bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Econometrics of Nonlinear Budget Sets
Authors: Blomquist Sören , Hausman Jerry A. , Newey Whitney K.
Published: April 2023

This article surveys the development of nonparametric models and methods for estimation of choice models with nonlinear budget sets. The discussion focuses on the budget set regression, that is, the conditional expectation of a choice variable given the budget set. Utility maximization in a nonparametric model with general heterogeneity reduces the curse of dimensionality in this regression. Empirical results using this regression are different from maximum likelihood and give informative inference. The article also considers the information provided by kink probabilities for nonparametric utility with general heterogeneity. Instrumental variable estimation and the evidence it provides of heterogeneity in preferences are also discussed.
The ChvG-ChvI Regulatory Network: A Conserved Global Regulatory Circuit Among the Alphaproteobacteria with Pervasive Impacts on Host Interactions and Diverse Cellular Processes
Authors: Greenwich Jennifer L. , Heckel Brynn C. , Alakavuklar Melene A. , Fuqua Clay
Published: April 2023

The ChvG-ChvI two-component system is conserved among multiple Alphaproteobacteria. ChvG is a canonical two-component system sensor kinase with a single large periplasmic loop. Active ChvG directs phosphotransfer to its cognate response regulator ChvI, which controls transcription of target genes. In many alphaproteobacteria, ChvG is regulated by a third component, a periplasmic protein called ExoR, that maintains ChvG in an inactive state through direct interaction. Acidic pH stimulates proteolysis of ExoR, unfettering ChvG-ChvI to control its regulatory targets. Activated ChvI among different alphaproteobacteria controls a broad range of cellular processes, including symbiosis and virulence, exopolysaccharide production, biofilm formation, motility, type VI secretion, cellular metabolism, envelope composition, and growth. Low pH is a virulence signal in Agrobacterium tumefaciens, but in other systems, conditions that cause envelope stress may also generally activate ChvG-ChvI. There is mounting evidence that these regulators influence diverse aspects of bacterial physiology, including but not limited to host interactions.
For Better or Worse: Modulation of the Host DNA Damage Response by Human Papillomavirus
Authors: Studstill Caleb J. , Moody Cary A.
Published: April 2023

High-risk human papillomaviruses (HPVs) are associated with several human cancers. HPVs are small, DNA viruses that rely on host cell machinery for viral replication. The HPV life cycle takes place in the stratified epithelium, which is composed of different cell states, including terminally differentiating cells that are no longer active in the cell cycle. HPVs have evolved mechanisms to persist and replicate in the stratified epithelium by hijacking and modulating cellular pathways, including the DNA damage response (DDR). HPVs activate and exploit DDR pathways to promote viral replication, which in turn increases the susceptibility of the host cell to genomic instability and carcinogenesis. Here, we review recent advances in our understanding of the regulation of the host cell DDR by high-risk HPVs during the viral life cycle and discuss the potential cellular consequences of modulating DDR pathways.
On-Farm Experimentation with Improved Maize Seed and Soil Amendments in Southern Ghana: Productivity Effects in Small Holder Farms
Authors: Marfo-Ahenkora E. , Taah K. J. , Owusu Danquah E. , Asare-Bediako E.
Published: April 2023

Maize production in Ghana is limited by several factors including inadequate use of improved varieties and poor soil fertility management. To contribute to addressing these challenges in maize production, two on-farm experiments were conducted each in the semi deciduous forest and coastal savannah agroecological zones (AEZs) of Ghana during the major and minor cropping seasons of 2017. The study adopted a 3 × 4 factorial arranged in an RCBD with four replications in the major season. The factors were three maize varieties (Omankwa, Obatanpa, and Ahomatea) and four soil amendments (goat manure at 5 t·ha−1; inorganic fertilizer (N-P2O5-K2O at 95-37.5–37.5 kg·ha−1); 50% goat manure (2.5 t·ha−1) + 50% inorganic fertilizer (N-P2O5-K2O at 47.5–18.75–18.75 kg·ha−1); and the control (no soil amendment)).To evaluate the residual implications of these soil amendments in the minor season, each plot used in the major season was further divided into two except for the control plot, resulting in a split plot design with factorial of 3 maize varieties × 7 soil amendments. The results revealed a significant interaction between maize variety and soil amendment in both seasons with the use of sole inorganic fertilizer resulting in significantly higher (

p
<
0.05

) grain yields for all varieties in both AEZs in the major cropping season. In the minor season, the combined treatment of 50% goat manure + 50% inorganic fertilizer resulted in higher grain yields for all the varieties in both AEZs with improved maize (Omankwa and Obatanpa) having significantly higher (

p
<
0.05

) grain yields (33–40%) than the landrace (Ahomatea). The significantly lower (

p
<
0.05

) performance of maize varieties on the residual plots in both AEZs suggests that there were minimal residual effects from the major season. Thus, in continuously cropped fields, the use of inorganic fertilizer + goat manure is required in addition to improved seeds for sustainable maize production.
Triterpene and Steroids from Ludwigia abyssinica A. Rich (Onagraceae) Displayed Antimicrobial Activities and Synergistic Effects with Conventional Antibiotics
Authors: Meli Sonkoue Arlette , Kengne Irene Chinda , Tamekou Lacmata Stephen , Jouogo Ngnokam Claudia Darille , Djamalladine Djamalladine Mahamat , Voutquenne-Nazabadioko Laurence , Ngnokam David , Tamokou Jean-de-Dieu
Published: April 2023

Difficulties encountered in treating drug‐resistant pathogens have created a need for new therapies. Synergistic combinations of antibiotics are considered as ideal strategies in combating clinical and multidrug‐resistant (MDR) infections. In this study, the antimicrobial activities of triterpenes and steroids from Ludwigia abyssinica A. Rich (Onagraceae) and their combined effects with antibiotics were assessed. The associations between plant constituents and antibiotics were evaluated by determining their fractional inhibitory concentrations (FICs). Sitost‐5‐en‐3β‐ol formiate (1), 5α,6β‐dihydroxysitosterol (2), and maslinic acid (3) were isolated from the L. abyssinica ethyl acetate (EtOAc) extract. The EtOAc extract, compounds 1, 2, and 3 (MIC = 16–128 µg/mL) would be the best antibacterial and antifungal agents. The antimicrobial activities of amoxicillin were relatively weak against MDR Escherichia coli and Shigella flexneri and significant against Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923. However, when used in association with plant constituents, it displayed an interesting synergistic effect. Among plant components‐antibiotic combinations, the EtOAc extract and compound 1 (steroid) showed a synergistic effect with amoxicillin/fluconazole against all the tested microorganisms whereas the association of compound 3 (triterpenoid) and amoxicillin/fluconazole displayed an additive effect against Shigella flexneri and Escherichia coli and a synergistic effect on Staphylococcus aureus, Cryptococcus neoformans, Candida tropicalis, and Candida albicans ATCC 10231. Overall, the results of the present study demonstrated antibacterial and antifungal activities of extracts and compounds isolated from L. abyssinica. The findings of the current study also showed that the potency of antibiotics was improved when screened in combination with L. abyssinica components, supporting the drug combination strategy to combat antimicrobial resistance.
Koudougou (Burkina Faso, Africa), GPS-TEC Response to Recurrent Geomagnetic Storms during Solar Cycle 24 Declining Phase
Authors: Sawadogo Saguedo , Gnabahou Doua Allain , Sandwidi Sibri Alphonse , Ouattara Frédéric
Published: April 2023

In this paper, we presented the effect of moderate geomagnetic storms on the TEC variation at the Koudougou station (Geo Lat 12° 15′N; Geo Long: -2° 20′E) in Burkina Faso (Africa) during the descending phase of solar cycle 24. For this purpose, four moderate geomagnetic storms without storm sudden commencement (SSC) or sudden impulse (SI) that occurred on May 13, 2015 (Dst: -76 nT), June 08, 2015 (Dst: -73 nT), September 11, 2015 (Dst: -80 nT), and May 08-09, 2016 (Dst: -88nT), were considered. These moderate storms were found to be associated with transients induced by fast solar winds. At the Koudougou station, TEC variation shows a positive response to the different moderate geomagnetic storms studied, with increases of order of 2-21 TECU around 1300-1500 UT except for September 11, 2015, TEC variation which shows sometimes negative responses at a few hours (mainly at night). TEC increases observed are a function of geomagnetic parameter (magnitude and polarity) variation. Storm-induced electric field and neutral winds are the main drivers of TEC changes observed during the selected geomagnetic storms. In addition, it was found that the TEC peak on storm day behaves differently compared to the days before and after the storm depending on whether Dst is positive or negative before southward inversion. Indeed, a TEC small peak relative to the days before and after the storm is observed when Dst is negative before southward inversion, and a larger peak occurs in the opposite case. The reasons for these differences are not investigated in this paper.
A Nonrandomized Trial of the Effects of Passive Simulated Jogging on Short-Term Heart Rate Variability in Type 2 Diabetic Subjects
Authors: Adams Jose A. , Lopez Jose R. , Banderas Veronica , Sackner Marvin A.
Published: April 2023

Background. Diabetes mellitus has reached global epidemic proportions, with type 2 diabetes (T2DM) comprising more than 90% of all subjects with diabetes. Cardiovascular autonomic neuropathy (CAN) frequently occurs in T2DM. Heart rate variability (HRV) reflects a neural balance between the sympathetic and parasympathetic autonomic nervous systems (ANS) and a marker of CAN. Reduced HRV has been shown in T2DM and improved by physical activity and exercise. External addition of pulses to the circulation, as accomplished by a passive simulated jogging device (JD), restores HRV in nondiseased sedentary subjects after a single session. We hypothesized that application of JD for a longer period (7 days) might improve HRV in T2DM participants. Methods. We performed a nonrandomized study on ten T2DM subjects (age range 44-73 yrs) who were recruited and asked to use a physical activity intervention, a passive simulated jogging device (JD) for 7 days. JD moves the feet in a repetitive and alternating manner; the upward movement of the pedal is followed by a downward movement of the forefoot tapping against a semirigid bumper to simulate the tapping of feet against the ground during jogging. Heart rate variability (HRV) analysis was performed using an electrocardiogram in each subject in seated posture on day 1 (baseline, BL), after seven days of JD (JD7), and seven days after discontinuation of JD (Post-JD). Time domain variables were computed, viz., standard deviation of all normal RR intervals (SDNN), standard deviation of the delta of all RR intervals (SDΔNN), and the square root of the mean of the sum of the squares of differences between adjacent RR intervals (RMSSD). Frequency domain measures were determined using a standard Fast Fourier spectral analysis, as well as the parameters of the Poincaré plots (SD1 and SD2). Results. Seven days of JD significantly increased SDNN, SDΔNN, RMSSD, and both SD1 and SD2 from baseline values. The latter parameters remained increased Post-JD. JD did not modify the frequency domain measures of HRV. Conclusion. A passive simulated jogging device increased the time domain and Poincaré variables of HRV in T2DM. This intervention provided effortless physical activity as a novel method to harness the beneficial effects of passive physical activity for improving HRV in T2DM subjects.
Enhancement of the Mechanical and Thermal Properties of Polypropylene and Nylon 6.6 Composite Blends
Authors: Al-Haik Mohammad Yousef , Aldajah Saud Hamad , Kabir Mohammad Mazedul , Siddique Waseem Ahmad , Haik Yousef , Islam Md Mainul
Published: April 2023

The mechanical and thermal properties of nylon 6.6 on polypropylene (PP) blends were investigated. Five weight percentages of nylon 6.6, 1 wt%—5 wt%, were blended with PP by an injection molding process to produce PP/nylon 6.6 blends. The impact of the mixture on the mechanical properties was investigated by performing a three-point bend test to determine the flexural strength and hardness test using nanoindentation. Both differential scanning calorimetry and thermogravimetric analysis were used to study the thermal properties of the mixture. Chemical and morphological testing was performed by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy and scanning electron microscope tests. Mechanical testing revealed improved strength, modulus, and hardness of the PP/nylon 6.6 blends. The 2 wt% blend showed elastic modulus, tensile, and yield stress enhancement. TGA showed variable results with improved thermal resistance for the 3 wt% and 4 wt% blends, whereas there was no effect for the 2 wt% blend and reduced thermal resistance for the 1 wt% and 5 wt% blends. DSC analysis revealed no influence on the melting temperature of the blends. SEM images showed a homogeneous mixture between PP and nylon 6.6, which substantiated the interfacial adhesion between PP and nylon 6.6 and was verified by FTIR.
Correlation of High‐Risk Human Papilloma Virus with Deep Endometriosis: A Cross‐Sectional Study
Authors: Moslehi Zohreh , Derakhshan Roya , Chaichian Shahla , Mehdizadeh Kashi Abolfazl , Sabet Babak , Rokhgireh Samaneh
Published: April 2023

Background. Recently, it has been suggested that microbial infections play a role in the pathogenesis of endometriosis. One of the most commonly suggested infections associated with the pathogenesis of endometriosis is human papillomavirus (HPV) infection. The present study is aimed at evaluating the prevalence, types, and risk factors for HPV infection in women with endometriosis and at investigating the association of upper and lower genital tract involvement with HPV and the severity of endometriosis. Methods. This cross‐sectional study was conducted on 81 patients with endometriosis, referred to Rasool Akram Medical Complex in Tehran, Iran, for laparoscopic surgery. The patients’ demographic, clinical, and anthropometric data were extracted from their medical records, as well as interviews. The stage of disease was scored based on the revised American Society for Reproductive Medicine (rASRM) classification. The HPV‐positive and HPV‐negative cases were compared using the chi‐square test for categorical variables and Student t‐test for continuous variables. Results. Twenty (24.69%) out of 81 women with endometriosis were infected with HPV (nine cases of pelvic HPV, nine cases of vaginal HPV, and two cases of both pelvic and vaginal HPV). The HPV‐infected women had a significantly lower infertility rate (15% vs. 45.9%; P = 0.014). The VAS scores for dysmenorrhea and dyspareunia were relatively the same in the two groups (P > 0.05). HPV 6 and HPV 11 were the most common types of HPV, reported in 35% and 30% of endometriosis cases, respectively. Conclusion. The prevalence of HPV was 24.69%, and low‐risk genotypes were dominant. No significant association was found between HPV and the severity of endometriosis.
Computación en la nube: la experiencia del Laboratorio de Ciencia de Datos de la FEN UAH
Authors: Escobar Claudio , Muñoz Victor , Alves Tiago
Published: April 2023

En los últimos años, la computación en la nube (cloud computing) se ha extendido entre empresas, organizaciones y personas. Según la consultora BCG, el tamaño del mercado mundial de servicios en la nube se estima en cerca de US$400 mil millones. En Latinoamérica, el mercado actual es de aproximadamente US$10 mil millones, con un crecimiento anual esperado de 30%, para llegar a US$30 mil millones en 2025. Continuar leyendo...
Figure S6 from Treatment of Prostate Cancer with CD46-targeted 225Ac Alpha Particle Radioimmunotherapy
Authors: Bidkar Anil P. , Wang Sinan , Bobba Kondapa Naidu , Chan Emily , Bidlingmaier Scott , Egusa Emily A. , Peter Robin , Ali Umama , Meher Niranjan , Wadhwa Anju , Dhrona Suchi , Dasari Chandrashekhar , Beckford-Vera Denis , Su Yang , Tang Ryan , Zhang Li , He Jiang , Wilson David M. , Aggarwal Rahul , VanBrocklin Henry F. , Seo Youngho , Chou Jonathan , Liu Bin , Flavell Robert R.
Published: April 2023

Figure S6: Number of H2AX-foci after the treatment of saline and [225Ac]DOTA-YS5 for 7 days and 14 days (n=3). t-test p value is indicated as * p<0.05.
Figure S1 from A Phase II Trial of Guadecitabine plus Atezolizumab in Metastatic Urothelial Carcinoma Progressing after Initial Immune Checkpoint Inhibitor Therapy
Authors: Jang H. Josh , Hostetter Galen , Macfarlane Alexander W. , Madaj Zachary , Ross Eric A. , Hinoue Toshinori , Kulchycki Justin R. , Burgos Ryan S. , Tafseer Mahvish , Alpaugh R. Katherine , Schwebel Candice L. , Kokate Rutika , Geynisman Daniel M. , Zibelman Matthew R. , Ghatalia Pooja , Nichols Peter W. , Chung Woonbok , Madzo Jozef , Hahn Noah M. , Quinn David I. , Issa Jean-Pierre J. , Topper Michael J. , Baylin Stephen B. , Shen Hui , Campbell Kerry S. , Jones Peter A. , Plimack Elizabeth R.
Published: April 2023

Supplementary Figure 1: Patient recruitment and sample collection overview.
Figure S4 from Preclinical Efficacy of the Antibody–Drug Conjugate CLDN6–23-ADC for the Treatment of CLDN6-Positive Solid Tumors
Authors: McDermott Martina S.J. , O'Brien Neil A. , Hoffstrom Benjamin , Gong KeWei , Lu Ming , Zhang Jun , Luo Tong , Liang Min , Jia Weiping , Hong Jenny J. , Chau Kevin , Davenport Simon , Xie Bin , Press Michael F. , Panayiotou Richard , Handly-Santana Abram , Brugge Joan S. , Presta Leonard , Glaspy John , Slamon Dennis J.
Published: April 2023

Supplemental Figure S4: Binding of CLDN6-23-ADC (5 μg/ml) in artificial cell lines overexpressing CLDN3, CLDN4, CLDN6 or CLDN9 by flow cytometry.
Data from A Phase II Trial of Guadecitabine plus Atezolizumab in Metastatic Urothelial Carcinoma Progressing after Initial Immune Checkpoint Inhibitor Therapy
Authors: Jang H. Josh , Hostetter Galen , MacFarlane Alexander W. , Madaj Zachary , Ross Eric A. , Hinoue Toshinori , Kulchycki Justin R. , Burgos Ryan S. , Tafseer Mahvish , Alpaugh R. Katherine , Schwebel Candice L. , Kokate Rutika , Geynisman Daniel M. , Zibelman Matthew R. , Ghatalia Pooja , Nichols Peter W. , Chung Woonbok , Madzo Jozef , Hahn Noah M. , Quinn David I. , Issa Jean-Pierre J. , Topper Michael J. , Baylin Stephen B. , Shen Hui , Campbell Kerry S. , Jones Peter A. , Plimack Elizabeth R.
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Purpose: Based on preclinical evidence of epigenetic contribution to sensitivity and resistance to immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI), we hypothesized that guadecitabine (hypomethylating agent) and atezolizumab (anti-PD-L1) together would potentiate a clinical response in patients with metastatic urothelial carcinoma (UC) unresponsive to initial immune checkpoint blockade therapy. Patients and Methods:We designed a single arm Phase II study (NCT03179943) with a safety run-in to identify the recommended phase II dose of the combination therapy of guadecitabine and atezolizumab. Patients with recurrent/advanced urothelial carcinoma who had previously progressed on ICI therapy with PD-1 or PD-L1 targeting agents were eligible. Pre-planned correlative analysis was performed to characterize peripheral immune dynamics and global DNA methylation, transcriptome, and immune infiltration dynamics of patient tumors. Results: Safety run-in enrolled 6 patients and Phase II enrolled 15 patients before the trial was closed for futility. No dose-limiting toxicity was observed. Four patients, with best response of stable disease, exhibited extended tumor control (8-11 months) and survival (>14 months). Correlative analysis revealed lack of DNA demethylation in tumors after 2 cycles of treatment. Increased peripheral immune activation and immune infiltration in tumors after treatment correlated with progression-free survival and stable disease. Furthermore, high IL-6 and IL-8 levels in the patients’ plasma associates with short survival. Conclusions: No RECIST responses were observed after combination therapy in this trial. Although we could not detect the anticipated tumor-intrinsic effects of guadecitabine, the addition of hypomethylating agent to ICI therapy induced immune activation in a few patients, which associated with longer patient survival.
Data from Increased Nerve Density Adversely Affects Outcome in Oral Cancer
Authors: Perez-Pacheco Cindy , Schmitd Ligia B. , Furgal Allison , Bellile Emily L. , Liu Min , Fattah Aya , Gonzalez-Maldonado Laura , Unsworth Shelby P. , Wong Sunny Y. , Rozek Laura S. , Rao Arvind , Wolf Gregory T. , Taylor Jeremy M.G. , Casper Keith , Mierzwa Michelle , D'Silva Nisha J.
Published: April 2023

AbstractPurpose:
Perineural invasion (PNI) in oral cavity squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is associated with poor survival. Because of the risk of recurrence, patients with PNI receive additional therapies after surgical resection. Mechanistic studies have shown that nerves in the tumor microenvironment promote aggressive tumor growth. Therefore, in this study, we evaluated whether nerve density (ND) influences tumor growth and patient survival. Moreover, we assessed the reliability of artificial intelligence (AI) in evaluating ND.
Experimental Design:
To investigate whether increased ND in OSCC influences patient outcome, we performed survival analyses. Tissue sections of OSCC from 142 patients were stained with hematoxylin and eosin and IHC stains to detect nerves and tumor. ND within the tumor bulk and in the adjacent 2 mm was quantified; normalized ND (NND; bulk ND/adjacent ND) was calculated. The impact of ND on tumor growth was evaluated in chick chorioallantoic-dorsal root ganglia (CAM-DRG) and murine surgical denervation models. Cancer cells were grafted and tumor size quantified. Automated nerve detection, applying the Halo AI platform, was compared with manual assessment.
Results:
Disease-specific survival decreased with higher intratumoral ND and NND in tongue SCC. Moreover, NND was associated with worst pattern-of-invasion and PNI. Increasing the number of DRG, in the CAM-DRG model, increased tumor size. Reduction of ND by denervation in a murine model decreased tumor growth. Automated and manual detection of nerves showed high concordance, with an F1 score of 0.977.
Conclusions:
High ND enhances tumor growth, and NND is an important prognostic factor that could influence treatment selection for aggressive OSCC.
The Key Role of a Psychoactive Substance Use History in Comprehensive Cardiovascular Risk Assessment, Diagnosis, Treatment, and Prevention
Authors: Ciccirillo Francesco , Abrignani Maurizio G. , Temporelli Pier Luigi , Binaghi Giulio , Cappelletto Chiara , Lopriore Vincenzo , Cesaro Arturo , Maloberti Alessandro , Cozzoli Danilo , Riccio Carmine , Caldarola Pasquale , Oliva Fabrizio , Gabrielli Domenico , Colivicchi Furio
Published: April 2023

Background: Psychoactive substances have toxic effects resulting different cardiovascular and non-cardiovascular organ damage. Through a variety of mechanisms, they can trigger the onset of various forms of cardiovascular disease: acute or chronic, transient or permanent, subclinical or symptomatic. Hence, a thorough knowledge of the patient’s drug habits is essential for a more complete clinical-etiopathogenetic diagnosis and consequent therapeutic, preventive, and rehabilitative management. Summary: The prime reason for taking a psychoactive substance use history in the cardiovascular context is to identify those people who use substances (whether habitual or occasional users, symptomatic or not) and adequately assess their overall cardiovascular risk profile in terms of “user status” and type of substance(s) used. A psychoactive substance history could also alert the physician to suspect, and eventually diagnose, cardiovascular disease related to the intake of psychoactive substances, so optimizing the medical management of users. This anamnesis could finally assess the likelihood of patients persisting in the habit as a user or relapse, while maintaining high their cardiovascular risk profile. Taking such a history should be mandatory when a causal connection is suspected between intake of psychoactive substances and the observed symptoms or pathology, regardless of whether the individual is a declared user or not. Key Messages: The purpose of this article was to provide practical information on when, how, and why to perform a psychoactive substance use history.
Multimodel Imaging Evidence of Traction Component in Lamellar Macular Hole with Epiretinal Proliferation
Authors: Su Yu-Ting , Yang Chung-May , Lai Tso-Ting
Published: April 2023

Introduction: The aim of this study was to investigate the association of epiretinal traction in idiopathic lamellar macular hole (LMH) with or without lamellar hole-associated epiretinal proliferation (LHEP). Methods: A retrospective consecutive case series included 108 eyes diagnosed with LMH in a single tertiary referral center. Epiretinal traction was determined by the presence of epiretinal membrane (ERM), attached posterior hyaloid, or vascular traction with multimodal imaging studies and intraoperative findings in those received surgical interventions. Results: The 53 LMHs with LHEP had similar age, refraction, initial, and final visual acuity to the 55 LMHs without LHEP. Both groups exhibited high incidences of vascular traction (with and without LHEP: 92% and 84%, p = 0.36, respectively) and ERM and/or attached posterior hyaloid (both 100%, p = 1.00). The vision improved 10.5 and 14 ETDRS letters (p = 0.60) in the 30 eyes with and 19 eyes without LHEP that underwent vitrectomy. Vascular tractions released postoperatively in 88% and 100% of LMHs with and without LHEP, respectively (p = 0.27). The LMH, ERM foveoschisis, and mixed subtypes exhibited epiretinal traction in 100% of cases in all subtypes (p = 1.00). Conclusion: Our findings indicated that epiretinal traction, evaluated by multimodal imaging, is the norm rather than the exception in LMHs showing LHEP. The presence of tractional forces should be taken into consideration when treatment was planned in LMHs.
Characterization of Suboptimal Responses to Fetoscopic Endoluminal Tracheal Occlusion in Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia
Authors: Espinoza Jimmy , King Alice , Shamshirsaz Alireza A. , Nassr Ahmed A. , Donepudi Roopali , Sanz Cortes Magdalena , Meholin-Ray Amy R. , Krispin Eyal , Johnson Rebecca , Mendez Martinez Yamely , Keswani Sundeep G. , Lee Timothy C. , Joyeux Luc , Espinoza Andres F. , Olutoye II Oluyinka , Garcia-Prats Joseph A. , Fernandes Caraciolo J. , Coleman Ryan D. , Lohmann Pablo , Rhee Christopher J. , Davies Jonathan , Belfort Michael A.
Published: April 2023

Introduction: The aim of the study was to characterize the changes in fetal lung volume following fetoscopic endoluminal tracheal occlusion (FETO) that are associated with infant survival and need for extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) in congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH). Methods: Fetuses with CDH who underwent FETO at a single institution were included. CDH cases were reclassified by MRI metrics [observed-to-expected total lung volume (O/E TLV) and percent liver herniation]. The percent changes of MRI metrics after FETO were calculated. ROC-derived cutoffs of these changes were derived to predict infant survival to discharge. Regression analyses were done to determine the association between these cutoffs with infant survival and ECMO need, adjusted for site of CDH, gestational age at delivery, fetal sex, and CDH severity. Results: Thirty CDH cases were included. ROC analysis demonstrated that post-FETO increases in O/E TLV had an area under the curve of 0.74 (p = 0.035) for the prediction of survival to hospital discharge; a cutoff of less than 10% was selected. Fetuses with a <10% post-FETO increase in O/E TLV had lower survival to hospital discharge [44.8% vs. 91.7%; p = 0.018] and higher ECMO use [61.1% vs. 16.7%; p = 0.026] compared to those with an O/E TLV increase ≥10%. Similar results were observed when the analyses were restricted to left-sided CDH cases. A post-FETO <10% increase in O/E TLV was independently associated with lower survival at hospital discharge (aOR: 0.073, 95% CI: 0.008–0.689; p = 0.022) and at 12 months of age (aOR: 0.091, 95% CI: 0.01–0.825; p = 0.036) as well as with higher ECMO use (aOR: 7.88, 95% CI: 1.31–47.04; p = 0.024). Conclusion: Fetuses with less than 10% increase in O/E TLV following the FETO procedure are at increased risk for requiring ECMO and for death in the postnatal period when adjusted for gestational age at delivery, CDH severity, and other confounders.
Gestational Trophoblastic Disease: Best Practice Nursing Guidelines
Authors: Singh Kam , Rollins Sarah , Ireson Jane
Published: April 2023

Background: Clinical outcomes in gestational trophoblastic disease (GTD) are generally excellent, but GTD is a rare and complex condition that requires specialist information and support to offer a gold standard of care. Across Europe, specialist nurses and/or midwives are increasingly common in the GTD multidisciplinary team to work alongside medical professionals in a holistic model of care; however, the role is sometimes non-existent or can vary significantly between GTD centres. Objectives: The aim of the European Organisation for Treatment of Trophoblastic Diseases’ (EOTTD) is to harmonise best practice in Europe. To provide a basis for the European standardisation of best practice nursing care in GTD, a group of European GTD nurses/midwives composed guidelines for minimal requirements and optimal nursing care of GTD patients. Methods: Members of the EOTTD member countries with nursing representation attended multiple workshops, both virtual and in person, and guidelines were created by consensus and evidence where available. Outcome: 16 nurses and 1 midwife from 4 countries (England, Ireland, Sweden, and the Netherlands) contributed. The group created flow diagrams for treatment and screening patients, showing minimum and best practice nursing care for patients with GTD. Conclusion: Despite the many different models of care and resources available to GTD services, this consensus working group has provided a set of guidelines to drive forward a patient focused holistic model of care for GTD patients. This is an original paper, whereby no such guidelines in GTD nursing have been developed before. The implementation of guidelines will encourage other health care professionals to improve the provision of patient care.
Multispeces Brno: encounters in a Central Europe City
Authors: Bollettin Paride
Published: April 2023

This photoessay is dedicated at introducing some possible encounters with a multispecies network in the City of Brno, in Czech Republic. Moving around the city, several animals appear in the buildings, streets and squares, enabling a hybrid experience with these other-than-humans sharing the urban space. The reflections about the multispecies character of urban spaces enable to highlight the collective and hybrid dimension of the sensorial curiosity promoted by the encounters with the other-than-humans. Mythical, exotic and domestic animals are present in diverse locations of the Brno, some connecting with the history of the city, other with its social and public dimensions. The proposal is that representing such multispecies encounters enables an eclectic city to emerge and to be experienced.
Antihypertensives and Antibiotics: Impact on Intestinal Dysfunction and Hypertension
Authors: Lucas Sarah E. , Walton Sarah L. , Mirabito Colafella Katrina M. , Mileto Steven J. , Lyras Dena , Denton Kate M.
Published: April 2023

Gut dysfunction has emerged as a contributor to hypertension, the leading risk factor for disease globally, including stroke, heart failure, and kidney disease. This is underpinned by breakdown of the homeostatic relationship connecting intestinal epithelial function, the microbiota and immune responses. Antihypertensive medications have been shown to reverse intestinal dysfunction and gut dysbiosis. However, the mechanisms underlying this restoration of gut structure and function remain largely unknown. In this review, we examine current knowledge supporting a role for impaired intestinal epithelial permeability in hypertension, focusing on electrolyte movement, the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system, and the restorative effects of orally administered antihypertensive medications and antibiotics. Further work is required to determine if the association between intestinal dysfunction and hypertension is causal. This is a rapidly evolving field, with intestinal dysfunction and dysbiosis representing an area that may be exploited to improve treatment of hypertension and cardiovascular disease.
Schnella madeleinae (Leguminosae: Cercidoideae), a new species with entire leaves from the Magdalena River Valley of Colombia
Authors: CASAS-RESTREPO LUIS CARLOS , FONSECA-CORTÉS ANDRÉS , PAGANUCCI DE QUEIROZ LUCIANO , RIBEIRO DOS SANTOS FRANCISCO DE ASSIS
Published: April 2023

Schnella madeleinae, a new species of liana with entire leaves from the Magdalena River Valley of Colombia, is described, illustrated, and aspects related to its distribution, conservation status, and relationships with morphologically similar species are discussed. Schnella madeleinae is characterized by the presence of heteromorphic petals in which the three superior petals are wider (4.5–5.0 × 2.5–3.0 mm) with respect to the two inferiors (5–6 × 2.0–2.5 mm) and oblong laterally compressed legumes of 5.0–6.5 × 1–2 cm. This new species is only known from five localities in the departments of Antioquia and Bolivar. Additionally, a key to the species of the entire leaves of the Schnella sect. Schnella is presented.
A review of Caryanda viridis - species group (Orthoptera: Acrididae) with a new species
Authors: YIN ZHI-LONG , MAO BEN-YONG
Published: April 2023

A new species of Caryanda viridis- species group, i.e. Caryanda biserrata Mao et Yin sp. nov. is described and illustrated. C. xinpingensis Mao, 2017 is included into C. viridis- species group, and C. viridoides Mao, Ren & Ou, 2011 is removed from it. C. viridis- species group presently contains six species: C. viridis (Zheng & Mao, 1996), C. dehongensis Mao, Xu & Yang, 2003, C. albomaculata Mao, Ren & Ou, 2007, C. eshana Mao, 2015, C. xinpingensis Mao, 2017 and C. biserrata Mao et Yin sp. nov.. The key to the six species of C. viridis- species group is updatad.
Two new species of the sac-spider genus Clubiona Latreille, 1804 (Araneae, Clubionidae) and the female of C. subcylindrata from China
Authors: LI LI-FEN , LIU PING , LI BING , PENG XIAN-JIN
Published: April 2023

Two new species of the genus Clubiona Latreille, 1804 are described: C. tianpingshan sp. nov. (♂♀) and C. flammaforma sp. nov. (♂♀) from central and south China. The female of C. subcylindrata Wang et al., 2018 is described for the first time. Detailed descriptions, photographs of somatic features and copulatory organs, as well as a distribution map of these three species, are provided.
The imaginal and nymphal morphology of Gilliesia pulchra Zhou, 2004 and its contribution to understanding generic phylogeny (Ephemeroptera: Leptophlebiidae)
Authors: GONG DE-WEN , ZHOU CHANG-FA
Published: April 2023

The nymphs of the leptophlebiid mayfly Gilliesia pulchra Zhou, 2004 have not been reported before, which inhibits deeper understanding of the taxonomy and phylogenetic position of this species and its genus. In 2022, we reared nymphs from southwestern China to the adult stage. All stages are described and photographed here. Nymphs of this species have single deeply-forked gills, somewhat elongated maxillary palpi and two setal tufts on the lingua. Its imaginal characteristics, including wings and penes, are quite similar to G. hindustanica (Gillies, 1951), the type species of the genus. Comparatively, the third species of the genus, G. ratchaburiensis Boonsoong & Sartori, 2015, seems less similar, both in adults and nymphs. Generally, features of G. pulchra nymphs link the two genera Gilliesia Peters & Edmunds, 1970 and Habrophlebiodes Ulmer, 1919 together, while features of the nymphs of G. ratchaburiensis bridge the genera Gilliesia and Dipterophlebiodes Demoulin, 1954.
Interannual Variation in Top-of-Atmosphere Upward Shortwave Flux over the Arctic Related to Sea Ice, Snow Cover, and Land Cloud Cover in Spring and Summer
Authors: Amma Michinari , Hayasaka Tadahiro
Published: April 2023

We investigated the interannual variations in the annual mean and seasonal cycle of upward shortwave radiation at the top of the atmosphere (TOA SW↑) over the Arctic using the Clouds and the Earth’s Radiant Energy System (CERES) observation data during 2001–20. The annual mean TOA SW↑ over the Arctic showed a decreasing trend from 2001 to 2012 (−2.5 W m−2 decade−1) and had a large interannual variability after 2012. The standard deviation of detrended TOA SW↑ increased from 0.4 W m−2 in 2001–12 to 1.1 W m−2 in 2012–20. Over land, TOA SW↑ variation was related to snow cover in May; snow cover, cloud fraction, and cloud optical depth (COD) in June; and cloud fraction and COD in July. Over ocean, TOA SW↑ variation in June and July was linked to sea ice cover. TOA SW↑ variation over ocean in June and July after 2012 was highly related to the North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO). This study suggests that changes in the large annual mean TOA SW↑ variability after 2012 are explained by the timing of land snow and sea ice melt in spring and summer and cloud variability over land in summer.
Legal obstacles and possibilities for environmental bargaining in Australia
Authors: Schofield-Georgeson Eugene
Published: April 2023

Informed by an emerging discourse in environmental labour studies, this article investigates the legality of environmental bargaining in Australia. It demonstrates that existing enterprise bargaining law mostly prevents meaningful and enforceable bargaining regarding environmental issues. Proposed here instead is that more impactful possibilities for environmental bargaining exist under state Work Health and Safety (WHS) laws. In this respect, the article engages with some of the latest legal developments within the field of WHS that may enable environmental bargaining on the terms recommended by the environmental labour studies literature. It nevertheless acknowledges that such proposals may generate additional regulatory and resource burdens on regulators and workers alike. Accordingly, it concludes by canvasing a range of alternative regulatory arrangements rendering environmental bargaining more fair and effective.
Meaning of Manual Labor Impedes Consumer Adoption of Autonomous Products
Authors: de Bellis Emanuel , Johar Gita Venkataramani , Poletti Nicola
Published: April 2023

Technologies are becoming increasingly autonomous, able to complete tasks on behalf of consumers without human intervention. For example, robot vacuums clean the floor while cooking machines implement recipes on their own. These autonomous products free consumers from daily chores that they used to perform manually. The current research suggests that some consumers derive meaning from completing such manual tasks, and that this meaning of manual labor acts as a barrier to the adoption of autonomous products. A series of field and experimental studies shows that consumers who score high (vs. low) on the meaning of manual labor construct tend to evaluate autonomous products less favorably and adopt them less frequently. However, making alternative sources of meaning in life salient can serve as a remedy to increase autonomous product adoption among these consumers. One such strategy is to emphasize that the time gained through the use of autonomous products can be spent on meaningful activities, thus offsetting the detrimental effects of meaning of manual labor on autonomous product adoption. The findings suggest effective interventions for firms that offer autonomous products while stressing the need to provide meaningful experiences to consumers.
The Early Impact of GDPR Compliance on Display Advertising: The Case of an Ad Publisher
Authors: Wang Pengyuan , Jiang Li , Yang Jian
Published: April 2023

The European Union's General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), with its explicit consent requirement, may restrict the use of personal data and shake the foundations of online advertising. The ad industry has predicted drastic loss of revenue from GDPR compliance and has been seeking alternative ways of targeting. Taking advantage of an event created by an ad publisher's request for explicit consent from users with European Union IP addresses, the authors find that for a publisher that uses a pay-per-click model, has the capacity to leverage both user behavior and web page content information for advertising, and observes high consent rates, GDPR compliance leads to modest negative effects on ad performance, bid prices, and ad revenue. The changes in ad metrics can be explained by temporal variations in consent rates. The impact is most pronounced for travel and financial services advertisers and least pronounced for retail and consumer packaged goods advertisers. The authors further find that web page context can compensate for the loss of access to users’ personal data, as the GDPR's negative impact is less pronounced when ads are posted on web pages presenting relevant content. The results suggest that publishers and advertisers should leverage targeting based on web page content after the GDPR’s rollout.
Regulating the Rorts: The Legal Governance of Grants Programs in Australia
Authors: Ng Yee-Fui
Published: April 2023

Numerous recent scandals have surfaced relating to the Australian government allegedly engaging in ‘pork barrelling’, that is, the partisan channelling of grants funding to government electorates, instead of merit-based allocation. Yet the probity of the use of public money is crucial towards preserving public trust in Australian democratic institutions. This article will critically analyse the legal accountability mechanisms for grants funding through public finance legislation, ‘soft law’ such as grants, guidelines and ministerial standards, and the availability of legal redress. It will also examine political accountability mechanisms, including the operation of parliamentary committees, the Auditor-General and the Ombudsman. The author argues that although political regulation provides transparency in the government’s use of public funds, it remains ineffective to combat the government’s deeply entrenched incentives to allocate grants in a partisan manner. As such, it is contended that stronger legal accountability in terms of enforceable rules and regulations is required to reform grants regulation towards improving the probity and accountability of the use of public funding.
The impact of COVID-19 on palliative care social work: An online survey by a European Association of Palliative Care Task Force
Authors: Roulston Audrey , Ross Jana , Dobrikova Patricia , Piccione Tania , Reigada Carla , Mackova Marie , Wasner Maria
Published: April 2023

Background:

The SARS-Cov-2 (COVID-19) pandemic affected the delivery of health and social care services globally. However, little is known about how palliative care social work services were impacted.

Aim:

The aim of this study was to capture and analyse data from palliative care social workers who provided professional support in a range of settings across 21 countries during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Design:

A cross-sectional survey-based design was used for this empirical study and this paper primarily focuses on the quantitative responses.

Setting/participants:

Participants, palliative care social workers, were drawn internationally via members of the EAPC Social Work Task Force and the World Hospice Palliative Care Social Work network.

Results:

We received 362 survey responses from 21 countries. Most (79%) respondents worked with adults in in-patient units or hospitals. The number of referrals during COVID-19 increased more in non-European countries, compared to European countries. The full range of social work services could no longer be delivered, existing services changed and 65.3% of participants reported higher levels of pressure during the pandemic, which was linked to higher levels of staff absence and additional duties. For many respondents (40.8%), this included facilitating online communication between patients and their families.

Conclusions:

Our findings indicate that restrictions to limit the spread of COVID-19 resulted in adaptations to service delivery, increased pressure on staff and moral distress, like other health and social care professions. All members of the palliative team need support and supervision to ensure effective interdisciplinary working and team cohesion.
Semi-active fuzzy cooperative control of vehicle suspension with a magnetorheological damper
Authors: Li Gang , Huang Qingsheng , Hu Guoliang , Ding Ruqi , Zhu Wencai , Zeng Liping
Published: April 2023

This study attempts to improve the vibration isolation performance of a vehicle suspension system with a magnetorheological damper (MRD) under complex driving conditions. Structure parameter uncertainty, disturbance of the driving process, and response time delay of MRD are all addressed. Firstly, experiments of MRD were carried out in a damping force testing machine to identify the parameters of the MRD adjustable Sigmoid model by the Levenberg-Marquardt optimization algorithm. Then, the parameter identification is verified by comparing experimental and simulation data. Secondly, the state space equations of the suspension system are derived by Newton’s second law. The transfer function from the bounded disturbance input to the control output is obtained based on H∞ control theory. To make the Infinite norm of the system transfer function less than a certain value, three control strategies are proposed: variable structure control (VSC), disturbance rejection control (DRC), and delay tolerance control (DTC). Thirdly, considering these issues together to weaken the effect of disturbances on vehicle driving conditions, a fuzzy cooperative control (FCC) strategy is proposed based on the linear matrix inequality (LMI) theory. Simulation results demonstrate that FCC semi-active vehicle suspension systems conduct effective vibration isolation performance while responding to multiple external disturbances.
AI for ADHD: Opportunities and Challenges
Authors: Rahman Muhammad Mahbubur
Published: April 2023

This Commentary discusses the current developments, potential applications, and challenges of artificial intelligence in attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder treatment.
Queerly departed: Queer viral socialities and Caribbean migrant desires
Authors: Murray David AB
Published: April 2023

In this paper I explore the transnational journeys of a group of queer HIV positive (HIV+) Caribbean migrants moving between Canada and the Caribbean. I focus on queer orientations and viral statuses as key nodes of subjectivity and/or sociality that may combine in different ways to produce (re)orientations (qua Ahmed 2006) and new social relationships—queer viral socialities—that generate migratory desires and journeys across transnational borders. However, queer HIV+ migrants from Global South locations like the Caribbean often encounter difficulties crossing Global North borders designed to facilitate entry for select categories of acceptable migrants. Acknowledging the productive yet unpredictable interactions of queer viral orientations and socialities that generate migratory desires and journeys alongside the harsh surveillance and disciplinary actions of nation-states’ border security regimes draws attention to the intersectionality and complexity of subjectivities, socialities, desires, and movements of queer HIV+ Caribbean migrants specifically, and transnational migrants more generally as they navigate the barriers and inequities of state migration apparatuses.