bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
What do molecular data and vibrational communication tell us about the taxonomy of the genus Tyrrhenoleuctra Consiglio, 1957 (Plecoptera: Leuctridae) in Spain?
Authors: LUZÓN-ORTEGA JULIO MIGUEL , VANNUCCHI PATRIZIA ELENA , RODRÍGUEZ MANUEL JESÚS LÓPEZ- , FOCHETTI ROMOLO , FIGUEROA JOSÉ MANUEL TIERNO DE
Published: July 2023

In this paper we present the results of a study of different populations of the genus Tyrrhenoleuctra, which includes morphologically cryptic species, in the Iberian Peninsula. A total of six populations were analysed from a molecular point of view and a behavioural study was conducted on three of them. Two phylogenetic trees, maximum likelihood (ML) and neighbour joining (NJ), were constructed using both new COI sequences and COI sequences already available in GenBank. Furthermore, intra- and interspecific p-distances were calculated within and between sequences of the different populations. As regards behavioural analyses, the male call of individuals from three of the studied populations was recorded, analysed and described. Both phylogenetic approaches used, ML and NJ, were congruent in discriminating five well-defined clusters, representing the four known Iberian Tyrrhenoleuctra species and a previously unknown taxon. The sequences from the six studied populations produced in this study fell within two clades: T. lusohispanica (four populations) and the new taxon (two populations). These results were supported also by the behavioral study, in which the drumming calls of individuals belonging to the two clades differed in some important parameters such as the number of sequences, intersequence interval and interbeat interval. The obtained results expand the previously known distribution of T. lusohispanica and show the existence of a new species (Tyrrhenoleuctra hynesi sp. n.) within this genus from a more restricted area, that will be described in this paper.
do Czech Women Need ‘Gender’?: A Conceptual History of ‘Gender’ in Czechia
Authors: Wilson-McDonald Alexandria
Published: July 2023

In recent years, there has been a growing anti-feminist, conservative movement across many parts of the world known as the anti-gender movement. This movement has been especially strong in Central Eastern Europe, where anti-gender actors have framed ‘gender’ as a static, foreign concept imported from ‘the West’ and destructive to ‘traditional’ societies. Utilising a postcolonial feminist approach, I examine the concept of ‘gender’ in Czechia, drawing attention to the role played by Czech academics, activists and policymakers in negotiating the use of the term ‘gender’. This article traces the history of the term from the 1990s when ‘gender’ was first introduced to a Czech academic audience, through public seminars and lectures hosted by the Prague Gender Studies Centre, to the present-day inclusion of gender mainstreaming discourse in Czech policy documents. I reveal that ‘gender’ is not a timeless, clearly defined, fixed term wholly imported from ‘the West’ but rather a concept with a variable and complicated history. Thus, this crucial term, first developed in Anglo-academia, is not uncontested or uncritically accepted, contrary to the claims made by anti-gender actors. The findings presented in this article hold implications critical to transnational feminist dialogue and activism during the current period of growing global anti-feminist sentiment.
The Grammar of Belonging: Bodies, Borders and Kin in the Belarusian—Polish Border Crisis
Authors: Cielemęcka Olga
Published: July 2023

This article aims to be what Jasbir Puar referred to as ‘an unfolding archive’. It makes a critical intervention at a historical crisis point as it is unfolding. It sets out to examine the logic that writes the relations between bodies, borders and kin during the political crisis that transpired at the border of Belarus and Poland in 2021. I think of this logic in terms of a ‘grammar’, drawing on the idea articulated by Hortense J. Spillers, where ‘American grammar’ fleshes out the connection between slavery, kinship, nation-building and the processes of gendering. I examine the rubrics of the hegemonic national grammatics in contemporary Poland, which establishes who counts as kin and who belongs to the nation in the context of the border crisis. I offer the concept of ‘declining’ kinship to seek generative (im)possibilities to articulate affinities and solidarities running against the dominant system of reproductive nationalism.
State feedback controller design of fractional ordinary differential equations coupled with a fractional reaction–advection–diffusion equation with delay
Authors: Hou Mimi , Xi Xuan-Xuan , Zhou Xian-Feng
Published: July 2023

The boundary control problem of fractional ordinary differential equations coupled with a time fractional reaction–advection–diffusion equation with delay is studied in this paper. To ensure the asymptotic stability of the system we studied, a state feedback boundary controller is proposed. By backstepping method, we transform the fractional coupled system into a chosen target system under a controller. Furthermore, we obtain the existence and uniqueness of the state solution of the considered system. A Lyapunov functional is constructed to show the asymptotic stability of the fractional coupled system by the special fractional Halanay inequality. The asymptotic stability criterion of the fractional coupled system is described by Linear Matrix Inequalities (LIMs). Which can be easily solved and verified. Finally, the applicability of our theoretical results is showed by a numerical simulation.
Contributing to the sustainable development goals as normative and instrumental acts: The role of Buddhist religious logics in family SMEs
Authors: Vu Mai Chi , Discua Cruz Allan , Burton Nicholas
Published: July 2023

Prior studies suggest that religion matters in the adoption of corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives in SMEs. This study draws on an institutional logics perspective to illuminate a hitherto underexplored interplay of multiple logics that in combination influence family SMEs when pursuing CSR. Based on a qualitative study of family SMEs in Northern Vietnam, this article aims to deepen our understanding of how constellations of institutional logics entwine to influence their CSR initiatives, in particular where these initiatives include commitments to contributing towards the UN Sustainable Development Goals. We find that when a religious logic is present there is a shift away from the dominance of a family logic and a turn towards a community logic. Further, whereas non-religious family SMEs act instrumentally towards CSR initiatives, seeking benefits primarily for the family and the firm, a religious logic introduces a normative character to the market logic, whereby economic benefits are construed as resources to support local communities rather than the family. Implications for theory, practice and further research are offered.
Barriers Associated with the First/Last Mile Trip and Solutions to Bridge the Gap: A Scoping Literature Review
Authors: Alfaris Ruqaya Emad , Patel Deep , Jalayer Mohammad , Meenar Mahbubur
Published: July 2023

A first/last mile (FLM) trip is defined as the distance a person travels before boarding a transit stop (first mile) or after disembarking (last mile). FLM trips could encourage or discourage people from riding transit systems, affecting their access to major services such as healthcare, education, employment, and transportation. When considering underserved communities specifically, where people rely heavily on public transportation, challenges to completing the FLM trip often negatively impact quality of life. This paper provides a comprehensive review of previous research efforts discussing the FLM trip. It begins by identifying the outcomes of challenges in completing the FLM trip and the contributing factors to those challenges and subsequently summarizes the various solutions transportation agencies and decision-makers have implemented to address the first and last legs for transit users. The most common solutions include shared mobility services, circulating shuttles, and built environment improvements. This research serves as a valuable reference for transportation professionals to enrich their understanding of the FLM barriers and the potential solutions to bridge this FLM gap.
Street Vitality: What Predicts Pedestrian Flows and Stationary Activities on Predominantly Residential Chinese Streets, at the Mesoscale?
Authors: Istrate Aura-Luciana
Published: July 2023

The presence of pedestrians is definitory for street vitality. This study employs statistical and geospatial analyses to explore how built environment factors explain changes in “pedestrian flows” and “stationary activities” on fifteen street segments in Shanghai, at a mesoscale. Detailed indicators were collected through field surveys, behavioral mappings, and counting. Changes in “pedestrian flows” are distinguished from those in “stationary activities”. Synergies reinforcing the latter emerged between small commerce, residential entrance gates, and buildings aligned to the street. Road widths show negative correlations with stationary activities, contradicting China’s modern street planning practice. Corresponding recommendations for design and planning are provided.
Examining Sexual Misconduct Incidents Reported to Title IX Coordinators: What Predicts Reporting Outcomes?
Authors: Branscum Caralin Ciana , Richards Tara Nicole , Alison Behre Kelly
Published: July 2023

Although there has been much debate regarding the application of Title IX and the related reporting, investigation, and conduct processes at institutions of higher education (IHEs) in the United States, only limited prior research has examined incidents of sexual misconduct reported to Title IX offices. The existing studies rely on aggregate data, which restricts our understanding of the scope of case-level factors (e.g., complainant type, reporting source) and how case-level factors impact case outcomes. The present study uses three years (2017–2020) of case-level data for incidents of sexual misconduct ( n = 664) reported to the Title IX office at a single, large 4-year university in the Western United States to explore the scope of case-level factors and outcomes and potential changes in the rate of reporting over time. Results first show that most complainants were identified as undergraduate students, while most respondents were identified as unknown/anonymous; nearly half of the reports stemmed from responsible employees, while almost 85% came from a source other than the complainant. More than 90% of incidents were resolved through informal resolutions (e.g., providing resources to the complainant) rather than formal resolutions (i.e., the investigation and conduct process). A greater percentage of incidents reported by complainants compared to other reporter types were resolved through a formal resolution. Finally, the rate of reporting to Title IX increased significantly over the study period, but only by the Student Services office and “other” reporters. Recommendations for IHEs and future research are discussed.
Just One Shot? The Contextual Effects of Matched and Unmatched Intoxication on Perceptions of Consent in Ambiguous Alcohol-fueled Sexual Encounters
Authors: Laughlin Ellen , Pettitt Molly , Lamarche Veronica M. , James-Hawkins Laurie
Published: July 2023

The current research examined how contextual factors—the quantity of alcohol consumed by each partner, and whether this quantity matched—influenced how alcohol-fueled sexual encounters were perceived with regard to consent, coercion, sexual assault, and perceived responsibility of the focal partner for the outcome of the encounter. Across four studies ( Ntotal = 535), participants read vignettes in which one person described a sexual encounter they had following a night out drinking. These scenarios differed within studies as a function of quantified alcohol consumed (1 shot; 15 shots) and whether both people in the vignettes consumed the same amount of alcohol (matched; unmatched). They also differed between studies as a function of whether the couples described were mixed gender or same gender. Across all four studies, scenarios in which both people in the scenario consumed different quantities of alcohol (i.e., 15 vs. 1 shot) were seen as less consensual, more coercive, and more likely to be an assault compared to scenarios where consumption was matched, especially at lower levels of intoxication (i.e., 1 shot each vs. 15 shots each). However, focal partners were also seen as less responsible for the outcome of the interaction when levels of intoxication were unmatched compared to matched. This pattern replicated across scenarios depicting same-gender and mixed-gender couples. These findings suggest that people prioritize information regarding whether sexual partners are “matched” or “unmatched” in terms of their intoxication when evaluating whether ambiguous sexual encounters are consensual and perceived individual responsibility.
Wilcoxon rank-sum tests to detect one-sided mixture alternatives in group sequential clinical trials
Authors: Friel Dylan C , Jeske Daniel R
Published: July 2023

Traditional methods based on the assumption that the treatment distribution is a pure shift of the control distribution may not always hold. The possibility that an individual from the treatment group may not respond to the treatment motivates the use of a mixture distribution for the treatment group. This paper considers two test procedures based on the Wilcoxon rank-sum statistic for a group sequential design to detect the one-sided mixture alternative. Error spending functions are used for the allocation of error rates at each stage. The two tests are evaluated individually in determination of critical values and arm sizes and asymptotic multivariate normality is shown to hold for both. Upon comparison, the tests are presented to be asymptotically equivalent. Both test statistics maintain the Type I error rate even if [Formula: see text] is misspecified in the design alternative. A more general definition of the treatment effect is used with the mixture distribution. Method of moments estimators and constrained [Formula: see text]-means estimators for the treatment effect are evaluated.
Beta, Delta, and Omicron, Deadliest Among SARS-CoV-2 Variants: A Computational Repurposing Approach
Authors: Alam Mohammad Mamun , Hannan Sumaiya Binte , Saikat Tanvir Ahmed , Limon Md Belayet Hasan , Topu Md Raihan , Rana Md Jowel , Salauddin Asma , Bosu Sagar , Rahman Mohammed Ziaur
Published: July 2023

SARS-CoV-2 has been highly susceptible to mutations since its emergence in Wuhan, China, and its subsequent propagation due to containing an RNA as its genome. The emergence of variants with improved transmissibility still poses a grave threat to global health. The spike protein mutation is mainly responsible for higher transmissibility and risk severity. This study retrieved SARS-CoV-2 variants structural and nonstructural proteins (NSPs) sequences from several geographic locations, including Africa, Asia, Europe, Oceania, and North and South America. First, multiple sequence alignments with BioEdit and protein homology modeling were performed using the SWISS Model. Then the structure visualization and structural analysis were performed by superimposing against the Wuhan sequence by Pymol to retrieve the RMSD values. Sequence alignment revealed familiar, uncommon regional among variants and, interestingly, a few unique mutations in Beta, Delta, and Omicron. Structural analysis of such unique mutations revealed that they caused structural deviations in Beta, Delta, and Omicron spike proteins. In addition, these variants were more severe in terms of hospitalization, sickness, and higher mortality, which have a substantial relationship with the structural deviations because of those unique mutations. Such evidence provides insight into the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein vulnerability toward mutation and their structural and functional deviations, particularly in Beta, Delta, and Omicron, which might be the cause of their broader coverage. This knowledge can help us with regional vaccine strain selection, virus pathogenicity testing, diagnosis, and treatment with more specific vaccines.
Genotypically Confirmed Vancomycin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus With vanB Gene Among Clinical Isolates in Kathmandu
Authors: Nepal Niranjan , Mahara Prakriti , Subedi Shishir , Rijal Komal Raj , Ghimire Prakash , Banjara Megha Raj , Shrestha Upendra Thapa
Published: July 2023

Purpose:

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, a common bacterial pathogen causes various infections. The acquisition of various antimicrobial-resistant genes in S. aureus has led to the transformation of this bacterium into a superbug. Vancomycin resistance among MRSA isolates is an emerging threat in empirical therapy of various infections. The study was hence aimed to find out the susceptibility status of S. aureus isolates toward vancomycin and detect mecA, vanA, and vanB genes among the isolates.

Methods:

A total of 1245 clinical samples from the participants attending a tertiary care hospital in Kathmandu were processed. S. aureus isolated from the samples were subjected to antibiotic susceptibility patterns using the modified Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion method. Agar dilution method was used to determine the minimum inhibitory concentration of vancomycin. The antibiotic-resistant genes such as mecA, vanA, and vanB among S. aureus isolates were screened by a conventional polymerase chain reaction.

Results:

Of 1245 samples, 80 S. aureus were identified. Out of which, 47.5% (38/80) were phenotypically confirmed MRSA isolates. mecA gene was detected in 84.2% (32/38) of MRSA isolates. 10.5% (4/38) were confirmed as vancomycin-intermediate S. aureus (VISA) by MIC determination. None of the isolates was positive for the vanA gene; however, 2 isolates were found to possess the vanB gene. The 2 isolates have vancomycin MIC breakpoints of 4 to 8 μg/mL.

Conclusion:

There might be a spreading of vancomycin resistance among S. aureus, creating serious public health problems. Therefore, measures to limit vancomycin resistance should be considered in healthcare facilities as immediately as possible.
Risk of COVID-19 in people with multiple sclerosis who are seronegative following vaccination
Authors: Zaloum Safiya A , Wood Callum H , Tank Pooja , Upcott Matthew , Vickaryous Nicola , Anderson Valerie , Baker David , Chance Randy , Evangelou Nikos , George Katila , Giovannoni Gavin , Harding Katharine E , Hibbert Aimee , Ingram Gillian , Jolles Stephen , Kang Angray S , Loveless Samantha , Moat Stuart J , Richards Aidan , Robertson Neil P , Rios Francesca , Schmierer Klaus , Willis Mark , Dobson Ruth , Tallantyre Emma C
Published: July 2023

Background:

People with multiple sclerosis (pwMS) treated with certain disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) have attenuated IgG response following COVID-19 vaccination; however, the clinical consequences remain unclear.

Objective:

To report COVID-19 rates in pwMS according to vaccine serology.

Methods:

PwMS with available (1) serology 2–12 weeks following COVID-19 vaccine 2 and/or vaccine 3 and (2) clinical data on COVID-19 infection/hospitalisation were included. Logistic regression was performed to examine whether seroconversion following vaccination predicted risk of subsequent COVID-19 infection after adjusting for potential confounders. Rates of severe COVID-19 (requiring hospitalisation) were also calculated.

Results:

A total of 647 pwMS were included (mean age 48 years, 500 (77%) female, median Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) 3.5% and 524 (81%) exposed to DMT at the time of vaccine 1). Overall, 472 out of 588 (73%) were seropositive after vaccines 1 and 2 and 222 out of 305 (73%) after vaccine 3. Seronegative status after vaccine 2 was associated with significantly higher odds of subsequent COVID-19 infection (odds ratio (OR): 2.35, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.34–4.12, p = 0.0029), whereas seronegative status after vaccine 3 was not (OR: 1.05, 95% CI: 0.57–1.91). Five people (0.8%) experienced severe COVID-19, all of whom were seronegative after most recent vaccination.

Conclusion:

Attenuated humoral response to initial COVID-19 vaccination predicts increased risk of COVID-19 in pwMS, but overall low rates of severe COVID-19 were seen.
Disinformation and the Brussels bubble: EU correspondents’ concerns and competences in a digital age
Authors: Lecheler Sophie , Gattermann Katjana , Aaldering Loes
Published: July 2023

European Union (EU) political actors have been heavily affected by the so-called disinformation crisis, leading to intense worries about how EU citizens may be guaranteed access to trustworthy information in the years to come. While there is increasing research on how EU officials, platforms, and political parties react to the threat of disinformation, less attention has been paid to how another crucial group of actors in Brussels copes with this threat: EU correspondents. This paper presents one of the first empirical observations of EU correspondents’ perceptions of the disinformation crisis. We conducted a survey with Brussels-based correspondents ahead of a politicized 2019 European Parliament election campaign, and asked: What are (a) the concerns and (b) self-perceived competences these correspondents have in dealing with disinformation? Our study offers two main take-aways: First, we recommend further studying EU journalism as a complex organism whose concerns and competences are influenced by intra-European differences in press freedom and journalistic professionalisation. Second, disinformation studies in the EU context must no longer neglect the challenges professional journalism faces when aiming to stop false content.
Moving On: dancing in the gap
Authors: Narbed (with Exit Map) Sofie
Published: July 2023

This article reflects on an audio-movement project produced during the Covid-19 pandemic by London-based performance collective Exit Map. It explores how the physicality of somatic experience might be translated and expanded through the medium of sound, and what movement improvisation might offer as a practice for inhabiting uncertainty and meeting the unknown.
The State of Theorizing Human Resource Development (HRD) in Extended Context: A Review
Authors: Jabarkhail Sami
Published: July 2023

In this article, I examine and evaluate the human resource development (HRD) theorization presented by Wang and Doty (2022a) , as well as the reactions it received from Russ-Eft (2022) , Yoon (2022) , and Poell (2022) , and the response provided by Wang and Doty (2022b) . I observe that the principal criticism of the current HRD framework proposed by Wang and Doty revolves around the significance of culture within the host institution system (HIS). They argue that culture holds little to no importance in the HIS. However, upon examining the definition of HIS presented in this paper, it becomes apparent that the role of culture cannot be easily dismissed in any discussion pertaining to HIS, thereby calling for further theorizing and research. The suggestions put forth in this article have the potential to contribute to the advancement of the current theorization into a genuinely dynamic framework for the HRD discipline.
Isolating factors for the prediction of rebound after guided growth with tension band plating for the valgus deformity of the knee
Authors: Eberle Alexander , Stephan Anika , Tedeus Matthias P , Manner Hans M , Rüdiger Hannes A , Stadelmann Vincent A
Published: July 2023

Purpose:

The conditions leading to growth rebound after hemiepiphysiodesis are still poorly understood. This article analyzes the radiographical outcomes after guided growth with tension band plating, using plates in idiopathic genu valgum patients and attempts to generate a predictive model of growth rebound.

Methods:

Patients with idiopathic genu valgum deformity who received tension band plating were selected for evaluation. We only analyzed coronal plane deformities. Only patients with a long-standing X-ray before tension band plating surgery, a long-standing X-ray at tension band plating removal, and a long-standing X-ray at the latest follow-up after tension band plating removal were considered for this study. The change of mechanical axis deviation between the tension band plating removal and the last follow-up was evaluated for rebound, and ordinal logistic regression was performed to determine the relevant variables for predictive modeling rebound growth.

Results:

Overall, 100 patients (189 legs) were analyzed. The mean mechanical axis deviation at tension band plating removal was 8.4 mm in varus direction, and the mean mechanical axis deviation at the last follow-up was −3.4 mm (p ≤ 0.001). However, 111 legs (59%) showed rebound growth, 57 (30%) stayed stable, and 21 (11%) showed a continuous correction. Six significant factors significantly influencing rebound were isolated which are clinically relevant: sex, age, baseline mechanical axis deviation, mechanical lateral distal femoral angle, and mechanical medial proximal tibial angle, and mechanical axis deviation correction rate. Mechanical axis deviation correction rate had the highest odds ratios. The machine learning classification model for predicting rebound growth built from the study data showed a misclassification rate of 39%.

Conclusion:

There was a high rate of rebound growth in this cohort, especially for patients at a young age at implantation. The highest risk factors for rebound growth were male sex, and high correction rates, such as found during peak growth spurt. The proposed classification model needs more data to improve its predictive power before it can be used in clinics.

Level of evidence:

Level III.
Two cases of low back pain of unknown etiology diagnosed as multiple myeloma
Authors: Akao Keiji , Ishida Yusuke , Kamada Saki , Sekine Shusuke , Ohseto Kiyoshige
Published: July 2023

We report two cases of patients complaining of lumbar back pain of unknown etiology which were finally diagnosed as multiple myeloma. The first case was a woman in her 80s with a chief complaint of lumbar back pain. The second case was a male in his 70s. He also consulted our institution because his pain did not subside despite receiving increased doses of oral medication and nerve blocks from his previous doctor. Both patients presented with compression fractures on plain radiography, and additionally with cytopenia, hyperproteinemia, and hypoalbuminemia in blood tests. Further tests were conducted due to suspected multiple myeloma, revealing a punched-out legion in the skull and elevated levels of β2 microglobulin and Immunoglobulin G. Subsequently, both patients were transferred to the hematology department. In these two cases, we had predicted the presence of multiple myeloma from the results of initial testing and subsequently successfully provided definitive diagnoses following additional examinations.
Improving people's health by burning low-pollution coal to improve air quality for thermal power generation
Authors: Chen Tin-Chih Toly , Chang Teng Chieh , Wang Yu-Cheng
Published: July 2023

Eliminating the NOx emission after coal combustion is a critical task for thermal power plants to reduce threats to the human body, such as respiratory diseases, heart disease, lung disease and even lung cancer. To this end, various treatments have been taken to optimize, monitor and control the combustion process. However, optimizing the coal composition prior to combustion can further reduce possible NOx emissions. This topic was rarely discussed in the past. To fill this gap, this study proposes a fuzzy big data analytics approach. The proposed methodology combines recursive feature elimination, fuzzy c-means, XG Boost, support vector regression, random forests, decision trees and deep neural networks to predict post-combustion NOx emission based on coal composition and specification. Subsequently, additional treatments can be implemented to optimize boiler configuration and combustion conditions with pollution prevention equipment. In other words, the method proposed in this study is a kind of pretreatment. The proposed methodology has been applied to the real case of a thermal power plant in Taiwan. Experimental results showed that the prediction accuracy using the proposed methodology was significantly better than several existing methods. The forecasting error, measured in terms of root mean square error and mean absolute percentage error, was only 14.55 ppm and 8.9%, respectively.
Energy-Saving and Punctuality Combined Velocity Planning for the Autonomous-Rail Rapid Tram with Enhanced Pseudospectral Method
Authors: Wang Jinxiang , Han Dongming , Yan Yongjun , Liu Neng , Sun Ning , Yin Guodong
Published: July 2023

Autonomous-rail rapid transit (ART) is a new medium-capacity rapid transportation system with punctuality, comfort and convenience, but low-cost construction. Combined velocity planning is a critical approach to meet the requirements of energy-saving and punctuality. An ART velocity pre-planning and re-planning strategy based on the combination of punctuality dynamic programming (PDP) and pseudospectral (PS) method is proposed in this paper. Firstly, the longitudinal dynamics model of ART is established by a multi-particle model. Secondly, the PDP algorithm with global optimal characteristics is adopted as the pre-planning strategy. A model for determining the number of collocation points of the real-time PS method is proposed to improve the energy-saving effect while ensuring computation efficiency. Then the enhanced PS method is utilized to design the velocity re-planning strategy. Finally, simulations are conducted in the typical scenario with sloping roads, traffic lights, and intrusion of the pedestrian. The simulation results indicate that the ART with the proposed velocity trajectory optimization strategy can meet the punctuality requirement, and obtain better economy efficiency compared with the punctuality green light optimal speed advisory (PGLOSA).
Exploring Co-occurrence patterns and microbial diversity in the lung microbiome of patients with non-small cell lung cancer
Authors: Najafi Sadaf , Jamalkandi Sadegh Azimzadeh , Najafi Ali , Salimian Jafar , Ahmadi Ali
Published: July 2023

Background

It has been demonstrated in the literature that a dysbiotic microbiome could have a negative impact on the host immune system and promote disease onset or exacerbation. Co-occurrence networks have been widely adopted to identify biomarkers and keystone taxa in the pathogenesis of microbiome-related diseases. Despite the promising results that network-driven approaches have led to in various human diseases, there is a dearth of research pertaining to key taxa that contribute to the pathogenesis of lung cancer. Therefore, our primary goal in this study is to explore co-existing relationships among members of the lung microbial community and any potential gained or lost interactions in lung cancer.

Results

Using integrative and network-based approaches, we integrated four studies assessing the microbiome of lung biopsies of cancer patients. Differential abundance analyses showed that several bacterial taxa are different between tumor and tumor-adjacent normal tissues (FDR adjusted p-value < 0.05). Four, fifteen, and twelve significantly different associations were found at phylum, family, and genus levels. Diversity analyses suggested reduced alpha diversity in the tumor microbiome. However, beta diversity analysis did not show any discernible pattern between groups. In addition, four distinct modules of bacterial families were detected by the DBSCAN clustering method. Finally, in the co-occurrence network context, Actinobacteria, Firmicutes, Bacteroidetes, and Chloroflexi at the phylum level and Bifidobacterium, Massilia, Sphingobacterium, and Ochrobactrum at the genus level showed the highest degree of rewiring.

Conclusions

Despite the absence of statistically significant differences in the relative abundance of certain taxa between groups, it is imperative not to overlook them for further exploration. This is because they may hold pivotal central roles in the broader network of bacterial taxa (e.g., Bifidobacterium and Massilia). These findings emphasize the importance of a network analysis approach for studying the lung microbiome since it could facilitate identifying key microbial taxa in lung cancer pathogenesis. Relying exclusively on differentially abundant taxa may not be enough to fully grasp the complex interplay between lung cancer and the microbiome. Therefore, a network-based approach can offer deeper insights and a more comprehensive understanding of the underlying mechanisms.
The role of effort-reward imbalance and depressive symptoms in the relationship between long working hours and presenteeism among Chinese village doctors: a moderated mediation model
Authors: Ji Jingya , Han Yarong , Li Ruyu , Jin Hui , Yin Chengjie , Niu Luyao , Ying Xinyu , Gao Yuexia , Ma Qiang
Published: July 2023

Background

Long working hours and effort-reward imbalance (ERI) among medical workers may contribute to poor mental health and reduced productivity. However, the potential mechanisms among them are not well understood. This study aimed to explore the role of depressive symptoms and ERI in the relationship between long working hours and presenteeism among village doctors.

Methods

We conducted a cross-sectional study in Jiangsu Province, eastern China. 705 village doctors were assessed for working hours, ERI (the Effort-Reward Imbalance Questionnaire, ERI questionnaire), presenteeism (6-item Stanford Presenteeism Scale, SPS-6 Scale), and depressive symptoms (12-item General Health Questionnaire, GHQ-12). A moderated mediation model was used to test the role of depressive symptoms (M), and ERI (W) in the relationship between long working hours (X) and presenteeism (Y).

Results

45.11% of the village doctors worked more than 55 h per week, and 55.89% were exposed to ERI. The prevalence of depressive symptoms among Chinese village doctors was 40.85%. Long working hours (≥ 55 h per week) were significantly associated with presenteeism behaviors (β = 2.17, P < 0.001). Mediation analysis demonstrated that depressive symptoms (GHQ score > 3) could partly mediate the relationship between long working hours and presenteeism (indirect effect β = 0.64, P < 0.001). Moderated mediation further indicated that the interaction of long working hours and ERI was significantly and positively associated with depressive symptoms, which in turn predicted elevated presenteeism behaviors.

Conclusions

Depressive symptoms had a mediating role in the association of long working hours with presenteeism behaviors among Chinese village doctors and ERI augment their negative effects.
Preparation and characterization of propolis reinforced eggshell membrane/ GelMA composite hydrogel for biomedical applications
Authors: Asadi Nahideh , Sadeghzadeh Hadi , Rahmani Del Bakhshayesh Azizeh , Nezami Asl Amir , Dadashpour Mehdi , Karimi Hajishoreh Negar , Kaamyabi Sharif , Akbarzadeh Abolfazl
Published: July 2023

Gelatin methacrylate-based hydrogels (GelMA) were widely used in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. However, to manipulate their various chemical and physical properties and create high-efficiency hydrogels, different materials have been used in their structure. Eggshell membrane (ESM) and propolis are two nature-derived materials that could be used to improve the various characteristics of hydrogels, especially structural and biological properties. Hence, the main purpose of this study is the development of a new type of GelMA hydrogel containing ESM and propolis, for use in regenerative medicine. In this regard, in this study, after synthesizing GelMA, the fragmented ESM fibers were added to it and the GM/EMF hydrogel was made using a photoinitiator and visible light irradiation. Finally, GM/EMF/P hydrogels were prepared by incubating GM/EMF hydrogels in the propolis solution for 24 h. After various structural, chemical, and biological characterizations, it was found that the hydrogels obtained in this study offer improved morphological, hydrophilic, thermal, mechanical, and biological properties. The developed GM/EMF/P hydrogel presented more porosity with smaller and interconnected pores compared to the other hydrogels. GM/EMF hydrogels due to possessing EMF showed compressive strength up to 25.95 ± 1.69 KPa, which is more than the compressive strength provided by GM hydrogels (24.550 ± 4.3 KPa). Also, GM/EMF/P hydrogel offered the best compressive strength (44.65 ± 3.48) due to the presence of both EMF and propolis. GM scaffold with a contact angle of about 65.41 ± 2.199 θ showed more hydrophobicity compared to GM/EMF (28.67 ± 1.58 θ), and GM/EMF/P (26.24 ± 0.73 θ) hydrogels. Also, the higher swelling percentage of GM/EMF/P hydrogels (343.197 ± 42.79) indicated the high capacity of this hydrogel to retain more water than other scaffolds. Regarding the biocompatibility of the fabricated structures, MTT assay results showed that GM/EMF/P hydrogel significantly (p-value < 0.05) supported cell viability. Based on the results, it seems that GM/EMF/P hydrogel could be a promising biomaterial candidate for use in various fields of regenerative medicine.
Assessing the relationship between low-calorie sweetener use and quality of life measures in adults with type 1 diabetes
Authors: Akturk Halis K , Snell-Bergeon Janet , Karakus Kagan E , Shah Viral N
Published: July 2023

Background

To evaluate use of low-calorie sweeteners (LCS) among adults with type 1 diabetes (T1D) and its impact on quality of life (QOL).

Methods

In this single center, cross-sectional survey study with 532 adults with T1D, Food related QOL (FRQOL), LCS specific questionnaire (LCSSQ), Diabetes Self-Management Questionnaire (DSMQ), Food Frequency Questionnaire (FFQ), Audit of Diabetes-Dependent QOL (AddQOL), Type 1 Diabetes and Life (T1DAL) questionnaires were administered through RedCAP, a secure, HIPAA-compliant web-based application. Demographics and scores of adults who used LCS in last month (recent users) and others (non-users) were compared. Results were adjusted for age, sex, diabetes duration and other parameters.

Results

Of 532 participants (mean age 36 ± 13, 69% female), 99% heard LCS before, 68% used them in the last month, 73% reported better glucose control with LCS use and 63% reported no health concerns about LCS use. Recent LCS users were older and had a longer diabetes duration and more complications (hypertension, or any complication) than non-users. However, A1c, AddQOL, T1DAL, FRQOL scores did not differ significantly between recent LCS users and non-users. DSMQ scores, DSMQ management, diet, health care scores did not differ between two groups; however, recent LCS users had lower physical activity score than non-users (p = 0.001).

Conclusions

Most of the adults with T1D have used LCS and perceived that LCS use improved their QOL and glycemic control; however, these were not verified with questionnaires. There was no difference in QOL questionnaires except DSMQ physical activity between recent LCS users and not users with T1D. However, more patients in need to increase their QOL may be using LCS; therefore, associations between the exposure and outcome can be bi-directional.
Gastric cancer with distinct Epstein–Barr virus-positive and -negative tumor components and their whole exome sequencing result: a case Report
Authors: Park Ki Bum , Seo An Na , Kim Moonsik
Published: July 2023

Background

Epstein–Barr virus (EBV)-associated gastric cancer exhibits distinct clinicopathologic characteristics, showing a good response to immune checkpoint inhibitors and a favorable prognosis. However, gastric cancer comprising distinct EBV-positive and -negative components in a single mass have been rarely reported, and their detailed genetic characteristics have not yet been investigated. Therefore, we reported the case of gastric cancer exhibiting distinct EBV-positive and -negative areas and further investigated its genetic characteristics.

Case presentations

A 70-year-old man underwent distal gastrectomy for gastric cancer, which was detected during a routine health check-up. EBV-encoded RNA in situ hybridization revealed distinct EBV-positive and -negative components at each other’s borders, morphologically consistent with collision tumor. We separately sequenced EBV-positive and -negative tumor areas through whole exome sequencing (WES) with matched normal tissue. Remarkably, both EBV-positive and -negative areas shared pathogenic mutations of ARID1A, KCNJ2, and RRAS2. Furthermore, they shared 92 somatic single nucleotide variants and small insertion or deletion mutations, of which 32.7% and 24.5% are EBV-positive and -negative tumor components, respectively.

Conclusions

WES results suggested that gastric cancer with distinct EBV-positive and -negative tumor components, formerly categorized as a collision tumor, can be clonally related. EBV-negative tumor component might be associated with loss of EBV during tumor progression.
Adaptive ecological knowledge among the Ndjuka Maroons of French Guiana; a case study of two ‘invasive species’: Melaleuca quinquenervia and Acacia mangium
Authors: Theys Johanna , Tareau Marc-Alexandre , Ansoe-Tareau Clarisse , Greene Alexander , Palisse Marianne , Ricardou Alizée , Odonne Guillaume
Published: July 2023

Background

To understand how local ecological knowledge changes and adapts, here in the case of the recent introduction of plant species, we report the knowledge and perceptions of the Ndjuka (Maroon) of French Guiana concerning two tree species,Acacia mangiumandniaouli(Melaleuca quinquenervia), which are categorized as “invasive alien plants” in the savannas of their territory.

Methods

To this end, semi-structured interviews were conducted between April and July 2022, using a pre-designed questionnaire, plant samples and photographs. The uses, local ecological knowledge, and representations of these species were surveyed among populations of Maroon origin in western French Guiana. All responses to closed questions collected during the field survey were compiled into an Excel spreadsheet in order to perform quantitative analyses, including the calculation of use reports (URs).

Results

It appears that the local populations have integrated these two plant species, which are named, used and even traded, into their knowledge systems. On the other hand, neither foreignness nor invasiveness seem to be relevant concepts in the perspective of the informants. The usefulness of these plants is the determining factor of their integration into the Ndjuka medicinal flora, thus resulting in the adaptation of their local ecological knowledge.

Conclusion

In addition to highlighting the need for the integration of the discourse of local stakeholders into the management of "invasive alien species,” this study also allows us to observe the forms of adaptation that are set in motion by the arrival of a new species, particularly within populations that are themselves the result of recent migrations. Our results furthermore indicate that such adaptations of local ecological knowledge can occur very quickly.
Expression and possible functions of a horizontally transferred glycosyl hydrolase gene, GH6-1, in Ciona embryogenesis
Authors: Li Kun-Lung , Nakashima Keisuke , Hisata Kanako , Satoh Noriyuki
Published: July 2023

Background

The Tunicata or Urochordata is the only animal group with the ability to synthesize cellulose directly and cellulose is a component of the tunic that covers the entire tunicate body. The genome of Ciona intestinalis type A contains a cellulose synthase gene, CesA, that it acquired via an ancient, horizontal gene transfer. CesA is expressed in embryonic epidermal cells and functions in cellulose production. Ciona CesA is composed of both a glycosyltransferase domain, GT2, and a glycosyl hydrolase domain, GH6, which shows a mutation at a key position and seems functionless. Interestingly, the Ciona genome contains a glycosyl hydrolase gene, GH6-1, in which the GH6 domain seems intact. This suggests expression and possible functions of GH6-1 during Ciona embryogenesis. Is GH6-1 expressed during embryogenesis? If so, in what tissues is the gene expressed? Does GH6-1 serve a function? If so, what is it? Answers to these questions may advance our understanding of evolution of this unique animal group.

Results

Quantitative reverse transcription PCR and in situ hybridization revealed that GH6-1 is expressed in epidermis of tailbud embryos and in early swimming larvae, a pattern similar to that of CesA. Expression is downregulated at later stages and becomes undetectable in metamorphosed juveniles. The GH6-1 expression level is higher in the anterior-trunk region and caudal-tip regions of late embryos. Single-cell RNA sequencing analysis of the late tailbud stage showed that cells of three clusters with epidermal identity express GH6-1, and that some of them co-express CesA. TALEN-mediated genome editing was used to generate GH6-1 knockout Ciona larvae. Around half of TALEN-electroporated larvae showed abnormal development of adhesive papillae and altered distribution of surface cellulose. In addition, three-fourths of TALEN-electroporated animals failed to complete larval metamorphosis.

Conclusions

This study showed that tunicate GH6-1, a gene that originated by horizontal gene transfer of a prokaryote gene, is recruited into the ascidian genome, and that it is expressed and functions in epidermal cells of ascidian embryos. Although further research is required, this observation demonstrates that both CesA and GH6-1 are involved in tunicate cellulose metabolism, impacting tunicate morphology and ecology.
Nearctic Pleistocene ungulates from the Pampean region (Argentina) in the historical collections of Santiago Roth in Switzerland: an overview
Authors: Carrillo-Briceño Jorge D. , Vezzosi Raúl I. , Ming Keesha M. , Christen Zoe M. , Mothé Dimila , Ruiz-Ramoni Damián , Sánchez-Villagra Marcelo R.
Published: July 2023

Nearctic ungulates such as artiodactyls, perissodactyls, and proboscideans arrived in South America during the Great American Biotic Interchange. Among them are camelids, cervids, tayassuids, equids, tapirids and gomphotherids. A historical collection of Nearctic ungulates from Pleistocene deposits of the Pampean region in Argentina is here studied and described. The collection consists of specimens collected by Santiago Roth in the nineteenth century and brought to Europe, where they are housed in the paleontological collections of the University of Zurich and the Natural History Museum of Geneva. Among the taxa reported here areNotiomastodon platensis,Lama guanicoe,Hemiauchenia paradoxa,Tayassu pecari,Morenelaphussp.,Hippidioncf.H.principale,Equuscf.E.neogeus, and other indeterminate gomphotherids, camelids, tayassuids, cervids, and equids. The exact stratigraphic position of these fossils collected more than 130 years ago is in many cases uncertain. The historical collection is still relevant for taxonomic studies and for offering new insights into palaeobiogeography and palaeobiology of mammalian fauna of the region during the Pleistocene.