in AML reduces off-tumor toxicity. This strategy enhances T-cell phenotype, improves expansion, preserves HSPCs, and mitigates cytokine release syndrome—addressing critical limitations of existing AML CAR-T therapies.
Onychomatricoma in Patients with Dark Phototype: Epidemiological, Clinical, and Dermoscopic Findings in 24 Cases
Authors: Matter Adriana , Gioia Di Chiacchio Nilton , Di Chiacchio Nilton , Tassara Tavares Glaysson , Lipner Shari , Iorizzo Matilde
Published: December 2024

Introduction: Onychomatricoma is a benign tumor that originates from the nail matrix. The main clinical features reported include longitudinal thickening of the nail plate, splinter hemorrhages, and xanthonychia. Objective: The aims of the study were to describe epidemiological, clinical, and dermoscopy data of patients with dark skin phototypes (Fitzpatrick IV, V, VI) diagnosed with onychomatricoma and to compare the findings with previously reported cases. Methods: The medical records of 24 patients with dark skin phototype, and a diagnosis of onychomatricoma, collected from 2015 to 2023, were reviewed and analyzed. Results: Thirteen tumors (54.17%) occurred in the fingers and eleven tumors (45.83%) in the toenails. The main clinical and dermoscopic features found were increased nail thickness (21 cases; 88%), xanthonychia (20 cases; 83%), longitudinal melanonychia (18 cases; 75%), transverse hypercurvature of the nail plate (18 cases; 75%), and free edge cavitations (18 cases; 75%). Conclusion: The clinical and dermoscopic features of onychomatricoma in patients with dark phototypes are similar to those in fair phototypes, except for the higher prevalence of melanonychia (75% vs. 24.2%).
The role of transbronchial cryobiopsy in the detection of pulmonary GvHD.
Authors: Sadowska-Klasa Alicja , Karolak Wojciech , Piekarska Agnieszka , Kowalski Jacek , Żegleń Sławomir , Janowicz Alicja , Nadolny Tomasz , Wojarski Jacek , Zaucha Jan Maciej
Published: December 2024

Purpose of the study
We investigated the incidence of chronic pulmonary complications in allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation (allo-HCT) recipients and analyzed the role of transbronchial cryobiopsy (cryoTBB) as a tool to determine the nature of pulmonary changes and to guide clinical decisions.
Methods:
Patients who survived at least 6 months post HCT were included in the study. Pulmonary functional tests (PFTs) were performed in all patients as a screening tool. In case of abnormal results computed tomography (CT) was done to verify inflammatory changes and the presence of air-trapping. Next, patients were qualified for microbiological analysis of bronchoalveolar lavage fluid. If the results of non-invasive tests were inconclusive, cryoTBB was performed.
Results: Among 186 patients, we identified 13 cases (7%) with abnormal PFTs. Mild, moderate, and severe chronic graft versus host disease (GvHD) was diagnosed in 1 (8%), 6 (46%), and 2 (15%) patients, respectively. Four (31%) patients did not present any manifestations of cGvHD at FEV1 decline. Eight 8 (62%) patients met the bronchiolitis obliterans syndrome criteria, 5 (48%) had restrictive disease, or mixed phenotype based on PFTs, only in 1 case air-trapping was present in CT. Pulmonary GvHD was confirmed by cryoTBB histopathology in 5 of 11 (45%) cases. Immunosuppression was either stopped or decreased in 6 patients with negative results for GvHD with further clinical improvement.
Conclusion:
CryoTBB can be a helpful tool to verify the cause of chronic pulmonary complications in the HCT population. Based on negative biopsy results, some patients may benefit from IST discontinuation or reduction to mitigate recurrences of infectious complications and further lung destruction.
The 100 Most Cited Publications in Lichen Planopilaris: A Bibliometric Analysis
Authors: Boghosian Tanya , Maskan Bermudez Narges , Tosti Antonella
Published: December 2024

Introduction: Lichen planopilaris (LPP) is a rare scarring alopecia with poorly understood etiology, leading to challenges in both diagnosis and management. With an increasing number of studies focused on its clinical presentation, histopathology, and trichoscopic features, a comprehensive bibliometric analysis of high-impact LPP research is necessary to assess current trends and identify gaps in the literature. Methods: To analyze trends in LPP research using the top 100 most-cited articles from Web of Science. Results: The average number of citations per article was 80.4 (range: 37-289), with publication dates ranging from 1990-2021. The most cited article was Kossard’s "Progressive Frontal Scarring Alopecia in Postmenopausal Women" with 289 citations. The United States (n=47) had the most publications, followed by England (n=18) and Spain (n=14). Most articles were LOE 3 (n=34) focusing on the "Clinical and Histopathological Presentation" (n=33). Key reported trichoscopic features included perifollicular erythema, perifollicular scaling, and loss of follicular ostia. Conclusion: This bibliometric analysis highlights foundational LPP studies, emphasizing key trichoscopic features while revealing gaps in high-level evidence. It underscores the need for more rigorous research and expanded geographic diversity to enhance diagnostic markers, refine trichoscopic criteria, and improve therapeutic approaches.
Estudo dos componentes do oleo essencial de Chenopodio. Sua applicação na prophylaxia da ancylostomose.
Authors: Pessôa Samuel Barnsley
Published: December 2024

Em consequencia de campanhas ininterruptas, tenazes e systematica, realisadas por Miguel Pereira. Chagas, Penna e outros, mostrando o estado precario da nossa gente do interior, resolveram os governantes seguir o bom caminho do sancamento rural do Brasil. A ancylostomose, de todas molestias ruraes, é aquella que se dissemina em maior extensão do paiz e faz maior numero de victimas na população camponeza. Por isso os serviços de saneamento do interior brasileiro, iniciaram-se com razão, pelo combate a essa verminose.
Serviço de Estatistica sanitaria
Authors: Souza G. H. de Paula
Published: December 2024

A primeira exigencia de um bom serviço de ·estatística sanitaria é naturalmente um perfeito recenseamento geral da população; o censo do povo é a necessidade basica ou preliminar de todos os trabalhos desta natureza, que a simples conjecturas se reduzem, quando lhes falte esse elemento essencial, semelhantemente a syllogismos em que sejam vacillantes as premissas maiores.
Fatherhood in Turbulence
Authors: Koivula Tapio
Published: December 2024

The legal standing of fathers has always differed from those of mothers in custody-related adjudication. A shift from the long-standing pater familias thinking to more mother-oriented approaches in the field has characterised the past century in family law, but contemporary developments have challenged the status quo and continue to shape legal fatherhood in new ways. The purpose of this article is to identify the legal trends that inform the approach of the European Court of Human Rights to fatherhood, the development of these trends, and what this can tell us of the future of legal fatherhood in European human rights jurisprudence.
An overview of Astrocaryum (Bactridinae, Arecaceae) types from Brazil described by João Barbosa Rodrigues
Authors: LIMA GUSTAVO PEREIRA , AMORIM GABRIELA , DE ALMEIDA JR. EDUARDO BEZERRA
Published: December 2024

João Barbosa Rodrigues, a renowned Brazilian botanist, spent years intensively studying Orchidaceae and Arecaceae and oversaw two important institutions in Brazil: the Museu Botânico do Amazonas and the Jardim Botânico do Rio de Janeiro. However, when it comes to his taxonomic studies, there are controversies about the existence of specimens mentioned in the protologues of his new species. For example, for the palm genus Astrocaryum, several issues have arisen regarding identifying and designating nomenclatural types of the species he described. Different researchers presumed that the entire collection of types was destroyed after the Museu Botânico do Amazonas closed and due to natural disasters, that affected his collections in city of Rio de Janeiro. Thus, in this study we investigated the names of Astrocaryum described by Barbosa Rodrigues. We conducted a comprehensive investigation of Barbosa Rodrigues’ works to determine the origin and current location of the possible nomenclatural types associated with the Astrocaryum species he described. Additionally, we reviewed the designations proposed by Jan Wessels Boer and Sidney Glassman for these species in the previous century. Based on our thorough search, we confirmed the absence of the specimens mentioned in the protologues of these species. Furthermore, we substantiated the typifications made by Wessels Boer and Glassman, which were based on illustrations by Barbosa Rodrigues. Our findings confirm the assignment of six lectotypes and twelve neotypes for Astrocaryum based on the Shenzhen Code.
Rediscovery and redescription of Dixonius siamensis (Boulenger, 1899) (Squamata: Gekkonidae), type species of the genus, with lectotype designation
Authors: PAUWELS OLIVIER S. G. , DAS SUNANDAN , BRECKO JONATHAN , BRINGSØE HENRIK , SUMONTHA MONTRI
Published: December 2024

We redescribe the type material of Phyllodactylus siamensis Boulenger, 1899, type species of the Southeast Asian gekkonid genus Dixonius Bauer, Good & Branch, 1997, using external morphology and cranial osteology. There is some evidence that the type series contains more than one species; we hence designate a lectotype in order to stabilize nomenclature and provide more precision on the geographical location of the type locality. Because the current concept of Dixonius siamensis auctorum is incomplete and composite, we provide a revised diagnosis based on the presently designated lectotype and a paralectotype from the same locality, as well as observations on new material from the type locality and the first photographs of live topotypical individuals. We regard Dixonius siamensis as probably geographically restricted to the Dong Phaya Yen mountain range in central Thailand, and the numerous published mentions of this species from outside this range likely refer to other or undescribed taxa. We treat Phyllodactylus burmanicus Annandale, 1905 from Tavoy, southern Myanmar, as a valid species, as Dixonius burmanicus comb. nov.
Genetic diversity of populations of Simulium reptans s.l. (Diptera: Simuliidae) in the territory of Russia and Northern Kazakhstan
Authors: VAULIN OLEG V. , PETROZHITSKAYA LIUDMILA V. , NOVGORODOVA TATIANA A.
Published: December 2024

The presence of sibling (cryptic) species among bloodsucking black flies can be a serious problem in assessing both their diversity and the role of individual species in the transmission of dangerous human and animal pathogens. The peculiarities of molecular genetic structure of populations and ecology of black flies of Simulium reptans s.l. (complex of Simulium reptans (Linnaeus) and Simulium reptantoides Carlsson) in European and Asian parts of Russia and Northern Kazakhstan in comparison with populations from Central and Northern Europe were investigated. Using restriction analysis of the COI gene and subsequent sequencing, we searched for unique mtDNA variants that could belong to previously undescribed forms of the studied group. In the north of the European part of Russia (north of Eastern Europe), only S. reptans A was registered, and in the Asian part of Russia (Siberia) and Northern Kazakhstan, only S. reptans B was found. Using phylogenetic analysis of the total data, three branches of S. reptans B were revealed and named in accordance with the areas of their distribution–East European, Eurasian and Asian. Simulium reptantoides Carlsson has currently been found only in Europe. The peculiarities of distribution and possible adaptations to different habitats of S. reptantoides and representatives of individual groups within S. reptans are discussed. Based on the characteristics of the sampling sites of the studied specimens, as well as the samples available in the NCBI database, the ecological and geographical features of the habitats of the molecular forms of Simulium reptans A and B were revealed. To obtain more accurate information on the distribution of S. reptans A and B forms in Eurasia, taking into account the elevational zonation, it is necessary to conduct additional studies in the mountainous regions of South-Western Europe, Siberia and Northern China. Based on the sequences presented in the DNA database, a method (AS-PCR COI variant) for separating the cryptic species–Simulium reptans (Linnaeus) and S. reptantoides Carlsson–was proposed. During testing of this method on the material collected in Russia and Northern Kazakhstan, only S. reptans was identified (S. reptantoides was absent), which completely coincided with the sequencing results. To further confirm the effectiveness of the method, it is necessary to conduct testing on material including representatives of the both species.
New and poorly known species of Bowie Jäger, 2022 (Araneae: Ctenidae) from Southeast Asia
Authors: OMELKO MIKHAIL M. , FOMICHEV ALEXANDER A.
Published: December 2024

Three new species, B. catopuma sp. nov. (♀) (Borneo, Malaysia), B. musang sp. nov. (♂♀) and B. tangalunga sp. nov. (♂) (both from Mindanao, Philippines), are described. Species of shakeit group are recorded outside of Borneo for the first time (Philippines). The females of Bowie neukoeln Jäger, 2022 and Bowie shakeit Jäger, 2022, and the male of B. hosei (F.O. Pickard-Cambridge, 1897) are redescribed. Detailed descriptions, digital photographs and a distributional map are provided.
Revision of the loach genus Claea Kottelat, 2010 (Teleostei: Nemacheilidae) in China, with a description of a new species from the Chang-Jiang basin
Authors: ZHANG CHU-YI , LUO PAN , HUANG FENG , ZHANG E.
Published: December 2024

A taxonomic revision of the nemacheilid genus Claea from China is provided based on molecular and morphological data. Three species are identified in this genus: C. dabryi (type species), C. wulongensis (a species originally recognized in Triplophysa), and C. minibarba sp. nov., here described from the mid-upper Chang-Jiang basin in northwestern Hubei Province, South China. This new species differs from the two congeneric species in having a deeper body, further from C. dabryi in having shorter outer rostral and maxillary barbels, and further from C. wulongensis in possessing a higher count of vertebrae, a deeper caudal-peduncle, and a narrower interorbital space. Its validity is corroborated by its monophyly recovered in a mitochondrial cytochrome b gene-based phylogenetic analysis and its significant genetic divergence of this gene with the two congeneric species.
Spectral Latent Heating Retrieval for the Midlatitudes Using GPM DPR. Part I: Construction of Lookup Tables
Authors: Yokoyama Chie , Hamada Atsushi , Ikuta Yasutaka , Shige Shoichi , Yamaji Moeka , Tsuji Hiroki , Kubota Takuji , Takayabu Yukari N.
Published: December 2024

Quantification of latent heating associated with precipitation at midlatitudes is essential for understanding weather and climate. While the spectral latent heating (SLH) algorithm, which retrieves heating profiles using satellite-borne precipitation radars, has been developed for tropical precipitation, it cannot be applied to midlatitude precipitation because of their different characteristics. In this study, the SLH algorithm for global midlatitude precipitation is developed. In Part I, lookup tables (LUTs) that tie heating profiles to precipitation characteristics are constructed using Local Forecast Model simulations of eight extratropical cyclones around Japan. LUTs are produced for the following six categories: convective, shallow stratiform, downward increasing (DI) deep stratiform, downward decreasing (DD) deep stratiform, SUB0 (where the 0°C level is near the surface) deep stratiform, and OTHER. The DD/DI subcategories are added to indicate different characteristics of heating profiles due to the relative positions of the cloud base and the 0°C level, as detected by the vertical gradient of precipitation profiles below the 0°C level. The precipitation-top height (the maximum precipitation rate PMAX) serves as an index for LUTs for the convective and shallow stratiform (three deep stratiform and OTHER) types. The height of PMAX roughly corresponds to the cloud-base height, which is used to separate upper-level heating and lower-level cooling. Condensates outside of precipitating areas are estimated to account for 12% of surface precipitation. Since this effect is not included in the LUTs, we applied a correction using this value to the level 3 SLH version 07 product for midlatitudes, considering the energy budget.
All-Sky Assimilation of GOES-16 Water Vapor Channels in Consideration of Cloud-Dependent Interchannel Observation-Error Correlations
Authors: Feng Chengfeng , Pu Zhaoxia
Published: December 2024

The Advanced Baseline Imager (ABI) on the Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellite-16 (GOES-16) includes three water vapor channels (8, 9, and 10) that are specifically designed to monitor tropospheric water vapor at high, mid-, and low levels. This study investigates an effective approach for assimilating the all-sky brightness temperatures (BTs) derived from these three water vapor channels while considering the characteristics of interchannel observation-error correlations (IOECs). The NASA Unified Weather Research and Forecasting (NU-WRF) Model, alongside the NCEP Gridpoint Statistical Interpolation analysis system (GSI)-based three-dimensional ensemble-variational hybrid data assimilation system, is utilized. First, an optimal bias correction (BC) scheme and data assimilation (DA) configuration, previously developed for all-sky assimilation of GOES-16 channel 8, are confirmed to be effective for channels 9 and 10. Then, the IOECs with respect to the symmetric cloud proxy variable among these three channels are analyzed. It is found that the IOECs display sigmoid function characteristics, being lower and roughly invariant with respect to under clear-sky conditions and higher in cloudy conditions. Given the unique properties of IOECs, sensitivity experiments with various configurations for assimilating the all-sky BTs from the three water vapor channels are conducted with Hurricanes Laura (2020) and Ida (2021). The results indicate that a strategy combining the assimilation of all-sky BTs from one of the GOES-16 channels, especially channel 10, with clear-sky BTs from the other water vapor channels yields superior analysis and forecasts in most scenarios, thereby highlighting the importance of appropriately estimating and accounting for cloud-dependent IOECs when assimilating all-sky BTs from the infrared channels in operational DA systems.
Development of a Scale for Assessing Animal Welfare Literacy in Tourism
Authors: Fennell David A. , de Grosbois Danuta
Published: December 2024

The purpose of this study was to develop a reliable and valid measurement scale for animal welfare literacy in tourism. Based on an established conceptual framework, this study follows a systematic scale development process consisting of four steps: generating initial items, reviewing the item pool, data collection, and assessing the reliability and validity of the scale. The created scale consists of six dimensions capturing the distinct components of animal welfare literacy in tourism. The scale can serve as a foundation for future research involving several animal species, different geographical contexts and scales, and guide efforts aimed at increasing the welfare of animals used in tourism.
Distributed secondary frequency control and state of charge (SoC) balance for droop-controlled battery energy storage systems (BESSs) with a unified SoC relative variation rate
Authors: Zhang Yalin , Liu Zhongxin , Wang Fuyong , Chen Zengqiang
Published: December 2024

The state of charge (SoC) balance, power sharing, and frequency restoration are common control objectives of battery energy storage systems. However, the SoC balance scheme induced by the power allocation through existing droop controllers can cause the capacity parameters of battery cells to be unequal to the droop coefficient, which is the result of battery capacity degradation. Under this limitation, previous capacity-based droop controllers and the secondary controllers are no longer suitable to address the imprecise power sharing and frequency restoration caused by this problem. Therefore, a power allocation scheme based on the current SoC level ratio is designed to induce a new droop controller and ensure that the SoC simultaneously drops to 0. In order to restore frequency in a distributed manner and obtain the SoC level ratio, a distributed nominal frequency controller, SoC average estimator, and power-sharing controller are designed based on multi-agent systems in both asymptotic and finite-time manners. In the asymptotic scheme, the steady-state performance of the SoC estimator is adjustable, and power sharing and frequency restoration are zero errors. In the finite-time scheme, the influence of parameters on convergence time is well analyzed, and some conservative calculation methods are provided. Several time-domain simulation examples are designed on an improved IEEE-57 bus system to verify the distribution of asymptotic and finite-time schemes.
Are Current Disclosures Current? Evidence from Form 8-K Impairment Filings
Authors: Sanseverino Amanda , Suh Jangwon
Published: December 2024

Although Form 8-K rules mandate that firms report material events shortly after they occur, a limited safe harbor allows firms to delay disclosure of certain events if they arise or are discovered concurrently with preparation of the upcoming 10-K/Q filing. Additionally, the materiality thresholds used to determine whether a filing is required are subject to managerial discretion. Given these features that provide flexibility in 8-K reporting, our study uses 8-K Item 2.06 Material Impairments as a setting to investigate how frequently firms disclose information on an 8-K, relative to their 10-K/Q disclosures. Using a 2005–2020 sample period, we find that an 8-K Item 2.06 is filed in only 9.84% of firm-quarters with 10-K/Q impairments. We then examine managerial incentives underlying the 8-K Item 2.06 filing choice and find a greater likelihood of filing in quarters where stock options are granted and where insider stock purchases are higher, and a reduced likelihood when raising capital. Further analyses explore the safe harbor and materiality choice as mechanisms, as well as the effect of consecutive losses on the 8-K filing choice. Overall, our study demonstrates the rarity in which firms disclose impairments on a current basis and provides evidence of a relation between managerial incentives and the choice to file an 8-K for mandatory reportable events.
Resistentia feminarum in visionibus: Joint fantasizing as a practice of migrant women’s narrative resistance to the Caporalato system
Authors: Poppi Fabio Indìo Massimo
Published: December 2024

The Caporalato system parallels the gangmaster framework, underlining illicit labor practices mediated by intermediaries. This system is entrenched in master narratives—culturally ingrained stories that dictate behaviors and perpetuate power disparities, safeguarding the privileges of the elite. Within this oppressive framework, women face heightened challenges, including increased vulnerability to human trafficking and exploitation. This study explores the counter-narratives developed by women in response to Caporalato’s master narratives. It gathers empirical data from naturally occurring meetings with 11 women from diverse African nations, conducted between January 2023 and July 2023. Using the joint fantasizing approach, which focuses on collaboratively constructed stories with potential future impacts, the study unveils three prominent themes of resistance: ‘My son will make me a queen’, ‘My body will set me free’, and ‘I want to stay at home!’. This analysis reveals that effective resistance through counter-narratives does not rely on forming a single, unified story opposing the master narrative. Rather, these narratives selectively challenge and sometimes adopt aspects of the dominant stories they confront.
Fault diagnosis of belt conveyors using audio data based on LLE with adaptive neighborhood and neighbor optimization under multi-information fusion
Authors: Li Zhiyuan , Wang Hongwei , Liang Wei , Yao Linhu , Liu Yu , Li Jin
Published: December 2024

To solve the problem of insufficient dimensionality reduction performance of dimensionality reduction algorithms in fault diagnosis of belt conveyors using audio data (FDBCA), we propose a locally linear embedding (LLE) algorithm with adaptive neighborhood and neighbor optimization under multi-information fusion (FM-ANO-LLE) for FDBCA. This method first uses a multi-information fusion metric to assess the relationships between samples from multiple perspectives and improve the accuracy of the selected samples. Second, an adaptive neighborhood strategy based on sample metric discriminatory information is used to dynamically divide the local structure of the sample. Finally, the reconstruction weights are optimized through the nearest neighbor optimization strategy to improve the dimensionality reduction performance. The experimental results demonstrated that FM-ANO-LLE outperforms existing dimensionality reduction algorithms, the performance of the dimensionality reduction algorithm is significantly improved, and it achieves higher diagnostic accuracy in practical FDBCA, with an accuracy of 90.4%.
Functional Impairment Related to ADHD From Preschool to School Age
Authors: Overgaard Kristin Romvig , Oerbeck Beate , Friis Svein , Pripp Are Hugo , Aase Heidi , Ingeborgrud Christine Baalsrud , Biele Guido
Published: December 2024

Objective:

Children with ADHD often experience functional impairments across various aspects of daily life. This study addresses the dearth of longitudinal research on functional impairment trajectories from preschool to school age in children with symptoms of ADHD and comorbid disorders.

Methods:

We investigated the extent to which functional impairments were associated with ADHD symptoms, along with behavioral and anxiety symptoms, from age 3.5 to 8 years. Utilizing parent- and teacher-reported data, we analyzed associations between global impairment, and dimension scores (e.g., family; child quality of life (QoL); learning; play/leisure activities; and friends) and symptoms at ages 3.5 and 8 years ( n = 783).

Results:

The mean parent global impairment score increased from 0.31 (standard deviation ( SD) = 0.40) to 0.83 ( SD = 0.63) from 3.5 to 8 years, while the teacher impairment scores slightly decreased. Specific parent impairment dimension scores, particularly QoL, learning, and friends, significantly increased. Preschool ADHD and comorbid behavioral symptoms reported by parents weakly predicted impairment at 8 years. By age 8 years, impairment and symptoms exhibited moderate to strong correlations for all impairment dimensions. Parents reported greater child impairment during school age across settings compared to preschool, while teachers’ impairment profiles remained consistent across ages.

Conclusions:

These findings suggest that parents perceive impairment as more pronounced at age 8 years and more strongly associated with symptoms of both ADHD and comorbid disorders than at age 3.5 years. Notably, for teachers, a robust correlation between inattention symptoms and learning impairment was observed, with substantially higher impairment scores reported for boys compared to girls.
New FTAS as catalysts for gender equality: The case of Vietnam’s compliance with ILO standards on gender discrimination
Authors: Dang Hoang-Minh
Published: December 2024

This research delves into the relationship between new-generation Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) and the ILO Discrimination (Employment and Occupation) Convention 1958 (C111), illustrating how the international trade instruments facilitate the integration and implementation of gender-based discrimination standards. As Vietnam becomes increasingly involved with various new FTAs, this study critically evaluates the extent to which such standards are effectively engaged and enforced within the national labour context, which is observed through the process of internalizing C111 into domestic law. Using a legal comparative and analytical approach, the research examines the opportunities and challenges of aligning Vietnamese domestic laws with international gender discrimination labour standards. The findings underscore that employing a male-centric strategy within the labour legal framework emerges as a potential tool for promoting gender equality in employment and aligning Vietnam’s commitments to international gender discrimination standards. The significance of this study lies not only in its approach to addressing persistent inequalities within the labour context but also in its innovative strategy for promoting gender equality sustainably, based on the State’s commitments to international trade. This dual focus enhances the contribution of the research, providing a comprehensive and progressive framework for understanding and tackling gender issues in the labour market.
Systemic inflammatory factors in non-alcoholic steatohepatitis-induced hepatocellular carcinoma: A bidirectional Mendelian randomization analysis
Authors: Fu Kang , Zhou Yiming , Guo Zhongyi , Chen Xiaotong , Sun Lin , Hu Xiao
Published: December 2024

Background: Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has become the most prevalent chronic liver condition globally, with its severe form, cirrhosis, leading to liver failure, hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), and mortality. The causal relationships among them remain unclear. Methods: This study employed a two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) approach to systematically investigate the causal relationships among inflammatory proteins, non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), and HCC. We utilized NASH data and HCC data from the FinnGen biobank, and genomic data for 91 circulating inflammatory factors from GWAS database. Bidirectional MR analyses were conducted using the Inverse-Variance Weighted method as the primary analysis, supplemented by MR-Egger and weighted median methods for sensitivity analyses. Additionally, we performed heterogeneity, pleiotropy, and MR-PRESSO tests to assess the robustness of our findings. Results: Forward MR analysis identified five inflammatory factors significantly associated with NASH risk: CCL25 (OR = 0.8703, p = .0159), S100A12 (OR = 0.7582, p = .0204), IL18 (OR = 0.7412, p = .0026), and LIFR (OR = 0.6804, p < .001) showed negative correlations, while CXCL11 (OR = 1.2625, p = .0354) demonstrated a positive correlation. Reverse analysis revealed that NASH significantly influenced the levels of 10 circulating inflammatory factors, including Beta-nerve growth factor (OR = 1.0286, p = .0245), CCL20 (OR = 1.0382, p = .0012), CD5 (OR = 1.0268, p = .0466), CUBD1 (OR = 1.0371, p = .0078), CSF1 (OR = 1.0231, p = .0458), IL-12β (OR = 1.0261, p = .0381), IL-22Rα1 (OR = 0.9722, p = .0311), CCL3 (OR = 1.0372, p = .0013), OPG (OR = 1.0436, p = .0103), and uPA (OR = 1.0320, p = .0054). Further analysis revealed that IL-1α levels were positively associated with HCC risk (OR = 1.5335, p = .0377), while SULT1A1 levels showed a negative correlation (OR = 0.7190, p = .0200). Pleiotropy analyses showed no significant heterogeneity or horizontal pleiotropy for most identified associations, except for OPG (heterogeneity p = .001, MR-PRESSO p < .001) and CUBD1 (MR-PRESSO p < .05) in the reverse analysis of NASH, which warrant cautious interpretation. Conclusion: This study unveils complex bidirectional causal relationships among inflammatory factors, NASH, and HCC. Intervention targeting IL-1α in patients with liver cirrhosis will significantly impact the progression of HCC.
Optimized control of gas temperature and relative humidity during non-invasive respiratory support in preterm infants: A simple and low-cost intervention
Authors: Segatto Karina , Weigert Renata Monteiro , da Silveira Mariane Ferreira , Frâncio Fabiano , Salvagni Kelen , Silva Simone Caldeira , Martins Marba Sergio Tadeu , Sant’Anna Guilherme
Published: December 2024

Background: During non-invasive respiratory support, administration of gases at high flow rates requires proper air conditioning to avoid upper airways complications. However, closed-loop control of temperature & relative humidity (T&RH) of mixed gases systems with wired-heated circuits are not commonly available in low-middle income countries (LMIC). Thus, a policy for close control of gas T&RH to overcome our system limitations was implemented. The objective of this study was to evaluate the impact of this intervention.

Method: Single center retrospective study including preterm infants admitted to a level II unit (June 2019–2020). Close control of gas T&RH was implemented in Dec 2019 and consisted of starting with the heater at a set number higher than previously and followed by adjustments every 6 h based on intermittent temperature checks (target: 36.5°C–37°C). Humidity was controlled by adjusting the water level every 6 h and checking for the presence of condensation. Two groups were identified: infants treated with or without the close T&RH control. Primary outcome was the occurrence of nasal bleeding. Secondary outcomes were adherence to the policy, need to change the original mode of respiratory support or endotracheal intubation. Appropriate statistical tests were applied.

Results: A total of 128 neonates were included: 63 managed without and 65 with close gas T&RH control. Rates of nasal bleeding decreased significantly with the close T&RH control, from 30% to 14% ( p = 0.026) despite longer duration of non-invasive support (CPAP: 1.8 ± 1.9 vs 4.3 ± 5.8 days; p = 0.002 and NIPPV: 1.8 ± 1.4 vs 4.2 ± 5.2; p = 0.009). Adherence to the policy was 93%. Changes of the original mode of respiratory support also decreased significantly (14% vs 3%; 0.024) with no intubation.

Conclusion: In the absence of advanced and expensive systems, a simple and low-cost intervention to optimize gas T&RH during non-invasive respiratory support in LMIC is feasible and associated with clinical improvements.
“There’s a Certain Loneliness of Being in a Space That Does Not Relate to You”: The Resilience and Mental Health Experiences of International Students During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Bedi Shailoo , Roberts Jillian , Duff Celeste
Published: December 2024

Research indicates that the adverse effects on post-secondary students from the COVID-19 pandemic are unprecedented on a global scale. Specifically, there is limited research that focuses on international students’ mental wellness, resilience, and well-being experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic. This study qualitatively explores the resilience and mental wellness experiences of international university students at a mid-size, research-intensive, public university in British Columbia, Canada. Nine international students, between the ages of 18 and 30, participated in narrative-style interviews. Data were analyzed by using thematic analysis and applying a resilience lens framework. The findings highlight students’ mental wellness challenges and the key factors that were instrumental for supporting their mental wellness and enacting their resilience. These findings help to mitigate the negative impacts that can result from studying during a pandemic and offers recommendations for universities on how to support international students’ overall wellbeing, particularly during significant disruption and isolation.
Supermind Ideator: How scaffolding Human-AI collaboration can increase creativity
Authors: Heyman Jennifer L , Rick Steven R , Giacomelli Gianni , Wen Haoran , Laubacher Robert J , Taubenslag Nancy , Ragupathy Pranav , Curhan Jared , Malone Thomas W , Knicker Max Sina , Jeddi Younes
Published: December 2024

Previous efforts to support creative problem-solving have included (a) techniques such as brainstorming and design thinking to stimulate creative ideas, and (b) software tools to record and share these ideas. Now, generative AI technologies can suggest new ideas that might never have occurred to the users, and users can then select from these ideas or use them to stimulate even more ideas. To explore these possibilities, we developed a system called Supermind Ideator that uses a large language model (LLM) and adds prompts, fine tuning, and a specialized user interface in order to help users reformulate their problem statements and generate possible solutions. This provides scaffolding to guide users through a set of creative problem-solving techniques, including some techniques specifically intended to help generate innovative ideas about designing groups of people and/or computers (“superminds”). In an experimental study, we found that people using Supermind Ideator generated significantly more innovative ideas than those generated by people using ChatGPT or people working alone. Thus our results suggest that the benefits of using LLMs for creative problem-solving can be substantially enhanced by scaffolding designed specifically for this purpose.
Anterior Cruciate Ligament Hybrid Remnant Preserving Reconstruction With Bone–Patellar Tendon–Bone Autograft: A Surgical Technique Video
Authors: Moutzouros Vasilios , Castle Joshua P. , Kasto Johnny , Gasparro Matthew , Pratt Brittaney A.
Published: December 2024

Background:

Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) ruptures occur frequently, with ACL reconstruction among the most commonly performed orthopaedic sports surgeries. The remnant ACL is typically debrided for visualization. However, further evidence has suggested that this remnant tissue contains a wealth of proprioceptive nerve fibers and a vascular blood supply. Theoretically, preserving the ACL remnant may improve joint proprioception and graft synovialization. Therefore, ACL hybrid remnant preservation reconstruction (HRPR) was developed to preserve and tension the native remnant in combination with an ACL reconstruction.

Indications:

Patients with proximal tears or femoral-sided avulsions, Sherman type 1 or 2, may be indicated for ACL-HRPR.

Technique Description:

In this technique, we use a bone–patellar tendon–bone (BTB) autograft, which can be harvested based on the surgeon's preference. After performing a diagnostic arthroscopy, the notch of the knee is debrided, with care to preserve the tibial ACL remnant. The tibial remnant is then undermined with electrocautery. Nonabsorbable suture is passed through the remnant tissue. A tibial guide is placed, and a pin is drilled just posterior to the tibial insertion. Next, the appropriately sized tibial tunnel is drilled just posterior to the tibial remnant insertion. Using an anteromedial-portal technique with the knee maximally flexed, an over-the-top guide with appropriate offset is used to insert the guide pin, and the femoral tunnel is drilled. The proximal graft bone block and the remnant sutures are then passed through the femoral tunnel. Metal screws are then inserted to fix the BTB graft bone blocks on the femoral side, followed by the tibial side. Backup fixation is also used by placing a biocomposite anchor 1 cm distal to the tibial tunnel.

Results:

A myriad of techniques exist for preserving the ACL remnant. For the present surgical technique, a retrospective cohort revealed that patients undergoing ACL-HRPR achieved full range of motion without extension loss and equivalent patient-reported outcomes, without increased complication rates.

Discussion/Conclusions:

For patients with femoral-sided ACL tears or avulsion, ACL-HRPR is a viable option that may augment traditional ACL reconstruction.

Patient Consent Disclosure Statement:

The author(s) attests that consent has been obtained from any patient(s) appearing in this publication. If the individual may be identifiable, the author(s) has included a statement of release or other written form of approval from the patient(s) with this submission for publication.