bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
CD40 is expressed in the subsets of endothelial cells undergoing partial endothelial–mesenchymal transition in tumor microenvironment
Authors: Takahashi Kazuki , Kobayashi Miho , Katsumata Hisae , Tokizaki Shiori , Anzai Tatsuhiko , Ikeda Yukinori , Alcaide Daniel M. , Maeda Kentaro , Ishihara Makoto , Tahara Katsutoshi , Kubota Yoshiaki , Itoh Fumiko , Park Jihwan , Takahashi Kunihiko , Matsunaga Yukiko T. , Yoshimatsu Yasuhiro , Podyma‐Inoue Katarzyna A. , Watabe Tetsuro
Published: December 2023

Tumor progression and metastasis are regulated by endothelial cells undergoing endothelial–mesenchymal transition (EndoMT), a cellular differentiation process in which endothelial cells lose their properties and differentiate into mesenchymal cells. The cells undergoing EndoMT differentiate through a spectrum of intermediate phases, suggesting that some cells remain in a partial EndoMT state and exhibit an endothelial/mesenchymal phenotype. However, detailed analysis of partial EndoMT has been hampered by the lack of specific markers. Transforming growth factor‐β (TGF‐β) plays a central role in the induction of EndoMT. Here, we showed that inhibition of TGF‐β signaling suppressed EndoMT in a human oral cancer cell xenograft mouse model. By using genetic labeling of endothelial cell lineage, we also established a novel EndoMT reporter cell system, the EndoMT reporter endothelial cells (EMRECs), which allow visualization of sequential changes during TGF‐β‐induced EndoMT. Using EMRECs, we characterized the gene profiles of multiple EndoMT stages and identified CD40 as a novel partial EndoMT‐specific marker. CD40 expression was upregulated in the cells undergoing partial EndoMT, but decreased in the full EndoMT cells. Furthermore, single‐cell RNA sequencing analysis of human tumors revealed that CD40 expression was enriched in the population of cells expressing both endothelial and mesenchymal cell markers. Moreover, decreased expression of CD40 in EMRECs enhanced TGF‐β‐induced EndoMT, suggesting that CD40 expressed during partial EndoMT inhibits transition to full EndoMT. The present findings provide a better understanding of the mechanisms underlying TGF‐β‐induced EndoMT and will facilitate the development of novel therapeutic strategies targeting EndoMT‐driven cancer progression and metastasis.
A standard approach for including climate change responses in IUCN Red List assessments
Authors: Mancini Giordano , Santini Luca , Cazalis Victor , Akçakaya H. Reşit , Lucas Pablo M. , Brooks Thomas M. , Foden Wendy , Di Marco Moreno
Published: December 2023

The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List is a central tool for extinction risk monitoring and influences global biodiversity policy and action. But, to be effective, it is crucial that it consistently accounts for each driver of extinction. Climate change is rapidly becoming a key extinction driver, but consideration of climate change information remains challenging for the IUCN. Several methods can be used to predict species’ future decline, but they often fail to provide estimates of the symptoms of endangerment used by IUCN. We devised a standardized method to measure climate change impact in terms of change in habitat quality to inform criterion A3 on future population reduction. Using terrestrial nonvolant tetrapods as a case study, we measured this impact as the difference between the current and the future species climatic niche, defined based on current and future bioclimatic variables under alternative model algorithms, dispersal scenarios, emission scenarios, and climate models. Our models identified 171 species (13% out of those analyzed) for which their current red‐list category could worsen under criterion A3 if they cannot disperse beyond their current range in the future. Categories for 14 species (1.5%) could worsen if maximum dispersal is possible. Although ours is a simulation exercise and not a formal red‐list assessment, our results suggest that considering climate change impacts may reduce misclassification and strengthen consistency and comprehensiveness of IUCN Red List assessments.
A case for stronger integration of physical landscape processes in conservation science and practice
Authors: Cienciala Piotr
Published: December 2023

I argue that the dynamic nature of contemporary, landscape‐shaping (geomorphic) processes deserves more consideration in conservation science and practice. In an analysis of a sample of fundamental terms related to geomorphology and area‐based conservation in the Web of Science, I found that the terms co‐occurred in <2% of the analyzed entries (titles, abstracts, and keywords) from 2000 to 2020. This result is indicative of the rather peripheral attention that, more broadly, landscape‐shaping processes seem to receive in the conservation literature. Among conservation scientists and practitioners, landforms that define the physical structure of habitat are often perceived as largely static, whereas the consideration of their dynamic adjustments to geomorphic processes is often limited to extreme events. I use examples derived from river‐floodplain environments to illustrate strong, multifaceted, and reciprocal interactions between biota and various erosional and depositional processes. These ubiquitous interdependencies clearly demonstrate that geomorphic processes are an integral part of ecosystem dynamics at time scales relevant for conservation. Crucially, erosional and depositional processes modulate many environmental impacts of past and current anthropogenic activities. I conclude that the absence of a more explicit and widespread consideration of geomorphic processes in conservation science and practice is surprising and detrimental to their effectiveness. I call for bolstered efforts among the conservation and geoscience communities to better integrate landscape dynamics within the field of conservation. The rise of the ecosystem‐based and social‐ecological systems approaches to conservation and the growth of interdisciplinary geoscience branches (e.g., biogeomorphology, ecohydraulics, and geoconservation) will facilitate such an integration.
Gender differences in allergic contact dermatitis to common allergens
Authors: Boonchai Waranya , Likittanasombat Surachanee , Viriyaskultorn Noldtawat , Kanokrungsee Silada
Published: December 2023

Background

Gender‐based differences in skin structure, physiology, and allergen exposure can influence contact dermatitis development.

Objective

This study investigated the differences and trends in contact sensitizers, focusing on the top 10 allergens and personal care product (PCP) contact allergies from a gender perspective.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective chart review of 5998 patients undergoing patch testing at an occupational and contact dermatitis clinic in a Thai, university‐based, tertiary referral hospital from January 2001 to December 2021. Patients' characteristics and patch test results were collected.

Results

Females had a higher positive patch test rate than males (71.8% vs. 65%, p < 0.001). However, males showed a greater prevalence of occupationally related allergic contact dermatitis (15.9%). Multivariate analysis revealed associations between being female and allergies to colophonium (aOR 1.46, 95% CI 1.07–1.99, p = 0.019), formaldehyde (aOR 1.97, 95% CI 1.17–13.31, p = 0.010), fragrance mix I (aOR 1.66, 95% CI 1.34–2.07, p < 0.001), MCI/MI (aOR 2.55, 95% CI 1.90–3.44, p < 0.001), neomycin (aOR 4.15, 95% CI 2.54–6.80, p < 0.001), and nickel (aOR 2.62, 95% CI 2.17–3.15, p < 0.001). Conversely, being male correlated with allergies to carba mix (aOR 0.51, 95% CI 0.41–0.64, p < 0.001), epoxy resin (aOR 0.26, 95% CI 0.14–0.47, p < 0.001), n‐isopropyl‐n‐phenyl‐4‐phenylenediamine (aOR 0.41, 95% CI 0.20–0.83, p = 0.014), paraben mix (aOR 0.42, 95% CI 0.32–0.56, p < 0.001), and potassium dichromate (aOR 0.70, 95% CI 0.58–0.84, p < 0.001). Positive reactions to PCPs stood at 13% overall (males 17.1%, females 12.2%, p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Gender plays a pivotal role in contact dermatitis. This work emphasises the importance of considering gender‐specific factors when diagnosing and managing contact allergies.
Context‐dependent approach and avoidance behavioral profiles as predictors of psychopathology
Authors: Kelsey Caroline M. , Fasman Anna , Quigley Kelsey , Dickerson Kelli , Enlow Michelle Bosquet , Nelson Charles A.
Published: December 2023

Inhibition (a temperamental profile characterized by elevated levels of avoidance behaviors) is associated with increased likelihood for developing anxiety and depression, whereas exuberance (a temperamental profile characterized by elevated levels of approach behaviors) is associated with increased likelihood for developing externalizing conditions (e.g., attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder and conduct disorder). However, not all children who exhibit high levels of approach or avoidance behaviors develop emotional or behavioral problems. In this preregistered study, we assessed context‐dependent profiles of approach and avoidance behaviors in 3‐year‐old children (N = 366). Using latent profile analysis, four groups were identified: nonsocial approachers, social approachers, social avoiders, and nonsocial avoiders. Analyses revealed that there were minimal differences in internalizing and externalizing symptoms across the four context‐dependent groups. However, exploratory analyses assessed whether high levels of approach or avoidance combined across contexts, similar to findings reported in prior work, were related to psychopathology. Children identified as high in avoidance behavior at 3 years of age were more likely to show internalizing symptoms at 3 years of age but not at 5 years of age. Children high in approach were more likely to meet criteria for anxiety and externalizing disorders by age 5 years. These findings further our understanding of individual differences in how young children adjust their behavior based on contextual cues and may inform methods for identifying children at increased likelihood for the development of emotional and behavioral problems.

Research Highlights

Context‐dependent approach and avoidance profiles were identified in 3‐year‐old children using a person‐centered approach.

Children who were high in approach behavior, regardless of context, at age three had a higher likelihood for developing an anxiety or externalizing disorder by age five.

These findings may help identify children at increased risk of developing emotional and behavioral problems.
Very high‐cycle fatigue life prediction of high‐strength steel based on machine learning
Authors: Liu Xiaolong , Zhang Siyuan , Cong Tao , Zeng Fan , Wang Xi , Wang Wenjing
Published: December 2023

Very high‐cycle fatigue life (VHCF) prediction of high‐strength steel based on machine learning (ML) was investigated in this paper. First, a total of 173 sets of experimental data on the VHCF of high‐strength steel were collected to train the ML model. The sensitivity coefficient analysis indicated that inclusion size and maximum stress were the strongest correlation parameters with fatigue life and selected as the input features for the final model training. The S–N curve predicted by the obtained ML model closely aligns with the actual S–N curve. Among the three algorithm models, namely, random forest, XG boost, and gradient boosting, the gradient boosting model exhibited superior performance and achieved the highest accuracy in predicting the VHCF life of high‐strength steel. A comparison between the Murakami model and the gradient boosting model was conducted. It is indicated that ML exhibits superior predictive performance with high efficiency and excellent accuracy.
Revisiting the systematic position of the enigmatic Nicobar Bulbul (Ixos nicobariensis)
Authors: Goyal Naman , Warudkar Ashwin , Kolipakam Vishnupriya , Pant Bhawana , Kuppusamy Sivakumar , Singh Pratap , Qureshi Qamar , Nair Manoj V.
Published: December 2023

The Nicobar Bulbul Ixos nicobariensis is an endemic species found across the central Nicobar Islands whose systematic position has been debated for many decades. Its current placement in the genus Ixos is tentative and is based on morphological similarities and geographical affinities to other members of the genus. We used mitochondrial and nuclear markers to examine its phylogenetic relationship to other members of Ixos and Hypsipetes. Our results indicate that the Nicobar Bulbul is sister to members of the genus Hypsipetes, and not Ixos. We further discuss the origin of this species based on the results of our study.
Boron coordination and three‐membered ring formation in sodium borate glasses: a machine‐learning molecular dynamics study
Authors: Kato Takeyuki , Lodesani Federica , Urata Shingo
Published: December 2023

Classical molecular dynamics (CMD) simulations that employ analytical force fields have been commonly utilized to investigate mechanical, chemical, and thermal properties of oxide glasses owing to their superior computational efficiency. Conversely, simple functional forms limit the accuracy in modeling complicated glass structures, specifically, in alkaline borate glasses, which exhibit boron coordination numbers that vary nonlinearly with changes in glass composition and temperature. Machine‐learning potentials (MLPs), which are trained using datasets on energy and force evaluated via the density functional theory (DFT), are garnering significant attention as a novel simulation technology for enhancing the accuracy in modeling materials. Therefore, this study applied a universal MLP, PreFerred Potential (PFP) (trade‐name: Matlantis), to model sodium borate glasses, and its accuracy was verified in reproducing boron coordination and ring structures by comparing its results to available experimental data. We found that PFP can quantitatively reproduce the boron coordination change with glass composition without any empirical correction, while the boron coordination in the melts at high temperatures is overestimated, even though the qualitative variation was better estimated than CMD simulations. Furthermore, the MLP could generate many 3‐rings, unlike the analytical force‐field. Accordingly, we demonstrated superior accuracy of the MLP in modeling alkaline borate glasses, while discussing the challenges faced in reproducing the elaborated microstructures in borate glasses.
Long‐term associations between early attachment and parenting and adolescent susceptibility to post‐traumatic distress in a South African high‐risk sample
Authors: Haag Katharina , Halligan Sarah L. , Hiller Rachel , Skeen Sarah , Tomlinson Mark
Published: December 2023

Background

It has been proposed that children and young people living in low‐ and middle‐income countries (LMICs) are not only exposed more frequently to trauma but also have a higher likelihood of encountering traumas of greater severity than those living in high‐income countries (HICs). This may lead to higher rates of post‐traumatic stress symptoms (PTSS). However, developmental pathways to risk or resilience after trauma exposure in LMICs are underresearched.

Methods

We examined early parenting and attachment as potentially important formative factors for later stress reactivity in a longitudinal cohort of South African children (N = 449). Parenting and attachment were assessed at child age 18 months, and interpersonal trauma exposure, PTSS and parenting stress were measured at 13 years (N = 333; core sample with data on all measures: N = 213). Following a vulnerability‐stress approach, separate regression models were run to investigate whether parent–child attachment at 18 months, parental sensitivity and intrusiveness during play at 12 months, and current parenting stress at 13 years, interacted with adolescents' extent of interpersonal trauma exposure to predict their PTSS levels at 13 years.

Results

We found no predictive effects of either early attachment or current parenting stress in relation to child PTSS. There was some evidence for predictive influences of parental early intrusiveness and sensitivity on adolescent outcomes, though associations were unexpectedly positive for the latter. No interaction effects supporting a vulnerability‐stress model were found.

Conclusions

Overall, we found limited evidence that elements of the early parent–child environment predict child risk/resilience to trauma in LMIC children. Future studies should include more frequent assessments of relevant constructs to capture changes over time and consider further what comprises adaptive parenting in high‐risk contexts.
Innovative use of hazelnut skin and starch modifications in sourdough bread formulation
Authors: Durmus Yusuf , Anil Munir , Simsek Senay
Published: December 2023

The objective of this study was to explore the use of hazelnut skin and modified starches as functional additives in sourdough bread to valorize food byproducts and maintain product quality. We examined the incorporation of 5% and 10% hazelnut skin in tandem with 3% and 5% cross‐linked and oxidized starches into the bread matrix. Our methods included quantitative analysis of nutritional composition changes, and end product quality. Adding 5% hazelnut skin enhanced loaf volume and resulted in a softer crumb structure. Hazelnut skin at 5% significantly (p < 0.05) increased bread volume. Hardness values ranged from 2.21 to 11.3 N. In conclusion, sourdough bread formulated with 5% hazelnut skin optimizes quality in terms of volume and softness. Modified starches can be strategically employed to adjust textural challenges presented by the inclusion of dietary fibers. This study demonstrates that strategic ingredient additions can lead to improved utilization of food byproducts while enhancing bread characteristics.

Practical applications

This study presents a novel approach to enhancing sourdough bread quality by incorporating hazelnut skin, a sustainable and underutilized byproduct of the nut industry. The successful addition of 5% hazelnut skin improves loaf volume and softness, which could significantly benefit the bakery sector by providing a means to produce a superior product with added nutritional value. Moreover, the use of modified starches helps mitigate the textural challenges often associated with fiber enrichment in bread, thus allowing bakeries to offer products that cater to health‐conscious consumers without compromising on sensory qualities. The industrial adoption of this method can lead to reduced food waste, as hazelnut byproducts are valorized, and may resonate with eco‐friendly branding strategies. Our findings support the potential for food industries to create breads with enhanced consumer appeal while contributing to environmental sustainability.
Prostate‐specific antigen: An unfamiliar protein in the human salivary glands
Authors: Isola Michela , Maxia Cristina , Murtas Daniela , Ekström Jörgen , Isola Raffaella , Loy Francesco
Published: December 2023

Objectives

The presence of prostate‐specific antigen (PSA) in saliva and salivary glands has been reported. Nevertheless, its release pathway in these glands remains to be elucidated. Here, we showed PSA subcellular distribution focusing on its plausible route in human salivary parenchyma.

Materials and Methods

Sections of parotid and submandibular glands were subjected to the immunohistochemical demonstration of PSA by the streptavidin–biotin method revealed by alkaline phosphatase. Moreover, ultrathin sections were collected on nickel grids and processed for immunocytochemical analysis, to visualize the intracellular distribution pattern of PSA through the observation by transmission electron microscopy.

Results

By immunohistochemistry, in both parotid and submandibular glands PSA expression was detected in serous secretory acini and striated ducts. By immunocytochemistry, immunoreactivity was retrieved in the cytoplasmic compartment of acinar and ductal cells, often associated with small cytoplasmic vesicles. PSA labeling appeared also on rough endoplasmic reticulum and in the acini's lumen. A negligible PSA labeling appeared in most of the secretory granules of both glands.

Conclusions

Our findings clearly support that human parotid and submandibular glands are involved in PSA secretion. Moreover, based on the immunoreactivity pattern, its release in oral cavity would probably occur by minor regulated secretory or constitutive‐like secretory pathways.
The association between personality, relationship satisfaction, and psychopathology in a three‐wave, longitudinal study
Authors: Dashineau Samantha , Napolitano Skye , South Susan C.
Published: December 2023

Objective

The aim of this work was to better understand the role of personality as it relates to psychopathology, with satisfaction as a mediating variable.

Background

Personality is an important determinant of many life outcomes including relationship satisfaction and psychopathology. Previous work has demonstrated that broad domains of normal personality have low‐to‐moderate associations with various forms of psychopathology. Research has primarily focused on mechanisms that might explain how common personality traits put one at risk for common forms of psychopathology; this work builds upon existing work in examining relationship satisfaction as one possible mechanism. No study to date has examined whether relationship satisfaction mediates the connection between personality and psychopathology.

Method

We utilized multilevel modeling in a longitudinal sample of 100 newlywed couples to test the hypothesis that major domains of personality (positive temperament, negative temperament, disinhibition) have a significant effect on relationship satisfaction which, in turn, is significantly associated with internalizing and externalizing forms of psychopathology.

Results

We found no evidence for the mediating role of relationship satisfaction; however, in exploratory analyses, we did find evidence for both between‐person and within‐person effects of personality on psychopathology.

Conclusions

This study confirms the role of personality as an important factor in consideration of dyadic processes, though not entirely deterministic for downstream functioning. Thus, separate factors in addition to personality may be worth examining in consideration of how low relationship satisfaction may be associated with psychopathology.
Mental Health Status of Rhode Island Middle School and High School Students Before Versus During the COVID‐19 Pandemic
Authors: Murdock Abigail R. , Rogers Michelle L. , Jackson Tracy L. , Monteiro Karine , Chambers Laura C.
Published: December 2023

Background

The COVID‐19 pandemic negatively affected adolescent mental health due to school closures, isolation, family loss/hardships, and reduced health care access.

Methods

We compared adolescent mental health in Rhode Island before versus during the pandemic, separately among middle and high schoolers. This serial cross‐sectional study used Youth Risk Behavior Survey data from 2019 and 2021 (N = 7403). Multivariable logistic regression models estimated the association between year and mental health status, adjusting for sociodemographics.

Results

Middle schoolers in 2021 had higher odds of ever seriously considering suicide (22.6% vs 16.7%) and ever attempting suicide (9.3% vs 6.1%) compared to 2019. Among high schoolers, those in 2021 had higher odds of experiencing persistent sadness/hopelessness in the past year (37.4% vs 32.0%). However, high schoolers in 2019 and 2021 had similar odds of considering suicide in the past year, while those in 2021 had lower odds of having attempted suicide in the past year (8.5% vs 14.6%).

Conclusion

The COVID‐19 pandemic may have worsened multiple aspects of adolescent mental health in Rhode Island, particularly among middle schoolers.

Implications for school health policy, practice, and equity

Promoting school connectedness, creating supportive environments, and diversifying the mental health workforce may help overcome adverse pandemic effects.
Potent induction of antitumor immunity by combining cryo‐thermal ablation with immune checkpoint inhibitors in hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Qian Ling , Xie Lin , Zhu Ying , Huang Changjing , Meng Zhiqiang
Published: December 2023

Background

The low response rate of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) prompts the exploration of novel combination therapies for patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Here, we aimed to examine the efficiency and potential mechanism of cryo‐thermal ablation (Cryo‐A) combined with anti‐programmed death protein 1 (αPD1) and/or cytotoxic T‐lymphocyte antigen 4 (αCTLA4) inhibitors in a murine hepatoma model.

Method

Immunocompetent C57BL/6 mice inoculated with unilateral or bilateral H22 hepatic tumour cells were treated with Cryo‐A and/or ICIs (αPD1 and/or αCTLA4). Flow cytometry, immunohistochemistry, ELISpot assay, time‐of‐flight cytometry, tumour rechallenging, and T‐cell depletion assay were used to assess the dynamic changes of immune cell subsets following therapy.

Results

We found Cryo‐A resulted in immunogenic cell death of tumour cells, activation of dendritic cells, and enhancement of antitumor immunity. Cryo‐A alone was insufficient to extend survival, combining Cryo‐A with αPD1 and αCTLA4 further modulated the tumour microenvironment, inducing a durable antitumor immune response by tumour‐reactive CD8+ T cells and significantly prolonged survival. Time‐of‐flight cytometry (CyTOF) data revealed that combination therapies reshaped the tumour microenvironment by the increase of intratumoral CD8+ T cells expressed higher levels of cytotoxic markers and immune checkpoint molecules, and by downregulation of intratumoral granulocytes. The combination also resulted in the eradication of remote unablated tumours (abscopal effect).

Conclusions

These findings suggested that Cryo‐A turned HCC from “cold” tumours to “hot” tumours and the combination of Cryo‐A with αPD1 and αCTLA4 may be a promising approach to improve the prognosis of HCC.
Multidimensional trait variability in a widespread, Paleoarctic macrophyte: functional, spectral and genetic drivers
Authors: Dalla Vecchia Alice , Coppi Andrea , Beatrice Castellani Maria , Lastrucci Lorenzo , Piaser Erika , Villa Paolo , Bolpagni Rossano
Published: December 2023

Understanding how environmental conditions and plant functional variation are mutually related is critical to improving our comprehension of plant adaptations. In this context, our knowledge of the interlinks between plant functional, spectral and genetic traits and environmental filters is still very limited, especially for wetland species. To gain new insights on this topic, a multidimensional dataset, centred on the widespread macrophyte species Nuphar lutea, was assembled by collecting data on functional traits (including spectral traits), genetic metrics and environmental determinants from 28 plots spanning north‐central Italy. A strong environmental filter acts on all traits (morphological, biochemical, spectral and the genetic diversity metrics) resulting in significant local control over trait patterns, exemplified by the discrimination value of water electrical conductivity. This is further reinforced by the key contribution of sediment variables in explaining traits variation. Site‐specific environmental conditions were reflected in different patterns of genetic diversity, suggesting a long‐term effect of environmental filters on genotypes as well. High water conductivity – in our study sites indicative of long‐term hydrogeological settings – is linked to more acquisitive behaviour in N. lutea and a progressive reduction in its genetic diversity, while high nutrients availability in sediments promotes higher leaf traits performance. This study better explores how high variability in leaf traits reinforces current genetic and mechanistic knowledge about competitive strategies in the key aquatic plant N. lutea, by testing the effectiveness of a novel integrative approach to assess multiple sources of plant functional variation.
No Superior Bone Union Outcomes with Allografts Compared to No Grafts and Autografts Following Medial Opening Wedge High Tibial Osteotomy: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Mao Yunhe , Yao Lei , Li Junqiao , Li Jian , Xiong Yan
Published: December 2023

Objective

There has been long‐standing debate about whether a medial opening wedge high tibial osteotomy (MOWHTO) gap should be filled with autologous bone graft or any other filler to expedite the healing process. The main purpose of this study was to compare the clinical and radiological outcomes of MOWHTO with an opening gap ≥10 mm, utilizing autograft, allograft, or no graft at 1 year postoperatively.

Methods

A total of 68 patients were included in this retrospective study and divided into three treatment groups: Group A (no bone graft), Group B (autologous iliac crest graft), and Group C (allogenous tibia plateau graft). At postoperative 1‐year follow‐up, the area of callus filling in the most medial side of the knee was measured using anteroposterior radiographs, and a modified van Hemert scoring system was used to evaluate bone union outcomes in five mediolaterally divided zones. Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) scores and relevant complications were assessed. The correlations between the gap width and bone union scores were evaluated.

Results

Patients in the autograft group demonstrated better bone union progression (p = 0.031) and higher bone union scores (p < 0.01) compared to patients in the allograft or no graft groups. There were no significant differences in terms of postoperative WOMAC scores and incidence of complications among the three groups. No discernible linear relationships between the width of the opening gap and the bone union score were found.

Conclusion

For MOWHTOs with an average gap opening width of 12.1 mm, autografts resulted in superior bone union outcomes compared to allografts and no graft at 1 year postoperatively. However, no bone graft achieved similar outcomes to allografts, suggesting that routine use of allografts should not be recommended.
Mapping of Purkinje‐related ventricular arrhythmias by a multispline catheter with small and close‐paired electrodes: Comparison with conventional catheters
Authors: Takase Susumu , Mukai Yasushi , Nagaoka Kazuhiro , Ogawa Kiyohiro , Kawai Shunsuke , Honda Nobuhiro , Nagayama Tomomi , Tohyama Takeshi , Inoue Shujiro , Sadamatsu Kenji , Tashiro Hideki , Sakamoto Kazuo , Matoba Tetsuya , Chishaki Akiko , Kinugawa Shintaro , Tsutsui Hiroyuki
Published: December 2023

Background

Precise mapping of the Purkinje fiber network is essential in catheter ablation of Purkinje‐related ventricular arrhythmias (PrVAs). We sought to evaluate the mapping ability of a multi‐spline duodecapolar catheter (PentaRay) for PrVAs.

Methods

Mappings of Purkinje fibers by PentaRay catheters were compared with those by conventional mapping catheters in consecutive patients undergoing catheter ablation of PrVAs from 2015 to 2022.

Results

Sixteen PrVAs (7 premature ventricular contractions or non‐reentrant fascicular tachycardias [PVCs/NRFTs] and 9 fascicular ventricular tachycardias [FVTs]) were retrospectively studied. In PVCs/NRFTs, earliest preceding Purkinje potentials (PPs) could be recorded by the PentaRay catheters but not by the mapping and ablation catheters in 5 cases. At the earliest PP sites, the precedence from the QRS onset was greater, and the amplitude of the preceding potentials was higher in the PentaRay catheter compared with those in the mapping and ablation catheter (−62.0 ± 42.8 vs. −29.4 ± 34.2 ms, P = 0.02; 0.45 ± 0.43 vs. 0.09 ± 0.08 mV, P = 0.02). In FVTs, late diastolic potentials (P1) were recorded by the PentaRay catheters but not by the mapping and ablation catheters or the linear duodecapolar catheter in 2 cases. The amplitude of P1 was higher in the PentaRay catheter compared with that in the linear duodecapolar catheter and the mapping and ablation catheters (0.72 ± 0.49 vs. 0.17 ± 0.18 vs. 0.27 ± 0.21 mV, P = 0.0006, P = 0.002). The localized critical PPs, defined as the earliest preceding potentials in PVCs/NRFTs and P1 in FVTs, could be recorded in all the patients by the PentaRay catheter. The mapping ability of critical PPs of PrVAs was better with the PentaRay catheter than with the conventional mapping catheters (16/16 vs. 9/16, P = 0.004 by McNemar exact test).

Conclusions

The PentaRay catheter has clinical advantages in mapping of the Purkinje fiber network to reveal critical PPs as ablation targets of PrVAs.
Network analysis of neuropsychiatric, cognitive, and functional complications of stroke: implications for novel treatment targets
Authors: Oestreich Lena K.L. , Lo Jessica W. , Di Biase Maria A. , Sachdev Perminder S. , Mok Alice H. , Wright Paul , Crawford John D. , Lam Ben , Traykov Latchezar , Köhler Sebastian , Staals Julie E.A. , van Oostenbrugge Robert , Chen Christopher , Desmond David W. , Yu Kyung‐Ho , Lee Minwoo , Klimkowicz‐Mrowiec Aleksandra , Bordet Régis , O'Sullivan Michael J. , Zalesky Andrew
Published: December 2023

Aim

Recovery from stroke is adversely affected by neuropsychiatric complications, cognitive impairment, and functional disability. Better knowledge of their mutual relationships is required to inform effective interventions. Network theory enables the conceptualization of symptoms and impairments as dynamic and mutually interacting systems. We aimed to identify interactions of poststroke complications using network analysis in diverse stroke samples.

Methods

Data from 2185 patients were sourced from member studies of STROKOG (Stroke and Cognition Consortium), an international collaboration of stroke studies. Networks were generated for each cohort, whereby nodes represented neuropsychiatric symptoms, cognitive deficits, and disabilities on activities of daily living. Edges characterized associations between them. Centrality measures were used to identify hub items.

Results

Across cohorts, a single network of interrelated poststroke complications emerged. Networks exhibited dissociable depression, apathy, fatigue, cognitive impairment, and functional disability modules. Worry was the most central symptom across cohorts, irrespective of the depression scale used. Items relating to activities of daily living were also highly central nodes. Follow‐up analysis in two studies revealed that individuals who worried had more densely connected networks than those free of worry (CASPER [Cognition and Affect after Stroke: Prospective Evaluation of Risks] study: S = 9.72, P = 0.038; SSS [Sydney Stroke Study]: S = 13.56, P = 0.069).

Conclusion

Neuropsychiatric symptoms are highly interconnected with cognitive deficits and functional disabilities resulting from stroke. Given their central position and high level of connectedness, worry and activities of daily living have the potential to drive multimorbidity and mutual reinforcement between domains of poststroke complications. Targeting these factors early after stroke may have benefits that extend to other complications, leading to better stroke outcomes.
Public willingness, attitudes and related factors toward cardiopulmonary resuscitation: A grounded theory study
Authors: Sun Mengxue , Waters Catherine M. , Zhu Aiqun
Published: December 2023

Objectives

Despite receiving cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) training, over 50% of bystanders were unable to actually perform CPR. Understanding public willingness and attitudes toward bystander CPR is crucial in explaining whether people initiate CPR. This study aimed to develop a theoretical understanding of factors that influence the public's willingness and attitudes to perform CPR.

Design

This was a qualitative study using the grounded theory method.

Methods

The data were collected from semi‐structured interviews with 28 participants between August 2022 and November 2022. Purposive sampling and theoretical sampling were used to recruit participants. Interviews were recorded and transcribed. Data were analyzed using open, axial, and selective coding.

Results

Nine categories and 24 subcategories were summarized from four aspects: willingness, attitudes, implementation, and training. Willingness included self‐willingness, self‐perception, and societal factors; attitudes covered personality traits, reactions to patients and environment; implementation comprised knowledge and skills, situational coping, and risk perception; training included CPR training accessibility and barriers to CPR training. A theoretical framework of public CPR willingness, attitudes, and their influencing factors was developed.

Conclusion

The public's CPR willingness, attitudes, training, and implementation were interrelated and influential. The findings may have significant implications for the development of legislation and policy related to CPR popularization and training.
Assessing key behavioural theories of drought risk adaptation: Evidence from rural Kenya
Authors: Schrieks Teun , Botzen W. J. Wouter , Haer Toon , Wasonga Oliver V. , Aerts Jeroen C. J. H.
Published: December 2023

The Horn of Africa Drylands are increasingly experiencing severe droughts, which impose a threat on traditional livelihood strategies. Understanding adaptation behavior in rural communities is key to helping reduce the impact of these droughts. We investigate adaptation behavior by assessing four established economic and social psychological theories on decision making under risk: expected utility theory (EUT), rank dependent utility theory (RDU), protection motivation theory (PMT), and theory of planned behavior (PMT). To measure adaptation behavior and the theory constructs, we conducted a household survey in Kenya (N = 502). Regression analysis shows that the economic theories (EUT and RDU) have the best fit for our data. Risk and time preferences are found to play an important role in adaptation decisions. An analysis of differences in decision making for distinct types of adaptation measures shows that risk averse (agro‐)pastoralists are more likely to implement adaptation measures that are adjustments to their current livelihood practices, and less willing to invest in adaptation measures that require a shift to other livelihood activities. Moreover, we find significant effects for elements of the social psychological theories (PMT and TPB). A person's belief in their own ability to implement an adaptation measure (perceived self‐efficacy) and adaptation by family and friends are important factors in explaining adaptation decisions. Finally, we find that the type of adaptation measures that people implement is influenced by, among others, gender, education level, access to financial resources, and access to government support or aid. Our analysis gives insights into the drivers of individual adaptation decisions, which can enhance policies promoting adaptation of dryland communities.
Twelve‐month kidney and liver outcomes of kidney transplantation from Hepatitis C Viremic deceased donors to aviremic recipients
Authors: Binari Laura A. , Thorne Peter , Rega Scott A. , Feurer Irene D. , Shawar Saed , Naik Ruchi , Birdwell Kelly A. , Helderman J. Harold , Langone Anthony , Sarrell Bonnie Ann , Schaefer Heidi , DuBray Bernard John , Eid Kareem , Hickman Laura , Shaffer David , Concepcion Beatrice P. , Forbes Rachel C.
Published: December 2023

Introduction

Utilization of hepatitis C viremic (HCV+) deceased donor kidneys (DDKT) for aviremic recipients increases opportunities for transplantation with excellent short‐term outcomes. Our primary aim was to understand longer‐term outcomes, specifically assessing kidney and liver function in the first year posttransplant.

Methods

This was a retrospective single‐center study of adult DDKT recipients of HCV+ kidneys (cases) matched 1:1 to recipients of HCV‐ kidneys (comparators). Between‐group outcomes were analyzed using comparisons of means and proportions, survival analysis methods, and multivariable mixed effects models.

Results

Sixty‐five cases and 65 comparators had statistically comparable demographic and clinical characteristics. There were no between‐group differences in serum creatinine or estimated glomerular filtration rate at month 12 (p = .662) or in their trajectories over months 1–12 (p > .292). Within the first 60 days, rates of liver function values >3 times upper limit of normal among cases were comparable to comparators for aspartate aminotransferase (AST) (14% vs. 6%, p = .242) and higher for alanine transaminase (ALT) (23% vs. 6%, p = .011). AST declined during the first 8 weeks (p = .005) and stabilized for both groups (p = .406) during the following 10 months. ALT declined during the first 8 weeks (p < .001), continued to decline over months 3–12 (p = .016), and the trajectory was unrelated to antiviral therapy initiation among cases.

Conclusions

Aviremic recipients of HCV+ kidneys had comparable kidney outcomes to matched recipients of HCV‐ kidneys. Despite more HCV+ recipients having an elevation in ALT within the first 60 days, ALT values normalized with no identified liver complications attributed to HCV.

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COOPERATIVE SOURCE DETECTION USING AN OPTIMIZED DISTRIBUTED LEVY FLIGHT ALGORITHM
Authors: Ab. Majid Mad Helmi , Arshad Mohd Rizal , Yahya Mohd Faid
Published: December 2023

Source signal detection plays important roles in many real-world target searching problems. Source detection is necessary before a full search process utilizing the detected signal can be performed where minimizing the detection time and maximizing the search space exploration or coverage are the main problems. In this paper, an optimized Levy Flight algorithm known as a Distributed Levy Flight (DLF) for swarm agents is proposed. The DLF algorithm is optimized by means of repulsive artificial potential force to disperse the agents in order to optimize the search space coverage and detection time. Additionally, to integrate cooperative behavior, an artificial attractive force is used to maintain communication among the agents. The results showed that the proposed DLF algorithm successfully improve detection time (113.1s) and area coverage (78.3%) compared to the existing algorithms: Brownian Walk (325.5s, 31.7%), Correlated Random Walk (356.2s, 35.1%), Levy Flight (201.3s, 56.6%), Levy Flight with Artificial Potential Fields (151.9s, 70.2%).
RELAY COORDINATION PLANNING FOR HIGH PHOTOVOLTAIC PENETRATION USING PRESET-TIME METHOD
Authors: Abduljabbar Abdulkareem Ahmed , Md Rasid Madihah , Jamian Jasrul Jamani , Md Sapari Norazliani
Published: December 2023

In light of the advancement and technological development, electricity has become the main component of all areas of life. Photovoltaic (PV) systems are widely used within distribution networks. Despite all the advantages that PV possesses, it has some effects on the protection system. One of the most essential effects caused by PV is an increase in the relay operating time (ROT) of the backup protection relay during faults. Many studies have focused on improving the coordination of protection relays at high PV penetration, either by using current limiters or modifying the characteristics of the protection curves. However, they require a high cost and advanced relay.  Therefore, the Preset-Time method is introduced in this study to shorten the ROT of the backup protection relay within the radial distribution networks which contributes to accelerating the removal of faults. The proposed method is tested on the Iraqi distribution network and is simulated using ETAP 19 software. The performance of the Preset-Time method is evaluated during the change in penetration levels. To validate the preset time method, its results are compared to the conventional method and the Max PSM method. From the results obtained by the Preset-Time method, the highest percentage of reduction in ROT was 33.20% and 29.23% compared to the conventional and the Max PSM methods, respectively.
SIMULATION OF OPTIMAL MIX OF SIO2-TIO2-AL2O3 NANO ADDITIVES FOR THE MINIMAL WEAR AND COEFFICIENT OF FRICTION OF LUBRICANT USING FUZZY LOGIC
Authors: E Sankar , K Duraivelu
Published: December 2023

Nano-particles of oxides of various metals are typically added with the base lubricants for enhancing the tribological properties, especially the wear and coefficient of friction of the lubricants.  However, it is required to determine the optimum proportion of mix of the nano-additives in order to obtain the desirable characteristics gained through the addition of various oxides of metals mixed with the lubricants. This paper deals with the application of fuzzy logic to simulate the various proportions of a mix of three nano-additives of SiO2, Al2O3 and TiO2 with the corresponding predicted values of tribological characteristics of wear and coefficient of friction. The limited number of outcomes obtained from a full factorial design of experiments carried out with these three nano-additives at three different levels of mixing, are used as inputs to the fuzzy logic simulation. This approach facilitates simulating as many combinations of nano-additives as possible with the base lubricant oil along with the predicted output of characteristics of interest, which otherwise will be cumbersome to carry out the experiments for all the combinations of mix of additives.
STEEL SLAG’S PHYSICAL AND CHEMICAL IMPACT ON CONCRETE WORKABILITY AND STRENGTH AS FINE AGGREGATE
Authors: Darwis Zulmahdi , Fathonah Woelandari , Hadi Faisal
Published: December 2023

This research aims to uncover how the properties of steel slag affect concrete strength and workability. To gain insight into the behavior of concrete over time in different circumstances, we assessed its performance with varying levels of steel slag included as fine aggregate. This examination covered periods spanning from formation to 3, 7 and 28 days for a comprehensive analysis. Concrete mixes were prepared by substituting fine aggregates with varying proportions of steel slag. The use of advanced techniques such as Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM)and Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDX) revealed that an abundant amount of calcium (Ca), and oxygen (O), exist in the composition of steel slags. According to the findings, incorporating more steel slag into concrete had an adverse impact on its workability. This manifested as a decrease in the material's flowability. The mixture that produced the optimal results had a slump value of 76 mm and a compressive strength of 30.88 MPa when 20% of the fine aggregate was replaced with steel slag. This mixture also displayed a more fluid consistency, facilitating its application.
Radical understanding: reflections on knowledge production, power, positionality, and practices of refusal within academic research
Authors: Torkaman Rad Esfandyar
Published: December 2023

By looking at scholarly research as well as my own experience of practicing refusal in my research and documentary work, this article focuses on how refusal practices can challenge dominant methods of knowledge production and lead to what I want to conceptualize in this paper as radical understanding; a way of practicing and relating to research otherwise. I propose radical understanding as methodological and epistemological tool to contest the imperialist and capitalist -dominant machinery of knowledge production.
Practising refusal as relating otherwise: engagements with knowledge production, ‘activist’ praxis, and borders
Authors: Spathopoulou Aila , Meier Isabel
Published: December 2023

This special issue explores the concept of refusal through academic and personal reflections, conversation, poetry, activism, and performative practice. In this introduction, we first situate practices of refusal within very specific locations of struggle and then frame these refusals as a practice of relating otherwise. Relating otherwise is a ‘mode of engagement’ – not a theory or method – that shapes relationships with ourselves, each other, and the world. The introduction goes on to discuss how refusal practices engage with (1) decolonial modes of knowing, (2) embodied, situated, and relational ways of meaning-making, and (3) the undoing of existing dichotomies within ‘activist’ practice.