bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Anthocyanins in Vascular Health and Disease: Mechanisms of Action and Therapeutic Potential
Authors: Zhao Yaping , Wang Li , Huang Yu , Evans Paul C. , Little Peter J. , Tian Xiaoyu , Weng Jianping , Xu Suowen
Published: June 2024

Unhealthy lifestyles have placed a significant burden on individuals' cardiovascular health. Anthocyanins are water-soluble flavonoid pigments found in a wide array of common foods and fruits. Anthocyanins have the potential to contribute to the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular disease by improving lipid profiles and vascular function, reducing blood glucose levels and blood pressure, and inhibiting inflammation. These actions have been demonstrated in numerous clinical and preclinical studies. At the cellular and molecular level, anthocyanins and their metabolites could protect endothelial cells from senescence, apoptosis, and inflammation by activating the phosphoinositide 3-kinase/protein kinase B/endothelial nitric oxide synthases, silent information regulator 1 (SIRT1), or nuclear factor erythroid2-related factor 2 pathways and inhibiting the nuclear factor kappa B, Bax, or P38 mitogen-activated protein kinase pathways. Furthermore, anthocyanins prevent vascular smooth muscle cell from platelet-derived growth factor -induced or tumor necrosis factor-α–induced proliferation and migration by inhibiting the focal adhesion kinase and extracellular regulated protein kinases signaling pathways. Anthocyanins could also attenuate vascular inflammation by reducing the formation of oxidized lipids, preventing leukocyte adhesion and infiltration of the vessel wall, and macrophage phagocytosis of deposited lipids through reducing the expression of cluster of differentiation 36 and increasing the expression of ATP-binding cassette subfamily A member 1 and ATP-binding cassette subfamily G member 1. At the same time, anthocyanins could lower the risk of thrombosis by inhibiting platelet activation and aggregation through down-regulating P-selectin, transforming growth factor-1, and CD40L. Thus, the development of anthocyanin-based supplements or derivative drugs could provide new therapeutic approaches to the prevention and treatment of vascular diseases.
Severe obesity is associated with worse outcomes than lean metabolic dysfunction–associated steatotic liver disease
Authors: Behari Jaideep , Wang Renwei , Luu Hung N. , McKenzie David , Molinari Michele , Yuan Jian-Min
Published: June 2024

Background:

Metabolic dysfunction–associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is highly prevalent in people with obesity. We aimed to study the association of body mass index (BMI) with clinical outcomes in patients with MASLD.

Methods:

A retrospective cohort of 32,900 patients with MASLD, identified through the International Classification of Diseases-9 and 10 codes within the electronic health records of a large US-based health system, with a mean follow-up of 5.5 years (range: 1–15 y), was stratified into 6 BMI categories, <25, 25–<30, 30–<40, 40–<50, and ≥50 kg/m2.

Results:

The risk of liver decompensation and extrahepatic obesity–associated cancers had a J-shaped profile (both ps for linear and quadratic terms <0.05). Compared to patients with BMI 25–<30 kg/m2, the adjusted HRs (95% CIs) for liver decompensation of patients with BMI <25 and BMI ≥50 kg/m2 were 1.44 (1.17–1.77) and 2.27 (1.66–3.00), respectively. The corresponding figures for obesity-associated extrahepatic cancer were 1.15 (0.97–1.36) and 1.29 (1.00–1.76). There was an inverse association for BMI with liver transplantation and non-obesity–associated cancer (both ps for linear terms <0.05), but no association with HCC or all types of cancers combined. A similar J-shaped association between BMI and all-cause mortality was observed; adjusted HRs (95% CIs) for BMI <25 and ≥50 kg/m2 were 1.51 (1.32–1.72) and 3.24 (2.67–3.83), respectively, compared with BMI 25–<30 kg/m2 (both ps for linear and quadratic terms <0.001).

Conclusions:

Patients with MASLD and very severe obesity (BMI ≥50 kg/m2) had the highest risk, exceeding that of patients with lean MASLD, for developing liver decompensation, obesity-associated extrahepatic cancers, or dying from any cause.
EHR Smart Phrases Used as Enrollment Mechanism in Diabetes Self-Management Support Programs: Preliminary Outcomes
Authors: Rhoden Parker A. , Hall Luke , Stancil Michelle , Sherrill Windsor Westbrook
Published: June 2024

Diabetes in the United States is increasing rapidly. Innovative strategies are needed for diabetes prevention and self-management. This study assessed the usability, acceptability, and awareness of an electronic health record (EHR) tool for referring patients to a community-based diabetes self-management support program. Mixed-methods approaches were used, using EHR data and key informant interviews to assess the implementation of this quality improvement (QI) process intervention. The implementation of a smart phrase tool within the EHR led to a substantial increase in referrals (773) to the Health Extension for Diabetes (HED) program. Clinical health care professionals have actively used the referral mechanism; they reported using smart phrases to increase efficiency in patient care. Lack of training and program awareness was identified as a barrier to adoption. Awareness of the HED program and .HEDREF smart phrase was limited, but improved with targeted QI and training interventions. The .HEDREF smart phrase demonstrated effectiveness in increasing patient referrals to the HED program, highlighting the potential of EHR tools to streamline documentation and promote patient engagement in diabetes self-management. Future research should focus on broader health care contexts, patient perspectives, and integration of technology for optimal patient outcomes.
Impact of a Novel Asynchronous Nutrition Course on Knowledge, Attitudes, and Self-Efficacy of Physician Assistant Students
Authors: Bernard Stephanie , Daniel Sarah R.
Published: June 2024

Introduction

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the impact of a novel asynchronous medical nutrition course on physician assistant (PA) student core nutrition content knowledge, attitudes, self-efficacy about nutrition expertise, and ability to counsel future patients. Evaluating curricular changes and innovations remains imperative as the education landscape has shifted dramatically since the COVID-19 pandemic with many teaching modalities being introduced out of necessity.

Methods

A novel asynchronous medical nutrition course was created. Study participants were PA students enrolled in a nutrition course (n = 43) or a clinical skills course (n = 36). The validated Nutrition in Patient Care Survey and multiple-choice nutrition content questions were deployed at both the beginning and end of the respective courses for data collection for 3 consecutive years. Presurveys and postsurveys captured the impact on knowledge, attitudes, and self-efficacy by using a 2-group pretest post-test, quasiexperimental research design, with a 2 × 2 mixed analysis of variance.

Results

This study demonstrated statistically significant interactions of the medical nutrition course on students' knowledge (F
(1,77) = 14.32, P < .001, ɳ2 = .07), on attitudes (F
(1,77) = 7.52, P = .02, ɳ2 = .02), and on self-efficacy (F
(1,77) = 4.43, P = .04, ɳ2 = .02).

Discussion

Findings from this study provide evidence for the impact that a novel asynchronous course can have on PA students' learning, attitudes, and self-efficacy. As teaching modalities transform and evolve, this study demonstrates reproducible results from an online asynchronous content delivery modality. Future research may seek to repeat this study across many medical programs to confirm similar findings.
The Intersection of Pedagogy and Andragogy in 3 + 2-Modeled Physician Assistant Programs: Five Lessons Learned
Authors: Hoffmann Chelsey
Published: June 2024

Introduction

Physician associate/assistant (PA) faculty benefit from learning the definitions and applications of pedagogy and andragogy within PA education. However, we are now in an era where PA learners may fall along the continuum between pedagogy and andragogy, particularly in PA programs with a preprofessional phase such as the 3 + 2 model. Given PA programs with a preprofessional phase now make up 12.7% of all PA programs, faculty need to be equipped with effective strategies and techniques for engaging this population of learners.

Methods

PubMed, MEDLINE, and Google Scholar databases were queried to find existing research on the topics of andragogy and pedagogy in 3 + 2-modeled PA programs. The Journal of Physician Assistant Education was also reviewed for articles relevant to these topics.

Results

There is minimal evidence to guide PA faculty on education models, theory, or learning philosophy for students enrolled in 3 + 2 PA programs. As such, this manuscript presents 5 lessons learned from a former faculty member of a 3 + 2-modeled PA program who has experience teaching both traditional PA students in addition to 3 + 2 learners.

Discussion

The 5 lessons learned include the importance of scaffolding, explaining the “why,” emphasizing knowledge acquisition, integrating novel learning experiences, and creating channels for communication. While each of these lessons will apply to all PA students, they may be particularly impactful to those in 3 + 2-modeled PA programs. Moving forward, PA education would benefit from research dedicated to PA programs with a preprofessional phase.
Impact of previous COVID-19 infection on postoperative complications and functional recovery: a 1-year follow-up ambispective cohort study
Authors: Che Lu , Yu Jiawen , Jin Di , Bai Xue , Wang Yi , Zhang Yuelun , Xu Li , Shen Le , Huang Yuguang
Published: June 2024

Background:

It’s necessary to reassess the patients’ short-term and long-term postoperative outcomes in the post-COVID-19 era. This study aims to provide more comprehensive evidence regarding the timing of surgery after COVID-19 infection among the vaccinated population upon Omicron variant, considering the duration after acute COVID-19 infection, the severity of COVID-19, patients’ comorbidities, and the full course quality of postoperative recovery.

Materials and methods:

This is a single-center cohort study. Patients diagnosed with preoperative COVID-19 infection were consecutively included before surgery. Patients’ demographics, surgical characteristics, and COVID-19-related factors were documented. Exposure was the time interval from COVID-19 infection to surgery. The primary outcome was postoperative complications within 30 days. The secondary outcomes included postoperative mortality within 30 days, functional disability at 6 and 12 months after surgery.

Results:

A total of 4953 patients were included, and postoperative complications occurred in 353 patients (7.1%) within 30 days after surgery. Time interval from COVID-19 infection to surgery was associated with postoperative complications within 30 days after surgery [adjusted odds ratio (aOR) per day: 0.99; 95% CI, 0.99–1.00; P<0.01], as well as postoperative 6- and 12-month functional disability [(aOR): 1.00; 95% CI, 0.99–1.00; P<0.01; and (aOR) 0.99; 95% CI, 0.98–1.00; P=0.01, respectively). Delaying surgery beyond a time interval of 2 weeks was associated with reduced postoperative 30-day complications [(aOR): 0.63; 95% CI, 0.43–0.91; P=0.01] and mortality [(aOR): 0.07; 95% CI, 0.01–0.38; P<0.01]. Meanwhile, delaying surgery beyond a time interval of 7 weeks was associated with reduced functional disability at both 6-month [(aOR): 0.67; 95% CI, 0.58–0.79; P<0.01] and 12-month postoperatively [(aOR): 0.71; 95% CI, 0.53–0.95; P=0.02].

Conclusion:

A 2 weeks delay after COVID-19 infection is necessary for decreasing short-term postoperative risks, and a longer waiting period could be beneficial for long-term functional recovery.
Comprehensive analysis of cuproptosis-related genes involved in immune infiltration and their use in the diagnosis of hepatic ischemia-reperfusion injury: an experimental study
Authors: Cai Xiaopeng , Deng Jingwen , Zhou Xiaohu , Wang Kaiyue , Cai Huiqiang , Yan Yingcai , Jiang Jun , Yang Jia , Gu Jin , Zhang Yuan , Ding Yuan , Sun Qiang , Wang Weilin
Published: June 2024

Background:

Hepatic ischemia-reperfusion injury (HIRI) is a common injury not only during liver transplantation but also during major hepatic surgery. HIRI causes severe complications and affects the prognosis and survival of patients. Cuproptosis, a newly identified form of cell death, plays an important role in a variety of illnesses. However, its role in HIRI remains unknown.

Materials and methods:

The GSE151648 dataset was mined from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database, and differences were analyzed for intersections. Based on the differentially expressed genes (DEGs), functional annotation, differentially expressed cuproptosis-related genes (DE-CRGs) identification and lasso logistic regression were conducted. Correlation analysis of DE-CRGs and immune infiltration was further conducted, and DE-CRGs were applied to construct an HIRI diagnostic model. The hierarchical clustering method was used to classify the specimens of HIRI, and functional annotation was conducted to verify the accuracy of these DE-CRGs in predicting HIRI progression. The GSE14951 microarray dataset and GSE171539 single-cell sequencing dataset were chosen as validation datasets. At the same time, the significance of DE-CRGs was verified using a mouse model of HIRI with cuproptosis inhibitors and inducers. Finally, a network of transcription-factor-DE-CRGs and miRNA-DE-CRGs was constructed to reveal the regulation mechanisms. And potential drugs for DE-CRGs were predicted using Drug-Gene Interaction Database (DGIdb).

Results:

Overall, 2390 DEGs and 19 DE-CRGs were identified. Through machine learning algorithms, 8 featured DE-CRGs (GNL3, ALAS1, TSC22D2, KLF5, GTF2B, DNTTIP2, SLFN11 and HNRNPU) were screened, and 2 cuproptosis-related subclusters were defined. Based on the 8 DE-CRGs obtained from the HIRI model [area under the curve (AUC)=0.97], the nomogram model demonstrated accuracy in predicting HIRI. Eight DE-CRGs were highly expressed in HIRI samples and were negatively related to immune cell infiltration. A higher level of immune infiltration and expression of CRG group B was found in the HIRI population. Differences in cell death and immune regulation were found between the 2 groups. The diagnostic value of the 8 DE-CRGs was confirmed in the validation of two datasets. The identification of 7 DE-CRGs (SLFN11 excluded) by HIRI animal model experiments was also confirmed. Using hTFtarget, miRWalk and DGIDB database, we predicted that 17 transcription factors, 192 miRNAs and 10 drugs might interact with the DE-CRGs.

Conclusion:

This study shows that cuproptosis may occur in HIRI and is correlated with immune infiltration. Additionally, a cuproptosis-related predictive model was constructed for studying the causes of HIRI and developing targeted treatment options for HIRI.
Genotype–phenotype characteristics of 57 patients with Prader–Willi syndrome: a single-center experience from Turkey
Authors: Torun Deniz , Akin Onur
Published: June 2024

Objectives

Prader–Willi syndrome (PWS) is a rare and complex genetic disorder caused by the loss of expression of the paternal copy of the imprinted genes on chromosome 15q11-q13. A variety of findings have been reported on the phenotypic differences between the genetic subtypes of PWS. This article compares the clinical findings of 57 PWS patients by genetic subtype and explores possible associations in this context.

Methods

Methylation‑specific multiplex ligation–dependent probe amplification and single nucleotide polymorphism microarrays were used to diagnose deletion and uniparental disomy (UPD). For phenotype–genotype correlation, clinical data were collected and genetic subgroups were compared statistically, and P < 0.05 was considered to indicate statistical significance.

Results

These 57 patients consisted of 15 type I deletions, 20 type II deletions, six atypic deletions, 11 heterodisomy UPD, four isodisomy UPD, and one translocation-type PWS. All patients had hypotonia, poor neonatal sucking, and feeding difficulties during infancy. Other PWS-related clinical findings, such as speech articulation problems (85.9%), sleep apnea (77.2%), normal birth length (71.9%), small hands/feet (71.9%), childhood polyphagia (57.9%), clinodactyly (56.1%), thick viscous saliva (54.4%), and behavioral problems (50.9%) were observed at varying rates with no statistical difference between genetic subtypes in general.

Conclusion

This study highlights the phenotype–genotype associations on PWS from a cohort of Turkish pediatric patients as a single-center experience.
Gastroduodenal injury and repair mechanisms
Authors: Hagen Susan J.
Published: June 2024

Purpose of review

Although the mucosal barrier serves as a primary interface between the environment and host, little is known about the repair of acute, superficial lesions or deeper, persistent lesions that if not healed, can be the site of increased permeability to luminal antigens, inflammation, and/or neoplasia development.

Recent findings

Studies on acute superficial lesions have been sparse in the past year, with more focus given to novel mechanisms of mucosal protection, and the way in which mature epithelial cells or committed stem cells dedifferentiate, reprogram, proliferate, and then regenerate the gastroduodenal mucosa after injury. For this, adenoviral therapy showed organ specific targeting with mRNA and protein expression of effectors to protect against mucosal injury and ulceration. A large database of plant-based agents known to protect against injury and ulceration was published, along with studies using plant-based compounds delivered with alginates, polysaccharide/gel floating rafts, or incorporated into nanoparticles or green carbon dots to improve targeting and retention at the ulcerated lesion. With RNA technology developing rapidly, particularly single-cell RNA sequencing, important and novel data was forthcoming on mucosal regeneration. In particular, the role of interleukin-17 hub proteins in mucosal healing was highlighted. The presence and role of injury reserve cells was determined, as was the composition of ligand gradients for cell differentiation in both stomach and duodenum. The role of amphiregulin in parietal cell differentiation from lineage-restricted stem cells and the Yap1 gene signature in metaplasia vs. healing ulcers were of particular importance. Additionally, studies unveiled the important role of mesenchymal stromal cells in differentiation and repair mechanisms, in Muse cells as an exciting new therapy for mucosal repair after injury, and the role of sympathetic neurons in activating the immune system to regulate mucosal repair mechanisms.

Recent studies highlight novel mechanisms that promote mucosal regeneration after injury of the gastroduodenal mucosa.
Accuracy and Interpretation of Transcutaneous Carbon Dioxide Monitoring in Critically Ill Children
Authors: Setar Leah , Lee Jessica G. , Sanchez-Pinto L. Nelson , Coates Bria M.
Published: June 2024

OBJECTIVES:

Transcutaneous carbon dioxide (Tcco
2) monitoring can noninvasively assess ventilation by estimating carbon dioxide (CO
2) levels in the blood. We aimed to evaluate the accuracy of Tcco
2 monitoring in critically ill children by comparing it to the partial pressure of arterial carbon dioxide (Paco
2). In addition, we sought to determine the variation between Tcco
2 and Paco
2 acceptable to clinicians to modify patient care and to determine which patient-level factors may affect the accuracy of Tcco
2 measurements.

DESIGN:

Retrospective observational cohort study.

SETTING:

Single, quaternary care PICU from July 1, 2012, to August 1, 2020.

PATIENTS:

Included participants were admitted to the PICU and received noninvasive ventilation support (i.e., continuous or bilevel positive airway pressure), conventional mechanical ventilation, or high-frequency oscillatory or percussive ventilation with Tcco
2 measurements obtained within 15 minutes of Paco
2 measurement.

INTERVENTIONS:

None.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS:

Three thousand four hundred seven paired arterial blood gas and Tcco
2 measurements were obtained from 264 patients. Bland-Altman analysis revealed a bias of –4.4 mm Hg (95% CI, –27 to 18.3 mm Hg) for Tcco
2 levels against Paco
2 levels on the first measurement pair for each patient, which fell within the acceptable range of ±5 mm Hg stated by surveyed clinicians, albeit with wide limits of agreement. The sensitivity and specificity of Tcco
2 to diagnose hypercarbia were 93% and 71%, respectively. Vasoactive-Infusion Score (VIS), age, and self-identified Black/African American race confounded the relationship between Tcco
2 with Paco
2 but percent fluid overload, weight-for-age, probe location, and severity of illness were not significantly associated with Tcco
2 accuracy.

CONCLUSIONS:

Tcco
2 monitoring may be a useful adjunct to monitor ventilation in children with respiratory failure, but providers must be aware of the limitations to its accuracy.
The Development of Social Determinants of Health Outcome Measures: The Role of Multisector Partnerships and Community Validation
Authors: Hacker Karen , Thomas Craig , Sheridan Juliet , Glasgow LaShawn
Published: June 2024

Purpose

To develop a set of social determinants of health (SDOH) measurements.

Problem

Despite burgeoning interest in addressing both SDOH and health-related social needs, the evidence on what works is limited due in part to the lack of standardized measures for evaluation.

Methods

In 2020, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion (NCCDPHP) identified 5 SDOH domains related to chronic disease for future programmatic work. These included built environment, community connections to clinical care, tobacco-free policies, social connectedness, and food and nutrition security. Subsequently, NCCDPHP launched an effort to develop a set of SDOH measures for evaluating funded programs in these domains. The approach involved a literature scan and a rating process based on 5 criteria relevant to NCCDPHP’s SDOH priorities. A complementary community review by 13 multisector community partnerships (MCPs) applied a real-world public health practice lens to measure development. MCPs’ ratings were analyzed to create summary scores for each measure, and open-ended feedback was synthesized using rapid qualitative analysis.

Results

The internal workgroup identified 59 measures from the initial 200 measures. Feedback from the MCPs identified issues of relevancy and burden of measures. Their high scores narrowed the 59 measures to 22 covering all 5 domains. In response, CDC is honing the original measures review criteria to include community perspectives.

Conclusion

Public health measures development is often an academic pursuit. Engaging MCPs lends real-world credibility to the development of common SDOH measures.
Massive Hepatocellular Carcinoma Combined With Giant Uterine Fibroid on 18F-FDG PET/CT
Authors: Chen Bo-Lin , Huang Wen-Shan , Yu Jie-Qun , Yan Chu-Shan , Xu Jie-Hua
Published: June 2024

A 50-year-old woman was admitted due to a liver mass discovered by ultrasound in routine physical examination. MRI demonstrated a large hepatocellular carcinoma. It also discovered an abdominal mass simultaneously. 18F-FDG PET/CT was performed for staging. PET/CT showed mixed and mild metabolism of the hepatic lesion and giant abdominopelvic mass, respectively. Hepatocellular carcinoma combined with a benign mass in abdominopelvic cavity from uterine was considered and finally proved pathologically. We present a rare case of woman with large liver cancer accompanied by giant uterine fibroid where 18F-FDG PET/CT helped in making the right diagnosis.
Revised Diagnosis From Histiocytic Neoplasm to Optic Chiasm Glioblastoma After Genetic Analysis
Authors: Magharious Mark M. , Pekmezci Melike , Mamlouk Mark D. , Horton Jonathan C. , Levin Marc H.
Published: June 2024

A 46-year-old man presented with left eye blurring. Automated visual field testing showed an incongruous right hemianopia, with sparing of the lower temporal quadrant in the right eye. MRI revealed foci of gadolinium enhancement in the optic chiasm and optic tracts. Serologic testing (including myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein and neuromyelitis optica antibodies) and cerebrospinal fluid analysis were negative. Whole-body PET/CT scan found no malignancy. Biopsy of the optic chiasm revealed a moderately cellular neoplasm composed of atypical, discohesive cells with enlarged nuclei, prominent eosinophilic nucleoli, and abundant vacuolated cytoplasm. Immunohistochemical stains for CD68 and S100 were positive, whereas those for GFAP, OLIG2, SOX10, and multiple others were negative, supporting a diagnosis of histiocytic neoplasm. Five weeks later, results became available from next-generation sequencing targeting the coding regions of hundreds of malignancy-associated genes and select introns. Alterations associated with histiocytic neoplasms (i.e. BRAF and MAP2K1 mutations) were absent. However, there was a nonsense mutation in the PTEN gene, a hotspot mutation in the TERT gene promotor, and focal amplifications of the CDK4 and MDM2 genes. Additionally, there was chromosome 6q loss, 7 gain, and 10q loss. Based on these findings, the diagnosis was revised to glioblastoma, IDH-wildtype, CNS WHO grade 4. The patient began treatment with temozolomide while continuing radiation therapy. This case illustrates how next-generation sequencing can at times provide more accurate diagnostic information than standard tissue histopathology.
Beyond Stereo-EEG: Is It Worth Combining Stereo-EEG With Other Diagnostic Methods?
Authors: Jacobs Julia , Klotz Kerstin Alexandra , Pizzo Francesca , Federico Paolo
Published: June 2024

Stereo-EEG is a widely used method to improve the diagnostic precision of presurgical workup in patients with refractory epilepsy. Its ability to detect epileptic activity and identify epileptic networks largely depends on the chosen implantation strategy. Even in an ideal situation, electrodes record activity generated in <10% of the brain and contacts only record from brain tissue in their immediate proximity. In this article, the authors discuss how recording stereo-EEG simultaneously with other diagnostic methods can improve its diagnostic value in clinical and research settings. It can help overcome the limited spatial coverage of intracranial recording and better understand the sources of epileptic activity. Simultaneous scalp EEG is the most widely available method, often used to understand large epileptic networks, seizure propagation, and EEG activity occurring on the contralateral hemisphere. Simultaneous magnetoencephalography allows for more precise source localization and identification of deep sources outside the stereo-EEG coverage. Finally, simultaneous functional MRI can highlight metabolic changes following epileptic activity and help understand the widespread network changes associated with interictal activity. This overview highlights advantages and methodological challenges for all these methods. Clinical use and research applications are presented for each approach.
É Astrologia MA non É Astrologo: John Aubrey's
Brief Lives
and Astrology
Authors: Ochocinski Jakub
Published: June 2024

This article explores John Aubrey's (1627–1697) extensive use of astrology in his biographical collection
Brief Lives
(1680–1681), which has been widely celebrated for its vivid portrayal of seventeenth-century English culture and society. Aubrey's life writing was not only informed by his antiquarian pursuits, the vibrant coffee house culture of his time and his lively scientific community, but also by the practice of astrology. Through Aubrey's horoscope collection,
Collectio geniturarum
(1674–1690), and his correspondence with a wide astrological network, this article traces his deep engagement with the practice. In squarely focusing on these two sources, I argue that Aubrey greatly relied on astrological methods to inform his life writing. In making his collection of horoscopes, Aubrey drew on a long tradition of astrological data gathering. Aubrey's careful collation and calculation of data to verify birth times, identify major life events and determine ‘ingenious’ traits also contributed to a wider effort to reform astrology considering the nascent experimental philosophy. By examining Aubrey's multifaceted astrological writings, this article clarifies one of Aubrey's key techniques used in his early sketches of
Brief Lives
. More broadly, it further complicates the historical narrative that astrology was largely marginalized in late seventeenth-century English intellectual and scientific communities.
Multi-mode multiple wave scattering in suspensions of solid particles in viscous liquids: part 1 asymptotic results
Authors: Pinfield Valerie J. , Valier-Brasier Tony
Published: June 2024

The propagation of coherent longitudinal waves in a viscous liquid containing a random distribution of spherical elastic particles is analysed using a model based on multiple scattering theory. This model, initially developed to describe the propagation of coupled longitudinal and transverse elastic waves in isotropic solid materials, takes into account wave conversions at the particle surface as well as positional correlations between particles via the pair correlation function. By modelling a Newtonian viscous liquid through complex frequency-dependent elastic moduli (i.e. using an imaginary shear modulus), the model is adapted to the case of viscous fluids and we show that conversions of longitudinal waves into transverse waves are important to take into account. We present asymptotic results from the model for case of long wavelength for the longitudinal waves, without assumptions on the shear wavelength. For high concentrations, these wave conversions are reinforced by the contribution of position correlations between the particles. In a subsequent paper, we present numerical validation of the asymptotic approximations and compare them with experimental results for solid particles in water.
Climate change and population persistence in a hibernating marsupial
Authors: Nespolo Roberto F. , Quintero-Galvis Julian F. , Fontúrbel Francisco E. , Cubillos Francisco A. , Vianna Juliana , Moreno-Meynard Paulo , Rezende Enrico L. , Bozinovic Francisco
Published: June 2024

Climate change has physiological consequences on organisms, ecosystems and human societies, surpassing the pace of organismal adaptation. Hibernating mammals are particularly vulnerable as winter survival is determined by short-term physiological changes triggered by temperature. In these animals, winter temperatures cannot surpass a certain threshold, above which hibernators arouse from torpor, increasing several fold their energy needs when food is unavailable. Here, we parameterized a numerical model predicting energy consumption in heterothermic species and modelled winter survival at different climate change scenarios. As a model species, we used the arboreal marsupial monito del monte (genus
Dromiciops
), which is recognized as one of the few South American hibernators. We modelled four climate change scenarios (from optimistic to pessimistic) based on IPCC projections, predicting that northern and coastal populations (
Dromiciops bozinovici
) will decline because the minimum number of cold days needed to survive the winter will not be attained. These populations are also the most affected by habitat fragmentation and changes in land use. Conversely, Andean and other highland populations, in cooler environments, are predicted to persist and thrive. Given the widespread presence of hibernating mammals around the world, models based on simple physiological parameters, such as this one, are becoming essential for predicting species responses to warming in the short term.
Isolation of bioactive compounds from low-cost agricultural resources and its utilization in daily life
Authors: Debnath Anirban , Das Arpita
Published: June 2024

The ethanolic (80 %), methanolic (80 %) and aqueous decoction (100 % distilled water) of whole plant of Oxalis corniculata Linn (Indian Sorrel) was evaluated for its anti‐microbial and antioxidant properties by in vitro methods. Methanolic (80 %) and ethanolic (80 %) decoctions showed significant antibacterial property against Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus subtilis, Escherichia coli, and Salmonella typhi bacterial strains. In comparison to Chloramphenicol (C30) against bacteria, 80 % ethanolic decoctions showed significant effect, among the decoctions. Nowadays though the standard soap is in huge demand but it’s also facing major backlash due to the presence of synthetic compounds in it, which over long use may cause harmful effects on the skin health. Therefore, the organic soaps which are made up of natural ingredients, herbs or any sort Ayurvedic compound have fewer side effects on the human skin and are much safer than standard daily soap. The formulated therapeutic soap exhibits a significant amount of reducing potential (high FRAP and TAC values) and antioxidant activity (DPPH, ABTS assay).
Funmap: integrating high-dimensional functional annotations to improve fine-mapping
Authors: Li Yuekai , Xiao Jiashun , Ming Jingsi , Zeng Yicheng , Cai Mingxuan
Published: June 2024

Fine-mapping aims to prioritize causal variants underlying complex traits by accounting for the linkage disequilibrium of GWAS risk locus. The expanding resources of functional annotations serve as auxiliary evidence to improve the power of fine-mapping. However, existing fine-mapping methods tend to generate many false positive results when integrating a large number of annotations. In this study, we propose a unified method to integrate high-dimensional functional annotations with fine-mapping (Funmap). Funmap can effectively improve the power of fine-mapping by borrowing information from hundreds of functional annotations. Meanwhile, it relates the annotation to the causal probability with a random effects model that avoids the over-fitting issue, thereby producing a well-controlled false positive rate. Paired with a fast algorithm, Funmap enables scalable integration of a large number of annotations to facilitate prioritizing multiple causal SNPs. Our simulations demonstrate that Funmap is the only method that produces well-calibrated FDR under the setting of high-dimensional annotations while achieving better or comparable power gains as compared to existing methods. By integrating GWASs of 4 lipid traits with 187 functional annotations, Funmap consistently identified more variants that can be replicated in an independent cohort, achieving 15.5% − 26.2% improvement over the runner-up in terms of replication rate.
Exploiting multivariate network meta-analysis: A calibrated Bayesian composite likelihood inference
Authors: Wang Yifei , Lin Lifeng , Liu Yu-Lun
Published: June 2024

Summary

Multivariate network meta-analysis has emerged as a powerful tool in evidence synthesis by incorporating multiple outcomes and treatments. Despite its advantages, this method comes with methodological challenges, such as the issue of unreported within-study correlations among treatments and outcomes, which potentially lead to misleading conclusions. In this paper, we proposed a calibrated Bayesian composite likelihood approach to overcome this limitation. The proposed method eliminated the need to specify a full likelihood function while allowing for the unavailability of within-study correlations among treatments and outcomes. Additionally, we developed a hybrid Gibbs sampler algorithm along with the Open-Faced Sandwich post-sampling adjustment to enable robust posterior inference. Through comprehensive simulation studies, we demonstrated that the proposed approach yielded unbiased estimates while maintaining coverage probabilities close to the nominal level. Furthermore, we implemented the proposed method on two real-world network meta-analysis datasets; one comparing treatment procedures for the root coverage and another comparing treatments for anaemia in chronic kidney disease patients.
Preliminary X-ray diffraction and ligand-binding analyses of the N-terminal domain of hypothetical protein Rv1421 from Mycobacterium tuberculosis H37Rv
Authors: Park Jihyun , Cheon Yu Jeong , Jeong Yoon Chae , Lee Ki Seog
Published: June 2024

Mycobacterium tuberculosis can reside and persist in deep tissues; latent tuberculosis can evade immune detection and has a unique mechanism to convert it into active disease through reactivation. M. tuberculosis Rv1421 (MtRv1421) is a hypothetical protein that has been proposed to be involved in nucleotide binding-related metabolism in cell-growth and cell-division processes. However, due to a lack of structural information, the detailed function of MtRv1421 remains unclear. In this study, a truncated N-terminal domain (NTD) of MtRv1421, which contains a Walker A/B-like motif, was purified and crystallized using PEG 400 as a precipitant. The crystal of MtRv1421-NTD diffracted to a resolution of 1.7 Å and was considered to belong to either the C-centered monoclinic space group C2 or the I-centered orthorhombic space group I222, with unit-cell parameters a = 124.01, b = 58.55, c = 84.87 Å, β = 133.12° or a = 58.53, b = 84.86, c = 90.52 Å, respectively. The asymmetric units of the C2 or I222 crystals contained two or one monomers, respectively. In terms of the binding ability of MtRv1421-NTD to various ligands, uridine diphosphate (UDP) and UDP-N-acetylglucosamine significantly increased the melting temperature of MtRv1421-NTD, which indicates structural stabilization through the binding of these ligands. Altogether, the results reveal that a UDP moiety may be required for the interaction of MtRv1421-NTD as a nucleotide-binding protein with its ligand.
Synergistic corrosion behavior of Cl− and oxalic acid on ADC12 aluminum alloy
Authors: Liu Sudan , Huang Hualiang , He Jinbei
Published: June 2024

Purpose

As a commonly engine coolant, ethylene glycol can produce corrosive acid byproducts at high temperatures when the car is running, specifically oxalic acid (OA), which can shorten the service life of engine. At the same time, chloride ions can also be introduced during coolant preparation processes. Therefore, this paper aims to investigate the synergistic corrosion behavior of Cl− and OA on ADC12 aluminum alloy.

Design/methodology/approach

The electrochemical tests, scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive spectrometer, X-ray diffraction and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy) were used.

Findings

The results showed that the corrosion rate of the aluminum alloy increased with the increase of OA and Cl− concentrations. After adding Cl−, the surface film of the aluminum alloy was further damaged, Cl− has a synergistic effect with OA and their interaction further accelerated the corrosion of the aluminum alloy. Nevertheless, as the immersion time increased, the corrosion rate of the aluminum alloy gradually diminished due to the formation of aluminum oxalate.

Originality/value

The corrosion of ADC12 aluminum alloy was studied in OA, Cl− and their mixed solutions; the synergistic effect of OA and Cl− on the corrosion of ADC12 aluminum alloy was discussed, and aluminum oxalate formed inhibited its corrosion.
Employees’ change in perception when artificial intelligence integrates with human resource management: a mediating role of AI-tech trust
Authors: Arora Meenal , Mittal Amit
Published: June 2024

Purpose

This research explores and examines the change in perception artificial intelligence (AI) technology can bring in various human resources (HR) functions [(perception of change that AI can create in the talent acquisition (PAITA), perception of change that AI can create in the training and development (PAITD), perception of change that AI can create in the performance assessment (PAIPA) and perception of change that AI can create in the pay and rewards (PAIPR)] and its impact on intention to adopt AI by HR professionals. Additionally, as the literature on trust in AI is scanty, the mediation influence of AI-tech trust was also examined.

Design/methodology/approach

Cross-sectional data were gathered from 264 HR professionals from Indian e-commerce organizations. The model has been tested using a two-step partial least squares-based, structural equational modeling (PLS-SEM) technique.

Findings

AI uses algorithms for creating accurate and trustworthy information databases; it also enables quick data access and transmission, which enhances HR functions. Employees’ perception of the change that AI can bring to various HR functions significantly impacts the adoption of AI in HR. Additionally, AI-tech trust positively mediates all the hypothesized relationships.

Originality/value

Based on stimulus-organism-response (S-O-R) and affordance theory, this study significantly increases the understanding of how employees perceive changes in various HR functions as a result of AI implementation and how much they trust the AI technology. This study also addresses the lack of research on AI integration in HR, with a special focus on developing countries.
Would the Country Delight brand promise strike the right consumer chords?
Authors: Gupta Shruti , Sondhi Neena
Published: June 2024

Learning outcomes

At the end of this case study discussion, the learners should be able to identify the five-step consumer decision-making process, comprehend the role of consumer involvement and decision rules in determining the consumer choice sets, identify branding elements and cues critical to building a brand proposition, recognize the difference between point-of-parity and point-of-differentiation when building a brand proposition, develop comprehensive segment profiles in terms of their demographics, psychographics, usage and consumer–brand relationships and examine the merit of a psychographic versus benefit-based brand positioning and implication of the brand positioning on the firm’s branding and business strategy.

Case overview/synopsis

Country Delight, co-founded by Nitin Kaushal and Chakradhar Gade, tackled dairy industry challenges by embracing a direct-to-home consumer model, emphasizing consumer insights and maintaining stringent quality standards. In 2022, the company embraced “Live Better” as its brand mantra, advocating for healthier lifestyles. The next leg of the brand’s journey thus mandates crafting a distinct, user-specific brand promise that affiliates with the business strategy. The central dilemma revolves around identifying the consumer segment/s for a sustained relationship. While recognizing consumer pain points, the challenge emerges in aligning the brand proposition with the diverse interpretations of “Live Better” among consumers. The quest for the right brand persona prompts crucial questions about uniting distinct segments and devising a coherent communication strategy. Can Country Delight formulate a universally resonant brand promise that harmonizes across all consumer groups? Will the risk of diverse interpretations lead to fragmenting Country Delight’s brand narrative?

Complexity academic level

This teaching activity is aimed at Masters of Business Administration-level courses in marketing management, consumer behavior and brand management.

Supplementary materials

Teaching notes are available for educators only.

Subject code

CCS8: Marketing.
Assessing the relevance of an Indian undergraduate civil engineering programme: a fuzzy analytical hierarchy process approach
Authors: Sharma Swapnil , Singh Seema Ravindra , Jatav Sunita
Published: June 2024

Purpose

An undergraduate civil engineering programme is assessed for its relevance to the building construction sector. Its contrast from the existing curriculum structure is also highlighted.

Design/methodology/approach

The curriculum is clustered into 15 groups based on disciplines. A pairwise comparison of groups is conducted by experts from the building construction sector. Expert judgements are analysed using Fuzzy Analytical Hierarchy Process (Fuzzy AHP) to determine the groups' order based on their importance in preparing students for a career in the building construction sector.

Findings

Concrete Technology, Structural Design and Analysis, and Building Technology and Town Planning emerged as the three most essential course groups, followed by Construction and Project Management, Surveying, and Geotechnical and Allied. Foundational Science and Math, Hydrology/Water Resource Engineering, and Computing and Programming came last in the order.

Research limitations/implications

Relying on a curriculum from a specific region, generalizability to other geographical areas is limited. The perspective of building construction sector professionals excludes the views of other stakeholder groups within the sector.

Practical implications

The study allows universities in general to enhance students' job prospects in construction by calibrating course group priorities and aligning skills with industry needs, thereby potentially improving employability, and boosting the industry-academia relationship.

Originality/value

Fuzzy AHP has been utilized by building construction industry experts to assess the relevance of an undergraduate civil engineering curriculum. Findings serve as a valuable reference for implementing positive curriculum changes to potentially enhance student employability.
Dynamic adaptive decision support for strategic decision-making in healthcare organizations
Authors: Aarninkhof-Kamphuis Anke , Voordijk Hans , Dewulf Geert
Published: June 2024

Purpose

The main objective of this study was to design a dynamic adaptive decision support model for healthcare organizations facing deep uncertainties by considering promising dynamic adaptive approaches. The main argument for this is that healthcare organizations have to make strategic decisions under deep uncertainty, but lack an approach to deal with this.

Design/methodology/approach

A Dynamic Adaptive Decision Support model (DADS) is designed using the Design Science Research methodology. The evaluation of an initial model leads, through two case studies on ongoing and strategic decision-making, to the final design of this needed model for healthcare organizations.

Findings

The research reveals the relevance of the designed dynamic and adaptive tool to support strategic decision-making for healthcare organizations. The final design of DADS innovates Decision Making under Deep Uncertainty (DMDU) approaches in an organizational context for ongoing and strategic decision-making.

Originality/value

The designed model applies the Dynamic Adaptive Policy Pathways approach in an organizational context and more specifically in health care organizations. It further integrates Corporate Real Estate Management knowledge and experience to develop a most needed tool for decision-makers in healthcare. This is the first DADS designed for an organization facing deep uncertainties in a rapidly changing healthcare environment and dealing with ongoing and strategic decision-making.