bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Beyond Caregiving: Daily Pleasant Activities Among Caregivers to Older Adults With and Without Dementia
Authors: Ng Yee To , Freedman Vicki , Kratz Anna , Birditt Kira
Published: December 2024

Objectives

Limited research has explored caregivers’ activities beyond caregiving duties, which may offer positive experiences and counterbalance caregiving stress. This study aimed to (a) identify the most pleasant non-caregiving activities, (b) assess time allocation based on activity categories and pleasantness, and (c) investigate the association between activity pleasantness and duration, considering differences between caregivers to older adults with Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementias (ADRD) and those without.

Methods

This study included 2,136 caregivers (33% ADRD) from the 2017 National Study of Caregiving who participated in a time diary interview. Participants reported all activities from the previous day, including their pleasantness appraisal and duration.

Results

Weighted descriptives showed organizational activities (e.g., religious practices) were rated as the most pleasant, followed by active leisure (e.g., sports), for both ADRD and non-ADRD caregivers. Caregivers spent most time on non-active leisure (e.g., TV viewing), with about 10.6 hr daily on pleasant non-caregiving activities and 35 min on unpleasant ones. Weighted linear regression models indicated that both groups reported comparable pleasantness ratings for various activities and allocated similar amounts of time to activities based on categories and pleasantness. For non-ADRD caregivers, greater activity pleasantness was temporarily linked to longer durations.

Discussion

This study enhances understanding of caregivers’ appraisals and time spent on non-caregiving activities. Although ADRD caregiving is more stressful than non-ADRD caregiving, no spillover effect was observed on the pleasantness ratings or time spent on non-caregiving activities. However, ADRD caregivers may encounter challenges in sustaining pleasant activities over time.
Impact of Childhood Adversity on Late-Life Cognition in Older Puerto Rican Adults
Authors: Lian James , Crowe Michael , Anstey Kaarin J , Kiely Kim M , Dávila Ana Luisa , Andel Ross
Published: December 2024

Objectives

This study examined the association between childhood adversity and late-life cognitive outcomes among older Puerto Rican adults.

Methods

Data were from the PREHCO study, a population-based cohort of 3,713 older Puerto Rican adults (mean age 72.5 years; 60% female). Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) were categorised into four factors: economic hardship, parental illiteracy, childhood illness, and neighbourhood disadvantage. Cognition was assessed with the Mini-Mental Cabán (MMC). For our analyses, cognitive impairment was defined as scoring 1.5 SD below expected score, adjusted for age, sex, education, and reading ability. Ordinal logistic regression (baseline) and generalised linear mixed models (all three waves) analysed MMC scores; generalised estimating equations assessed incident cognitive impairment (waves 2 and 3).

Results

All four adversity factors were associated with poorer MMC scores at baseline. Parental illiteracy (β=-0.35, p<.001) and neighbourhood disadvantage (β=-0.27, p<.001) showed stronger associations than economic hardship (β=-0.10, p=.003) and childhood illness (β=-0.21, p<.001). No factors were significantly related to changes in cognitive scores over time. Depressive symptoms and self-rated health partially mediated cross-sectional relationships, with depressive symptoms showing a stronger effect. All adversity factors except economic hardship were linked to baseline cognitive impairment (OR=1.42 parent illiteracy, OR=1.24 childhood illness, OR=1.82 neighbourhood disadvantage, p<.05). Only neighbourhood disadvantage was associated with incident cognitive impairment (OR=1.19, p=.003).

Discussion

This study highlights the lasting impact of childhood adversity on late-life cognitive health among older Puerto Ricans, suggesting that addressing early adversity may promote cognitive health later in life.
Successful Aging Across Middle Versus High-Income Countries: An Analysis of the Role of eHealth Literacy Associated With Loneliness and Well-Being
Authors: Ivan Loredana , Marston Hannah R , Prabhu Vishnunarayan Girishan , Großschädl Franziska , Alexandra Silva Paula , Buttigieg Sandra C , Öztürk Çalıkoğlu Halime , Bilir Koca Burcu , Arslan Hasan , Kanozia Rubal , Browning Matthew H E M , Freeman Shannon , Earle Sarah
Published: December 2024

Background and Objectives

“Successful aging” concerns the process of growing older while maintaining physical, cognitive, and social well-being, emphasizing independence for overall satisfaction and quality of life. We investigate the impact of eHealth literacy on reducing loneliness and sustaining well-being during the pandemic, comparing middle- and high-income countries.

Research Design and Methods

Online surveys were conducted between April 4, 2020, and September 30, 2021, collecting responses (N = 2,091) from medium- and high-income countries in Europe, Asia, and North America. T-tests and ANOVAs were used to test how sociodemographic predictors were associated with differences in e-Health literacy, loneliness, and well-being.

Results

Respondents from high-income countries reported significantly higher well-being scores than those from middle-income countries and respondents from high-income countries had significantly higher e-HEALS (e-Health literacy) scores compared to middle-income countries. No significant difference was observed in loneliness scores between high-income and middle-income country respondents. Well-being is associated with age, with younger adults (18–29 years) and those aged 40+ reporting higher levels. Higher education and income are linked to greater well-being. Gender differences are observed, with females and those with a partner reporting higher well-being. In middle-income countries, higher education levels are more linked to loneliness, while in higher-income countries, loneliness is observed across education levels.

Discussion and Implications

Future interventions by governments and policymakers should consider intersectionality in e-Health planning and offer digital literacy and digital skills training to those with lower education levels.
Upper crustal structure of the Xinfengjiang reservoir from ambient noise double beamforming tomography and its implications for induced seismicity
Authors: Wu Keyuan , He Lipeng , Guo Zhen , Luo Bin , Chen Yongshun John , Osotuyi Abayomi Gaius
Published: December 2024

The Xinfengjiang Reservoir in Guangdong, China, triggered one of the largest reservoir-induced earthquakes in the world, with a magnitude of 6.1 in 1961 March. Frequent local seismic events have been recorded in the vicinity of the reservoir, posing a potential threat to the dam infrastructure and surrounding regions. In this study, we obtain a high-resolution S-wave velocity model of the upper crustal structure underlying the Xinfengjiang Reservoir, using double beamforming tomography method from newly deployed dense array across the reservoir. Our results reveal that several high-velocity structures are distributed beneath the Xinfengjiang Reservoir. These structures are robust, facilitating a greater accumulation of stress before fault slip. Earthquakes beneath the reservoir are primarily concentrated at the boundaries of the high-velocity bodies, indicating their controlling role on the location of seismic events. Low-velocity zones, acting as pathways for fluid migration, extend from the surface to the depths of seismic sources, thereby inducing earthquakes by elevating pore pressure within fault and fracture systems. Due to significant differences in the fluid diffusion coefficient, the delay times between the onset of earthquakes and the peak water levels vary considerably with the different crustal structures.
A mechanistic model for the complex conductivity of clay materials. II. Comparison to experimental data
Authors: Maineult Alexis , Leroy Philippe , Mendieta Aida , Jougnot Damien
Published: December 2024

Clays are very abundant minerals in the Earth's crust and express a high conductivity response that can be observed at the scale of the geological formation by electrical and electromagnetic methods. However, these minerals have a complex microstructure that renders difficult the quantitative petrophysical interpretation of the electrical field measurements. In this study, we developed a new approach to interpret spectral induced polarization (SIP) signals measured on clay materials in terms of microstructural and electrical double layer (EDL) properties, including surface conductivity, using the physical model recently developed by Leroy et al. With a restrained set of optimized physical–chemical parameters, that is, the fraction of the counter-charge and cation effective ion mobility in the Stern layer the number of stacked sheets per montmorillonite particle, and clay aggregate effective shape and size distribution, our model well reproduces the measured laboratory SIP spectra in the mHz to kHz frequency range on kaolinite, illite and montmorillonite muds at different NaCl concentrations. Our results suggest that most of the EDL counter-charge controlling SIP spectra are located in the Stern layer on the basal surfaces. First Archie's law explains the in-phase conductivity measurements provided that the contribution of the diffuse layer to water conductivity is properly included. The ratio of imaginary surface conductivity to real surface conductivity is highly dependent on frequency and slightly dependent on salinity. Finally, the measured quadrature conductivity is proportional but not necessarily equal to the imaginary surface conductivity. Our study is a step forward to better understand the complex electrical conductivity of clays.
Differential substrate preferences IN ACTINOBACTERIAL protein O-MANNOSYLTRANSFERASES and alteration of protein-O-MANNOSYLATION by choice of secretion pathway
Authors: Saxena Hirak , Patel Rucha , Kelly John , Wakarchuk Warren
Published: December 2024

Protein-O-mannosylation (POM) is a form of O-glycosylation that is ubiquitous and has been studied extensively throughout in fungi and animals. The key glycosyltransferase, protein O-mannosyltransferase (PMT), a member of family GT-39, is also found in over 3,800 bacterial genomes but has only been minimally examined from prokaryotes. In prokaryotes POM has only been investigated in terms of pathogenicity (in Mycobacterium tuberculosis) even though there are far more non-pathogenic bacteria that appear to carry out POM. To date, there is no consensus on what benefit POM imparts to the non-pathogenic bacteria that can perform it. Through the generation of a POM deficient mutant of Corynebacterium glutamicum – a widely utilized and known protein O-mannosylating actinobacteria – this work shows that even closely related actinobacterial GT-39 s (the enzymes responsible for the initiation of POM) can have different substrate specificities for targets of POM. Moreover, presented here is evidence that POM does not only occur in a SEC-dependent manner; POM also occurs with TAT and non-SEC secreted substrates in a specific and likely tightly regulated manner. Together these results highlight the need for further biochemical characterization of POM in these and other bacterial species to help elucidate the true nature of its biological functions.
Maternal health planning and prioritization in Chad: developing a supportive tool
Authors: Krause Ana , Quach Alexandre , Betinbaye Yamingué , Rolande Mindekem , Mgawadere Florence , Ameh Charles A
Published: December 2024

The Republic of Chad has one of the highest rates of maternal mortality in the world. With scarce resources to respond to competing demands, pragmatic evidence-based planning tools are needed to aid planning and support priority setting. This action research aimed to develop a tool to support maternal health (MH) planning and prioritization decisions and identify priority regions/provinces for intervention in Chad based on aggregate MH coverage gap scores (Target-Coverage = Coverage Gap). A rapid review was conducted to identify key indicators and relevant national targets. The 2019 Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey and other national surveys were the data sources for selected indicators at the provincial level. Aggregate MH coverage gaps were calculated and displayed using geographic information system software to visualize variations by province. Eleven key informant interviews (KIIs) and six focus group discussions (FGDs) were conducted with clinicians and administrators to understand existing MH planning, prioritization, and maternal mortality risks in Chad. Wide provincial variation in aggregate MH coverage gaps was identified (mean score 374.3, SD: 77.4). Indicators contributing the most to coverage gaps include emergency obstetric care, adolescent births, tetanus vaccination, and delivery by skilled health personnel. Two weighting scenarios for the coverage gap scores are also considered. KIIs and FGDs revealed that existing MH planning in Chad differs provincially and by health system level, with no clear prioritization processes identified. Main themes regarding MH risks reported by stakeholders included challenges relating to the health system, policy landscape, country and population-specific factors, along with specific MH threats. Current centralized planning approaches may benefit from greater consideration of provincial differences to support more efficient and equitable resource distribution. This multi-indicator assessment offers an adaptable approach for evidence-based MH resource allocation to prioritize subnational areas with worst health indicators in resource-limited settings, although further research is needed to test its impact.
Jueces en tensión: la Corte Suprema argentina (2003-2023) y la Corte Constitucional colombiana (2002-2023) frente a la polarización
Authors: Botero Sandra , García Holgado Benjamín
Published: December 2024

In this article, we study how the Supreme Court of Argentina (2003-2023) and the Constitutional Court of Colombia (2002-2023) responded to periods of increasing political polarization. In each country, for each presidency, we describe the political context of the polarization, the composition of the courts, and how the courts ruled on significant cases for the executives during moments of high polarization. The evidence indicates that both courts did not align permanently or automatically with any political faction. We suggest that the mechanisms for selecting judges and the distribution of power in Congress have prevented a single force from controlling the high courts and have led to the absence of internal ideological polarization within these courts.
Implantation of a sutureless aortic valve into the ring of a mechanical valve: an extreme solution for extreme cases
Authors: Boris Robič , Petrovič Rene , Krasniqi Arta , Antonič Miha
Published: December 2024

Reoperations due to dysfunction of artificial mechanical aortic valves represent a complex and high-risk surgical procedure, particularly for elderly patients. In this report, we present a case of an 81-year-old female patient where, due to structural degeneration of the mechanical valve, an emergency surgical procedure was indicated. After the removal of the valve leaflets, a sutureless aortic valve was implanted within the mechanical ring. In our case, we demonstrate that such an approach is a safe alternative for high-risk patients, who cannot undergo percutaneous procedures. By reducing the duration of cardiopulmonary bypass and aortic clamping, the surgical outcomes and complication rates can be significantly improved.
Feasibility of computed tomography-derived surgical margin assessment in an ex vivo sublobar lung resection model
Authors: Kitazawa Shinsuke , Bernards Nicholas , Gregor Alexander , Sata Yuki , Hiraishi Yoshihisa , Ogawa Hiroyuki , Koga Takamasa , Ishiwata Tsukasa , Aragaki Masato , Yokote Fumi , Effat Andrew , Kazlovich Kate , Weersink Robert , Cabanero Michael , Sato Yukio , Yasufuku Kazuhiro
Published: December 2024

OBJECTIVES

Computed tomography (CT) imaging of a sublobar resection specimen may inform intraoperative surgical margin assessment. However, consistency with final pathological margins has not been previously evaluated. In this study, we investigated the concordance between surgical margin measurements by CT versus pathology measurements using an ex vivo sublobar lung resection model.

METHODS

Pig lung wedge samples containing agarose pseudotumours were harvested. CT images were acquired following specimen inflation. The specimen was bisected along the same plane observed by CT for accurate comparison with pathological surgical margin measurement. The bisected samples were then fixed in formalin before preparing haematoxylin & eosin slides. Surgical margin length at four distinct stages (CT, gross pre-formalin fixation, gross post-formalin fixation and pathology) were measured and compared.

RESULTS

A total of 50 lung specimens were analysed. After specimen processing, Surgical margin length decreased in 94% (47/50) and increased in 6% (3/50) of samples. Mean surgical margin lengths were as follows: CT 14.0 mm (range: 4.5–28.3 mm), gross pre-formalin fixation 13.0 mm (range: 4.0–25.0 mm), gross post-formalin fixation 12.1 mm (range: 2.5–26.0 mm) and pathology 10.9 mm (range: 1.0–23.4 mm). There was an average −23.8% (range: +11 to −82%) change in surgical margin length from CT to final pathology (P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

While CT-based surgical margin measurement is feasible, we observed an average 23.8% discordance when compared to final pathology measurement. Surgeons must be aware that the CT-derived surgical margin generally overestimates the pathology-derived surgical margin.
The Impact of Showcard Use on Selected Point-Rating Scales in Face-to-Face Surveys: Evidence from the European Social Survey
Authors: Saraç Melike , West Brady T
Published: December 2024

Although quality aspects of survey data have been well-investigated in the methodological literature, little is known about the effects of showcard use on data quality. This study sought to examine the impact of the degree of showcard use on data quality, focusing on item-missing data and middle-point selection for a selected set of questions. The data come from the European Social Survey Round 9 (ESS9), which covers 29 European countries. Our findings suggest that showcards used in face-to-face surveys significantly reduce the presence of item-missing data and middle-point selection, even if only some of them are used during interviews. This study presents different strategies that may be employed for questionnaire design, interviewer training, and data collection.
Exploring factors that impact pass rates in a UK pharmacist registration exam, 2011–2024
Authors: Kavanagh Oisín N , Ashton Mark , Husband Andrew K
Published: December 2024

Objectives

The aim of this work was to evaluate the performance of UK MPharm graduates on the General Pharmaceutical Council’s (GPhC) registration assessment, between the years 2011–2024, to explore the factors that impact student performance in this examination.

Methods

Student performance in the GPhC registration assessment was contextualized with factors like alma mater, Foundation Training placement, NSS, and HESA data. Relationships between these factors and the weighted average passing rates and raw scores were analysed using a range of statistical methods including correlation analysis, ANOM, Tukey–Kramer, and t-tests.

Key findings

Year on year, students from top performing Schools of Pharmacy consistently perform well and performance becomes less consistent as average passing rate decreases (R2 = 0.89; Prob > F < 0.0001). To best discriminate between MPharm programmes and placement type, students can be grouped by their raw score. We also find that students are more likely to pass in hospital compared to community placements, independent of institution. These relationships hold true for the best- and worst-performing students.

Conclusions

Our analysis highlights substantial differences in performance levels between the highest and lowest-performing schools and placement types. While not always the case, it appears that pharmacy students should seek to obtain a pre-registration placement in the hospital environment to maximise their chances of success in the GPhC exam. Moving forward, we advocate for better quality data which could link each individual (and their demographic characteristics) as they move through university right through to their performance on each question in the registration exam.
The Milstein scheme for singular SDEs with Hölder continuous drift
Authors: Gerencsér Máté , Lampl Gerald , Ling Chengcheng
Published: December 2024

We study the $L^{p}$ rate of convergence of the Milstein scheme for stochastic differential equations when the drift coefficients possess only Hölder regularity. If the diffusion is elliptic and sufficiently regular, we obtain rates consistent with the additive case. The proof relies on regularization by noise techniques, particularly stochastic sewing, which in turn requires (at least asymptotically) sharp estimates on the law of the Milstein scheme, which may be of independent interest.
A complex of NLRP3 with caspase-4 is essential for inflammasome activation by Tannerella forsythia infection
Authors: Hsu Chen-Wei , Okano Tokuju , Niinuma Yuiko , Leewananthawet Anongwee , Iida Tamako , Onsoi Poramed , Boonyaleka Kotchakorn , Ashida Hiroshi , Suzuki Toshihiko
Published: December 2024

Periodontitis, a chronic inflammatory disease of periodontal tissue, is often associated with a group of pathogenic bacteria known as the “red complex”, including Tannerella forsythia. Previous papers showed that T. forsythia induces many kinds of inflammatory cytokines including interleukin (IL)-1β regulated by inflammasome activation. However, the physiological function of periodontitis and the mechanism to induce inflammasome activation by T. forsythia infection are poorly understood. In this study, we demonstrate that the Nod-like receptor pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3) and caspase-4 are essential for inflammasome activation by T. forsythia infection, playing a crucial role in IL-1β maturation in THP-1 cells. We also showed that the knockout of ASC or Gasdermin D suppresses pyroptotic cell death. Moreover, co-immunoprecipitation assays confirmed the formation of a complex involving caspase-4, NLRP3, and ASC following T. forsythia infection. Additionally, reactive oxygen species production was identified as a key factor in caspase-4-mediated NLRP3 inflammasome activation by T. forsythia infection. These results enhance our understanding of inflammasome activation in response to T. forsythia infection and provide new insights into the pathogenic mechanisms of periodontitis.
Urea-based mutualistic transfer of nitrogen in biological soil crusts
Authors: Heredia-Velásquez Ana Mercedes , Sarkar Soumyadev , Thomas Finlay Warsop , Baza Ariadna Cairó , Garcia-Pichel Ferran
Published: December 2024

Foundational to the establishment and recovery of biocrusts is a mutualistic exchange of carbon for nitrogen between pioneer cyanobacteria, including the widespread Microcoleus vaginatus, and heterotrophic diazotrophs in its "cyanosphere". In other such mutualisms, nitrogen is transferred as amino acids or ammonium, preventing losses through specialized structures, cell apposition or intracellularity. Yet, in the biocrust symbiosis relative proximity achieved through chemotaxis optimizes the exchange. We posited that further partner specificity may stem from using an unusual nitrogen vehicle, urea. We show that representative mutualist M. vaginatus PCC 9802 possesses genes for urea uptake, two ureolytic systems, and the urea cycle, overexpressing only uptake and the rare urea carboxylase/allophanate hydrolase (uc/ah) when in co-culture with mutualist Massilia sp. METH4. In turn, it overexpresses urea biosynthesis, but neither urease nor urea uptake when in co-culture. On nitrogen-free medium, three cyanosphere isolates release urea in co-culture with M. vaginatus but not in monoculture. Conversely, M. vaginatus PCC 9802 grows on urea down to the low micromolar range. In natural biocrusts, urea is at low and stable concentrations that do not support the growth of most local bacteria, but aggregates of mutualists constitute dynamic microscale urea hotspots, and the cyanobacterium responds chemotactically to urea. The coordinated gene co-regulation, physiology of cultured mutualists, distribution of urea pools in nature, and responses of native microbial populations, all suggest that low-concentration urea is likely the main vehicle for interspecies N transfer, helping attain partner specificity, for which the rare high-affinity uc/ah system of Microcoleus vaginatus is likely central.
Effects of the Intensity and Duration of COVID-19 Lockdown Policies on the Use of Coping Strategies: Evidence from Four African Countries
Authors: Baliki Ghassan , Todua Ani , Weiffen Dorothee , Regassa Mekdim Dereje , Stojetz Wolfgang , Brück Tilman
Published: December 2024

Governments worldwide responded to the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic with various lockdown measures. Restrictions curb the spread of a virus but also cause serious economic challenges. Evidence on how the severity of lockdown policies impacts the economic behaviour of households in low- and middle-income countries over time remains absent. To close this knowledge gap, we study the immediate and protracted effects of COVID-19 lockdowns on households' economic coping strategies. Specifically, we examine how variations in intensity and duration of lockdown policies affect the use of savings, selling assets and reducing essential non-food expenditure in four African countries: Mozambique, Sierra Leone, Tanzania and Uganda. Using ‘Life with Corona Africa’, a large-scale dataset collected through continuous phone interviews over a full year in 2021, we apply a linear probability model with country and month fixed effects to test the combined effect of the duration and intensity of lockdown policies. We find that, immediately after the introduction of (stricter) lockdown policies, the share of households who spend savings or sell assets declines. Instead, households reduce expenditure on non-food essential items, such as education and clothing. Under longer lockdowns, however, households change their response and spend their savings and sell their assets. The effects are particularly pronounced for the two poorest quintiles of households. Taken together, our findings underscore the importance of providing adequate social safety nets for poor households to deal with income shocks under protracted lockdowns since households can only cope with short lockdowns without employing harmful adaptation mechanisms.
Identification of Anticholinesterase Active Compounds from the Ethylacetate Fraction of Hydroalcoholic Extract of Itrifal Sana Using TLC–bioautography–MS and Its Validation Using an In Silico Molecular Approach
Authors: Samal Monalisha , Siddiqui Aslam , Dar Mohammad Irfan , Srivastava Varsha , Khan Muzayyana , Parveen Rabea , Ansari Shahid Hussain , Ahmad Sayeed
Published: December 2024

Background

Traditional formulations are used extensively throughout the world due to their holistic approach to health and wellness with the fewest possible adverse effects. Itrifal Sana is a traditional Unani polyherbal formulation: a unique combination that makes it synergistically potent, capable of providing dual benefits for health and well-being. Even though the formulation is frequently utilized, there is no scientific evidence to support its therapeutic efficiency.

Objective

The present study was designed to detect and identify bioactives, responsible for acetylcholinesterase inhibitory activity, by TLC–bioautography–MS and its validation using an in silico molecular approach.

Methods

Authentication of the formulation was performed using macroscopy and powder microscopy. Quality control was performed using ultra-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (UPLC–MS) fingerprint analysis. TLC–bioautography–MS was performed to detect the bioactives responsible for acetylcholinesterase inhibitory activity and the findings were validated using an in silico approach.

Results

The TLC–bioautography–MS revealed the presence of rosmarinic acid, kaempferol, and apigenin as potential bioactive anticholinesterase metabolites. UPLC–MS analysis demonstrated the separation of 48 phytocompounds in the most active fraction of the formulation. In silico analysis of identified metabolites showed acetylcholinesterase inhibitory activity in ten identified metabolites, and, moreover, rosmarinic acid and lobeline showed the highest potential activity.

Conclusion

Our findings indicate that Itrifal Sana, which was investigated for the first time, has enormous potential for managing alzheimer’s disease (AD) caused by acetylcholinesterase enzyme inhibition. The findings were derived through a successful TLC–bioautography–MS and in silico approach; however, further research on the full efficacy using in vitro cell line studies, in vivo studies, pharmacokinetics studies, and toxicity studies is still needed.

Highlights

TLC–bioautography–MS and an in silico molecular approach offer much more effective, accurate, and reliable results than conventional methods in the identification and validation of bioactive components from Itrifal Sana, a polyherbal formulation that helps to advance the development of natural product-based therapeutics for cholinesterase dysfunctional diseases.
RMST: a long noncoding RNA involved in cancer and disease
Authors: Tani Hidenori
Published: December 2024

Long non-coding RNA rhabdomyosarcoma 2-associated transcript (RMST) is a crucial regulator in various biological processes, particularly in neurogenesis and cancer progression. This review summarizes current knowledge on structure, expression patterns and functional roles across different organs and diseases of RMST. RMST exhibits tissue-specific expression, notably in brain tissues and vascular endothelial cells, and plays a significant role in neuronal differentiation through interaction with SRY-box 2. In cancer, RMST predominantly functions as a tumour suppressor, with context-dependent roles observed across different cancer types. RMST is also implicated in neurological disorders, cardiovascular diseases and Hirschsprung’s disease. Mechanistically, RMST acts as a competing endogenous RNA and a transcriptional regulator, interacting with various microRNAs and proteins to modulate gene expression. The potential of RMST as a biomarker and therapeutic target is increasingly recognized, particularly in atherosclerosis and cancer. While current findings are promising, further research is needed to fully elucidate the functions and translate these insights into clinical applications of RMST. This review underscores the significance of RMST in cellular processes and disease pathogenesis, highlighting its potential as a novel target for diagnostic and therapeutic interventions.
Means-Goal Conflict and Novel Brand Choice
Authors: Gamlin Jessica , Brick Danielle J
Published: December 2024

Globalization and technological advancements have spurred a rapid increase in the number of novel brands in the marketplace. When and why consumers choose a novel brand are increasingly important questions for marketers. The present research explores these questions and posits that consumers are more likely to choose a novel brand depending upon the choice context. Specifically, we theorize that consumers are more likely to choose a novel brand under means-goal conflict (as opposed to means-goal congruence). We suggest this effect occurs because, in contexts involving means-goal conflict, consumers are motivated to justify their choice, and novel brands afford consumers the opportunity to do so. That is, unlike familiar brands, novel brands lack strong associations in consumers’ minds, which allows consumers the ability to interpret them as less impedimental (i.e., less harmful) to their goal (a choice-justification strategy), thereby increasing choice. We test and find support for our hypotheses about novel brand choice across eight studies. The present research contributes to the literatures on branding, consumer goals and choice, and means-goal associations and has implications for managers launching new brands into the competitive global marketplace.
Deaf/hard of hearing ecological assessment form—child (DEAF-C)
Authors: Whitaker Robert , Morere Donna A
Published: December 2024

Only about 1% of the children receiving special education services are deaf or hard of hearing (DHH). This group of children is highly heterogeneous with respect to a range of factors such as age of onset, degree of hearing loss, language and communication choices and access, and educational settings. Capturing the complex background of a DHH child is a critical component of an appropriate and accurate evaluation. A structured developmental history is the most effective way to ensure clinicians of all levels of experience are gathering comprehensive information relevant to a DHH child. However, to date, no such assessment focusing on factors specific to DHH children exists. The purpose of this article is to introduce a structured background information and developmental history form designed to gather comprehensive developmental and ecological information unique to DHH children.
The (Un)Importance of Inheritance
Authors: Black Sandra E , Devereux Paul J , Landaud Fanny , Salvanes Kjell G
Published: December 2024

Transfers from parents—either in the form of gifts or inheritances—have received much attention as a source of inequality. This paper uses administrative data for the population of Norway to examine the share of the Total Inflows (defined as the capitalized sum of net labor income, government transfers, and gifts and inheritances received over the period) accounted for by capitalized gifts and inheritances. Consistent with other work, we find that there is much inequality in the receipt of gifts and inheritances. However, gifts and inheritances represent a small share of Total Inflows; this is true across the distribution of Total Inflows, as well as at all levels of net wealth. Gifts and inheritances are only an important source of income flows among those who have very wealthy parents. Additionally, gifts and inheritances have very little effect on the distribution of Total Inflows, suggesting that inheritance taxes may do little to mitigate inequality.
Inverse wavefield transform of vertical magnetic component of loop-source TEM data over coalfield strata: a case study in Inner Mongolia, China
Authors: Guo Jianlei , Fan Kerui , Li Wenhan , Xue Junjie , Lu Kailiang , Qi Zhipeng , Li Xiu
Published: December 2024

The transient electromagnetic method (TEM) is an effective and efficient tool that can be used to map the subsurface distribution of electric conductivity. To highlight the subsurface conductivity contrasts, inverse wavefield transform has been proposed and applied to provide reflection events from geo-electric interfaces similar to those in the wavefield reflection methods. In this paper we present a case study of inverse wavefield transform for loop-source TEM data. The TEM survey site is located in a coal field in Inner Mongolia, China. Previous geological surveys and TEM data inversion had already confirmed that, within the depth of 800 m, the subsurface structure of conductivity is layered and smooth. The numerical and field data were transformed by a self-adapted algorithm of inverse wavefield transform. The reflection events were observed as expected in the pseudo-wavefield wavefield traces transformed from the numerical and field data. The data misfit between the fitted data (recovered from the transformed pseudo-wavefield) and the field (or numerical) data was smaller than 15% for the 720 × 720 m loop used in our case. Finally, numerical and field cases with detailed discussion are presented to illustrate that the algorithm and results of our inverse wavefield transform are physically rational and numerically accurate.
Bacteria-powered self-healing concrete: Breakthroughs, challenges, and future prospects
Authors: Elgendy Ibrahim M , Elkaliny Nehal E , Saleh Hoda M , Darwish Gehad O , Almostafa Mervt M , Metwally Kamel , Yahya Galal , Mahmoud Yehia A -G
Published: December 2024

In a world where concrete structures face constant degradation from environmental forces, a revolutionary solution has emerged: bio-self-healing concrete. This innovation involves embedding dormant bacteria within the concrete mix, poised to spring into action when cracks form. As moisture seeps into the cracks, these bacterial agents are activated, consuming nutrients and converting them into calcium carbonate, a natural substance that fills and repairs the fractures, restoring the material’s integrity. This fascinating process represents a cutting-edge approach to maintaining concrete infrastructure, turning once-vulnerable materials into self-sustaining systems capable of healing themselves. The ongoing research into bio-self-healing concrete is focused on selecting bacterial strains that can withstand the extreme conditions within concrete, including its highly alkaline environment. The bacteria must also form resilient spores, remaining viable until they are needed for repair. Additionally, the study explores various challenges associated with this technology, such as the cost of production, the bacteria’s long-term viability, and their potential environmental impact. Advancements in genetic engineering and smart technology are being explored to enhance these bacterial strains, making them more efficient and robust in their role as microscopic repair agents. This review delves into the potential of bio-self-healing concrete to revolutionize how we approach infrastructure maintenance, offering a glimpse into a future where concrete structures not only endure but actively repair themselves, extending their lifespan and reducing the need for costly repairs.

One-Sentence Summary

Bio-self-healing concrete utilizes bacteria that activate upon crack formation to repair structures by producing calcium carbonate, offering a sustainable solution to prolong the lifespan of concrete infrastructure.
Public assistance and survival equality in patients with EGFR mutation-positive lung cancer
Authors: Uryu Kiyoaki , Imamura Yoshinori , Shimoyama Rai , Mase Takahiro , Fujimura Yoshiaki , Hayashi Maki , Ohtaki Megu , Otani Keiko , Hibino Makoto , Horiuchi Shigeto , Fukui Tomoya , Fukai Ryuta , Chihara Yusuke , Iwase Akihiko , Yamada Noriko , Tamura Yukihiro , Harada Hiromasa , Tsuya Asuka , Okabe Takafumi , Fukuoka Masahiro , Minami Hironobu
Published: December 2024

Background

Disparities in public assistance or the urbanization level of a residential region can affect cancer treatment outcomes. This study aimed to investigate whether these factors affect the overall survival (OS) of patients with epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) mutation-positive non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) using Tokushukai REAL World Data.

Methods

We analyzed the clinical data of consecutive patients with NSCLC receiving EGFR-tyrosine kinase inhibitors between April 2010 and March 2020 at 46 Tokushukai Medical Group hospitals in Japan. The patient’s insurance coverage status was extracted from electronic medical records, and the urbanization level of residential regions was classified as megalopolis or other according to the secondary medical region. Univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses were performed to examine the associations between OS and patient/tumor/treatment/socioeconomic-related factors.

Results

In total, 758 patients (58.5% females) were included in the study; 41 patients (5.4%) received public assistance, and 442 patients (58.3%) were categorized under megalopolis in the secondary medical regions. In multivariate Cox regression analyses, there was no significant difference in the OS between non-recipients of public assistance and recipients [hazard ratio (HR) 1.084; 95% confidence intervals (CIs), 0.674–1.744]. There was also no significant difference in the OS between megalopolis and other regions in the secondary medical regions (HR 1.143; 95% CIs, 0.914–1.428).

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that neither the use of public assistance nor the urbanization level in the residential region significantly impacts the prognosis of Japanese patients with EGFR mutation-positive NSCLC.
Seasonal fluctuation of insecticide resistance mutation frequencies in field populations of Anopheles and Culex species in Korea
Authors: Lee Do Eun , Kim Heung-Chul , Klein Terry A , Lee Si Hyeock , Kim Ju Hyeon
Published: December 2024

Members of the Anopheles Hyrcanus Group, Culex pipiens complex, and Culex tritaeniorhynchus are prevalent vector species in the Republic of Korea (ROK), transmitting Plasmodium vivax and various arboviruses. Extensive use of insecticides to control these mosquitoes has led to insecticide resistance. In this study, we monitored 3 target site mutations associated with insecticide resistance (kdr for pyrethroid resistance, ace1 for organophosphate resistance, and rdl for phenylpyrazole resistance) in these mosquito groups over four consecutive years to understand the seasonal dynamics of resistance in different areas with distinct ecological characteristics. In the Anopheles Hyrcanus Group, the frequencies of kdr and ace1 mutations exhibited seasonal fluctuations in an urban-rural complex area (Humphreys US Army Garrison) (hereafter Humphreys), suggesting an overwintering fitness cost, whereas the rdl mutation frequencies remained constant at nearly saturated levels. These patterns were less clear in rural areas (the demilitarized zone separating Korea), indicating area-specific profiles related to different insecticide usage patterns. The kdr and rdl mutation frequencies associated with the Cx. pipiens complex were relatively constant, but varied by the collection area, with higher rdl frequency in Humphreys and higher kdr frequency in Yongsan, a metropolitan area, suggesting different selection pressures. Overall resistance mutation frequencies were highest in Cx. tritaeniorhynchus, with ace1 and rdl mutations being seasonally saturated, while the kdr mutation frequency varied over time. Our findings demonstrate species- or group-specific seasonal and regional dynamic patterns of insecticide resistance, presenting the need for targeted control strategies and further improving the management of mosquito-borne diseases in the ROK.
Estimating the probability of multiple incidences of the same cancer type in a single workplace
Authors: Watanabe Sintaroo , Fukai Kota , Tatemichi Masayuki
Published: December 2024

Objectives

This study aimed to estimate the probability of observing 2 cases of the same cancer type in a workplace with 300 employees, to help investigation of occupational cancer.

Methods

We assumed a workplace where chemicals are handled, employing 300 males aged 15 to 64, with an age distribution standardized to Japan’s population from 2016 to 2019. Using national cancer statistics for newly diagnosed cases among males in this age range and period, we calculated the expected number of cancer cases for the workplace over a 1- and 10-year period. We computed standardized incidence ratios (SIRs) for 2 instances of the same cancer type within these time frames and estimated the time required for the SIR to reach 2.0 and its lower 95% CI limit (LL) to reach 1.0.

Results

The SIR for any cancer type exceeded 10 and was significantly high when 2 cases occurred within 1 year. Over 10 years, the SIR remained significantly high in some cancer types. The observation periods required for SIR to reach 2.0 and LL to reach 1.0 for any cancer type were at least 5.4 and at least 1.7 years, respectively.

Conclusions

Considering that over 99% of Japanese workplaces employ fewer than 300 people, the likelihood of observing the same cancer type within 1 year is low. This study enhances our understanding of occupational cancer incidence and supports the integration of such data into prevention strategies.
Corporate professional stratification in human resource management: a sequential multi-method Hong Kong and United Kingdom analysis
Authors: Higgins Paul , Roper Ian , Lo Man Fung
Published: December 2024

The rise of corporate professions reignites a longstanding sociological debate concerning the structure of intra-professional relations within purportedly collegiate entities. However, unlike the classic case of independent professions, research has yet to examine how corporate professions stratify occupationally. The omission is surprising since the motivational prospect of corporate practitioners climbing an embedded career ladder engenders what one might reasonably refer to as ‘stratification by design’. Theoretically, while scholars demarcate several types of intra-professional relations within independent professions (e.g. extraction, protection, and imperialism), how far such arrangements transpose to a corporate professional context lacking occupational autonomy remains uncertain. Addressing the research gap, our study corroborates sequential multi-method Hong Kong and UK data to examine intra-professional stratification in human resource management, a role engendering a distinctly organizational rather than independent professionalizing form. Three discerning research questions guide our investigation. First, how are documented human resources (HR) certification criteria structured by membership level and competency composition? Second, to what extent do the stipulated competencies reflect empirical practice? Third, on what organizational, occupational, and demographic grounds do ‘elite’ HR practitioners claim superordinate status? Across both case contexts, our study finds that while strategic competencies assume a higher certification status than administrative competencies, preserving routine maintenance remains an indispensable organizational activity. The exception concerns a group of predominantly executive-level practitioners abstaining from administrative duties, raising questions about their functional integration, and whether the ascendancy of managerial logics over professional logics produces a compromised form of occupational imperialism.
Activation of HSPA5 contributes to pazopanib-induced hepatotoxicity through l-ornithine metabolism pathway and endoplasmic reticulum stress
Authors: Chen Jian , Zhu Tieming , Deng Yaping , Chen Jinliang , Jiang Guojun , He Qiaojun
Published: December 2024

Objectives

The clinical application of Pazopanib (Paz) is often accompanied by hepatotoxicity. However, the mechanisms of hepatic toxicity induced by pazopanib are not entirely clarified.

Methods

Male C57BL/6J mice were treated with pazopanib every day for 2, 4, or 8 weeks. Transcriptomics and metabolomics analyses of liver tissues were performed. In vitro experiments were carried out to estimate cell viability, apoptosis, and autophagy in L02 cells after Paz treatment. We also examined apoptosis and autophagy-related genes under 4-PBA, l-ornithine, nor-NOHA treatments, and HSPA5 knockdown.

Key findings

Repeated Paz treatment for 8 weeks resulted in more severe hypofunction of the liver in mice. Moreover, Paz treatment inhibited L02 cells cell viability in a dose-dependent manner. We also discovered activation of endoplasmic reticulum stress, apoptosis, and autophagy in Paz-treated L02 cells, as evidenced by the boosted expression of HSPA5, p-IRE1α, ATF4, ATF6, p-eIF2α, LC3, Beclin-1, and a decrease of phosphorylated PI3K, AKT, and mTOR levels. Moreover, 4-PBA, l-ornithine, and HSPA5 knockdown inhibited apoptosis and autophagy, while nor-NOHA weakened the effects of HSPA5 knockdown on apoptosis in Paz-treated L02 cells.

Conclusions

In summary, our study revealed that Paz-induced liver toxicity is related to HSPA5 expression and l-ornithine metabolism pathway in mice.