bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Visual similarity simulation of slub denim based on image processing
Authors: Song Bingpeng , Pan Ruru , Zhang Ning , Xiang Jun , He Wentao
Published: October 2023

The slub denim has various appearance styles that attract consumers due to the irregular distribution and long cycle of the slubs in the slub yarn. This characteristic of the slub yarn makes the slub denim proofing that relies on artificial visual contrast time-consuming with a long design cycle. A visual similarity simulation method was proposed for slub denim based on slub yarn images to solve this problem. At first, the yarn images were pre-processed by grey-level transformation, image threshold segmentation, and morphological operations to obtain the yarn core images. Secondly, according to the elastic change of yarn in fabric structure, the elliptic and sine curve models were established to treat the string to obtain the actual yarn shape in the fabric. Then, a light intensity curve function, which consists of a radial curve model and an interlacing point curve model, was established to simulate the light intensity distribution on the yarn surface. Finally, the cover relation of warp and weft yarns was controlled by Boolean matrix, and mean filtering was used to adjust the fuzzy denim fabric images. The experimental results show that the slub denims simulated by the method proposed in this article have a high visual similarity with the actual slub denims. Meanwhile, multiple parameters of the simulation model established in this article can be adjusted to enhance the adaptability of the model and the accuracy of the simulation results.
Storying the Gap: Women’s Leadership Literacies
Authors: Flaxman Jessica
Published: October 2023

Gender disparity at the leadership level of large (defined by the National Association of Independent Schools [NAIS] as > 700 students) K–12 independent schools is a critical and persistent issue in the ongoing effort to foster equity and justice in historically white and male-led independent schools in the United States. The number of women leading all independent schools has increased from 31% in 2009 to 41% in 2021. However, while a greater number of women lead independent schools today than in years past, they more often achieve the headship in small and K–8 schools and remain less likely (22%) to achieve headship of large (> 700) independent schools. Using mixed-methods research conducted with 30 of the 45 women leading large K–12 independent schools in 2020, this study identified some of the unique leadership literacies, or skills and competencies, that women possess and perform as heads of school. Refracted through the rhizomal lens of multiple literacies theory, findings from this study reframe traditional, gendered leadership theories and posit the importance for women leaders of habitually negotiating gender bias, anchoring in the personal, and demonstrating expertise.
From football stadium to revolution and war frontlines: Ukrainian ultras and the conversion of their capital
Authors: Ruzhelnyk Olga
Published: October 2023

The behaviour of football fans in Ukraine has often taken the form of public order offences. However, since Maidan, fans have enjoyed a more positive image, linked to their recognition by and assimilation into Ukrainian society through their social and political activities. Eventually becoming one of the driving forces of revolutionary events and contributing to regime change, football fans have taken an active part in hostilities in the east of the country since 2014. This article explores the links between football fans, their collective violent practices and their social transformation before Maidan, at the time of Maidan and in the post-Maidan period. The author presents the idea of the connection between the conversion of various types of capital and the application of different kinds of collective violent practices, which can affect the status of the group within society.
Digital media as ambiguous goods: Examining the digital well-being experiences and disconnection practices of Belgian adults
Authors: Vanden Abeele Mariek MP , Nguyen Minh Hao
Published: October 2023

Drawing from a cross-sectional survey ( N = 1000), this study examines (1) the extent to which Belgian adults experience digital well-being (i.e. perceive agency over and functional support from the use of digital media), (2) which digital disconnection strategies they use to limit connectivity, (3) how their use of these strategies relates to their digital well-being, and (4) whether different user groups can be identified in terms of digital well-being experiences. We find evidence for ambivalence in the relationship towards digital media. Popular disconnection strategies involve access restrictions. Those reporting less agency generally disconnect more. Lastly, a typology based on respondents’ digital well-being scores reveals four clusters of indifferent, enthusiastic, ambivalent, and sceptical digital media users that differ in demographic, personality and media use/ownership characteristics. Collectively, this study gives insight into how digital well-being and digital disconnection are distributed, lifting the veil over who might be more susceptible to struggling with constant connectivity.
Obstructive jaundice treatment during the COVID-19 pandemic: retrospective cohort study at a single tertiary care center in Serbia
Authors: Toskovic Borislav , Vukcevic Batric , Zdravkovic Darko , Crnokrak Bogdan , Nadj Igor , Sekulic Ana , Mrda Davor , Todorovic Slobodan , Lazovic Ranko , Milosavljevic Vladimir
Published: October 2023

Objective

We aimed to compare mortality and complication rates in patients treated for obstructive jaundice before and during the COVID-19 pandemic in a tertiary care center in Serbia.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective cohort study among a first group of patients treated between 1 January 2017 and 1 January 2019. The second group was treated between 1 March 2020 and 1 March 2022.

Results

The first group comprised 35 patients, and the second group (in which all patients were SARS-CoV-2 positive) included 18 patients; 37 and 16 patients were treated for malignant and benign diseases, respectively. The groups did not differ significantly regarding the diagnoses and treatment received. The second group showed significantly higher aspartate aminotransferase levels and lower white blood cell, C-reactive protein, and interleukin 6 levels. Mortality and complication rates did not differ significantly between groups. All deceased patients in the second group had significant radiologic findings associated with COVID-19 pneumonia.

Conclusions

COVID-19 infection is a risk factor in treating obstructive jaundice. This study illustrates the potential influence of COVID-19 on mortality after obstructive jaundice treatment. COVID-19 pneumonia may be a significant risk factor for mortality in patients treated for obstructive jaundice.
The effects of cultural source sensitivity on music appreciation
Authors: Chilvers Alex , Quan Yixue , Olsen Kirk N , Thompson William Forde
Published: October 2023

Music appreciation is a complex process that involves responses to surface-level structure, personal associations, and source sensitivity. Source sensitivity is an understanding of the context in which a musical artifact was created. This article joins a growing body of literature in which program notes are manipulated to highlight the importance of source sensitivity, shifting the focus onto cultural context. Two hundred eighty-four participants formed six groups in a 2×3 between-subjects design. Western and non-Western participants (ethnicity condition) listened to an original percussion composition accompanied by a short text providing a Western, Indian, or blended cultural context (cultural context condition). They then evaluated the music across a range of measures. Exploratory factor analysis revealed two factors of appreciation: Hedonic and Eudaimonic. Results revealed significant ethnicity–cultural context interactions for both. In the Indian context, Western participants exhibited high appreciation, whereas non-Western listeners exhibited low appreciation. Among non-Westerners, appreciation was highest in the blended context. Our results demonstrate an association between cultural source information and music appreciation. We propose that Western participants experience a proteophilic response to Indian music due to their secure status as members of a dominant social group. Non-Western participants, however, require a neutralizing Western context to similarly appreciate Indian music content.
Sexual orientation for the LGBTQ+ community: Information sources and barriers
Authors: Clavijo-Toledano Marina , Heredero-Cardona Laia , Úbeda-Cano Noelia , Boté-Vericad Juan-José
Published: October 2023

This study aims to identify the information barriers that the LGBTQ+ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, other) community encounters when seeking information about sexual orientation. For this study, a qualitative methodology was followed based on a questionnaire that was answered by various groups within the community. The findings reveal that the respondents preferred the Internet when searching for information due to the abundance of resources, easy accessibility and anonymity. However, they found it insufficient to determine their sexuality due to the presence of inaccurate information and hurtful comments from other users. Additionally, only a few of the respondents were aware of the existence of specialized LGBTQ+ libraries. They believed that the lack of financial resources results in these libraries selecting some resources over others. Therefore, libraries can play a key role in serving the LGBTQ+ community by curating collections in relation to their sexual orientation. This could overcome barriers by providing reliable information for the LGBTQ+ community.
Waste management developments in the last five decades: Asian perspective
Authors: Agamuthu Pariatamby , Babel Sandhya
Published: October 2023

Solid waste management was explored in Asia’s last five decades, and the issues and challenges were identified. Waste generation has increased in all nations in the previous 50 years, although more recently, a declining trend has been observed in Japan and Korea. The composition has been predominantly organic, with 45–50% being kitchen waste. Material extraction and productivity to sustain the most populous part of the globe are explained. Waste management technologies have evolved, with more nations slowly transitioning from landfills to using waste-to-energy options. However, landfilling and open dumps are still the major disposal choice in most developing countries in Asia. Thus, the issues of concern include dumpsites management, the informal sector, waste collection, open burning and food waste. Changes (increasing trends) in the recycling technologies and quantum are evident, as seen in several country reports from India, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, Singapore, South Korea, Thailand and Vietnam. There are several issues and challenges for recycling, which are explored in the text. Lastly, the drivers that propel the whole scenario of waste management in Asia and the evolution of these drivers over time are discussed. Several recommendations are included to achieve sustainable waste management in Asia.
Network Pharmacology to Explore the Mechanism of Prunella vulgaris L. Against Prolactinoma
Authors: Meng Jun-Hua , Ni Ping , Cao Yu-Ling , Zhang Yu , Wang Xiong , Zhang Hong , Chen Yong-Gang
Published: October 2023

Objectives

Prolactinoma is a common intracranial tumor with a high incidence and serious harm to human health. At present, there is only one therapeutic drug in China, bromocriptine, and the Chinese herb Prunella vulgaris L. ( P. vulgaris)(PV) has shown certain anti-prolactinoma effects in the early stage. We expect to develop a candidate drug against prolactinoma.

Materials and Methods

First, the extracts of P. vulgaris L.(PVE)were extracted with water, and the cell proliferation test of rat pituitary tumor cells MMQ was checked by the Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) assay. Then, core targets and correlative pathways were selected by the “protein–protein interaction” (PPI) network and the “PV–Target–Prolactinoma” network. The core targets and main components simulate the binding by molecular docking. Finally, the PVE and MMQ cells were used to verify the results.

Results

Through the CCK-8 assay, the PVE inhibited the proliferation of MMQ cells. From the network pharmacology, the 21 targets, 9 signaling pathways, and 20 gene ontology (GO) projects were attained ( p < 0.05). As a result the estrogen receptor α (ESR1), RAC-alpha serine/threonine-protein kinase(AKT1), and mitogen-activated protein kinase 3(MAPK3)were the core targets of protein against prolactinomas, which was in line with western blotting analysis.

Conclusion

Our findings demonstrate that the PVE was verified against prolactinomas through the ESR1, MAPK3 targets, and the phosphoinositide 3-kinase/protein kinase B pathway.
Systematic Characterization of the Chemical Components and Absorbed Prototypes in Sanqi Xueshangning Capsules Using UPLC-Q-TOF-MS with SCIEX OS Software
Authors: Zhao Hongling , Li Na , Cui Xiaoyan , Yu Yongzhou , Liu Zi , Chen Jianhui , Tian Yuxuan , Zhao Chunying , Xiong Hui
Published: October 2023

Background

Sanqi Xueshangning Capsules (SXC) is a famous Chinese patent medicine with a good curative effect on various gynecological pain diseases in China. However, its chemical composition and potential active ingredients were clearly unrevealed, which hindered the elaboration of its material basis functional mechanism and clinical application.

Materials and Methods

In the study, we developed an integrative ultra-performance liquid chromatography quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UPLC-Q-TOF-MS) method coupled with SCIEX OS software for characterizing the chemical composition in SXC. The data collection was conducted using a Waters UPLCTM HSS T3 (2.1 × 100 mm, 1.8 µm) in a binary elution system. The SCIEX OS software coupled with multivariable processing techniques was used to screen absorbed prototypes in serum after oral administration of SXC. The structural identification of the components was performed by MS/MS fragmentation mechanism.

Results

A total of 113 components from SXC were tentatively characterized, including 38 saponins, 13 flavonoids, 10 phenylpropanoids, 9 alkaloids, 20 organic acids, and 23 others. Based on the in vitro composition results, 21 absorbed prototypes in rat serum were identified, mainly including alkaloids, flavonoids, phenylpropanoids, and saponins.

Conclusion

It was concluded that an integrative UPLC-Q-TOF-MS method coupled with SCIEX OS software could be successfully applied for the components’ characterization of SXC in vitro and in vivo, which laid a reliable scientific basis for promoting the discovery of material basis and the improvement of quality control of SXC.
Functional and radiological outcome of non-operative treated clavicle fractures and its association with acromioclavicular joint arthrosis
Authors: Ajit Singh Vivek , Ho Shu Chien , Abdul Rashid Muhammad Lutfi , Santharalinggam Rupini Devi
Published: October 2023

Background

Clavicle fractures are traditionally treated non-operatively. This study determines the functional outcome of midshaft clavicle fractures treated non-operatively, the factors influencing it, and the incidence of acromioclavicular joint (ACJ) arthrosis.

Methods

Patients with midshaft clavicular fractures treated non-operatively between 16 and 50 years old with no prior AC joint problems were assessed. Demographics, hand dominance, type of occupation, and smoking status were documented. Functional scoring using DASH score, CM score, and radiological evaluation was done with special tests to diagnose AC joint arthrosis. Two or more positive special tests were considered significant for this study.

Results

101 patients were recruited, 83 male and 18 female patients. The average age of 34.7 ± 13.93 years. The average follow-up was 32.7 months (range: 24–75; SD ± 9.9 months). 48.5% were blue-collar workers, and 60.4% involved the dominant upper limb. 44.6% were cigarette smokers. There was 20 mm and more shortening in 21.8% of subjects. 40.6% had a significant special test, and 36.6% had radiological changes of AC joint osteoarthritis. Positive two or more special tests were significantly associated with radiological evidence of arthrosis ( p = .00). The mean DASH score was 28.28 ± 17.4, and the mean CM score was 27.58 ± 14.34. Most have satisfactory to excellent scores. Hand dominance, smoking, and blue-collar work were significantly associated with poorer CM scores, and hand dominance was significant for Dash scores.

Conclusion

There is an equal distribution poor, satisfactory and excellent functional outcomes in patients with midshaft clavicle fractures treated non-operatively. The poor outcomes may be attributed to ACJ arthrosis. Hand dominance, smoking and blue-collar work affected the functional outcome. Shortening of the clavicle had no bearing on the clinical and radiological findings of osteoarthritis and functional scores. The presence of two or more positive special tests is an accurate predictor of AC joint arthritis.
Decision-Making, Violence, Resistance, and Love: Contested and Complicating Narratives of Syrian Marriages
Authors: Lokot Michelle
Published: October 2023

Within scholarly literature as well as reports from humanitarian actors, including international nongovernmental organizations (NGOs), United Nations agencies and local NGOs, Syrian marriages are often described in static, essentialist ways that reinforce Orientalist assumptions. Based on feminist ethnographic research with Syrian women and men in Jordan, this article explores marriages in historical and intersectional context, before and during displacement. The article challenges common representations of Syrian marriages and advances how Syrian women's power and agency are understood. It emphasizes women's role in deciding to marry (or not) and discusses violence and love in marriage and resistance to proposed love marriages.
Rheological and physicochemical properties of heat-induced ovalbumin gels in presence of sodium carboxymethyl cellulose
Authors: Xu Wei , Wu Guanchen , Jia Yongxian , Yin Yongpeng , Ning Yuli , Li Penglin , Li Cuiping , Luo Denglin , Shah Bakht Ramin
Published: October 2023

In this study, the effect of sodium carboxymethylcellulose (CMC-Na) on the rheological and physicochemical properties of heat-induced ovalbumin (OVA) gels was evaluated. The OVA/CMC-Na composite gels were prepared by heat-induced (85 °C, pH 7.0) a mixture of CMC-Na (0, 0.2, 0.4, 0.8 and 1%) and OVA. The results revealed that the addition of CMC-Na dramatically reduced the springiness and hardness of the composite gels, while slightly enhancing the intermolecular hydrogen bonding interactions, which facilitated the improvement of the softness of the gels. It can be observed by SEM that the added CMC-Na was stacked on the surface of the OVA, resulting in visible “linear bumps”. All gel samples exhibited shear-thinning behavior. The apparent viscosity of the composite gels increased with the addition of CMC-Na, and the OVA gel with 1% CMC-Na showed the highest apparent viscosity and the lowest storage modulus (G’). Additionally, low field nuclear magnetic resonance (LF-NMR) measurements indicated that the increasing CMC-Na boosted the water mobility of the composite gel. This study offers a novel approach to the development of ovalbumin-based soft gel foods, especially for certain populations with swallowing difficulties.
The cost of ‘care’ in neoliberal academia during the COVID-19 pandemic: Women academics, teaching and emotional labour
Authors: França Thais , Vicente Mara , Godinho Filipa , Padilla Beatriz , Amâncio Lígia , Alexandre Ana Fernandes
Published: October 2023

The literature shows that throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, in the different regions of the world (Europe, Africa, Asia, North America and Latin America), women academics submitted fewer articles and grant proposals than their peers who are men because, in addition to the increased burden of domestic work, they devoted more time to teaching activities and to the demands of students, than to their research activities. However, little is known about what drives the high level of commitment by women academics to their tutoring and pastoral care duties. This article looks at how women embodied their teaching tasks throughout the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic and the ‘emotional labour’ that this required of them. Findings from the analysis of 17 in-depth interviews conducted with women scholars in Portugal point to the complexity and contradictions in the ‘emotional labour’ carried out by women teachers during the COVID-19 pandemic and provide evidence of overlaps with the practice of ‘care’.
That's what I like! Fostering enjoyment in primary physical education
Authors: Adank Anoek M. , Van Kann Dave H.H. , Borghouts Lars B. , Kremers Stef P.J. , Vos Steven B.
Published: October 2023

Enjoyment in primary physical education (PE) is a key factor in increasing children's physical activity engagement in PE and leisure time. While existing PE research has largely focused on a motivational PE climate and meaningful experiences in PE, research on children's perceptions of enjoyable teaching practices (TPs) in PE is limited. Therefore, this study aimed to explore primary school children's perspectives on TPs that foster PE enjoyment. In addition, we observed to what extent these TPs were applied in daily PE practice. Four focus groups with 10- to 12-year-old children (12 boys, 12 girls) from four primary schools were formed and inductive analysis resulted in 32 child-identified TPs categorized into 10 dimensions. Thirty-one PE lessons taught by 19 different PE teachers (11 generalists, 8 PE specialists) were recorded and coded using the child-identified TPs. Teachers regularly performed a substantial number of these TPs during their PE lessons. However, TPs such as the use of cooperative learning, instructional methods to promote children's (social) learning process, an emphasis on children's individual improvements, and consciously grouping were rarely observed. Moreover, PE specialists showed TPs supporting exploratory learning and children's individual learning processes more frequently than generalists. In addition, PE specialists provided challenging, differentiated tasks with a creative use of equipment more often than generalists. Including children's perspectives contributes to a comprehensive understanding of PE enjoyment and TPs that can promote enjoyable PE experiences. Children's voices need to be heard continuously by PE teachers to ensure enjoyable PE experiences for all children.
Dipole and quadrupole resonance excitation in linear quadrupoles
Authors: Konenkov NV
Published: October 2023

In the development of commercial quadrupole mass spectrometers, there is an interest in improving the performance characteristics such as transmission, resolution, and mass range. In particular, parametric and dipolar resonance excitation of trapping ions are used for linear quadrupole mass filters. Theoretical methods and numerical simulation of ion trajectories were applied for study of ion-optical properties. The review is devoted to description of different excitation methods to improve QMF performance and consists of three parts. The first part presents the results of a linear ion trap simulation for various operating conditions and excitation methods. The second part considers the effects of dipole excitation (DE) on the performance of the quadrupole mass filter. The last part analyzes the formation of stability islands by different methods of quadrupole excitation. To date conditions of mass separation in quadrupole mass filters with sin wave supply were described for stability islands of the first and third stability regions formed by quadrupole and DE. By complicating the electronics such methods allow to overcome the destructive influence of electric field distortions and obtain a resolving power and ion transmission efficiency comparable with commercial devices. At quadrupole resonance excitation by a two-frequency signal, it is possible to reduce the length of electrodes three times without losses in resolution and transmission, which reduces the cost of rod set production with micrometer accuracy. Dipole resonance excitation allows controlling the shape of the mass peak by changing amplitude and phase of the auxiliary AC signal. The main factors affecting the resolving power of a linear ion trap are described theoretically. The numerical modeling results are confirmed by experiment.
Fabrication, characterization, and repair of nanocarbon-loaded aircraft paint-based sensors for real-world SHM: studies at the laboratory scale
Authors: Cuellar Carlos , Watson Kaitlyn , Smela Elisabeth
Published: October 2023

There has been considerable interest in piezoresistive nanocarbon-loaded polymer films for structural health monitoring, including damage detection and strain monitoring. While good performance has been demonstrated, issues related to practical implementation have received less attention. Here we present sensors made from exfoliated graphite nanoplatelets (xGnP) incorporated into a commercial paint that is applied to Sikorsky aircraft. A formulation and a fabrication method are developed that deliver high piezoresistive strain sensitivity alongside mechanical integrity. At approximately 7 wt% xGnP, the gauge factor in tension is in the range of 30–55, and the effectiveness of the sensors for damage monitoring is demonstrated by the detection of perforations. To obtain a paintable solution, key considerations in choosing the solvent employed for introducing the nanocarbon are compatibility and the ability to keep the nanocarbon suspended, which is achieved using ethyl acetate. The ability to form sensors in situ on aircraft structures requires an uncomplicated method of making robust electrical connections, which is demonstrated here using embedded copper mesh. The strong, often nonlinear, environmental sensitivity of polymer-nanocarbon materials must also be considered in applications; here, increasing temperature and humidity both raise sensor resistance. This work shows that a second, unstrained reference sensor would work well for automatic compensation. Lastly, a method for effecting a repair that employs standard processes and maintains the high gauge factor is demonstrated. With these advances, the paint-xGnP sensors are ready for in-the-field testing on aircraft.
Differences in Foot Infections Secondary to Puncture Wounds or Chronic Ulcers in Diabetes
Authors: Víquez-Molina Gerardo , Aragón-Sánchez Javier , López-Valverde María Eugenia , Aragón-Hernández Javier , Aragón-Hernández Cristina , Rojas-Bonilla José María
Published: October 2023

We hypothesized that foot infections secondary to a puncture wounds (PWs) have a worse prognosis concerning infection-related mortality, recurrence of the infection, and healing than those secondary to a chronic ulcer. We conducted a prospective study consisting of 200 patients with moderate-to-severe diabetic foot infections. The cohort consisted of 155 men (77.5%) and 45 women (22.5%). The mean age of the patients was 59 years (standard deviation 12.2). Puncture wounds were the cause of the infection in 107 patients (53.5%) and a chronic ulcer was the cause in 93 patients (46.5%). One hundred and eleven patients (55.5%) had moderate and 89 (44.5%) had severe infections. Osteomyelitis was more frequently found in chronic ulcers (71%) than in PWs (44.9%), P < .001. Cox's survival analysis using PWs as an explanatory variable showed no association with infection-related mortality (hazard ratio [HR] 1.06, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.32-3.46, P = .92), time to recurrence of infection (HR 0.64, 95% CI 0.27-1.51, P = .30), and time to healing (HR 0.81, 95% CI 0.60-1.08, P = .15). More than half of our patients had PWs as the mechanism by which the infection occurred. These patients usually had a lower rate of osteomyelitis but required hospitalization and antibiotic therapy more frequently than patients with infected chronic ulcers. We found no difference in outcomes between the 2 groups.
Engineered heart tissue maturation inhibits cardiomyocyte proliferative response to cryoinjury
Authors: Ciucci Giulio , Rahhali Karim , Cimmino Giovanni , Natale Francesco , Golino Paolo , Sinagra Gianfranco , Collesi Chiara , Loffredo Francesco S
Published: October 2023

The cellular and molecular mechanisms that are responsible for the poor regenerative capacity of the adult heart after myocardial infarction (MI) are still unclear and their understanding is crucial to develop novel regenerative therapies. Considering the lack of reliable in vitro tissue-like models to evaluate the molecular mechanisms of cardiac regeneration, we used cryoinjury on rat Engineered Heart Tissues (rEHTs) as a new model which recapitulates in part the in vivo response after myocardial injury of neonatal and adult heart. When we subjected to cryoinjury immature and mature rEHTs, we observed a significant increase in cardiomyocyte (CM) DNA synthesis when compared to the controls. As expected, the number of mitotic CMs significantly increases in immature rEHTs when compared to mature rEHTs, suggesting that the extent of CM maturation plays a crucial role in their proliferative response after cryoinjury. Moreover, we show that cryoinjury induces a temporary activation of fibroblast response in mature EHTs, similar to the early response after MI, that is however incomplete in immature EHTs. Our results support the hypothesis that the endogenous maturation program in cardiac myocytes plays a major role in determining the proliferative response to injury. Therefore, we propose rEHTs as a robust, novel tool to in vitro investigate critical aspects of cardiac regeneration in a tissue-like asset free from confounding factors in response to injury, such as the immune system response or circulating inflammatory cytokines.
China's family planning policy and fertility transition
Authors: Zhai Zhenwu , Jin Guangzhao
Published: October 2023

Due to the immense population pressure and rapid population growth, the government of the People's Republic of China introduced the family planning policy in the 1950s and 1960s. It was fully implemented in the 1970s and tightened further into the one-child policy in the early 1980s. The implementation of the family planning policy played a significant role in China's fertility transition, with the total fertility rate shifting from approximately six to below the replacement level in around two decades. Facing the long-term low fertility rate and changes in the socioeconomic environment, the government implemented a selective two-child policy and a universal two-child policy in 2013 and 2015, respectively; consequently, the fertility rate rebounded temporarily. However, the two-child policy's effects have gradually diminished, and the fertility rate has declined dramatically since 2017. In 2021, China announced a three-child policy and supporting measures, followed by steps to improve the country's fertility support system, signifying a shift in China's family planning policy from a restrictive to an inclusive approach. Currently, there still exists potential for improvements in China's fertility level, and the key to tapping this potential lies in establishing a comprehensive, systematic, and sustainable fertility support policy system as soon as possible.
Consumer Adoption of AI-powered Virtual Assistants (AIVA): An Integrated Model Based on the SEM–ANN Approach
Authors: Pandey Palima , Rai Alok Kumar
Published: October 2023

Artificial intelligence (AI) has lured consumers to orchestrate their routine activities relying on such technologies. Though AI-powered virtual assistants (AIVAs) have gained traction among service providers, these are still lagging on the demand front. This study intends to develop an ‘AIVA adoption model’ delineated under a holistic framework based on structural equation modelling and deep neural network incorporating multilayer perceptron algorithm. The sensitivity analysis designated ‘effort expectancy’ as the most dominant antecedent of AIVA adoption, followed by ‘perceived innovativeness’. While ‘perceived risk’ held high relevance, the tech users were equally concerned about the performance of AIVA in conjunction with its anthropomorphic response; however, they gave the least consideration to subjective norms. The parallel mediation analysis revealed that the adopters preferred transactional relationships with AIVA more than the communal one, while the simultaneous application of both the perspectives better generates loyal customers. The moderation analysis unveiled that the uncanny valley paradigm could not always be supportive, especially in the context of AIVA. The developed model may serve the basis to generate as well as sustain adoption and loyalty of the specified technology.
Caste-based Stratification in Kashmir: Reflections from Lived Experiences of Inter-caste Couples
Authors: Qayoom Farah
Published: October 2023

Caste as a system of stratification plays an important role in Kashmiri society. Though many believe that there is no caste system, the reality is that caste is a working institution affecting many aspects of life in Kashmir. However, endogamy is the principal factor of this caste segregation in Kashmiri society, yet some people choose to marry outside their castes. In order to understand the essential nature of this caste system, the current study uses a phenomenological approach to construct a description of the lived experiences of inter-caste couples. Forty participants (20 couples) from five districts of Kashmir Valley were interviewed from December 2021 to December 2022. The study reported that inter-caste couples face many challenges during pre-and post-marriage. Such couples are stigmatized in society, and sometimes the stigma is passed on to their children as well. The study argues that there is a need for resilient targeted efforts to encourage inter-caste marriages so that the noose of the caste system can be loosened.
Use of Adjunctive Corticosteroid With Antivascular Endothelial Growth Factor Agents in the Treatment of Choroidal Neovascular Membrane Associated With Presumed Ocular Histoplasmosis
Authors: Labriola Leanne T. , Vangipuram Gautam , Zarnegar Arman , Tsipursky Michael , Besecker Joseph , Almasov Alexandra , Garwood Kathleen Campbell , Blinder Kevin J.
Published: October 2023

Purpose: To evaluate the impact of combination treatment of antivascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) intravitreal injections and corticosteroids in patients with choroidal neovascularization (CNV) secondary to presumed ocular histoplasmosis syndrome (POHS). Methods: A retrospective multicenter study was conducted in a cohort from Illinois and Missouri. Patients were identified over an 8-year period, and data were evaluated over a 1-year study window commencing with treatment initiation. Group 1 included patients treated with intravitreal injections of anti-VEGF, and group 2 included those who received intravitreal injections of anti-VEGF and adjuvant corticosteroids. Optical coherence tomography (OCT) measurements and increases in Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study (ETDRS) letter score were compared between each group. Results: Using the method of last visit carried forward, the visual acuity (VA) in group 2 was 6.42 ETDRS letters better than the VA in group 1 at the final assessment. Patients in group 2 had a mean ETDRS letter gain of 21.50 ( P = .06) from the initial baseline vision. The average amount of decrease in OCT central subfield thickness compared with baseline was lower in group 1 (80.9 ± 129.8 µm) vs group 2 (102.8 ± 90.40 µm) at the 1-year follow-up visit ( P = .25). Conclusions: Approved treatment of CNV secondary to POHS is limited. Adjuvant corticosteroid treatment in patients with CNV secondary to POHS may provide better long-term vision and OCT outcomes than anti-VEGF alone and may offer an additional therapy option for these patients.
The effect of off-pump coronary bypass graft surgery on subfoveal choroidal thickness, ganglion cell complex, and retinal nerve fiber layer thickness
Authors: Tıskaoğlu Nesime Setge , Yazıcı Alper , Ercan Abdulkadir , Tınç Kübra
Published: October 2023

Background:

Cardiac surgery has been associated with adverse ocular events. Off-pump coronary artery bypass graft surgery evades the systemic inflammatory response seen in extracorporeal circulation and is superior to on-pump surgery with regard to end-organ dysfunction and neurological outcomes.

Objectives:

To determine the effects of off-pump (without extracorporeal circulation) coronary artery bypass graft surgery on choroidal thickness, ganglion cell complex, and the retinal nerve fiber layer.

Design:

Prospective, longitudinal study.

Methods:

Patients who underwent off-pump surgery were examined preoperatively and postoperatively at 1 week and 6 weeks after surgery. Choroidal thickness, ganglion cell complex, and the retinal nerve fiber layer measurements were recorded, and the effects of off-pump coronary artery bypass on these parameters were assessed.

Results:

A total of 44 eyes of 44 patients were included in the study. There was a statistically significant increase in subfoveal choroidal thickness from 252.84 ± 56.24 µm preoperatively to 273.82 ± 39.76 µm at 1 week and 301.97 ± 44.83 µm at 6 weeks after off-pump coronary artery bypass graft surgery ( p = 0.044; p ⩽ 0.001). Ganglion cell complex and retinal nerve fiber measurements showed no significant difference compared to preoperative values.

Conclusion:

Off-pump coronary artery bypass graft surgery showed no negative effects on ganglion cell complex and retinal nerve fiber measurements. A significant increase in subfoveal choroidal thickness was seen after off-pump surgery, which might be advantageous in patients who are at high risk or have preexisting ocular diseases that are affected by the choroid.
Proteomics identifies apoptotic markers as predictors of histological transformation in patients with follicular lymphoma
Authors: Enemark Marie Beck Hairing , Wolter Katharina , Campbell Amanda Jessica , Andersen Maja Dam , Sørensen Emma Frasez , Hybel Trine Engelbrecht , Madsen Charlotte , Lauridsen Kristina Lystlund , Plesner Trine Lindhardt , Hamilton-Dutoit Stephen Jacques , Honoré Bent , Ludvigsen Maja
Published: October 2023

Follicular lymphoma (FL) is an indolent lymphoma with a generally favorable prognosis. However, histological transformation (HT) to a more aggressive disease leads to markedly inferior outcomes. This study aims to identify biological differences predictive of HT at the time of initial FL diagnosis. We show differential protein expression between diagnostic lymphoma samples from patients with subsequent HT (subsequently-transforming FL [st-FL]; n = 20) and patients without HT (nontransforming FL [nt-FL]; n = 34) by label-free quantification nano liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry analysis. Protein profiles identified patients with high risk of HT. This was accompanied by disturbances in cellular pathways influencing apoptosis, the cytoskeleton, cell cycle, and immune processes. Comparisons between diagnostic st-FL samples and paired transformed FL (n = 20) samples demonstrated differential protein profiles and disrupted cellular pathways, indicating striking biological differences from the time of diagnosis up to HT. Immunohistochemical analysis of apoptotic proteins, CASP3, MCL1, BAX, BCL-xL, and BCL-rambo, confirmed higher expression levels in st-FL than in nt-FL samples (P < .001, P = .015, P = .003, P = .025, and P = .057, respectively). Moreover, all 5 markers were associated with shorter transformation-free survival (TFS; P < .001, P = .002, P < .001, P = .069, and P = .010, respectively). Notably, combining the expression of these proteins in a risk score revealed increasingly inferior TFS with an increasing number of positive markers. In conclusion, proteomics identified altered protein expression profiles (particularly apoptotic proteins) at the time of FL diagnosis, which predicted later transformation.
Activation of BZW1 by CEBPB in macrophages promotes eIF2α phosphorylation-mediated metabolic reprogramming and endoplasmic reticulum stress in MRL/lpr lupus-prone mice
Authors: Qi Huimeng , Zheng Zhaoguo , Liu Qiang
Published: October 2023

Background

Lupus nephritis (LN) is associated with significant mortality and morbidity, while effective therapeutics and biomarkers are limited since the pathogenesis is complex. This study investigated the roles of the CEBPB/BZW1/eIF2α axis in metabolic reprogramming and endoplasmic reticulum stress in LN.

Method

The differentially expressed genes in LN were screened using bioinformatics tools. The expression of CEBPB in the renal tissue of patients with LN and its correlation with the levels of creatinine and urinary protein were analyzed. We used adenoviral vectors to construct LN mice with knockdown CEBPB using MRL/lpr lupus-prone mice and analyzed the physiological and autoimmune indices in mice. Chromatin immunoprecipitation quantitative polymerase chain reaction (ChIP–qPCR) and dual-luciferase reporter assays were conducted to explore the regulation of BZW1 by CEBPB, followed by glycolytic flux analysis, glucose uptake, and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Finally, the role of eIF2α phosphorylation by BZW1 in bone marrow-derived macrophages (BMDM) was explored using eIF2α phosphorylation and endoplasmic reticulum stress inhibitors.

Results

CEBPB was significantly increased in renal tissues of patients with LN and positively correlated with creatinine and urine protein levels in patients. Downregulation of CEBPB alleviated the autoimmune response and the development of nephritis in LN mice. Transcriptional activation of BZW1 by CEBPB-mediated glucose metabolic reprogramming in macrophages, and upregulation of BZW1 reversed the mitigating effect of CEBPB knockdown on LN. Regulation of eIF2α phosphorylation levels by BZW1 promoted endoplasmic reticulum stress-amplified inflammatory responses in BMDM.

Conclusion

Transcriptional activation of BZW1 by CEBPB promoted phosphorylation of eIF2α to promote macrophage glycolysis and endoplasmic reticulum stress in the development of LN.
Molecular characterization of tetracycline and vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus faecium isolates from healthy dogs in Egypt: a public health threat
Authors: El-Razik Khaled A. Abd , Ibrahim Eman S. , Arafa Amany A. , Hedia Riham H. , Younes Abdelgayed M. , Hasanain Mahmoud H.
Published: October 2023

Background

Vancomycin-resistant enterococci (VRE) are among the most common causative pathogens for nosocomial infections worldwide. Moreover, strains of VRE have been isolated from several domestic livestock in Egypt.

Methods

This study examined if healthy dogs are a potential source of VRE infection by isolating and characterizing Enterococcus faecium strains from stool samples on a morphological basis and biochemical activities. Subsequently, it was confirmed by genotypic characterization using polymerase chain reaction (PCR), followed by the detection of antibiotic resistance genes, virulence determinants, and genes contributing to enterocin production by PCR. Furthermore, the phylogenetic relationships among vanB and tetL genes were analyzed.

Results

All ten fecal samples were identified as E. faecium and confirmed by PCR. In addition, 90% of the isolates tested were positive for the virulence genes gelE and esp, and all the isolates tested were positive for the antibiotic resistance genes tetL and vanB. Only three of the five enterocin genes examined were detected. Ent As-48, bacteriocin 31, and Ent L50 were identified in 100%, 80%, and 60% of the samples, respectively.

Conclusion

Dogs should be regarded as a reservoir of E. faecium that carries vancomycin resistance and virulence determinants that may affect public health in Egypt, considering a "One Health" task force approach to restrict their spread.
Mitigating the risk of flow deterioration by deferring stent optimization in STEMI patients with large thrombus burden: Insights from a prospective cohort study
Authors: Cioffi Giacomo Maria , Zhi Yuan , Madanchi Mehdi , Seiler Thomas , Stutz Leah , Gjergjizi Varis , Romero Jean-Paul , Attinger-Toller Adrian , Bossard Matthias , Cuculi Florim
Published: October 2023

Objectives

It is uncertain, if omitting post-dilatation and stent oversizing (stent optimization) is safe and may decrease the risk for distal thrombus embolization (DTE) in STEMI patients with large thrombus burden (LTB).

Background

In patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) undergoing primary percutaneous coronary intervention (pPCI) with stenting, (DTE) and flow deterioration are common and increase infarct size leading to worse outcomes.

Methods

From a prospective registry, 74 consecutive STEMI patients with LTB undergoing pPCI with stenting and intentionally deferred stent optimization were analyzed. Imaging data and outcomes up to 2 years follow-up were analyzed.

Results

Overall, 74 patients (18% females) underwent deferred stent optimization. Direct stenting was performed in 13 (18%) patients. No major complications occurred during pPCI. Staged stent optimization was performed after a median of 4 (interquartile range (IQR) 3; 7) days. On optical coherence tomography, under-expansion and residual thrombus were present in 59 (80%) and 27 (36%) cases, respectively. During deferred stent optimization, we encountered no case of flow deterioration (slow or no-reflow) or side branch occlusion. Minimal lumen area (mm2) and stent expansion (%) were corrected from 4.87±1.86mm to 6.82±2.36mm (p<0.05) and from 69±18% to 91±12% (p<0.001), respectively. During follow-up, 1 patient (1.4%) required target lesion revascularization and 1 (1.4%) patient succumbed from cardiovascular death.

Conclusions

Among STEMI patients with LTB, deferring stent optimization in the setting of pPCI appears safe and potentially mitigates the risk of DTE. The impact of this approach on infarct size and clinical outcomes warrants further investigation in a dedicated trial.