bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
“Tektology”, VSM and the digital age
Authors: Stowell Frank
Published: March 2024

Purpose

I examine Bogdanov’s notion of Tektology within the context of modern communication systems and political agendas.

Design/methodology/approach

The practicality of Tektology from the perspective of 21st century sensibilities.

Findings

I argue that, like the implications of creating a suitable environment in Red Star, the practicality of enabling tektology in the 21st century is unlikely.

Research limitations/implications

Tektology was an idea created in the early 20th century and the social conditions of that era-especially in Russia. The work associated with it is Stafford Beers VSM – an idea of combining the two was suggested by Jackson in 2023. Clearly, the early ideas rely on the source material of that era which are taken within the context of now. A mixture of early 20th and 21st century references are referred to. To limit such a topic as this to the word limits of the journal necessitates reducing discussion, for example the link between Tektology and Happiness.

Practical implications

It is not possible to test these ideas in a practical sense. The discussion relies upon what Tektology proposes and the way in which ICT is used in the 21 century. The only practical attempt of using technology as a major control system is that of Beer’s Chilean project but Tektolgy was more ambitious; it was aimed at creating a new society. The paper can only relate to observations about the way ICTs are used and controlled presently

Social implications

The paper highlights the way that communication platforms are used and controlled in western society and elsewhere.

Originality/value

While attempts have been made to link Tektology to modern communication technologies few consider it within the context of 21st century cultural, political and media experience.
From traditional to tech-savvy: the evolution of Nigerian libraries in the machine learning era
Authors: Adewojo Akinade Adebowale , Akanbiemu Adetola Adebisi , Onuoha Uloma Doris
Published: March 2024

Purpose

This study explores the implementation of personalised information access, driven by machine learning, in Nigerian public libraries. The purpose of this paper is to address existing challenges, enhance the user experience and bridge the digital divide by leveraging advanced technologies.

Design/methodology/approach

This study assesses the current state of Nigerian public libraries, emphasising challenges such as underfunding and lack of technology adoption. It proposes the integration of machine learning to provide personalised recommendations, predictive analytics for collection development and improved information retrieval processes.

Findings

The findings underscore the transformative potential of machine learning in Nigerian public libraries, offering tailored services, optimising resource allocation and fostering inclusivity. Challenges, including financial constraints and ethical considerations, are acknowledged.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the literature by outlining strategies for responsible implementation and emphasising transparency, user consent and diversity. The research highlights future directions, anticipating advancements in recommendation systems and collaborative efforts for impactful solutions.
Consolidation materials used with illuminated and non-illuminated paper manuscripts and historical leather bindings: a review
Authors: Abdel-Hamied Mostafa , Abdelhafez Ahmed A.M. , Abdel-Maksoud Gomaa
Published: March 2024

Purpose

This study aims to focus on the main materials used in consolidation processes of illuminated paper manuscripts and leather binding.

Design/methodology/approach

For each material, chemical structure, chemical composition, molecular formula, solubility, advantages, disadvantages and its role in treatment process are presented.

Findings

This study concluded that carboxy methyl cellulose, hydroxy propyl cellulose, methyl cellulose, cellulose acetate, nanocrystalline cellulose, funori, sturgeon glue, poly vinyl alcohol, chitosan, chitosan nanoparticles (NPs), gelatin, aquazol, paraloid B72 and hydroxyapatite NPs were the most common and important materials used for the consolidation of illuminated paper manuscripts. For the leather bindings, hydroxy propyl cellulose, polyethylene glycol, oligomeric melamine-formaldehyde resin, acrylic wax SC6000, pliantex, paraloid B67 and B72, silicone oil and collagen NPs are the most consolidants used.

Originality/value

Illuminated paper manuscripts with leather binding are considered one of the most important objects in libraries, museums and storehouses. The uncontrolled conditions and other deterioration factors inside the libraries and storehouses lead to degradation of these artifacts. The brittleness, fragility and weakness are considered the most common deterioration aspects of illuminated paper manuscripts and leather binding. Therefore, the consolidation process became vital and important to solve this problem. This study presents the main materials used for consolidation process of illuminated paper manuscripts and leather bindings.
Incivility experiences of racially minoritised hospital staff, consequences for them and implications for patient care: An international scoping review
Authors: Joseph Olivia , Mir Ghazala , Fylan Beth , Essler Pam , Lawton Rebecca
Published: March 2024

Workplace incivility is a pervasive complex problem within health care. Incivility manifests as subtle disrespectful behaviours, which seem inconsequential. However, evidence demonstrates that incivility can be harmful to targets and witnesses through negative emotions, poorer mental health, reduced job satisfaction, diminished performance and compromised patient care. It is unclear to what extent existing research critically explores how ethnicity, culture and racism influence how hospital staff experience incivility. This global scoping review systematically analysed existing research exploring the specific ways incivility manifests and impacts racially minoritised hospital workers. Of 2636 academic and 101 grey literature articles, 32 were included. Incivility experiences were categorised into four themes: (1) Cultural control, (2) Rejection of work contributions, (3) Disempowerment at work and (4) Managerial indifference. The included articles highlighted detrimental consequences, such as negative emotions, silencing, withdrawal and reduced support‐seeking behaviours. Few studies presented evidence regarding the negative impacts of incivility on patient care. Racialisation and racial dynamics are a significant factor for hospital‐based incivility. Currently we do not know the extent to which racialised incivility is associated directly or, perhaps either via burnout or disengagement, indirectly with poorer care. This knowledge can inform the creation of comprehensive, evidence‐based interventions to address this important issue.
Screening for viral hepatitis B infection in cancer patients before receiving chemotherapy – A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Maung Soe Thiha , Deepan Natee , Decharatanachart Pakanat , Chaiteerakij Roongruedee
Published: March 2024

Aim

We conducted a systematic review and meta‐analysis to assess the hepatitis B virus (HBV) screening rate in cancer patients before systemic chemotherapy, aiming to identify those needing antiviral prophylaxis for HBV reactivation.

Methods

We searched PubMed, Embase, Scopus, and Google Scholar for relevant studies. The pooled screening rate was estimated using a random effects model. Subgroup analyses were conducted based on malignancy types, chemotherapy regimens, study period, and HBV endemic regions.

Results

The meta‐analysis included 29 studies from various endemic regions (19 low‐endemic, three lower intermediate‐endemic, and seven higher intermediate‐endemic). These studies encompassed hematologic malignancies (n = 10), solid‐organ tumors (n = 4), and combinations (n = 15). Seven studies used rituximab‐containing regimens, four did not, and the remaining 11 did not specify chemotherapy regimens. The pooled screening rate was 57% (95% confidence interval [95%CI]: 46%–68%, I2 = 100%). Over time, screening rates improved from 37% (95%CI: 23%–53%) in 2006–2010 to 68% (54%–80%) in 2011–2015 and 69% (48%–84%) in 2016–2020. Screening rates were highest at 89% (74%–96%) in high endemic countries, followed by 60% (45–73%) in lower‐intermediate and 49% (34–64%) in low‐endemic countries. Patients with hematological malignancies had a higher screening rate than those with solid organ tumors, 65% (55%–74%) versus 37% (21%–57%), respectively. A screening rate was higher in patients receiving rituximab‐containing chemotherapy than non‐rituximab regimens, 68% (55%–79%) versus 45% (27%–65%).

Conclusion

Despite existing guidelines, pre‐chemotherapy HBV screening rate remains unsatisfactory, with substantial heterogeneous rates globally. These findings underscore the need for effective strategies to align practices with clinical guidelines.
Esophageal chemoradiotherapy with concurrent nivolumab: Pilot results in the palliative treatment of oligometastatic disease
Authors: Day Fiona , Sridharan Swetha , Johnson Catherine , Quah Gaik T , Mallesara Girish , Kumar Mahesh , Poulter Amber‐Louise , Morrison Anthony , van der Westhuizen Andre , Fraser Allison , Oldmeadow Christopher , Martin Jarad
Published: March 2024

Aims

Many patients diagnosed with esophageal cancer have dysphagia from their primary tumor and de novo metastatic disease. The purpose of this study was to test the safety and efficacy of nivolumab given concurrently with hypofractionated chemoradiotherapy to patients with oligometastatic and obstructing esophageal tumors.

Methods

Patients were enrolled in a planned single‐arm, phase 2 clinical trial. Eligible participants had previously untreated oligometastatic (≤5 metastases on fludeoxyglucose‐18 positron emission tomography scan outside the primary tumor radiotherapy field) esophageal or gastroesophageal carcinoma, dysphagia, and Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status 0–1. Treatment was with 2 weeks of concurrent hypofractionated radiotherapy (30 Gy/10#) to the primary tumor, weekly carboplatin AUC2, weekly paclitaxel 50 mg/m2, and q2weekly nivolumab 240 mg, followed by nivolumab 480 mg continuing q4weekly until disease progression or 24 months total. A single metastasis was treated with stereotactic radiotherapy (SBRT) (24 Gy/3#) in week 7.

Results

Five patients were recruited before trial closure to new participants for logistical reasons. Existing participants continued treatment per protocol as a pilot study at one center. All five patients completed chemoradioimmunotherapy and SBRT. All patients derived an improvement in their dysphagia. Two patients completed 24 months of nivolumab without disease progression. Grade 3 adverse events (AEs) occurred in 3 patients, however, there were no grade 4 AEs, AEs due to SBRT, or AEs of special interest as defined by the protocol.

Conclusion

Pilot results from five patients at one center found that treatment was well tolerated and effective for dysphagia relief. The efficacy of hypofractionated chemoradiotherapy with concurrent checkpoint inhibition should be tested in a multicentre study.
Application of three‐way mixed multivariate analysis of variance method to detect changes in chromatic coordinates (L*, a*, b*) in building granites
Authors: García‐Talegón J. , Iñigo A. C. , Paredes J. , Sepúlveda Correa R. A. , Azofra E.
Published: March 2024

In the present work we determined the chromatic coordinates (L*, a*, b*) for three building stones used in the heritage city of Ávila, Spain (World Granite Heritage City, 1988). The stones came from quarries and were subjected to 90 cycles of three types of accelerated ageing processes: (a) freezing/thawing together with cooling/heating (T1); (b) salt crystallisation (T2); and (c) freezing/thawing together with cooling/heating + salt crystallisation (T3). A three‐way mixed MANOVA (multivariate analysis of variance) was applied to the data obtained. Significant variations in the three chromatic coordinates (L*, a*, b*) were observed between the three types of accelerated artificial ageing processes compared to the data obtained from the quarry samples, with a tendency towards darkness (↓L*), redness (↑a*) and much less intensity towards yellowing (↑b*).
Crushing tablets or sprinkling capsules: Implications for clinical strategy and study performance based on BE studies of rivaroxaban and deferasirox
Authors: Sus Jan , Bosak Jan , Hauser Tomas
Published: March 2024

Administration of oral medicinal products as crushed tablets or open capsules is an important delivery option for patients suffering from dysphagia. To obtain full interchangeability of generics with the original products, demonstration of bioequivalence (BE) between both products administered as crushed tablets/open capsules was required for poorly soluble product by European Medicines Agency (EMA) at the time of development of our rivaroxaban and deferasirox generic products. We present the results of two BE studies with modified administration of these products, which compared relative bioavailability between generic and reference products. In the rivaroxaban study, the test product was administered as a capsule sprinkled on and mixed with applesauce, whereas the reference tablet was crushed and administered with applesauce under fed conditions. In the deferasirox study, both treatments were administered as crushed tablets under fasting conditions. Both studies applied a two‐way crossover design and were conducted after a single‐dose in healthy volunteers. The 90% confidence interval of the geometric mean ratio area under the analyte concentration versus time curve, from time zero to the time of the last measurable analyte concentration and maximum measured analyte concentration over the sampling period of the test to reference ratio were 103.36–110.37% and 97.98–108.45% for rivaroxaban, respectively, and 96.69–107.29% and 94.19–109.45% for deferasirox, respectively. Thus, the BE criteria (80.00–125.00%) were met in both studies which demonstrated that bioavailability was not affected when the test and reference products were administered in the form of crushed tablet/open capsule. These results support the argument of redundancy of crushed product studies for poorly soluble drugs, which is in line with the currently revised position of the EMA on this topic.
Trends in purchasing cross‐border, illicit and home‐brewed alcohol: A population study in Great Britain, 2020–2023
Authors: Jackson Sarah E. , Oldham Melissa , Angus Colin , Holmes John , Brown Jamie
Published: March 2024

Introduction

The last 3 years have seen substantial changes in Great Britain (GB) including the COVID‐19 pandemic, cost‐of‐living crisis and policy changes such as minimum unit pricing. We examined changes in purchasing cross‐border, illicit and home‐brewed alcohol among risky drinkers over this period.

Methods

Data were used from 22,086 adult (≥18 years) increasing/higher‐risk drinkers (AUDIT‐C ≥5) participating in a monthly cross‐sectional survey between October 2020 and August 2023. We estimated time trends in the proportion reporting obtaining alcohol from: (i) cross‐border (any/within‐GB/international); (ii) illicit; and (iii) home‐brewed sources in the past 6 months.

Results

Between October 2020 and August 2023, the proportion reporting cross‐border alcohol purchases increased (from 8.5% to 12.5% overall; prevalence ratio [PR] = 1.47 [95% CI 1.17–1.86]). This was largely driven by an increase in cross‐border purchases abroad (PR = 1.52 [1.13–2.05]), with a smaller, uncertain increase in cross‐border purchases within GB (PR = 1.37 [0.96–1.95]). The prevalence of cross‐border alcohol purchasing was higher in Wales (13.8% [12.3–15.4%]) and Scotland (6.1% [5.4–6.8%]) than England (3.6% [3.3–3.9%]). There was little change in illicit alcohol purchasing in England or Wales (4.1% [3.7–4.4%]; 4.2% [3.2–5.1%]), but in Scotland it fell from 5.7% to 2.4% (PR = 0.42 [0.19–0.81]). Home‐brewed alcohol was rare (GB: 3.1% [2.9–3.4]) and stable.

Discussion and Conclusions

The proportion of increasing/higher‐risk drinkers in GB purchasing cross‐border alcohol increased between October 2020 and August 2023, due to an increase in people buying alcohol abroad. Cross‐border alcohol purchases within GB were more commonly reported in Wales and Scotland. The small proportion purchasing illicit alcohol did not change substantially in England or Wales, but fell by half in Scotland.
NUCB1 is required for proper insulin signaling to control longevity in Drosophila
Authors: Yoon Jong‐Won , Baek Si‐Eun , Yang Jae‐Yoon , Yeom Eunbyul
Published: March 2024

Aim

We examined the novel role of NUCB1(Nucleobindin‐1) associated with longevity in Drosophila melanogaster.

Methods

We measured the lifespan, metabolic phenotypes, and mRNA levels of Drosophila insulin‐like peptides (Dilps), the protein level of phosphorylated AKT, and the localization of FOXO and its target gene expressions in the NUCB1 knockdown condition.

Results

NUCB1 knockdown flies show an extended lifespan and metabolic phenotypes such as increased circulating glucose level and starvation resistance. The mRNA expression levels of Dilps and the protein level of phosphorylated AKT, a downstream component of insulin signaling, were decreased in NUCB1 knockdown flies compared with the control flies. Also, the nuclear localization of FOXO and its target gene expressions, such as d4E‐BP and InR, were elevated.

Conclusions

The results show that NUCB1 knockdown flies exhibits an extended lifespan. These findings suggest that NUCB1 modulates longevity through insulin signaling in Drosophila. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2024; 24: 486–492.
The evolution of home‐state positions towards diaspora formation: Israel and its two diasporas
Authors: Grossman Jonathan
Published: March 2024

How do home‐state elites react to emigrants who form diaspora communities abroad, and how do these attitudes change over time? The article explores these questions through an analysis of the discourse and policies of Israeli elites towards emigrants who created distinct diaspora communities and established ties with local Jewish diaspora communities between 1977 and 2023. The article highlights the important role that ethnic and national identities and the prospects of emigrants’ eventual return play in such attitudinal shifts. The home state may initially see diaspora formation as harmful for precipitating emigration and obstructing repatriation and ethnic immigration. However, when it becomes clear that the return of many emigrants is unlikely, home‐state elites may come to support and even promote the formation of new diaspora communities and their ties with older diaspora communities to offset emigrants’ assimilation into their host society and increase their attachment to the home state.
Catchment‐Wide Groundwater Budget for the Inkomati‐Usuthu Water Management Area in South Africa
Authors: Shakhane Teboho , Mojabake Moses
Published: March 2024

In South Africa, approximately 98% of the predicted total surface water resources are already being used up. Consequently, the National Water Resource Strategy considers groundwater to be important for the future planning and management of water resources. In this case, quantifying groundwater budgets is a prerequisite because they provide a means for evaluating the availability and sustainability of a water supply. This study estimated the regional groundwater budgets for the Inkomati‐Usuthu Water Management Area (Usuthu, Komati, Sabie‐Sand, and Crocodile) using the classical hydrological continuity equation. The equation was used to describe prevailing feedback loops between groundwater draft, recharge, baseflow, and storage change. The results were coarser scale estimates which, beforehand, were derived from the 2006 study. In the years to follow, groundwater reliance intensified and there was also the historic 2015/2016 drought. This inevitably led to an increased draft while the rest of the components of the groundwater budgets experienced decreases. Both Crocodile and Sabie‐Sand experienced groundwater storage depletion which led to reduced baseflow and groundwater availability, while groundwater recharge contrarily increased due to capture. Conversely, the other two catchments experienced relatively lower drafts with correspondingly higher groundwater availability and recharge while storage change was positive. The results highlighted the need for adaptive water management whose effectiveness relies on predictive studies. Consequently, future models should be developed to capture the spatial and temporal dynamism of the natural groundwater budget due to climate change, water demands, and population growth predictions.
A comparison of radiographically determined periapical healing and tooth survival outcomes of root canal (re)treatment performed in two care pathways within the United Kingdom Armed Forces
Authors: Smith Robert , Drummond Karl , Lovell Alistair , Ng Yuan‐Ling , Gulabivala Kishor , Bryce Graeme
Published: March 2024

Aims

To compare radiographic periapical healing and tooth survival outcomes of root canal (re)treatment performed within two care pathways (Routine Dental Care and Referred Treatment Pathway), in the United Kingdom Armed Forces (UKAF), and determine the effects of endodontic complexity on outcomes.

Methodology

This retrospective cohort study included 1466 teeth in 1252 personnel who received root canal (re)treatment between 2015 and 2020. General Dental Practitioners treated 661 teeth (573 patients) (Routine cohort), whilst Dentists with a Special Interest treated 805 teeth (678 patients) (Referred cohort). The latter group were graduates of an MSc programme in Endodontics with 4–8 years of postgraduation experience. Case complexity was retrospectively determined for each tooth using the endodontic component of Restorative Index of Treatment Need (RIOTN) guidelines. Periapical healing was determined using loose radiographic criteria. The data were analysed using chi‐square tests, univariate logistic regression and Cox proportional hazards models.

Results

A significantly (p < 0.0001) larger proportion of cases of low complexity had undergone root canal treatment within the Routine versus Referred cohort. The odds of periapical healing was significantly higher within the Referred versus Routine cohort, regardless of analyses using pooled (OR = 1.17; 95% CI: 1.11, 1.22) or moderate complexity (OR = 4.71; 95% CI: 2.73, 8.11) data. Within the Routine cohort, anterior teeth had higher odds of periapical healing than posterior teeth (OR = 1.13; 95% CI: 1.04, 1.22). The 60‐month cumulative tooth survival was lower (p = 0.03) in the Routine (90.5%) than the Referred (96.0%) cohort. Within the Routine cohort, the hazard of tooth loss was higher amongst posterior teeth (HR = 4.03; 95% CI: 1.92, 8.45) but lower if posterior teeth had cast restorations (HR = 0.36; 95% CI: 0.19, 0.70). For the Referred cohort, posterior teeth restored with cast restoration (vs not) had significantly lower risk of tooth loss (HR = 0.21; 95% CI: 0.08, 0.55).

Conclusions

For UKAF patients, root canal (re)treatment provided within the Referred pathway was significantly more likely to achieve periapical healing and better tooth survival than those provided within the Routine pathway. Posterior teeth restored with an indirect restoration had a higher proportion of tooth survival. This study supported the utility of the endodontic component of RIOTN for assessing case complexity.
Effects of pronominal reference on the integration of syntactic and semantic information in second language processing
Authors: Kim Hyunwoo , Hwang Haerim
Published: March 2024

This study investigated the effect of pronominal reference on the integration of syntactic and semantic information in second language (L2) processing. We conducted a self‐paced reading task involving 60 adult Korean‐speaking learners of English and 44 native English speakers. The experiment manipulated the semantic congruity between a subject and its adjectival predicate, as well as the reference type (pronoun vs. full noun) within the intervening relative clause. The results showed that the native speaker group consistently displayed sensitivity to the incongruity between the subject and the predicate, regardless of the reference type. Similarly, the nonnative speakers exhibited sensitivity to the mismatch in the critical region. However, this effect did not persist in subsequent regions including the spill‐over and wrap‐up regions. Instead, in the wrap‐up region, the L2 learners’ processing patterns were affected by the reference type, with sensitivity exclusively observed in the pronoun condition. The L2 learners’ processing pattern remained consistent across varying levels of English proficiency. These findings provide insights into the role of pronominal reference in L2 sentence processing.
Integrating genomics into Canadian oncology nursing policy: Insights from a comparative policy analysis
Authors: Chiu Patrick , Limoges Jacqueline , Pike April , Calzone Kathleen , Tonkin Emma , Puddester Rebecca , Gretchev Andrea , Dewell Sarah , Newton Lorelei , Leslie Kathleen
Published: March 2024

Aim

To learn from two jurisdictions with mature genomics‐informed nursing policy infrastructure—the United States (US) and the United Kingdom (UK)—to inform policy development for genomics‐informed oncology nursing practice and education in Canada.

Design

Comparative document and policy analysis drawing on the 3i + E framework.

Methods

We drew on the principles of a rapid review and identified academic literature, grey literature and nursing policy documents through a systematic search of two databases, a website search of national genomics nursing and oncology nursing organizations in the US and UK, and recommendations from subject matter experts on an international advisory committee. A total of 94 documents informed our analysis.

Results

We found several types of policy documents guiding genomics‐informed nursing practice and education in the US and UK. These included position statements, policy advocacy briefs, competencies, scope and standards of practice and education and curriculum frameworks. Examples of drivers that influenced policy development included nurses' values in aligning with evidence and meeting public expectations, strong nurse leaders, policy networks and shifting healthcare and policy landscapes.

Conclusion

Our analysis of nursing policy infrastructure in the US and UK provides a framework to guide policy recommendations to accelerate the integration of genomics into Canadian oncology nursing practice and education.

Implications for the profession

Findings can assist Canadian oncology nurses in developing nursing policy infrastructure that supports full participation in safe and equitable genomics‐informed oncology nursing practice and education within an interprofessional context.

Impact

This study informs Canadian policy development for genomics‐informed oncology nursing education and practice. The experiences of other countries demonstrate that change is incremental, and investment from strong advocates and collaborators can accelerate the integration of genomics into nursing. Though this research focuses on oncology nursing, it may also inform other nursing practice contexts influenced by genomics.
Neuroendocrine and cellular mechanisms in stress resilience: From hormonal influence in the CNS to mitochondrial dysfunction and oxidative stress
Authors: Bhattacharya Arghya , Chakraborty Manas , Chanda Ananya , Alqahtani Taha , Kumer Ajoy , Dhara Bikram , Chattopadhyay Moitreyee
Published: March 2024

Recent advancements in neuroendocrinology challenge the long‐held belief that hormonal effects are confined to perivascular tissues and do not extend to the central nervous system (CNS). This paradigm shift, propelled by groundbreaking research, reveals that synthetic hormones, notably in anti‐inflammatory medications, significantly influence steroid psychosis, behavioural, and cognitive impairments, as well as neuropeptide functions. A seminal development in this field occurred in 1968 with McEven's proposal that rodent brains are responsive to glucocorticoids, fundamentally altering the understanding of how anxiety impacts CNS functionality and leading to the identification of glucocorticosteroids and mineralocorticoids as distinct corticotropic receptors. This paper focuses on the intricate roles of the neuroendocrine, immunological, and CNS in fostering stress resilience, underscored by recent animal model studies. These studies highlight active, compensatory, and passive strategies for resilience, supporting the concept that anxiety and depression are systemic disorders involving dysregulation across both peripheral and central systems. Resilience is conceptualized as a multifaceted process that enhances psychological adaptability to stress through adaptive mechanisms within the immunological system, brain, hypothalamo–pituitary–adrenal axis, and ANS Axis. Furthermore, the paper explores oxidative stress, particularly its origin from the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in mitochondria. The mitochondria's role extends beyond ATP production, encompassing lipid, heme, purine, and steroidogenesis synthesis. ROS‐induced damage to biomolecules can lead to significant mitochondrial dysfunction and cell apoptosis, emphasizing the critical nature of mitochondrial health in overall cellular function and stress resilience. This comprehensive synthesis of neuroendocrinological and cellular biological research offers new insights into the systemic complexity of stress‐related disorders and the imperative for multidisciplinary approaches in their study and treatment.
The global sanitary revolution in historical perspective
Authors: Gallardo‐Albarrán Daniel
Published: March 2024

This survey sheds light on the causes and consequences of the global sanitary revolution that resulted in the spread of waterworks and sewerage projects since the middle of the 19th century, by drawing on research from the fields of economic history, economics, and history. I begin with a discussion of the construction of these infrastructures during the period ca. 1850–1950 showing that their spread was relatively similar in major urban cities across the globe, while diffusion within and between countries, as well as within cities themselves, was markedly unequal. Second, I review research estimating the mortality impact of access to clean water and sanitation. Following the provision of these services, infant mortality declined between ca. 10 and 30 percent. Lastly, I examine the drivers of the sanitary revolution with a new framework that distinguishes between proximate factors (e.g., physical capital) and ultimate factors (e.g., institutions). I argue that the state of knowledge in the literature is insufficient to explain between‐ and within country differences in access to sanitary services and that more attention should be devoted to the interaction of political and economic factors within broader institutional, cultural and biogeographic contexts.
Statistical inference for generative adversarial networks and other minimax problems
Authors: Meitz Mika
Published: March 2024

This paper studies generative adversarial networks (GANs) from the perspective of statistical inference. A GAN is a popular machine learning method in which the parameters of two neural networks, a generator and a discriminator, are estimated to solve a particular minimax problem. This minimax problem typically has a multitude of solutions and the focus of this paper are the statistical properties of these solutions. We address two key statistical issues for the generator and discriminator network parameters, consistent estimation and confidence sets. We first show that the set of solutions to the sample GAN problem is a (Hausdorff) consistent estimator of the set of solutions to the corresponding population GAN problem. We then devise a computationally intensive procedure to form confidence sets and show that these sets contain the population GAN solutions with the desired coverage probability. Small numerical experiments and a Monte Carlo study illustrate our results and verify our theoretical findings. We also show that our results apply in general minimax problems that may be nonconvex, nonconcave, and have multiple solutions.
Public opinion on reforming U.S. primaries
Authors: Boatright Robert G. , Tolbert Caroline J. , Micatka Nathan K.
Published: March 2024

Objective

Few studies have measured public attitudes about reform proposals for changing direct primaries. Despite strong public support over the past century for holding primaries, does the public want to change the direct primary, given its very low voter turnout and its potential role in fostering political polarization?

Method

Using a unique nationally representative survey of 3000 U.S. adults conducted in March 2023 by YouGov, this study shows that a majority of Americans support reform of primary elections.

Results

The reforms which receive the greatest support are those that seem more “democratic” such as establishing national congressional primary and holding open primaries. There is lower support for reforms that give political parties more control over selecting candidates, such as state party conventions. There are significant differences between Republicans, Democrats, and independents, while factors such as interest, education, gender, and race have a minimal impact. Individuals living in states with nonpartisan primaries are more favorable toward this specific reform, ranked‐choice voting, and open primaries, but primary type was not significant in regression models.

Conclusions

The public is opposed to reforms that give parties more say in choosing candidates, consistent with public sentiment a century earlier when the direct primary was adopted.
Increased platelet to red blood cell transfusion ratio associated with acute kidney injury in children with life‐threatening bleeding
Authors: Vaizer Rachel , Leeper Christine M. , Lu Liling , Josephson Cassandra D. , Leonard Julie C. , Brown Joshua B. , Spinella Philip C.
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Transfusion may increase the risk of organ failure through immunomodulatory effects. The primary objective of this study was to assess for patient or transfusion‐related factors that are independently associated with the risk of acute kidney injury (AKI) and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) in a cohort of children with life‐threatening bleeding from all etiologies.

Methods

In a secondary analysis of the prospective observational massive transfusion in children (MATIC) study, multivariable logistic regression was performed in an adjusted analysis to determine if blood product ratios or deficits were independently associated with AKI or ARDS in children with life‐threatening bleeding.

Results

There were 449 children included with a median (interquartile range, IQR) age of 7.3 years (1.7–14.7). Within 5 days of the life‐threatening bleeding event, AKI occurred in 18.5% and ARDS occurred in 20.3% of the subjects. Every 10% increase in the platelet to red blood cell transfusion ratio is independently associated with a 12.7% increase in the odds of AKI (adjusted odds ratio 1.127; 95% confidence interval 1.025–1.239; p‐value .013). Subjects with operative or medical etiologies were independently associated with an increased risk of AKI compared to those with traumatic injury. No transfusion‐related variables were independently associated with the risk of developing ARDS.

Conclusion

The use of increased platelet to red blood cell transfusion ratios in children with life‐threatening bleeding of any etiology may increase the risk of AKI but not ARDS. Prospective trials are needed to determine if increased platelet use in this cohort increases the risk of AKI to examine possible mechanisms.
Patient sex and outcomes in children with life‐threatening hemorrhage
Authors: Kolodziej Julia H. , Spinella Philip C. , Brown Joshua B. , Lu Liling , Josephson Cassandra D. , Leonard Julie C. , Leeper Christine M.
Published: March 2024

Background

Recent data suggest female sex imparts a survival benefit after trauma in adults. The independent associations between patient sex and age with outcomes have not been examined in children with life‐threatening hemorrhage (LTH) from all etiologies.

Study Design and Methods

In a secondary analysis of a multicenter prospective observational study of children with LTH, Massive Transfusion in Children (MATIC), we analyzed if patient sex and age were associated with differences in severity of illness, therapies, and outcomes. Primary outcomes were 24 hour mortality and weight‐adjusted transfusion volume during LTH. Kruskal–Wallis, chi‐square testing, and multivariable linear regression were used for adjusted analyses.

Results

Of 449 children, 45% were females and 55% were males. Females were more commonly younger, white, and with less trauma as the etiology of LTH compared to males. Markers of clinical severity were similar between groups, except injury severity score (ISS) was higher in females in the trauma subgroup. In terms of resuscitative practices, females received greater weight‐adjusted total transfusion volumes compared to males (76 (40–150) mL/kg vs. 53 (24–100) mL/kg), as well as increased red blood cells (RBCs), plasma, and platelets compared to males. After adjustment for confounders, female sex and age 0–11 years were independently associated with increased transfusion volume during LTH. There were no differences in mortality or adverse outcomes according to patient sex.

Conclusion

Patient sex and age may impact factors associated with LTH and therapies received. Studies in developmental hemostasis are needed to determine the optimal transfusion strategy for LTH according to patient sex and age.
Local Heat Transfer Distribution on Thin Metal Foil Impinged by Array of Free Surface Jets
Authors: Kumar Anuj , Prabhu S. V.
Published: March 2024

The present study focuses on the measurement of the local heat transfer distribution of a smooth flat plate impinged by an array of free surface jets on a thin metal foil. Local Nusselt number distributions are measured for a fixed jet diameter (d = 3 mm). The jet arrays consist of perfectly round apertures arranged in a square pattern, with a uniform spacing of 4d between adjacent jets in both streamwise and spanwise directions. A wide range of Reynolds numbers varying from 1000 to 12,500 are covered in this study. The nozzle to plate spacing (z/d) is varied between 1 and 10. The effect of the Reynolds number and nozzle to plate spacing on the local and spanwise average Nusselt number distributions are studied. The local and average Nusselt numbers are found to be symmetric in streamwise and spanwise directions and they follow a periodic pattern. The local Nusselt number exhibits an increase with nozzle-to-plate spacing within the low Reynolds number range (Re = 1000–2500). However, for Reynolds numbers exceeding 2500, the influence of nozzle-to-plate spacing on Nusselt number distributions remains negligible up to a nozzle-to-plate distance (z/d) of 5. Beyond this point, there is a gradual decrease in the Nusselt number value. The Nusselt number value gradually decreases beyond z/d of 5. At a Reynolds number of 1500, the Nusselt number increases by 71% for z/d = 10 in comparison to z/d = 1. Empirical correlations for local and spanwise average Nusselt number are proposed which satisfactorily predict the local as well as spanwise average Nusselt number distributions.
Effects of Fatigue Parameters on Fatigue Crack Growth Rate of Pipe Steels and Girth Weld
Authors: Park Dong-Yeob , Liang Jie
Published: March 2024

Oil and gas pipeline steels and welds are subjected to a wide variety of cyclic loadings: internal pressure variation, pulsation of gas pressure resulting from the cyclic operation of a reciprocating compressor at a gas compressor station, internal flow-induced vibration resulting from the turbulent flow within the pipe, vortex-induced vibration of a free-spanning section exposed to air (wind) for aboveground pipelines or water for water-crossing pipelines, and cyclic thermal stresses developed by significant changes in temperature due to seasonal changes or changes in operating temperatures. These cyclic loadings are very variable and complex. Considering the fatigue situations, a better understanding of the effects of fatigue test parameters on fatigue behaviors of pipeline steels and welds is required. Hence, in this study, the influences of fatigue test parameters on the Paris law coefficients were studied for pipeline steels and welds. It was analyzed for pipe steels of X65∼X100 and a girth weld of X70. Influences of material strength, crack orientation relative to the pipe axis, and frequency in the range of 1∼30 Hz were insignificant. It was found that the coefficients a1 and b2 of the m-ln(C) relationships linearly relied on the load ratio. The constants (α1, β1, α2, and β2) of these linear relationships between R-ratio and a1 (and b2) were determined for pipe steels.
Vibration Characteristics Investigation of Hard-Coated Mistuned Blisk With Multipackets by Lumped Parameter Model
Authors: Bai Bin , Xiang Li , Zeng Xingzhong , Yao Minghui , Niu Yan , Man Jun feng , Tao Zhiqiang
Published: March 2024

To improve the performance and reduce the vibration of the mistuned blisk, a novel approach combining hard-coating and multipackets is presented. First, the dynamical models of the blisk without hard-coating and multipackets, the hard-coated mistuned blisk without multipackets, and the hard-coated mistuned blisk with multipackets are established based on the lumped parameter model (LPM). Then, the solved results are compared with those previous literature to validate the feasibility and correctness of the proposed models. Furthermore, the characteristics of the natural frequencies and the vibration responses for the mistuned blisk is investigated by proposed LPMs. Finally, the effect of the hard-coating and multipackets on the vibration characteristics for the mistuned blisk are discussed. The obtained results manifest that the vibration response of the mistuned blisk can be further suppressed when the hard-coating and the multipackets are considered simultaneously compared with only the hard-coating or multipackets considered, which provides useful guidance on the vibration reduction for the mistuned blisk.
In Science Journals
Authors: Walia Ankit , Szuromi Phil , Stajic Jelena , Yeston Jake S. , Lavine Marc S. , Hurtley Stella M. , Isles Hannah M. , Baek Amy E. , Lopez Bianca , Seale Madeleine , Funk Michael A. , Jiang Di , Simonti Corinne , Neuhofer Daniela
Published: March 2024

Highlights from the
Science
family of journals
Mars rover probes ancient shoreline for signs of life
Authors: Voosen Paul
Published: March 2024

Plans for Perseverance to explore past crater rim may be in jeopardy
LVS Δ
capB
-vectored multiantigenic melioidosis vaccines protect against lethal respiratory
Burkholderia pseudomallei
challenge in highly sensitive BALB/c mice
Authors: Tullius Michael V. , Bowen Richard A. , Back Peter S. , Masleša-Galić Saša , Nava Susana , Horwitz Marcus A.
Published: March 2024

Melioidosis, caused by the intracellular bacterial pathogen and Tier 1 select agent
Burkholderia pseudomallei
(Bp), is a highly fatal disease endemic in tropical areas. No licensed vaccine against melioidosis exists. In preclinical vaccine studies, demonstrating protection against respiratory infection in the highly sensitive BALB/c mouse has been especially challenging. To address this challenge, we have used a safe yet potent live attenuated platform vector, LVS Δ
capB
, previously used successfully to develop vaccines against the Tier 1 select agents of tularemia, anthrax, and plague, to develop a melioidosis vaccine. We have engineered melioidosis vaccines (rLVS Δ
capB
/Bp) expressing multiple immunoprotective Bp antigens among type VI secretion system proteins Hcp1, Hcp2, and Hcp6, and membrane protein LolC. Administered intradermally, rLVS Δ
capB
/Bp vaccines strongly protect highly sensitive BALB/c mice against lethal respiratory Bp challenge, but protection is overwhelmed at very high challenge doses. In contrast, administered intranasally, rLVS Δ
capB
/Bp vaccines remain strongly protective against even very high challenge doses. Under some conditions, the LVS Δ
capB
vector itself provides significant protection against Bp challenge, and consistent with this, both the vector and vaccines induce humoral immune responses to Bp antigens. Three-antigen vaccines expressing Hcp6-Hcp1-Hcp2 or Hcp6-Hcp1-LolC are among the most potent and provide long-term protection and protection even with a single intranasal immunization. Protection via the intranasal route was either comparable to or statistically significantly better than the single-deletional Bp mutant Bp82, which served as a positive control. Thus, rLVS Δ
capB
/Bp vaccines are exceptionally promising safe and potent melioidosis vaccines.

IMPORTANCE

Melioidosis, a major neglected disease caused by the intracellular bacterial pathogen
Burkholderia pseudomallei
, is endemic in many tropical areas of the world and causes an estimated 165,000 cases and 89,000 deaths in humans annually. Moreover,
B. pseudomallei
is categorized as a Tier 1 select agent of bioterrorism, largely because inhalation of low doses can cause rapidly fatal pneumonia. No licensed vaccine is available to prevent melioidosis. Here, we describe a safe and potent melioidosis vaccine that protects against lethal respiratory challenge with
B. pseudomallei
in a highly sensitive small animal model—even a single immunization is highly protective, and the vaccine gives long-term protection. The vaccine utilizes a highly attenuated replicating intracellular bacterium as a vector to express multiple key proteins of
B. pseudomallei
; this vector platform has previously been used successfully to develop potent vaccines against other Tier 1 select agent diseases including tularemia, anthrax, and plague.