bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The work of being stuck: Caring masculinities in Mali and Burkina Faso
Authors: Kopf Charline , Phelan Sarah-Jane
Published: December 2024

This article draws on comparative ethnography undertaken in a Malian train station where trains no longer circulate, and a market in Burkina Faso where the flow of customers has ebbed away. In doing so, we explore how workers deal with protracted economic and security crises that have eroded their working lives and thrown the meaning of their labour into question. In both sites, the primarily male workers perpetuated their routines, not only to sustain their workplaces but also to maintain both a sense of a meaningful working life and their masculine identity as breadwinners. They thereby aim to preserve the hope that trains and customers might one day return, restoring their work lives to their previous productive states. We focus on how workers engage in various rhythms of care to ‘stay put’ amidst an uncertain present, and an even more precarious future. Through acts of mutual support – assisting fellow workers, giving intergenerational advice, offering emotional support through religious care and food-sharing, and tending to the material conditions of their workplaces – they create a network of care grounded in both social and physical infrastructure. By analysing the ways in which workers care for each other and their space of work, this article sheds light on the ways masculine affective caring underpins their struggle to ‘stay put’ and continue deriving value from labour, even when this may appear difficult or impossible from the outside. In doing so, this dual case study illuminates ambiguous relationships between work and meaning, crisis and normalcy, and masculinity and care.
Lexical access to unadapted English loanwords in Croatian: Evidence from Croatian speakers with different levels of proficiency in English
Authors: Bogunović Irena , Ćoso Bojana , Domijan Dražen
Published: December 2024

Aims and Objectives:

This study aims to investigate lexical access to unadapted English loanwords in Croatian speakers with different levels of English proficiency by exploring the effects of associative-semantic priming. It is expected that associative-semantic relatedness will have a facilitating effect on word recognition in all proficiency groups and in both language directions. Contrary to previous research on unadapted English loanwords, we expect that the effect of proficiency will also be significant.

Methodology:

To find appropriate stimuli for the main study, three preparatory studies were conducted. The main study consisted of a proficiency test, a questionnaire on language use and exposure, and two cross-language (first language [L1] and second language [L2]) priming experiments (L2–L1/L1–L2).

Data and Analysis:

Reaction times were analyzed by fitting linear mixed-effects model in R 3.6.1 environment for statistical computing.

Findings:

The results showed that associative-semantic relatedness significantly facilitates lexical access to unadapted English loanwords in both language directions and all proficiency groups. The effect of proficiency on reaction times was also significant in both experiments.

Originality:

Unadapted English loanwords provide a unique opportunity for the study of bilingual lexical access because of their specific nature—they occur in L1 and L2 in the same orthographic form, they often do not have adequate native equivalents, and are used by all proficiency groups. However, very little research has been done in that field.

Implications:

While unadapted English loanwords are common in many languages, the cognitive processing of this specific group of loanwords is still relatively understudied. Thus, the results of this study not only add to the existing knowledge on bilingual lexical access, but also provide new insight into loanword processing.
25 Years of increased politicisation of UK policing reform
Authors: Grieve John G.D.
Published: December 2024

The past 25 years has seen the greatest attempted political shifts in the reform, governance and character of UK policing in nearly 200 years. This article takes a broad, but incomplete, look at that increased trajectory of party politics involvement in changes in British policing, the possible effect on governance, operational independence and leadership, and the probable impact of those activities on tactical effectiveness (for example, in performance, community engagement, discipline, morale, retention and recruitment). It is the increased trajectory and significance of party politics that has created a paradigm shift in the British policing model and impacted on contemporary interpretations of the wrongly called Peelian Policing Principles. This article seeks to show that Savage’s model of police reform, as a conjunction of driving forces, is useful in exploring the primary use made, over the past 25 years, of the politicisation of police reform by the other five elements of the model. It also seeks to identify what we can learn from this exploration for the future of police reform. Nothing of what follows here signifies anything but disgust at the ghastly behaviour of some criminals in police uniforms. It comprises some evidence for use at a possible Labour ‘root and branch reform of the MPS’. This proposal might take up the misguided suggestion to disband the Metropolitan Police Service (MPS), as a result of possible extinction-level events for the 200-year-old MPS experiment in policing and will inevitably and irrevocably lead to the destruction of the British policing model – one of the global pillars of democracy. Brown also offered some more effective possible reforms using Savage’s model.
Seven pains of writing: The discomforts of academic becoming in a judgmental age
Authors: Barnett Ronald , Inouye Kelsey
Published: December 2024

Academic writing is a complex and often painful process, made more difficult by the alienating pressures placed on academics to publish. In this paper, we offer an analysis of this pain that is both phenomenological and realist. We draw on literatures from several disciplines and our own experiences as academic writers to identify seven ‘pains’, each of which represents a particular set of discomforts generated by the act of academic writing, especially in the humanities and social sciences. These discomforts arise from self-confrontation, visibility and external gaze, discursive complexity, struggle for authenticity and sincerity, ambiguities in the temporal horizons, external judgment, and loss of control. We argue that confronting and intentionally negotiating these discomforts provides opportunities for self-enhancement and even self-transformation. Writing is a space of continually becoming. We hold out the hope that academics might acknowledge the sources of their writing discomforts and recognise themselves as writers (as well as academics).
Celebrating Jürgen Habermas and the Institute for Social Research: Reflections on the history of critical theory from a jubilee year
Authors: Verovšek Peter J
Published: December 2024

2024 was a jubilee year for the Frankfurt School. On July 24, the Institute for Social Research ( Institut für Sozialforschung), the birthplace of critical theory, marked its centennial. A month earlier, Jürgen Habermas, who is often seen as the intellectual leader of the second generation of the Frankfurt School, celebrated his 95th birthday. In Germany, these overlapping anniversaries have been met with the publication of a number of books on Habermas and the critical theory tradition more generally. Despite the globalization of theorizing within the tradition of the Frankfurt School over the past 50 years, much of its intellectual history of it is still produced in Germany by German scholars based on sources and archives held in the Federal Republic. This Spotlight reviews the main findings and conclusions of this literature for an international, English-speaking audience. It concludes by reflecting on whether critical theory has succeeded—and if so, how.
Improved Gynecomastia Surgery: Power-Assisted Liposuction With Stab-Flatten Technique Without Resection
Authors: Yan Bingwen , Hao Dongyue , Sun Liming , Cang Zhengqiang , Xiao Bofu , Chen Yongjun , Qiao Haixia , Ma Ying , Song Baoqiang , Liu Chaohua
Published: December 2024

Background

Gynecomastia, the enlargement of male breast tissue, significantly impacts both physical and psychological health. Surgical intervention is often necessary, utilizing various techniques to reduce glandular and fatty tissue. This paper introduces an innovative surgical method combining power-assisted liposuction with the stab-flatten technique to enhance precision and cosmetic results. We present our clinical experience and evaluate its effectiveness in gynecomastia treatment.

Methods

From June 2021 to January 2023, 128 gynecomastia patients underwent power-assisted liposuction and the stab-flatten method via a single axillary incision. We collected demographic and clinical data, including surgery duration, complications, and patient satisfaction regarding physical appearance, mental state, and social interactions. The BODY-Q questionnaire was used preoperatively and 3 months postoperatively for assessment.

Results

The study included 128 male patients, treating 252 breasts, with an average age of 35 years and a mean BMI of 27.7 kg/m2. Most procedures were bilateral (96.9%), with an average fat removal of 224.5 mL and a surgery duration of 147 minutes. The complication rate was low at 2.0%, with bruises in 5 breasts. The average hospital stay was 2 days. Significant improvements were noted in BODY-Q scores for appearance satisfaction and health-related quality of life, with increased appearance satisfaction and reduced appearance-related distress.

Conclusion

Since June 2021, the combined use of power-assisted liposuction and the stab-flatten technique has been effective in managing gynecomastia. This synergistic approach not only achieves aesthetically pleasing outcomes but also minimizes the surgical risks associated with traditional methods.
Nonlinear bending analysis of matrix cracked functionally graded graphene origami-enabled auxetic metamaterial plates using the C0-HSDT meshless method
Authors: Yan Shitao , Li Zhaoyang , Wen Senyuan , Chen Wei
Published: December 2024

The auxetic metamaterials characterized by negative Poisson’s ratio (NPR) are attracting significant interest due to their extraordinary and captivating mechanical properties. This paper presents a meshless model based on the Improved Moving Kriging (IMK) interpolation to investigate the nonlinear bending of functionally graded (FG) graphene origami (GOri)-enabled auxetic metamaterials (GOEAM) plates with matrix cracks. The model is based on the C0-higher order shear deformation theory ( C0-HSDT) framework with seven variables and incorporates the von-Karman nonlinearity. The material properties of FG-GOEAM plate are determined by a genetic programming (GP)-assisted micromechanics model, while the degraded stiffness of cracked layers is incorporated via a self-consistent micromechanics model. The convergence and effectiveness of the proposed method is examined by comparing it with existing literature results. Firstly, the convergence and validity of the method presented in this paper are verified through comparison with existing literature. Then, A comprehensive study is conducted to examine key parametric effects on the tunability of nonlinear bending deflection and normal stress in matrix-cracked FG-GOEAM plates. The results show that higher GOri content enhances the stiffness of the FG-GOEAM plate, leading to lower deflection, whereas increased GOri folding degree results in greater deflection. Additionally, the deflection and in-plane stress of the matrix-cracked FG-GOEAM plate are higher than those of the intact plate, while shear stress is lower, with these effects becoming more pronounced as crack density increases.
Multi-layer perceptron-particle swarm optimization: A lightweight optimization algorithm for the model predictive control local planner
Authors: Guan Xiaoqing , Hu Tao , Zhang Ziang , Wang Yixu , Liu Yifan , Wang You , Hao Jie , Li Guang
Published: December 2024

The model predictive control trajectory planner is a popular and effective robot local motion planner. However, it is challenging to satisfy real-time requirements and implement them on embedded platforms due to their high complexity of solving and reliance on optimization solvers. This letter reports a lightweight and efficient two-stage solving algorithm for the model predictive control planner. Firstly, the general form of the model predictive control local planning problem was specified and simplified by the motion primitives. Then, a two-stage solving method of multi-layer perceptron pre-solving and particle swarm optimization re-optimizing is developed after splitting the cost function into two pieces. An multi-layer perceptron neural network was designed and trained offline to learn the solution of the model predictive control local planner without considering obstacles after selecting the inputs and outputs. Next, to accomplish obstacle avoidance, the particle swarm optimization algorithm re-optimizes the trajectory based on the outputs of the neural network. The experiment results demonstrate that the multi-layer perceptron-particle swarm optimization algorithm can quickly and accurately solve local planning problems, guiding robots to complete global paths with the same efficiency as expert solvers. The average solving time has been reduced by over 90%, enabling the robot to increase its control frequency or adopt higher-quality complex motion primitives. The multi-layer perceptron-particle swarm optimization algorithm can also be used for various robots and motion primitives, with a wide range of potential applications.
Prevalence and determinants of intimate partner sexual violence among pregnant women in sub-Saharan Africa: Evidence from the most recent DHS data 2015–2022
Authors: Tekeba Berhan , Tamir Tadesse Tarik , Zeleke Gebreeysus Abera , Zegeye Alebachew Ferede
Published: December 2024

Introduction:

Intimate partner sexual violence (IPSV) is sexual violence against women by a current or former sexual partner. Sexual violence among pregnant women is higher in low-income countries, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), which has numerous negative impacts for both the mother and the growing fetus. There is no recent and distinct information on the magnitude and factors associated with IPSV among pregnant women in SSA.

Objective:

This study aimed to assess the prevalence of IPSV and its determinants among pregnant women in SSA.

Design:

A cross-sectional study design using demographic health survey data from 2015 to 2022 in 20 sub-Saharan African countries was used.

Methods:

The analysis was conducted using a weighted sample of 10,775 women who were pregnant during the survey period (2015–2022). A multilevel logistic regression model was used to identify the determinants of IPSV among pregnant women. The adjusted odds ratio at 95% confidence interval (95% CI) was computed to assess the strength and significance of the association between explanatory and outcome variables. Factors with a p-value of <0.05 are declared statistically significant.

Result:

In this study, the pooled prevalence of IPSV among pregnant women in SSA was 11.06% (95% CI: 10.48–11.67). Respondents currently working, male-headed households, presence of justified beating, respondent mother’s history of abuse, respondent having no media access, respondent having self-reported sexually transmitted diseases (STIs), partner alcohol use, and residing in East Africa had increased odds of IPSV during pregnancy. On the other hand, nulliparous respondents, respondents involved in healthcare decision-making, households with a high wealth index, and residents of West Africa had decreased odds of IPSV among pregnant women.

Conclusion:

This study revealed that a significant proportion (11%) of pregnant women experienced intimate partner sexual violence during pregnancy in SSA. Hence, the government, policymakers, and other relevant authorities should give special attention to women’s at-risk of sexual violence, including women who live in households with justified beatings, women with STIs, working women’s, women with drunken partners, and non-autonomous women’s. Prioritization of the east African region, increasing media access, and promoting a healthy lifestyle in the community shall be done to reduce the burden of the problem.
Assessment of the Monocyte Subpopulations and M1/M2 Macrophage Ratio in Concentrated Bone Marrow Aspirate
Authors: Butler James J. , Dankert John F. , Keller Laura E. , Azam Mohammad T. , Dahmen Jari , Kerkhoffs Gino M. M. J. , Kennedy John G.
Published: December 2024

Objective

The purpose of this study was to determine the M1/M2 macrophage ratio in concentrated bone marrow aspirate (cBMA) in patients undergoing surgical intervention augmented with cBMA for osteochondral lesions of the talus (OLTs).

Design

Samples of peripheral blood (PB), bone marrow aspirate (BMA), and cBMA were collected during the procedure. The samples were analyzed by automated cell counting and multicolor fluorescence-activated cell sorting with specific antibodies recognizing monocytes (CD14+ CD16+) and the M1 (CD86+) and M2 (CD163+CD206+) populations within that monocyte population. Cytokine concentrations within the samples were evaluated with enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The composition of cBMA was compared between 2 commercially available BMA concentration systems.

Results

Thirty-eight patients with a mean age of 43.2 ± 10.1 years old undergoing a surgical procedure for the treatment of OLTs involving the use of cBMA were included. cBMA had a mean fold increase of 4.7 for all white blood cells, 6.1 for monocytes, 7.9 for lymphocytes, 2.4 for neutrophils, and 9.6 for platelets when compared to BMA. The mean M1/M2 ratio for PB, BMA, and cBMA was 15.2 ± 12.0, 20.8 ± 13.3, and 22.1 ± 16.0, respectively. There was a statistically significant higher concentration of interleukin-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1Ra) in the cBMA sample (8243.3 ± 14,837.4 pg/mL) compared to both BMA (3143.0 ± 2218.5 pg/mL) and PB (1847.5 ± 1520.4 pg/mL) samples. The IL-1Ra/IL-1β ratio for PB, BMA, and cBMA was 790.6 ± 581.9, 764.7 ± 675.2, and 235.7 ± 192.1, respectively. There was no difference in the cBMA M1/M2 ratio (19.0 ± 11.1 vs 24.0 ± 18.3) between the Magellan (Isto Biologics, Hopkinton, Massachusetts) and Angel systems (Arthrex Inc, Naples, Florida).

Conclusion

This prospective study found that the M1/M2 ratio in cBMA was 22.1 ± 16.0, with significant patient to patient variation observed. Overall, there was no statistically significant difference in the M1/M2 ratio across PB, BMA, and cBMA samples. This is the first study to characterize the macrophage subpopulation within cBMA, which may have significant clinical implications in future studies.
Postpanniculectomy Improvement in Low Back Pain: A Case Report
Authors: Marquette Lauren , Skylsen Marc
Published: December 2024

While panniculectomy is traditionally considered a cosmetic surgery, there is growing interest in the potential role of panniculectomy for the treatment of low back pain. We present a case of a 69-year-old man with a history of over 10 years of significant low back pain with radiculopathy rated as 7 out of 10 and resistant to conservative measures as well as multiple spinal decompression surgeries. He had undergone bariatric surgery 14 years prior and maintained a stable body mass index. He presented with a large pannus desiring panniculectomy for aesthetic purposes. He underwent an uncomplicated panniculectomy. As an unintended benefit of his procedure on his 1-month post-op visit, he reported near resolution of his low back pain and radiculopathy. His reported pain had been reduced to 1–2 out of 10. More research needs to be done to assess the potential of panniculectomy as a treatment for low back pain in patients with massive weight loss.
HIV Knowledge and Sexual Behaviors in Perinatally Infected Ugandan Youth: A Cross-Sectional Survey
Authors: Becker Greta , Namanya Paul , Kiganda Charles , Nabukenya Josephine , Wendt Linder , Rukundo Gordon , Yoyeta Irene , Motevalli Mahnaz , Mooberry Megan , Voss Natalie , Jackson J. Brooks , Etima Juliane
Published: December 2024

Our objective was to assess human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) knowledge and sexual behaviors in 294 perinatally HIV-infected youth aged 18 to 25 years from a psychosocial support group in Kampala using a self-administered survey. Seventy-nine percent reported an undetectable viral load, 9.5% detectable, and 12% did not know. Of those with sexual partners, 19% did not know the HIV status of their partner, 64% knew negative, and 22% knew positive. Sixty-two percent disclosed their HIV status to their partner. Seventy-two percent of participants previously had sex, and of those, 57% were sexually active in the last three months. Sixty-eight percent of participants used methods to prevent pregnancy. Seventy percent of participants denied physical, sexual, or emotional intimate partner violence. There was good adherence to antiretroviral therapy and a high proportion of contraceptive use, highlighting the importance of integrating these topics into psychosocial support programs for youth living with HIV.
A Survey on Hearing Health of Musicians in Professional and Amateur Orchestras
Authors: Hake Robin , Kreutz Gunter , Frischen Ulrike , Schlender Merle , Rois-Merz Esther , Meis Markus , Wagener Kirsten C. , Siedenburg Kai
Published: December 2024

Hearing health, a cornerstone for musical performance and appreciation, often stands at odds with the unique acoustical challenges that musicians face. Utilizing a cross-sectional design, this survey-based study presents an in-depth examination of self-rated hearing health and its contributing factors in 370 professional and 401 amateur musicians recruited from German-speaking orchestras. To probe the nuanced differences between these groups, a balanced subsample of 200 professionals and 200 amateurs was curated, matched based on age, gender, and instrument family. The findings revealed that two-thirds of respondents reported hearing-related issues, prevalent in both professional and amateur musicians and affecting music-related activities as well as social interactions. The comparative analysis indicates that professionals experienced nearly four times more lifetime music noise exposure compared to amateurs and faced more hearing challenges in social contexts, but not in musical settings. Professionals exhibited greater awareness about hearing health and were more proactive in using hearing protection devices compared to their amateur counterparts. Notably, only 9% of professional musicians’ playing hours and a mere 1% of amateurs’ playing hours were fully protected. However, with respect to their attitudes toward hearing aids, professional musicians exhibited a noticeable aversion. In general, an increase in music-related problems (alongside hearing difficulties in daily life) was associated with a decrease in mental health-related quality of life. This research highlights the importance of proactive hearing health measures among both professional and amateur musicians and underscores the need for targeted interventions that address musicians’ specific hearing health challenges and stigmatization concerns about hearing aids.
Patient Engagement in a Hybrid Care Pathway for Hypertension: Not One Size Fits All
Authors: van Steenkiste Job , Verberk-Jonkers Iris , de Koning Stéphanie , Voss-de Haan Joyce , de Jong-Verhagen Bianca , Dohmen Daan
Published: December 2024

We evaluated current experiences and future needs for the long-term engagement of patients in a hypertension hybrid care pathway (Maasstad Hospital, NL). Patients >18 y/o with ≥3 months care pathway participation were recruited by telephone and divided into three age/focus groups with distinct digital skills and attitudes toward lifestyle interventions (group 1:18-40 y/o, group 2:40-65 y/o, group 3:>65 y/o). We used deductive thematic content analysis to cluster the results to the different digital elements (remote monitoring, communication, digital lifestyle intervention) of the care pathway. Fifteen patients were interviewed in March 2023 (Group 1;2;3, 3;6;6 participants). The care pathway improved disease insight, engagement, and shared decision capabilities in all groups. For further improved adherence and engagement, all patients indicated the need to incorporate a more personalized approach and interaction with their healthcare provider. In addition, the oldest group preferred simplification of the telemonitoring application, while the other groups preferred enrichment with more complex information. To ensure optimal engagement, digital elements in hybrid care pathways should be personalized and tailored to individual as well as to age-specific needs.
Centering Veg*ns of Color: An Intersectional Imperative to Anti-Veg*n Stigma
Authors: Mercier Caitlin M.
Published: December 2024

Veg*ns of color continue to be underrepresented with their health less understood in veg*n scholarship. As intersectionality and health outcomes remain an understudied focus in anti-veg*n scholarship, the concealable stigmatized identity (CSI) framework offers a way to identify the link between stigmatization and health outcomes for VOC. Using the CSI framework, the paper provides a review of multilevel manifestations of anti-veg*n stigmatization in previous and current veg*n scholarship. The paper offers future directions for researchers to examine stigmatization and its impact on VOC. Recommendations are provided to generate knowledge about the experiences and health of VOC.
The Neuronal Hypofunction of Subdivisions of the Prefrontal Cortex Shows Differential Effects on Contingency Judgment Learning to Gauge Fear Responses
Authors: Bailey Tyler W , Speigel John H , Mayer Johannes , Korzus Edward
Published: December 2024

Previous studies have indicated that the infralimbic (IL) and prelimbic (PL) subdivisions of the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) serve as critical modulators of fear suppression and expression. Although significant research has been conducted on the extinction of conditioned fear, the mechanisms underlying contextual fear discrimination learning, a form of contingency judgment learning, remain inadequately understood. Our investigation aimed to explore the influence of epigenetic regulation associated with cyclic AMP-response element binding protein (CREB)-dependent long-term memory encoding within the IL and PL on contextual fear discrimination. Our prior and current findings illustrate that epigenetic hypofunction induced by a CREB-Binding Protein (CBP) mutant, which is deficient in histone acetyltransferase activity (CBPΔHAT), within the mPFC leads to compromised contextual fear discrimination while not affecting contextual fear conditioning in these mutants. Unexpectedly, the effect was not noticeable when the hypofunction was constrained to the infralimbic (IL) area; however, the hypofunction of the prelimbic (PL) network led to considerable impairment in fear discrimination. The findings indicate that learning fear discrimination involves differential encoding across the specialized networks of the mPFC. These data suggest that the IL network is not essential for encoding during the acquisition and discrimination of fear or that the PL network may compensate for the IL’s inability to encode new information. Furthermore, these results emphasize the importance of histone acetylation in the mPFC as a crucial physiological mechanism for learning contingency judgment.
Bronchiectasis-COPD Overlap Syndrome: A Comprehensive Review of its Pathophysiology and Potential Cardiovascular Implications
Authors: Alam Mohammad Ajaz , Mangapuram Padmavathi , Fredrick Fremita Chelsea , Singh Bhupinder , Singla Amishi , Kumar Avi , Jain Rohit
Published: December 2024

Bronchiectasis-Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Overlap Syndrome (BCOS) is a complex pulmonary condition that merges bronchiectasis and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), presenting unique clinical challenges. Patients with BCOS typically exhibit a range of symptoms from both conditions, including a chronic productive cough, reduced lung function, frequent exacerbations, and diminished exercise tolerance. The etiology of BCOS involves multiple factors such as genetic predisposition, respiratory infections, tobacco smoke, air pollutants, and other inflammatory mediators. Accurate diagnosis requires a comprehensive approach, incorporating pulmonary function tests to evaluate airflow limitation, radiographic imaging to identify structural lung abnormalities, and blood eosinophil counts to detect underlying inflammation. Treatment strategies are tailored to individual symptom profiles and severity, potentially including bronchodilators, inhaled corticosteroids, and pulmonary therapy to improve lung function and quality of life. Patients with BCOS are also at an increased risk for cardiovascular complications, such as stroke, ischemic heart disease, and cor pulmonale. Additionally, medications like beta-agonists and muscarinic antagonists used in COPD treatment can further affect cardiac risk by altering heart rate. This paper aims to provide a thorough understanding of BCOS, addressing its development, diagnosis, treatment, and associated cardiovascular complications, to aid healthcare providers in managing this multifaceted condition and improving patient outcomes.
Cryoablation-induced neutrophil Ca2+ elevation and NET formation exacerbate immune escape in colorectal cancer liver metastasis
Authors: Tan Hongtong , Jiang Yiquan , Shen Lujun , Nuerhashi Gulijiayina , Wen Chunyong , Gu Ling , Wang Yujia , Qi Han , Cao Fei , Huang Tao , Liu Ying , Xie Weining , Deng Wuguo , Fan Weijun
Published: December 2024

Background

Liver metastasis poses a significant barrier to effective immunotherapy in patients with colorectal cancer. Cryoablation has emerged as a vital supplementary therapeutic approach for these patients. However, its impact on the tumor microenvironment following the ablation of liver metastases remains unclear.

Methods

We acquired multi-omics time-series data at 1 day, 5 days, and 14 days post-cryoablation, based on tumor and peripheral blood samples from clinical patients, cell co-culture models, and a liver metastases mouse model built on the MC38 cell line in C57BL/6 J mice. This dataset included single-cell transcriptomic sequencing, bulk tissue transcriptomic sequencing, 4D-Label-Free proteomics, flow cytometry data, western blot data, and histological immunofluorescence staining of pathological specimens.

Results

We found that a neutrophil-related inflammatory state persisted for at least 14 days post-cryoablation. During this period, neutrophils underwent phenotypic changes, shifting from the N1 to the N2 type. Cryoablation also caused a significant increase in intracellular Ca2+ concentration in neutrophils, which triggered the formation of PAD4-dependent neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs), further promoting immune evasion. Moreover, animal studies demonstrated that depleting or inhibiting the CXCL2-CXCR2 signaling axis within neutrophils, or degrading NETs, could effectively restore the host’s anti-tumor immune response.

Conclusions

These findings underscore the critical role of neutrophils and their NETs in immune escape following cryoablation. Targeting the CXCL2-CXCR2-Ca2+-PAD4 axis could enhance the therapeutic response to PD-1 antibodies, providing a potential strategy to improve treatment outcomes for colorectal cancer with liver metastases.

Graphical Abstract
Greenhouse gas and volatile organic compound emissions of additive-treated whole-plant maize silage: part B—aerobic storage period and carbon footprint of silage additive use
Authors: Deeken Hauke Ferdinand , Maack Gerd-Christian , Trimborn Manfred , Büscher Wolfgang
Published: December 2024

Background

Silage emits climate- and environment-relevant gases during anaerobic fermentation and aerobic feed-out periods. This trial should determine the unknown CO2, methane, nitrous oxide, ethanol and ethyl acetate emissions of constant maize silage over both periods. The results will be published in two consecutive articles (Part A: anaerobic fermentation period; Part B: aerobic storage period).

Methods

Three silage treatments were observed (n = 4): The untreated control (CON) was compared to the chemical additive treatment (CHE; 0.5 g sodium benzoate and 0.3 g potassium sorbate per kg fresh matter) and the biological additive treatment (BIO; 1 × 108 colony-forming units Lentilactobacillus buchneri and 1 × 107 colony-forming units Lactiplantibacillus plantarum per kg fresh matter). During the two aerobic emission measurement periods (AEMP), the silos were ventilated mechanically to supply 2–6 (L air) min–1 to the two faces of the material (150.6 kg dry matter m–3). AEMP1 (duration 14 days) began on ensiling day 30, AEMP2 (19 days) on day 135.

Results

In AEMP1, aerobic stability differed among the treatments (p < 0.05): 5.17 ± 0.75 days for CON, 6.33 ± 0.15 days for BIO, and 7.33 ± 0.57 days for CHE. In AEMP2, only CON showed a temperature increase of 2 K above ambient temperature after 7.75 ± 0.31 days. BIO and CHE indicated higher ethanol and ethyl acetate emission rates during the first period of the heating process. Furthermore, 20.0%–70.4% of ethanol and 169.0%–953.6% of ethyl acetate quantities present in the material at the silo opening emitted as gases.

Conclusion

Methane and nitrous oxide emissions during anaerobic fermentation exceeded the quantities during aerobic storage in all treatments. However, compared with those of crop production, the total climate-relevant CO2eq emissions are small. Microbial respiration during heating leads to climate-neutral CO2 emissions and dry matter losses. Minimising these losses is promising for mitigating climate-relevant emissions directly during silage storage and indirectly during crop production since less forage input is needed. Thus, silage additives can help improve the silage carbon footprint by improving aerobic stability and silage deterioration.

Graphical Abstract
Morphometrics of human skulls and mandibles obtained from Southwestern Nigeria: implications in clinical manoeuvres
Authors: Femi-Akinlosotu Omowumi Moromoke , Igado Olumayowa Olawumi , Adeniji Kehinde Oluwaseyi
Published: December 2024

Background

Craniometric data can be useful in the estimation of sex, age, stature, and ethnicity. Despite Nigeria’s diverse and multifaceted demography, there is a dearth of information on detailed morphometry of specific features of the Nigerian cranium. This study sought to provide detailed descriptions of various dimensions on the Nigerian mandibular bone, nose, foramen magnum, and orbit for use in clinico-anatomical studies, dentistry, anthropology, and forensic medicine. Using 33 skulls and 17 mandibles, without gender bias, obtained from the departmental museum, 17 parameters were measured linearly on each mandible and thirty-six parameters on each skull using a digital Vernier calliper. Mean and standard deviation of data sets generated were analysed using t-test at p < 0.05.

Results

The distance between the cranial and caudal angles of the mandible was 3.48 ± 0.21 mm. The distance from the rostral point of the dental bone to the condylar, coronoid, and angular processes was 4.86 ± 0.25 mm, 2.64 ± 0.52 mm, and 3.72 ± 0.30 mm, respectively. The distance between the most medial points of the most rostral left & right mental foramina in the skulls was 4.51 ± 0.17 mm. The distance between the most medial points of the most rostral left & right mental foramina in the skulls was 4.51 ± 0.17 mm. Most orbit skull types were megaseme in nearly 61%, and orbital asymmetry was also observed. However, the right orbit (26.07 ± 2.106) was significantly higher (p < 0.0001) than left orbit (24.80 ± 1.850). The most common shape of the foramen magnum was the oval-like foramen (78%). The common nose types were platyrrhine in 50% and mesorrhine in 26%.

Conclusion

Insights from this study might provide practical reference information for mandibular and orbital reconstructive surgeries in clinical settings, skull classification in forensic science, and research purposes.
Association between three common genetic polymorphisms of xeroderma pigmentosum complementation group C (XPC) and susceptibility to opium dependency
Authors: Qasemian-Talgard Arghavan , Saadat Mostafa
Published: December 2024

Aim

To investigated the relationship between three common polymorphisms (rs2228000, rs2228001, and PAT) in xeroderma pigmentosum complementation group C (XPC) gene and susceptibility to opium dependence (OD).

Methods

A total of 143 (131 male, 12 female) opium dependent patients and 570 (515 male, 55 female) controls were comprised in this study. The controls and cases were sex and age-matched. The genotypes of the polymorphisms were determined by polymerase chain reaction using primers specific for each polymorphism. Statistical comparisons were performed with SPSS software (version 26) using odds ratios (OR), and their 95% confidence intervals (95% CI). Haplotype analysis was also performed using SNPAlyze(TM) version 6 software.

Results

There was no association between rs2228000 and the risk of OD in the statistical analyses. The risk of OD was associated with the other two variants. The pooled ID and DD genotypes of the PAT polymorphism significantly decreased the risk of OD (OR = 0.66, 95% CI: 0.44–0.98, p = 0.042). For the rs2228001 polymorphism, AC + AA was negatively correlated with the risk of OD (OR = 0.65, 95% CI: 0.44–0.97, p = 0.038).

Conclusion

The present findings propose that probably XPC is an appropriate candidate gene for susceptibility to opiate dependence.
Effects of steel fibers and carbon nanotubes on the flexural behavior of hybrid GFRP/steel reinforced concrete beams
Authors: Salman Amany , Hassan Ahmed , Ahmed H. I.
Published: December 2024

Background

Glass fiber-reinforced polymer (GFRP) bars offer a superior alternative to steel bars in concrete reinforcement but are associated with wider cracks and higher deformation rates. This study introduces a novel approach by combining steel fibers (SFs) and carbon nanotubes (CNTs) to address these drawbacks and enhance the performance of GFRP-reinforced concrete beams. The unique contribution of this study lies in the simultaneous use of SFs and CNTs, which has not been extensively investigated, particularly in the context of GFRP-reinforced concrete. The study involved testing three sets of nine specimens with different concrete mixtures and reinforcement forms.

Results

The results showed that adding 0.04% CNTs by cement weight and 0.6% SFs by volume fraction significantly improved the mechanical performance of GFRP and steel reinforced beams. GFRP reinforced beams with CNTs and SFs exhibited a reduction in crack width, a 20% increase in load-carrying capacity, and a 25% reduction in deflection compared to reference specimens. Scanning electron microscope analysis further revealed that CNTs effectively enhanced tensile load transfer, improving flexural behavior of the beams. The finite element analysis using ANSYS confirmed the experimental findings, highlighting the improved stress distribution in the modified concrete mixtures.

Conclusions

Incorporating SFs and CNTs in concrete significantly improves the mechanical performance of GFRP-reinforced beams, making them more durable and resilient. These findings suggest that the proposed approach can enhance the longevity and sustainability of concrete structures, particularly in dynamic load applications such as bridges and high-rise buildings. Further experimental and analytical studies are recommended to assess the practical implications and cost-effectiveness of these materials in large-scale construction projects.
Larotrectinib for Newly Diagnosed Infantile Fibrosarcoma and Other Pediatric
NTRK
Fusion–Positive Solid Tumors (Children's Oncology Group ADVL1823)
Authors: Laetsch Theodore W. , Voss Stephan , Ludwig Kathleen , Hall David , Barkauskas Donald A. , DuBois Steven G. , Ronan Joan , Rudzinski Erin R. , Memken Amanda , Robinson Krystal , Sorger Joel , Reid Joel M. , Bhatla Teena , Crompton Brian D. , Church Alanna J. , Fox Elizabeth , Weigel Brenda J.
Published: December 2024

PURPOSE

The TRK inhibitor larotrectinib is US Food and Drug Administration approved for
NTRK
fusion–positive solid tumors that lack a satisfactory alternative or have progressed after treatment but has not been systematically studied as a frontline therapy with a defined duration of treatment. ADVL1823 evaluated larotrectinib in patients with newly diagnosed
NTRK
fusion–positive solid tumors with response-adapted duration of therapy and local control.

METHODS

Patients received larotrectinib twice daily in 28-day cycles for a predefined duration of treatment, ranging from 6 to 26 cycles depending on response to therapy and surgical resectability. The primary end point was the objective response rate (ORR) within six cycles in patients with infantile fibrosarcoma (IFS); patients with other histologic diagnoses were analyzed in a separate cohort. Secondary objectives included event-free survival (EFS) and overall survival (OS).

RESULTS

Thirty-three patients were enrolled: 18 with IFS and 15 with other solid tumors. The ORR within six cycles was 94% (17/18; 95% adjusted CI, 72.7 to 98.6) among children with IFS and 60% (9/15; 95% CI, 32.3 to 83.7) among children with other solid tumors. Six percent (2/33; 95% CI, 0.7 to 22.2) patients developed progressive disease while on therapy. Two-year EFS and OS among these groups were 82.2% (95% CI, 54.3 to 93.9) and 93.8% (95% CI, 63.2 to 99.1) for IFS and 80% (95% CI, 50.0 to 93.1) and 93.3% (95% CI, 61.3 to 99.0) for other solid tumors, respectively. Patients undergoing surgical resection of their tumor had prolonged EFS, with only 1 of 16 such patients experiencing disease progression. Four of 33 patients had dose-limiting toxicities.

CONCLUSION

Larotrectinib is highly active in patients with newly diagnosed
NTRK
fusion–positive solid tumors. Larotrectinib should be a frontline option for patients with IFS and other
NTRK
fusion–positive solid tumors. Local control with surgical resection remains important in the treatment of patients with IFS.
Evaluating the Economic Impact of Novel Oncology Drug Coverage Through Patient Assistance Programs
Authors: Samuel Vanessa Mara , Chan Megan , Huang Mina , Cheng Brooke , Huang Longlong , Sun Shaun Zheng , Jensen Chris , Dellamattia Shelley , Darbyshire Megan , Ko Jenny
Published: December 2024

PURPOSE

Despite a universal public health care system, Canadian oncology patients often enroll in patient assistance programs (PAPs) to access oncology drugs that are awaiting funding decisions. Our multicenter study evaluated the pharmacoeconomic and clinical impact of PAPs for patients with cancer in British Columbia (BC).

METHODS

Eligible patients were diagnosed with cancer and enrolled in a PAP between January 2016 and December 2019 in three BC centers. Charts were reviewed for treatment details and survival data. For each drug indication, the hazard ratio from clinical trial data was multiplied by the median overall survival (mOS) or median progression-free survival (mPFS) of our cohort to estimate the mOS or mPFS if the drug was not received. Person life-years gained (PLYG) was the difference between the actual mOS or mPFS and the estimated mOS or mPFS if the drug was not received. Incremental cost-effectiveness ratios and drug costs were obtained from the Canadian Agency for Drugs and Technologies in Health. A total economic value of quality-adjusted life year (QALY) gained for each cohort was calculated and compared with the cost of drugs associated with the gain.

RESULTS

Our cohort consisted of 1,025 patients who accessed 40 oncology drugs via PAP. The median time from Health Canada approval to provincial funding was 2.04 years. In the first PAP exposure group (N = 1,025), median PLYG was 0.38 years for OS and 0.80 years for PFS. The total estimated economic value of QALY gained was $83,068,819.32, with total drug costs of $97,026.661.44.

CONCLUSION

PAPs were involved in covering up to $100 million in costs to bridge gaps between regulatory approval and public funding. Economic value and PLYG gained from PAPs are substantial.
Initiation of a Pediatric Movement Clinic in an Urban Setting
Authors: Burton Monique S.
Published: December 2024

Physical activity is an essential component to overall health and wellness. Disparities and barriers to equitable access to physical activity exist and are more common in urban, under resourced and minority communities. Health care providers play an essential role in supporting patients to reach ideal physical activity goals. Movement Clinic was established to address these concerns and work toward optimal wellness for all patients.
Driving after Concussion: Symptom Clusters and Neurocognition Uniquely Relate to Post-Concussion Driving Performance
Authors: Hashida Kumiko , Drattell Julia , Devos Hannes , Gore Russell , Lynall Robert , Schmidt Julianne
Published: December 2024

Purpose

To identify clinical concussion assessment outcomes that uniquely capture simulated driving performance among acutely concussed individuals, relative to controls.

Methods

Cross-sectional design. Twenty-eight college students within 72-hours of concussion and 46 non-concussed controls participated in the study. We collected the following clinical concussion assessment outcomes: 4 concussion symptom clusters, 7 computerized neurocognitive domain scores, Standardized Assessment of Concussion (SAC) total score, Balance Error Scoring System total score, and tandem gait completion time. The following simulated driving outcomes were included (count): total collisions, speed exceedances, centerline crossings, and road edge excursions. We used separate generalized linear mixed regression models fit using a Poisson distribution with group, assessment, and interaction effects.

Results

Higher migrainous symptoms (p < 0.001), cognitive-fatigue symptoms (p = 0.041), poorer visual memory (p = 0.015), and slower reaction time (p = 0.023) in concussion group were associated with higher risk of committing speed exceedances, relative to controls. Conversely, better performance on the continuous performance test (p = 0.046) and SAC (p = 0.045) in concussion group were associated with higher risk of committing speed exceedances relative to controls. Poorer performance on psychomotor speed (p = 0.001), reaction time (p = 0.031), cognitive flexibility (p = 0.004), and executive function (p = 0.003) were associated with higher risk of committing centerline crossings in concussion group, relative to controls. Conversely, better performance on the continuous performance test (p = 0.035) and higher affective symptoms (p = 0.013) were associated with higher risk of committing centerline crossings and road edge excursions, respectively. relative to controls.

Conclusions

Our results highlight key symptom clusters and computerized neurocognitive outcomes that uniquely inform poorer simulated driving performance in acutely concussed individuals. Symptom clusters and computerized neurocognitive function might be helpful when discussing with patients about return to driving decisions post-concussion.