bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Effect Of Fire Simulation For Student’s Knowledge About Fire In SMA X Depok 2022
Authors: Situngkir Decy , Putri Eka Cempaka , Ayu Ira Marti , Handayani Putri
Published: April 2024

Fire is one of the disasters that often occur and result in losses, both to people, assets, and productivity. Fires can occur due to the use of fire, gas explosions, electrical short circuits, HP exploding, natural factors, building conditions, such as the distance between buildings, materials, access to rescue, and weather factors. A school must meet the requirements of safety, health, comfort, and security. Schools must have a stable and sturdy building structure and a safe zone to withstand natural disasters. They should also have an active and/or passive fire protection system to prevent and deal with fire disasters. Knowledge and attitudes are the first parameters of preparedness, which form the basis of every school element’s behavior in disaster preparedness. The research objective is to determine the differences in knowledge scores before and after a fire simulation. This study uses a knowledge questionnaire that has been tested for validity. The sample size is 37 respondents, and the data is analyzed using a paired T-test. The results of the study showed differences in knowledge before and after the fire simulation (p-value = 0.002). Therefore, researchers suggest that schools routinely carry out simple fire simulations in collaboration with the Depok City Fire Department and incorporate topics regarding fire disasters in the curriculum. School can also conduct virtual fire drills or use other methods and media such as video fire simulations, fire safety posters, or safety inductions conducted before starting the first class of the day .
Literature review: A study of cognitive aspects in minimizing human error in construction
Authors: Zahra Mutmainah Fatimah , Pramudya Andika , Akbar Rufa’i Ananda
Published: April 2024

Human error is a mistake due to human negligence, both consciously and unconsciously, which can cause a system to experience disruption and not run as planned. These errors can occur at the managerial, conceptual, or technical level. One of the activities with a high potential for finding human error is construction activities. Construction activities are a series of activities that include the construction, operation, maintenance, demolition, and construction of a building. Infrastructure development is one of the government’s policy focuses in 2023, with development from four main areas: water resources, roads and bridges, settlements, and housing. These infrastructure projects must have a good quality because they are closely related to user safety and security. Based on data from the Social Security Organizing Agency (BPJS) Employment and statements from the Ministry of PUPR, the industrial sector is an enormous contributor to work accidents with an average percentage of 32% each year. The human factor is one of the forerunners of human error apart from equipment and working environment conditions. Viewed from the perspective of Cognitive System Engineering, human error is caused by the failure of human cognitive processes where the process is related to Human Information Processing (HIP). This paper will describe and briefly discuss the problem of human error and its relation to Human Information Processing (HIP). This paper will examine various literature and summarize efforts that can be applied to improve the information processing process in the hope of minimizing the occurrence of human error in the scope of construction work.
Design Of a Dry Coffee Bean Shell Separation Machine Model To Increase Productivity
Authors: Suarbawa I Ketut Gde Juli , Mulawarman A.A. Ngurah Bagus , Pujihadi I Gede Oka
Published: April 2024

The research objective of designing a coffee bean skin separator model is to increase work productivity in the ergonomic dry coffee bean skin separation process. The way this dry coffee peel separator machine works is that the steel plates will rotate each other at certain gaps so that they can rub the coffee until it peels off. The design of this dry coffee bean peeling machine is adjusted to the results of anthropometric data measurements. In the previous coffee skin splitting process using an old-fashioned coffee peeler machine where the coffee beans were put in the inlet without sorting the coffee sizes, all coffee sizes were put in to be processed in the machine. Then the peeling plate gap is adjusted and the medium size is selected. As a result of stripping, it was obtained that almost 50% of the coffee beans had not been peeled off, and had to be put back in again. Besides that, the results of the stripping were still mixed with the dirt skin, so it needed to be processed again to clean the coffee. The results of testing the performance of the old model of the peeler with the new model of the improved peeler obtained an increase in performance or an increase in productivity. Increased work capacity of the dry coffee peeler (Kp) = (153.84 -17.24) / 17.24 = 176.88%, while the increase in the quality of well-exfoliated coffee beans (Kw) is = (90.74 – 85 .41)/85.41 = 6.24% thereby increasing productivity.
Design Of Clove Flower Picking Ladder Ergonomic Footstep Clamp Model
Authors: Suarbawa I Ketut Gde Juli , Yusuf M. , Sutarna I Nyoman
Published: April 2024

Clove farmers who are currently still using wood as a footrest mounted on bamboo, more specifically, this invention relates to the design of a new footing design for bamboo stairs using metal clamps as a substitute for wooden steps which are often at risk of breaking. To overcome existing problems, craftsmen need to be given a bamboo ladder (Banggul) for picking clove flowers that is ergonomic and safe using strong and light metal clamps as an ergonomic footrest that can be installed and removed and the distance of the bamboo steps can be adjusted according to anthropometry. the farmer’s knees are high so that when he climbs the bamboo steps his working attitude is natural. The results showed that the workload of farmers reached 127,54 ± 4,90 dpm (heavy workload), while the resting pulse 75,61 ± 0,506 dpm or experiencing an increase 51,935± 2,19 dpm. Musculoskeletal complaints before work 30,32 ± 1,52 and after-work complaints score 51,20 ± 5,021. Fatigue scores after work increased from before work 32,10 ± 3,354 while the fatigue score after work increased to 55,11 ± 4,321.
Sink or Swim? Sleep Patterns in Highly Trained Adolescent Swimmers during the In-Season Phase of Training
Authors: Ashby Claudia , Driller Matthew W. , Suppiah Haresh , O'Donnell Shannon
Published: April 2024

Objectives The aim of this study was to investigate the sleeping patterns of highly-trained adolescent swimmers. Further objectives were to compare subjective and objective measures of sleep and to evaluate the relationship between electronic device use and sleep in this cohort.

Methods Fifteen national-level swimmers (age: 16.4 ± 1.0 years) wore wrist actigraphs while completing sleep diaries over a two-week training period. Types of nights were classified as early morning training (≤7am - EARLY), day training (>7am - DAY), and no training (REST). Information on electronic device use before bed and other sleep behaviors was collected via questionnaires.

Results Total sleep time (TST) was significantly (p < 0.05) shorter on nights preceding EARLY (5:53 ± 1:06 hour:min) compared with nights preceding DAY (7:40 ± 1:12 hour:min) and REST (7:59 ± 1:19 hour:min). Participants overestimated subjective TST by ∼54 minutes when compared with objectively measured TST (p < 0.05).

Discussion Adolescent athletes obtained a greater amount of sleep prior to later training the next day or before rest days, when compared with early morning swim training the next day. Adolescents also overestimated their sleep duration by ∼1 hour per night. There were no significant relationships between electronic device use at night and measured sleep indices.
Engineering tools for stimulating wound healing
Authors: Lazarus Emily , Barnum Lindsay , Ramesh Srikanthan , Quint Jacob , Samandari Mohamadmahdi , Laflamme Simon , Secord Thomas W. , Schmidt Tannin , Tamayol Ali , Rivero Iris V.
Published: April 2024

Wound healing is the complex physiological process of restoring the skin's integrity, structure, and function after damage caused by external conditions. The wound healing cascade may be altered due to the progression of certain diseases, such as diabetes, venous hypertension, or peripheral arterial disease, resulting in non-healing chronic wounds. Chronic wounds can be characterized by a wide variety of pathologies including increased reactive oxygen species, ineffective neutrophil activity, overabundance of pro-inflammatory cytokines, and chronic hypoxia. Medical intervention is crucial to heal chronic wounds. This review explores current research to engineer improved chronic wound treatment devices, dressings, and constructs to facilitate tissue regeneration and wound closure. This review first covers different physical stimulation therapies, then, local therapeutic delivery systems, and finally three-dimensional (bio)printing techniques for the fabrication of skin grafts and wound dressings. Additionally, the review discusses the regulatory process for bringing cutting-edge wound healing technologies to market and highlights currently approved products for wound treatment. At the end, the unmet need and future directions that the field should expand are discussed.
Collaborative hierarchical scheduling model of interconnected multi-microgrid and ADN considering DR with different strategies
Authors: Shen Yuming , Xu Jiayin , Wang Xuli , Guo Wenzhang , Zhou Yuanke , Feng Peiru , Zhang Mengyuan , Xu Haoran
Published: April 2024

The demand response (DR) resources of multiple entities have different operation strategies, which makes it difficult to realize the co-optimization. This paper proposes a cooperative hierarchical scheduling optimization model of interconnected multi-microgrid and an active distribution network (ADN) considering DR with different operation strategies. First, the collaborative hierarchical scheduling framework is proposed and the interaction characteristics and cooperative scheduling mode of multi-interconnected microgrid and ADN are analyzed. Second, the two-layer cooperative hierarchical scheduling model is established, considering DR with different strategies. The upper layer model takes the minimum operating cost of the ADN as the objective to optimize the trading tariff between the ADN and microgrids, and its own DR, while the lower layer model takes the operating cost of multi-microgrid as the objective to optimize the purchasing and selling of electrical energy for the ADN, the DR, and the interaction power. Finally, the case studies with three microgrids and an ADN are used to demonstrate the validity and effectiveness of the proposed model.
Life cycle of private equity investments in physician practices: an overview of private equity exits
Authors: Singh Yashaswini , Reddy Megha , Zhu Jane M
Published: April 2024

Private equity (PE) firms acquire and grow physician practices through add-on consolidation, generating outsized returns on the sale of the acquisition in 3–8 years (“exit”). Private equity's abbreviated investment timeline and exit incentives may deter long-term investments in care delivery and workforce needed for high-quality care. To our knowledge, there has been no published analyses of the nature or duration of PE exits from physician practices. We address this knowledge gap by using novel data to characterize PE exits from dermatology, ophthalmology, and gastroenterology, physician specialties with the largest number of acquisitions between 2016 and 2020. Of 807 acquisitions, over half (51.6%) of PE-acquired practices underwent an exit within 3 years of initial investment. In nearly all instances (97.8%), PE firms exited investments through secondary buyouts, where physician practices were resold to other PE firms with larger investment funds. Between investment and exit, PE firms increased the number of physician practices affiliated with the PE firm by an average of 595% in 3 years. Findings highlight the rapid scale of ownership change and consolidation under PE ownership and motivate evaluations by policymakers on the effects of PE ownership over the life cycle of PE investments.
A phased genome of the highly heterozygous ‘Texas’ almond uncovers patterns of allele-specific expression linked to heterozygous structural variants
Authors: Castanera Raúl , de Tomás Carlos , Ruggieri Valentino , Vicient Carlos , Eduardo Iban , Aranzana Maria José , Arús Pere , Casacuberta Josep M
Published: April 2024

The vast majority of traditional almond varieties are self-incompatible, and the level of variability of the species is very high, resulting in a high-heterozygosity genome. Therefore, information on the different haplotypes is particularly relevant to understand the genetic basis of trait variability in this species. However, although reference genomes for several almond varieties exist, none of them is phased and has genome information at the haplotype level. Here, we present a phased assembly of genome of the almond cv. Texas. This new assembly has 13% more assembled sequence than the previous version of the Texas genome and has an increased contiguity, in particular in repetitive regions such as the centromeres. Our analysis shows that the ‘Texas’ genome has a high degree of heterozygosity, both at SNPs, short indels, and structural variants level. Many of the SVs are the result of heterozygous transposable element insertions, and in many cases, they also contain genic sequences. In addition to the direct consequences of this genic variability on the presence/absence of genes, our results show that variants located close to genes are often associated with allele-specific gene expression, which highlights the importance of heterozygous SVs in almond.
It is Who You Know: The Influence of Faith-Based Donor Networks on the Antitrafficking Work of Faith-Based Organizations
Authors: Henriksson Andreas
Published: April 2024

Faith-based organizations (FBOs) are prevalent actors in antitrafficking work, in part due to the substantial resources existing within faith-based donor networks. FBOs are often funded by churches, other FBOs, and individual donors, which make up donor networks partly secluded from mainstream development funding. Drawing on research practices and concepts from institutional ethnography, I explore the specific composition of the donor networks of three antitrafficking FBOs in Thailand and Cambodia. I demonstrate how the character of donor networks shapes the antitrafficking work of the FBOs. The analysis shows that the three different donor networks contribute to distinctly different approaches to faith in antitrafficking. This article thus contributes to understanding the varied ways in which faith shapes the work of FBOs and sheds light on how the intertwinement of religious ideas and material resources influences the particular antitrafficking work of FBOs.
Multidisciplinary approach in diagnosis and treatment of Fong disease
Authors: Gecheva Nia A , Angelov Valentin , Kaneva Radka , Dikova Milka
Published: April 2024

Nail-patella syndrome, also known as Fong disease, is an uncommon autosomal dominant disorder characterized by a distinctive set of features, including fingernail abnormalities, hypoplastic patellae, radial head dislocation, and iliac horns. This condition often leads to patellar subluxation or dislocation, resulting in knee instability and pain. While existing literature predominantly focuses on the clinical and radiological aspects of nail-patella syndrome-related knee manifestations, only a limited number of articles delve into a meticulous approach to the condition with a comprehensive strategy for diagnosis. We present an atypical case of Fong disease distinguished by unique genetic characteristics and subsequently subjected to a thorough clinical assessment and a meticulously planned operative treatment regimen.
The faecal microbiome of the Pacific banana slug, Ariolimax columbianus, displays seasonal variation
Authors: Boomer Sarah M , Baltzley Michael J , Dutton Bryan E , Smith Parker N
Published: April 2024

The Pacific banana slug, Ariolimax columbianus, is the largest land mollusc in North America and occurs in forests ranging from northwestern California to Alaska. We explored the microbial community found within the faeces of 24 slugs from the Oregon Coast Range. Twenty-four slugs were collected in 2019, 12 in the spring and 12 in the fall. These two time points were selected to investigate the composition of microbial populations in wild-caught slugs, also in response to seasonal changes in available plants as food sources. Results from 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing indicate that the most prevalent phyla detected from A. columbianus were Proteobacteria (66%) and Bacteriodetes (16%), similar to previous observations from six other species/genera of terrestrial gastropods (Stylommatophora). The most abundant operational taxonomic units across all specimens were Enterobacter sp., Pseudomonas sp. and Flavobacterium sp. Significant seasonal variation was observed for several species of Flavobacteriales, Firmicutes and Proteobacteria, with the majority showing higher abundance in fall. In contrast to Cornu aspersum (previously Helix aspersa, parapatric with A. columbianus) and Geomaculus maculosus, A. columbianus harbours very low levels of Buttiauxella (0.35%). These findings raise questions about the origin, specificity and selection of specific bacteria as components of the intestinal microbiome of terrestrial gastropods.
Isoform‐independent promotion of contractility and proliferation, and suppression of survival by with no lysine/K kinases in prostate stromal cells
Authors: Liu Yuhan , Huang Ru , Wang Ruixiao , Tamalunas Alexander , Waidelich Raphaela , Stief Christian G. , Hennenberg Martin
Published: April 2024

With no lysine/K kinases (WNKs) promote vasocontraction and vascular smooth muscle cell proliferation. In the prostate, smooth muscle contraction and growth may be critical for the development and medical treatment of voiding symptoms in benign prostatic hyperplasia. Here, we examined the effects of isoform‐specific WNK silencing and of the WNK inhibitor WNK463 on growth‐related functions and contraction in prostate stromal cells, and in human prostate tissues. Impacts of WNK silencing by transfection of cultured stromal cells with isoform‐specific siRNAs were qualitatively and quantitatively similar for each WNK isoform. Effects of silencing were largest on cell death (3–5 fold increase in annexin V‐positive/7‐AAD‐positive cells), on proliferation rate, Ki‐67 mRNA expression and actin organization (reduced around two‐thirds). Contraction in matrix contraction assays and viability were reduced to a lower degree (approximately half), but again to a similar extent for each WNK isoform. Effects of silencing were quantitatively and qualitatively reproduced by 10 μM WNK463, while 1 μM still induced cell death and breakdown in actin organization, without affecting proliferation or viability. Using 500 nM and 10 μM, WNK463 partly inhibited neurogenic and U46619‐induced contractions of human prostate tissues (around half), while inhibition of α1‐adrenergic contractions (around half) was limited to 10 μM. All four WNK isoforms suppress cell death and promote proliferation in prostate stromal cells. WNK‐driven contraction of stromal cells appears possible, even though to a limited extent. Outcomes of isoform‐specific WNK silencing can be fully reproduced by WNK463, including inhibition of smooth muscle contraction in human prostate tissues, but require high concentrations.
An Algorithm for Control of Excessive Perioperative Bleeding and Ecchymosis in Rhinoplasty Patients Based on 4 Decades of Experience
Authors: Guyuron Bahman , Cakmakoglu Cagri , Avasarala Vardhan
Published: April 2024

Background:

Persistent intraoperative bleeding, excessive postoperative ecchymosis, epistaxis, and blood collection in the supratip area increase the complexity of rhinoplasty, causing suboptimal outcomes. The authors present an intraoperative bleeding management algorithm, developed by the senior author (B.G.) based on 43 years of experience, and assess its efficacy in achieving hemostatic control through 103 consecutive cases.

Methods:

A retrospective chart review was conducted on 103 consecutive patients who had undergone septorhinoplasty performed by a single surgeon. The authors reviewed patient demographics; coagulopathies; medications; diet; intraoperative use of tranexamic acid (TXA), deamino-8-d-arginine vasopressin (DDAVP), and vitamin K; and postoperative complications.

Results:

Twenty-six patients (25.2%) did not receive intraoperative hemostatic agents. Twenty-six patients (25.2%) required TXA only, 3 patients (2.91%) were given DDAVP only, 1 patient (0.97%) received vitamin K only, and 46 patients (44.7%) required both TXA and DDAVP. One patient (0.97%) needed TXA, DDAVP, and vitamin K. Intraoperative bleeding was controlled in all patients. One patient with known factor 11 deficiency received both TXA and DDAVP intraoperatively but did not require fresh frozen plasma. Intraoperative bleeding was controlled by first administering 10 mg/kg of TXA intravenously, followed by DDAVP with a maximum dose of 0.3 µg if needed, and 10 mg of vitamin K if bleeding persisted. Patients with known type I or IIa von Willebrand disease received DDAVP preoperatively. No patient experienced postoperative epistaxis, thromboembolism, or other associated complications.

Conclusion:

The algorithm of TXA, DDAVP, and vitamin K is effective in controlling excessive intraoperative bleeding, postoperative ecchymosis, and epistaxis.

CLINICAL QUESTION/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE:

Therapeutic, IV.
Describing financial crisis propagation through epidemic modelling on multiplex networks
Authors: Bozhidarova Malvina , Ball Frank , van Gennip Yves , O’Dea Reuben D. , Stupfler Gilles
Published: April 2024

This paper proposes a novel framework for modelling the spread of financial crises in complex networks, combining financial data, Extreme Value Theory and an epidemiological transmission model. We accommodate two key aspects of contagion modelling: fundamentals-based contagion, where the transmission is due to direct financial linkages, and pure contagion, where a crisis might trigger additional crises due to global effects. We use stock price, geographical location and economic sector data for a set of 398 companies to construct multiplex networks of four layers, on which a susceptible-infected-recovered transmission model is defined, in order to model the spread of financial shocks between companies by accounting for their interconnected nature. By utilizing stock price data for the 2008 and 2020 financial crises, we investigate and assess the effectiveness of our model in forecasting the propagation of financial shocks through the network, where a shock is detected by measuring stock price volatility. The results suggest that the proposed framework is effective in predicting the spread of financial crises. Our findings demonstrate the significance of each layer of the multiplex network structure, which differentiates between various transmission pathways, for predicting the number of affected companies, as well as for company-, sector- or location-specific predictions.
Resolving selfish and spiteful interdependent conflict
Authors: Stewart Alexander J. , Pilgrim Charlie , Raihani Nichola J.
Published: April 2024

Interdependence occurs when individuals have a stake in the success or failure of others, such that the outcomes experienced by one individual also generate costs or benefits for others. Discussion on this topic has typically focused on positive interdependence (where gains for one individual result in gains for another) and on the consequences for cooperation. However, interdependence can also be negative (where gains for one individual result in losses for another), which can spark conflict. In this article, we explain when negative interdependence is likely to arise and, crucially, the role played by (mis)perception in shaping an individual's understanding of their interdependent relationships. We argue that, owing to the difficulty in accurately perceiving interdependence with others, individuals might often be mistaken about the stake they hold in each other's outcomes, which can spark needless, resolvable forms of conflict. We then discuss when and how reducing misperceptions can help to resolve such conflicts. We argue that a key mechanism for resolving interdependent conflict, along with better sources of exogenous information, is to reduce reliance on heuristics such as stereotypes when assessing the nature of our interdependent relationships.
Changes in Electroencephalography signals in a juvenile female Fragile X Syndrome mouse model
Authors: Ahmed Asim , Rasheva Veronica , Bae MoonYoung , Murari Kartikeya , Cheng Ning
Published: April 2024

Background

Fragile X syndrome (FXS) is the leading monogenic cause of Autism. Seizures, hyperactivity, and anxiety are common symptoms of FXS. No broadly effective support option currently exists for FXS, and drug development has suffered many failures in clinical trials based on promising preclinical findings. Thus, effective translational biomarkers of treatment outcomes are needed. Recently electroencephalography (EEG) has been proposed as a translational biomarker in FXS. Being X-linked, FXS is more prevalent in males than females, and there exist significant phenotype differences between males and females with FXS. Recent studies involving male FXS participants and rodent models have identified an increase in absolute gamma EEG power, while alpha power is found to be either decreased or unchanged. However, there is not enough research on female FXS patients or models. In addition, studying EEG activity in young FXS patients or rodent models is crucial for better understanding of the disorder’s effects on brain development.

Therefore, we aim to compare EEG signal between wild-type (WT) andfmr1knockout (KO) female mice at the juvenile stage.

Methods

Frontal-parietal differential EEG was recorded using a stand-alone Open-Source Electrophysiology Recording system for Rodents (OSERR). EEG activity was recorded in three different conditions: a) in the subject’s home cage and in the arenas for b) light and dark test and C) open field test. Absolute and relative EEG power as well as phase-amplitude coupling were computed for each condition.

Results

In our study, we found absolute alpha, beta, and gamma EEG power is increased in femalefmr1 KOmice compared to WT controls at the juvenile age. Alongside, relative theta power is decreased in thefmr1 KOfemales. Furthermore, phase-amplitude coupling is increased in thefmr1 KOfemales.

Discussion and Conclusion

Comparing to the reported changes in EEG signal in male FXS patients and models, our results indicated the presence of sex-based differences in EEG phenotypes at the juvenile stage. Collectively, these findings suggest that sex is an importance factor to consider in utilizing EEG as a translational biomarker in FXS.
Molecular insights into phosphoethanolamine cellulose formation and secretion
Authors: Verma Preeti , Ho Ruoya , Chambers Schuyler A. , Cegelski Lynette , Zimmer Jochen
Published: April 2024

Phosphoethanolamine (pEtN) cellulose is a naturally occurring modified cellulose produced by several Enterobacteriaceae. The minimal components of theE. colicellulose synthase complex include the catalytically active BcsA enzyme, an associated periplasmic semicircle of hexameric BcsB, as well as the outer membrane (OM)-integrated BcsC subunit containing periplasmic tetratricopeptide repeats (TPR). Additional subunits include BcsG, a membrane-anchored periplasmic pEtN transferase associated with BcsA, and BcsZ, a conserved periplasmic cellulase of unknown biological function. While events underlying the synthesis and translocation of cellulose by BcsA are well described, little is known about its pEtN modification and translocation across the cell envelope. We show that the N-terminal cytosolic domain of BcsA positions three copies of BcsG near the nascent cellulose polymer. Further, the terminal subunit of the BcsB semicircle tethers the N-terminus of a single BcsC protein to establish a trans-envelope secretion system. BcsC’s TPR motifs bind a putative cello-oligosaccharide near the entrance to its OM pore. Additionally, we show that only the hydrolytic activity of BcsZ but not the subunit itself is necessary for cellulose secretion, suggesting a secretion mechanism based on enzymatic removal of mislocalized cellulose. Lastly, we introduce pEtN modification of cellulose in orthogonal cellulose biosynthetic systems by protein engineering.
Modelling Amoebic Brain Infection Caused byBalamuthia mandrillarisUsing a Human Cerebral Organoid
Authors: Tongkrajang Nongnat , Kobpornchai Phorntida , Dubey Pratima , Panadsako Nitirat , Chaisri Urai , Kulkeaw Kasem
Published: April 2024

The lack of disease models adequately resembling human tissue has hindered our understanding of amoebic brain infection. Three-dimensional structured organoids provide a microenvironment similar to human tissue. This study demonstrates the use of cerebral organoids to model a rare brain infection caused by the highly lethal amoebaBalamuthia mandrillaris. Cerebral organoids were generated from human pluripotent stem cells and infected with clinically isolatedB. mandrillaristrophozoites. Histological examination showed amoebic invasion and neuron damage following coculture with the trophozoites. The transcript profile suggested an alteration in neuron growth and a proinflammatory response. The release of intracellular proteins specific to neuronal bodies and astrocytes was detected at higher levels postinfection. The amoebicidal effect of the repurposed drug nitroxoline was examined using the human cerebral organoids. Overall, the use of human cerebral organoids helped unravel the host response, identify biomarkers for brain injury, and in the testing of a potential amoebicidal drug in a context similar to the human brain.

Author summary

Brain inflammation caused by a free-living amoebaBalamuthia mandrillarisis really rare but life-threatening infectious disease. Given its rarity and difficulty to obtain a clinical isolate for further study, this disease has been neglected despite high mortality rate. Many gaps in our understanding of the disease remain opened. Emergence of the organoid platform allows modelling human diseases in anin vitrosetting, leading to identification of potential molecular pathway as drug targets. Thus, this work attempts to deploy a human brain organoid to reveal such pathways, which are altered by the amoeba. A strain ofB. mandrillariswas isolated from human biopsied brain. In the co-culture between brain organoid and amoeba, data suggested an alteration in neuron growth and increase of proinflammatory response. Brain organoid release brain trauma biomarkers. Importantly, we show therapeutic effect of the antibiotic nitroxoline using the human cerebral organoids. Thereby, the use of the human cerebral organoids unravels the host response, identify potential biomarkers, and provide an alternative way for testing a potential drug targeting the amoeba.
Pre-endoscopic screening of precancerous lesions in gastric cancer using deep learning
Authors: Wang Lan , Zhang Qian , Zhang Peng , Wu Bowen , Du Shiyu , Tang Kaiqiang , Li Shao
Published: April 2024

Objective

Given the high cost of endoscopy in gastric cancer (GC) screening, there is an urgent need to explore cost-effective methods for the large-scale prediction of precancerous lesions of gastric cancer (PLGC). We aim to construct a hierarchical artificial intelligence-based multimodal non-invasive method for pre-endoscopic risk screening, to provide tailored recommendations for endoscopy.

Design

From December 2022 to December 2023, a large-scale screening study was conducted in Fujian, China. Based on traditional Chinese medicine theory, we simultaneously collected tongue images and inquiry information from 1034 participants, considering the potential of these data for PLGC screening. Then, we introduced inquiry information for the first time, forming a multimodality artificial intelligence model to integrate tongue images and inquiry information for pre-endoscopic screening. Moreover, we validated this approach in another independent external validation cohort, comprising 143 participants from the China-Japan Friendship Hospital.

Results

A multimodality artificial intelligence-assisted pre-endoscopic screening model based on tongue images and inquiry information (AITonguequiry) was constructed, adopting a hierarchical prediction strategy, achieving tailored endoscopic recommendations. Validation analysis revealed that the area under the curve (AUC) values of AITonguequiry were 0.74 for PLGC (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.71 to 0.76, p < 0.05) and 0.82 for high-risk PLGC (95% CI 0.82 to 0.83, p < 0.05), which were significantly and robustly better than those of the independent use of either tongue images or inquiry information alone, and also demonstrated superior performance compared to existing screening methodologies. In the independent external verification, the AUC values were 0.69 for PLGC and 0.76 for high-risk PLGC.

Conclusion

Our AITonguequiry artificial intelligence model, for the first time, incorporates inquiry information and tongue images, leading to a higher precision and finer-grained pre-endoscopic screening of PLGC. This enhances patient screening efficiency and alleviates patient burden.
Evolutionary game analysis of collaborative application of BIM platform from the perspective of value co-creation
Authors: An Xiaowei , Ren Sicheng , Wang Lunyan , Huang Yehui
Published: April 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the support for multi-party collaboration in project construction provided by building information modeling (BIM). Based on the perspective of value co-creation, the research results can provide support for the collaborative application and contract design of BIM platform.

Design/methodology/approach

In this paper, an evolutionary game model involving the owner, designer and constructor is constructed by using prospect theory and evolutionary game theory. Through simulation analysis, the evolution law of the strategy choice of each party in the collaborative application of BIM platform is discussed and the key factors affecting the strategy choice of all parties are analyzed.

Findings

The results show that there is an ideal local equilibrium point with progressive stability in the evolutionary game between the three parties: “the construction party shares information, the designer receives the information and optimizes the project and the owner does not provide incentives”; in addition, the opportunistic behaviors of the design and construction parties, as well as the probability of such behaviors being detected and the subsequent punishment have a significant impact on the evolutionary outcome.

Originality/value

This method can provide support for the collaborative application and contract design of BIM platform.
Impact of the chips act on the GVC participation of China's electronics industry
Authors: Gu Shiwen , Cheong Inkyo
Published: April 2024

Purpose

In this paper, we evaluated the impact of the US “Chip Act” on the participation of the Chinese electronics industry in the global value chain based on the dynamic CGE model. This is a meaningful attempt to use the GTAP-VA model to analyze the electronics industry in China.

Design/methodology/approach

We employ a Dynamic GTAP-VA Model to quantitatively evaluate the economic repercussions of the “Chip Act” on the Chinese electronic industries' GVC participation from 2023 to 2040.

Findings

The findings depict a discernible contraction in China’s electronic sector by 2040, marked by a −2.95% change in output, a −3.50% alteration in exports and a 0.45% increment in imports. Concurrently, the U.S., EU and certain Asian economies exhibit expansions within the electronic sector, indicating a GVC realignment. The “Chip Act” implementation precipitates a significant divergence in GVC participation across different countries and industries, notably impacting the electronics sector.

Research limitations/implications

Through a meticulous temporal analysis, this manuscript unveils the nuanced economic shifts within the GVC, substantially bridging the empirical void in existing literature. This narrative accentuates the profound implications of policy regulations on global trade dynamics, contributing to the discourse on international economic policy and industry evolution.

Practical implications

We evaluated the impact of the US “Chip Act” on the participation of the Chinese electronics industry in the global value chain based on the dynamic CGE model. This is a meaningful attempt to use the GTAP-VA model to analyze the electronics industry in China.

Social implications

The interaction between policy regulations and global value chain (GVC) dynamics is pivotal in understanding the contemporary global trade framework, especially within technology-driven sectors. The US “Chips Act” represents a significant regulatory milestone with potential ramifications on the Chinese electronic industries' engagement in the GVC.

Originality/value

The significance of this paper is that it quantifies for the first time the impact of the US Chip Act on the GVC participation index of East Asian countries in the context of US-China decoupling. With careful consideration of strategic aspects, this paper substantially fills the empirical gap in the existing literature by presenting subtle economic changes within GVCs, highlighting the profound implications of policy regulation on global trade dynamics.
Antibiotics for the treatment of lower respiratory tract infections in children with neurodisability: Systematic review
Authors: Marpole Rachael M. , Bowen Asha C. , Langdon Katherine , Wilson Andrew C. , Gibson Noula
Published: April 2024

Aim

Determine the optimal antibiotic choice for lower respiratory tract infection (LRTI) in children with neurodisability.

Methods

Embase, Ovid Emcare and MEDLINE were searched for studies from inception to January 2023. All studies, except case reports, focusing on the antibiotic treatment of LRTI in children, with neurodisabilities were included. Outcomes included length of stay, intensive care admission and mortality.

Results

Nine studies met the inclusion criteria (5115 patients). All the studies were of low quality. The shortest length of stay was with anaerobic and gram‐positive cover. Five studies used anaerobic, gram‐positive and gram‐negative cover (e.g., amoxicillin‐clavulanic acid), which was frequently adequate. In one large study, it was better than gram‐positive and gram‐negative cover alone (e.g. ceftriaxone). Those unresponsive or more unwell at presentation improved faster on Pseudomonas aeruginosa cover (e.g., piperacillin‐tazobactam).

Conclusion

In this context, anaerobic, gram‐positive and gram‐negative cover is just as effective as P. aeruginosa cover, supporting empiric treatment with amoxicillin‐clavulanic acid. If there is a failure to improve, broadening to include P. aeruginosa could be considered. This is consistent with a consensus statement on the treatment of LRTI in children with neurodisability. An accepted definition for what constitutes LRTI in this cohort is required before designing prospective randomised trials.
Intracorporeal anastomosis could be associated with a higher lymph node yield in right colon cancer surgery: Results of the ICA‐LATAM study, a retrospective, multicentre, comparative analysis in Latin America
Authors: Patrón Uriburu Juan C. , Araujo Sergio , Mario Abedrapo , Billy Jimenez , Méndez Ramón , Rossi Gustavo , Rotholtz Nicolás , Luis Romagnolo , Avellaneda Nicolas , Melani Armando
Published: April 2024

Aim

The aim of this work was to compare lymph node (LN) yield in patients operated on for right colon cancer (RCC) using a laparoscopic approach between those receiving an intracorporeal (ICA) or extracorporeal anastomosis (ECA).

Method

This is a retrospective multicentre study involving patients operated on for RCC in nine tertiary referral centres in Latin America during a 2‐year period. The main comparative outcome between groups was the number of LNs harvested between groups.

Results

The study included 416 patients, 261 (62.7%) in the ECA group and 155 (37.3%) in the ICA group. Patients in the ECA group were elderly (66 vs. 61 years, p < 0.001). Patients receiving an ICA achieved a significantly higher LN yield than those receiving an ECA (24 vs. 18, p < 0.001). This group also had a lower percentage of patients achieving a substandard LN yield (<12 LNs) (10% vs. 24.8%, p = 0.001) and more patients achieving a high number of harvested LNs (>32 LNs) (15.5% vs. 8.3%, p = 0.039). In the multivariate analysis, ICA was independently related to the primary outcome (LN yield) (OR 3.28, p = 0.027, 95% CI 1.14–9.38).

Conclusion

In this retrospective study, patients operated on for RCC who received an ICA achieved a higher LN yield. Further studies are needed to reconfirm these findings, and also to find an explanation for these results.
Performance status at the time of lung retransplant predicts long‐term function
Authors: Deitz Rachel L. , Clifford Sarah , Ryan John P. , Chan Ernest G. , Coster Jenalee N. , Furukawa Masashi , Hage Chadi A. , Sanchez Pablo G.
Published: April 2024

Background

Lung retransplantation is offered to select patients with chronic allograft dysfunction. Given the increased risk of morbidity and mortality conferred by retransplantation, post‐transplant function should be considered in the decision of who and when to list. The aim of this study is to identify predictors of post‐operative disability in patients undergoing lung retransplantation.

Methods

Data were collected from the UNOS national dataset and included all patients who underwent lung retransplant from May 2005–March 2023. Pre‐ and post‐operative function was reported by the Karnofsky Performance Status (KPS) and patients were stratified based on their needs. Cumulative link mixed effects models identified associations between pre‐transplant variables and post‐transplant function.

Results

A total of 1275 lung retransplant patients were included. After adjusting for between‐group differences, pre‐operative functional status was predictive of post‐transplant function; patients requiring Total Assistance (
n = 740) were 74% more likely than No/Some Assistance patients (n = 535) to require more assistance in follow‐up (OR 1.74, 95% CI 1.13–2.68, p = .012). Estimated one year survival of Total Assistance patients is lower than No/Some Assistance Recipients (72% vs. 82%, CI 69%–75%; 79%–86%) but similar to overall re‐transplant survival (76%, CI 74%–79%).

Conclusion

Both survival and regain of function in patients requiring Total Assistance prior to retransplant may be higher than previously reported. Pre‐operative functional status is predictive of post‐operative function and should weigh in the selection, timing and post‐operative care of patients considered for lung retransplantation.
Pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of mibavademab (a leptin receptor agonist): Results from a first‐in‐human phase I study
Authors: Gewitz Andrew , Mendell Jeanne , Wang Yuhuan , Harris Charles , Olenchock Benjamin A. , Podgrabinska Simona , Zheng Wenjun , Zhao An , Pan Hao , Vanhoutte Frédéric , Davis John D.
Published: April 2024

Mibavademab (previously known as REGN4461), a fully human monoclonal antibody, is being investigated for the treatment of conditions associated with leptin deficiency. Here, we report pharmacokinetics (PKs), pharmacodynamics, and immunogenicity from a phase I study in healthy participants (NCT03530514). In part A, lean or overweight healthy participants were randomized to single‐ascending‐dose cohorts of 0.3, 1.0, 3.0, 10, and 30 mg/kg intravenous (i.v.), or 300 and 600 mg subcutaneous doses of mibavademab or placebo. In part B, overweight or obese participants were randomized to receive multiple doses of mibavademab (15 mg/kg i.v. loading dose and 10 mg/kg i.v. at weeks 3, 6, and 9) or placebo, stratified by body mass index and baseline leptin levels: low leptin (<5 ng/mL) or relatively low leptin (5–8 ng/mL in men and 5–24 ng/mL in women). Fifty‐six and 55 participants completed the single‐ascending‐dose and multiple‐dose parts, respectively. In the single‐ascending‐dose cohorts, mibavademab PKs were nonlinear with target‐mediated elimination, greater than dose‐proportional increases in exposure, and there were no dose‐dependent differences in total soluble leptin receptor (sLEPR) levels in serum over time. Following multiple‐dose administration of mibavademab in participants with leptin <8 ng/mL, lower mean mibavademab concentrations, higher mean total sLEPR concentrations, and larger mean decreases in body weight than in the relatively low leptin cohorts were observed. Baseline leptin was correlated with mibavademab PKs and pharmacodynamics. No treatment‐emergent anti‐mibavademab antibodies were observed in any mibavademab‐treated participant. Results from this study collectively inform further development of mibavademab to treat conditions associated with leptin deficiency.
Calcium isotope fractionation by intracellular amorphous calcium carbonate (ACC) forming cyanobacteria
Authors: Mehta Neha , Bradbury Harold , Benzerara Karim
Published: April 2024

The formation of intracellular amorphous calcium carbonate (ACC) by various cyanobacteria is a widespread biomineralization process, yet its mechanism and importance in past and modern environments remain to be fully comprehended. This study explores whether calcium (Ca) isotope fractionation, linked to ACC‐forming cyanobacteria, can serve as a reliable tracer for detecting these microorganisms in modern and ancient settings. Accordingly, we measured stable Ca isotope fractionation during Ca uptake by the intracellular ACC‐forming cyanobacterium Cyanothece sp. PCC 7425. Our results show that Cyanothece sp. PCC 7425 cells are enriched in lighter Ca isotopes relative to the solution. This finding is consistent with the kinetic isotope effects observed in the Ca isotope fractionation during biogenic carbonate formation by marine calcifying organisms. The Ca isotope composition of Cyanothece sp. PCC 7425 was accurately modeled using a Rayleigh fractionation model, resulting in a Ca isotope fractionation factor (Δ44Ca) equal to −0.72 ± 0.05‰. Numerical modeling suggests that Ca uptake by these cyanobacteria is primarily unidirectional, with minimal back reaction observed over the duration of the experiment. Finally, we compared our Δ44Ca values with those of other biotic and abiotic carbonates, revealing similarities with organisms that form biogenic calcite. These similarities raise questions about the effectiveness of using the Ca isotope fractionation factor as a univocal tracer of ACC‐forming cyanobacteria in the environment. We propose that the use of Δ44Ca in combination with other proposed tracers of ACC‐forming cyanobacteria such as Ba and Sr isotope fractionation factors and/or elevated Ba/Ca and Sr/Ca ratios may provide a more reliable approach.