bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Enhancing CO2 transport with plasma-functionalized ionic liquid membranes
Authors: SHU 舒 Ruchen 茹晨 , XU 许 Hui 卉 , PEI 裴 Chenxiao 晨霄 , WANG 王 Nan 楠 , LIU 刘 Xingang 新刚 , HOU 侯 Jianyuan 剑源 , YUAN 袁 Yuan 圆 , ZHANG 张 Renxi 仁熙
Published: February 2024

The ionic liquid (IL) 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate treated with radiofrequency plasma is proposed for functionalization and immobilization on polyethersulfone supports to form supported ionic liquid membranes for CO2 separation. The effects of treatment time and transmembrane pressure difference on CO2 permeance were evaluated. The best gas permeation performance was obtained with a treatment time of 10 min and the transmembrane pressure difference was 0.25 MPa. Characterization of the materials by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy demonstrates that the IL is grafted with carboxyl groups and deprotonated through plasma treatment. A preliminary mechanism for the plasma treatment and facilitated transport of CO2 has been proposed on this basis.
TLD optimal vibration control for elevated concrete water towers
Authors: Cheng Xuansheng , Qi Guanjie , Li Guoliang , Chen Jianchao
Published: February 2024

Considering the influence of earthquake and wind on the water tower, the analysis model of the elevated concrete water tower and its foundation is established. The dynamic response model and damping measures considering liquid–solid-soil interaction are determined. The influence of two kinds of circular tuned liquid dampers on dynamic response of elevated concrete water tower is studied. The results show that the peak values of displacement, acceleration and stress under the simultaneous action of wind field and earthquake exceed the peak superposition under the single factor of wind field and earthquake. However, the peak value of the liquid sloshing amplitude of the water tower under the earthquake-wind coupling does not exceed the sum of the wave peak values under the action of earthquake and wind alone. In addition, both circular TLDS have significant damping effect on elevated concrete water towers, but the damping effect of saturated salt water as TLD tempering fluid is better than that of pure water.
The Intentionality of Smell
Authors: Lycan William G
Published: February 2024

Some consider it obvious that vision represents. But argument is needed to show that smell does; it has never been obvious that smell represents. This chapter rebuts three reasons for doubting that smell represents, and offers several arguments that it does, based on the general idea that when we smell an object we noninferentially find out something about that object. The chapter then considers two recent proposals as to exactly what a smell represents, those of Clare Batty and Ben Young. But in each case it argues (while offering a concession or two) that so far as there is a substantive disagreement, Lycan’s older proposal is preferable: that a smell represents a miasma in the air. Finally, the question is raised as to whether smell does not represent, rather, whole environmental objects and types of object; that issue is postponed until Chapter 6.
Philosophy and the Duck-Rabbit
Authors: Lycan William G
Published: February 2024

This chapter expounds the puzzle of “seeing as” and summarizes the philosophical state of play so long as aspect perception is considered only for the case of vision. Though ambiguous figures are the focus in popular literature, several different types of seeing-as are distinguished. Wittgenstein’s puzzle is stated: aspect-seeing is often a voluntary and thoughtful matter of interpretation; yet it is also a kind of seeing, a specifically perceptual phenomenon that is fundamental to visual phenomenology. The chapter lists 11 of Wittgenstein’s further observations that have had the status of truisms. Then it states two explanatory claims that have been made as to what underlies seeing-as: Gombrich’s idea of perceptual expectations and the projecting of possibilities, and the more recent suggestion that seeing-as is a matter of attentional focus. The chapter concludes by extending the expectation-plus-attending model to smelling-as, tasting-as, and tactual feeling-as; the model continues to work reasonably well. But we shall see in the following chapter that hearing-as simply blocks the attention idea.
Southern African Middle Stone Age
Authors: Wurz Sarah
Published: February 2024

Currently the concept of the Middle Stone Age (MSA) denotes the period between c. 300 and 25 ka. It is a phase marked by prepared core reduction methods used to knap predetermined flakes and blades that are occasionally retouched into various types of tools. Denticulates, notches, and scrapers occur regularly, and bifacial and unifacial points and backed geometrics are sometimes linked to time-restricted regional patterns, especially for the Still Bay and Howiesons Poort technocomplexes. An uneven geographical representation of data and insufficient dating resolution preclude a coherent consensus chrono-culture stratigraphic framework for the southern African region, the area south of the Kunene and Zambezi Rivers encompassing the modern political entities of Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, southern Mozambique, Swaziland (eSwatini), Lesotho, and South Africa. Therefore many assemblages are described in relation to the marine isotope stages and local industries. Perhaps the most radical development in MSA research during the 20th century relates to the characterization of culture and behavior. In the formation years, when mostly surface collections of stone tools, organized into industries and variants were available, MSA “cultures” of the region were seen as the product of waves of immigrants that entered dark Africa from Europe, in increasingly “advanced” forms. In the latter part of the 20th century, the prevailing Eurocentric paradigm suggested that it was only with the Upper Paleolithic–like Later Stone Age that “modern” culture developed in southern Africa. Although Eurocentric thinking prevails, “modernity” is now linked to the MSA especially after 100 ka. Fluctuating complexity in behavior may relate to various degrees of social interaction within dynamic landscapes. Paleoenvironmental data is growing and, combined with cutting-edge geoarchaeological and digital methods, allow a deeper understanding of past habitats and ecological contexts. Studies on the MSA from southern Africa are expanding rapidly. This growth would be most productive and ethical if research is integrated with African socio-political realities, engaging with decoloniality and inclusivity.
Mezze and the Lebanese Table
Authors: Kanafani-Zahar Aïda
Published: February 2024

[This is an advance summary of a forthcoming article in the Oxford Research Encyclopedia of Food Studies. Please check back later for the full article.]

The study of mezze in Lebanon is based on anthropological fieldwork conducted in rural and urban contexts, in the mountains and along the littoral. It explored the foundations of this tradition and prompted the analysis of the Lebanese cuisine.

One of the most appreciated culinary traditions for the Lebanese people is to partake in a restaurant-prepared meal that includes an assortment of appetisers, grilled meats or the day’s special, and dessert. Mezze is generally understood as the diversity of hot and cold vegetable and meat dishes served along with the main dish. In a particular type of meal, the gourmet meal, however, mezze is the prelude to the main dish, generally consisting of grilled meats followed by fruits and sweets, the three courses articulating in a continuous and fluid movement. Enjoyed in renowned establishments to celebrate festive events or simply to share an agreeable moment with family and friends, the gourmet meal is destined to seek a particular emotion, kaif.

Mezze is composed of a large number of starters brought to the table in groups of dishes appearing one after the other in a precise order. Each group displays distinct ingredients, flavours, modes of cooking and temperatures. Guests indulge in the dishes as they come along. The wide range of starters shapes a specific time sequence and devises a pattern of eating, that of “tasting”, of “savouring”. The study of the sensorial complexity regarding its sequencing, scenography, and gustatory structure, reveals the representations of appetence in the culinary Lebanese culture. It provides insight into the visual requirements that a gourmet table must display and the flavour hierarchy aimed at kindling appetite and at preserving it throughout the meal. Further, it brings to awareness the categories of foods that necessitate the application of precise techniques to neutralise odours that cause inappetence. These elements offer the opportunity to examine the culinary sensibility expressed in the Lebanese culture. Notwithstanding the differences in organisation, time span, table manners, and purpose, the gourmet meal, in which mezze is embedded, possesses the same logic as the ordinary daily table: to stimulate and maintain the desire to eat. Both types of meals epitomise a sense-sustained culture of appetence designed at averting ill eating and sickness, a realm of research that merits investigation.
ElemeNT 2023: an enhanced tool for detection and curation of core promoter elements
Authors: Adato Orit , Sloutskin Anna , Komemi Hodaya , Brabb Ian , Duttke Sascha , Bucher Philipp , Unger Ron , Juven-Gershon Tamar
Published: February 2024

Motivation

Prediction and identification of core promoter elements and transcription factor binding sites is essential for understanding the mechanism of transcription initiation and deciphering the biological activity of a specific locus. Thus, there is a need for an up-to-date tool to detect and curate core promoter elements/motifs in any provided nucleotide sequences.

Results

Here, we introduce ElemeNT 2023—a new and enhanced version of the Elements Navigation Tool, which provides novel capabilities for assessing evolutionary conservation and for readily evaluating the quality of high-throughput transcription start site (TSS) datasets, leveraging preferential motif positioning. ElemeNT 2023 is accessible both as a fast web-based tool and via command line (no coding skills are required to run the tool). While this tool is focused on core promoter elements, it can also be used for searching any user-defined motif, including sequence-specific DNA binding sites. Furthermore, ElemeNT’s CORE database, which contains predicted core promoter elements around annotated TSSs, is now expanded to cover 10 species, ranging from worms to human. In this applications note, we describe the new workflow and demonstrate a case study using ElemeNT 2023 for core promoter composition analysis of diverse species, revealing motif prevalence and highlighting evolutionary insights. We discuss how this tool facilitates the exploration of uncharted transcriptomic data, appraises TSS quality, and aids in designing synthetic promoters for gene expression optimization. Taken together, ElemeNT 2023 empowers researchers with comprehensive tools for meticulous analysis of sequence elements and gene expression strategies.

Availability and implementation

ElemeNT 2023 is freely available at https://www.juven-gershonlab.org/resources/element-v2023/. The source code and command line version of ElemeNT 2023 are available at https://github.com/OritAdato/ElemeNT. No coding skills are required to run the tool.
Covariates in population pharmacokinetic studies of critically ill adults receiving β-lactam antimicrobials: a systematic review and narrative synthesis
Authors: Hansel Jan , Mannan Fahmida , Robey Rebecca , Kumarendran Mary , Bladon Siân , Mathioudakis Alexander G , Ogungbenro Kayode , Dark Paul , Felton Timothy W
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Population pharmacokinetic studies of β-lactam antimicrobials in critically ill patients derive models that inform their dosing. In non-linear mixed-effects modelling, covariates are often used to improve model fit and explain variability. We aimed to investigate which covariates are most commonly assessed and which are found to be significant, along with global patterns of publication.

Methods

We conducted a systematic review, searching MEDLINE, Embase, CENTRAL and Web of Science on 01 March 2023, including studies of critically ill adults receiving β-lactam antimicrobials who underwent blood sampling for population pharmacokinetic studies. We extracted and categorized all reported covariates and assessed reporting quality using the ClinPK checklist.

Results

Our search identified 151 studies with 6018 participants. Most studies reported observational cohorts (120 studies, 80%), with the majority conducted in high-income settings (136 studies, 90%). Of the 1083 identified covariate instances, 237 were unique; the most common categories were patient characteristics (n = 404), biomarkers (n = 206) and physiological parameters (n = 163). Only seven distinct commonly reported covariates (CLCR, weight, glomerular filtration rate, diuresis, need for renal replacement, serum albumin and C-reactive protein) were significant more than 20% of the time.

Conclusions

Covariates are most commonly chosen based on biological plausibility, with patient characteristics and biomarkers the most frequently investigated. We developed an openly accessible database of reported covariates to aid investigators with covariate selection when designing population pharmacokinetic studies. Novel covariates, such as sepsis subphenotypes, have not been explored yet, leaving a research gap for future work.
A Robust HPLC Approach for Quantitation of Camptothecin in Mesoporous Silica Nanoparticles Matrix and in the Presence of Its Degradation Products
Authors: Dave Richa , Savaliya Neel , Dobariya Ashish , Patel Rashmin , Patel Mrunali
Published: February 2024

Background

Camptothecin is a potent anticancer drug used for the treatment of various cancers.

Objective

The goal of this research investigation was to develop and validate a new stability-indicating HPLC technique for the quantitative assessment of camptothecin in in-house developed mesoporous silica nanoparticles, a novel nanoformulation matrix for the treatment of cancer.

Method

The Waters Inertsil® HPLC column (C18) was used for the chromatographic separation, with a flow rate of 1 mL/min, a column oven temperature of 40°C, an injection volume of 10 µL, a detection wavelength of 216 nm, and a 10 min runtime overall. An isocratic blend of phosphate buffer (10 mM, pH7.0) and acetonitrile (60:40, v/v) served as the mobile phase. Various stress conditions including acid, alkali, oxidative, photolytic, thermal, and humidity environments were tested for the quantitative estimation of the camptothecin through the proposed method.

Results

The results demonstrated that the proposed method is specific (peak purity ≥0.999), accurate (99.69–100.64% w/w), precise (RSD, % <2.0), and sensitive (LOD—0.17 µg and LOQ—0.56 µg) in accordance with ICH guideline Q2 (R1). Any unidentified degradation products did not interfere with the drug’s estimation. Furthermore, the current method of analysis has eliminated any excipient interference from the matrix effect caused by the numerous excipients of the formulation matrix.

Conclusions

To quantify camptothecin for routine assay purposes, this research work offers a novel and straightforward HPLC methodology with optimized chromatographic parameters, contributing to the research and development community while ensuring an appropriate and efficient use of the drug through a variety of nanoformulation for cancer treatment.

Highlights

The stability-indicating HPLC method was found to be specific and suitable for routine analysis of camptothecin. The absence of any interference from excipients was confirmed by forced degradation studies.
Ecology and management of the crapemyrtle aphid (Hemiptera: Aphididae) on crapemyrtle (Myrtales: Lythraceae) in the southern United States
Authors: Wilson Caleb J , Bertone Matthew A
Published: February 2024

Crapemyrtle aphid [Sarucallis kahawaluokalani (Kirkaldy 1907)] (CMA) is an introduced pest of crapemyrtle (Lagerstroemia spp. L.), which is among the most common ornamental tree genera in the southern United States. Native to Southeast Asia, CMA has become established on 5 other continents. CMAs produce honeydew as they feed which supports sooty mold growth and can result in leaf defoliation on infested trees. CMAs tend to be most abundant in crapemyrtles planted in locations with extensive surrounding impervious surface cover. A large community of generalist natural enemies are found in close association with CMA, which suggests that CMAs may help conserve natural enemy communities in urban areas. Due to the long-lasting blooms produced by crapemyrtle, and the attractiveness of these blooms to pollinators, insecticides should be used as a last resort to manage CMA infestations. While CMA is considered a specialist pest of crapemyrtle, it has been recorded on 3 species outside of the genus Lagerstroemia. The wide distribution of CMA, closely overlapping that of crapemyrtle, suggests that CMA can likely be found wherever crapemyrtles are commonly planted.
METTL3 confers protection against mitochondrial dysfunction and cognitive impairment in an Alzheimer disease mouse model by upregulating Mfn2 via N6-methyladenosine modification
Authors: Chen Hao , Xing Huaijie , Zhong Changhui , Lin Xuejuan , Chen Ruipeng , Luo Ning , Chen Lijun , Huang Yusheng
Published: February 2024

Mitofusin 2 (MFN2) has been found to be downregulated in patients with Alzheimer disease (AD) but little is known about its roles in the pathogenesis of AD. We explored the mechanism of N6-methyladenosine (m6A) methylation of Mfn2 in hippocampal mitochondrial dysfunction in an AD mouse model. APP/PS1 transgenic mice underwent stereotaxic injection of adeno-associated viruses and their behaviors were assessed. METTL3 and MFN2 expressions were measured by qRT-PCR and Western blot, accompanied by assessment of mitochondrial morphology, ATP, mitochondrial membrane potential, and amyloid-β content. Binding between METTL3 and MFN2, the total amount of m6A, and the m6A modification of Mfn2 were also determined. METTL3 and MFN2 were downregulated in hippocampal tissues of the AD model mice; METTL3 enhanced MFN2 expression via m6A modification. Overexpression of METTL3 or MFN2 ameliorated mitochondrial dysfunction indicated by fewer damaged mitochondria, increased ATP and JC-1 levels, and reduced Aβ content; improved cognitive impairment in the mice was indicated by the novel object discrimination index and Morris water maze tests. Effects of METTL3 overexpression were abrogated by further knockdown of MFN2. Thus, METTL3 ameliorated mitochondrial dysfunction and cognitive impairment in the AD model mice by increasing MFN2 expression via m6A modification.
Congruence filter pairs, equational filter pairs and adjoints
Authors: Arndt Peter , Luiz Mariano Hugo , Pinto Darllan Conceição
Published: February 2024

Filter pairs are a tool for creating and analyzing logics. A filter pair can be seen as a presentation of a logic, given by presenting its lattice of theories as the image of a lattice homomorphism, with certain properties ensuring that the resulting logic is substitution invariant. Every substitution invariant logic arises from a filter pair. Particular classes of logics can be characterized as arising from special classes of filter pairs. We consider so-called congruence filter pairs, i.e. filter pairs for which the domain of the lattice homomorphism is a lattice of congruences for some quasivariety. We show that the class of logics admitting a presentation by such a filter pair is exactly the class of logics having an algebraic semantics. We study the properties of a certain Galois connection coming with such filter pairs. We give criteria for a congruence filter pair to present a logic in some classes of the Leibniz hierarchy by means of this Galois connection, and its interplay with the Leibniz operator.
A Functional Restoration Program for Active Duty Service Members With Chronic Pain: Examining the Impact of Co-occurring PTSD on Treatment Response
Authors: Espejo Emmanuel P , Sheridan Tara M , Pino Carlos A , Phillips Christopher R , Hanling Steven
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Standard medical intervention for chronic pain may be less effective in the presence of co-occurring PTSD. Functional restoration programs (FRPs), which combine psychological interventions and progressive exercise rehabilitation, represent an alternative to standard medical intervention for chronic pain. The objective of the current study is to evaluate a FRP serving Active Duty Service Members with chronic pain and to examine whether co-occurring PTSD symptoms are associated with differential treatment response.

Methods

This is a retrospective observational study of data previously collected at Naval Medical Center San Diego approved by the Naval Medical Center San Diego Institutional Review Board. The study included 81 Active Duty Service Members, primarily Sailors and Marines, who completed a FRP, and examined pre- to post-treatment changes in Pain Impact Score—a composite measure of pain intensity, pain interference, and physical functioning—as well as measures of mental health and pain cognitions. Co-occurring PTSD symptoms were examined as a potential moderator of treatment response.

Results

Twenty-three patients (28.4%) screened positive for PTSD during baseline assessments. Repeated measures analysis of variance showed statistically significant improvement in Pain Impact Score for the full sample (P <.001). Although no significant interactions with probable PTSD were demonstrated for measures of pain intensity and physical functioning (both Ps >.05), patients screening positive for PTSD demonstrated a lesser decrease in pain interference compared to patients screening negative for PTSD (P <.01). Improvements in measures of mental health and pain cognitions were also statistically significant for the full sample (all P values <.05) and did not differ as a function of PTSD symptoms (all P values >.05).

Conclusion

This FRP primarily serving Sailors and Marines contributed to broad overall improvements in the domains of pain and functioning as well as mental health and pain cognitions. Co-occurring PTSD symptoms were not associated with poorer treatment response on most measured outcomes.
Fecal Carriage of Colibactin-Encoding Escherichia coli Associated With Colorectal Cancer Among a Student Populace
Authors: Akinduti Paul A , Izevbigie Ovbiosa O , Akinduti Omobolanle A , Enwose Ezekiel O , Amoo Emmanuel O
Published: February 2024

Fecal carriage of the colibactin (clb) gene in Escherichia coli is described as a source that could promote carcinogenesis, progressing to colorectal cancer. The present study investigated the demographic, dietary, and antibiotic consumption variables as correlates for fecal carriage of clb+/E coli among the student populace. In a randomized cross-sectional survey, E coli (N = 136) from the fecal samples of eligible students were characterized and evaluated for antibiotic resistance, β-lactamase (blm), biofilm, virulence factor production, and strain tryptophan reverse mutagenic activity. The encoded clb+/E coli were analyzed for correlates with principal component analysis. Of all the E coli strains, a low rate of 2 clb+/E coli (1.5%) and higher rates of biofilm (13.2%) and blm producers (11.8%) were recorded among the mutant strains as compared with the nonmutant types. All the clb+/E coli showed complete resistance to amoxicillin, Augmentin (amoxicillin and clavulanate), gentamicin, and trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole. The fecal clb-encoded E coli (1.5%) were not associated with demographic status, fiber-based food (odds ratio [OR], 1.03; 95% CI, 56.74–138.7; P = .213), alcohol (OR, 1.27; 95% CI, 61.74–147.1; P = .221), antibiotic consumptions (OR, 1.11; 95% CI, 61.29–145.3; P = .222), and handwashing (OR, 1.17; 95% CI, 60.19–145.5; P = .216). The hierarchical cluster of blm+/E coli revealed high-level resistance with a multiantibiotic resistance index ≥0.2 (P < .05). Only 12% of all strains were tryptophan mutant/blm+, and 1.5% of clb+/ECblm+ were observed in fecal samples with a 452–base pair size. Trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole and biofilm production positively regressed with clb expression (P > .05). Principal component analysis score plot indicated an association of clb+/ECblm+ with dietary pattern, alcohol, blm, and hemolysin production. The combined activity of blm and biofilm production in the gut microbiota could promote clb+/E coli colonization, facilitating genotoxin production and possible colorectal cancer induction.
Existential Graphs
Authors: Bellucci Francesco , Pietarinen Ahti-Veikko
Published: February 2024

Existential graphs are a notation for first-order logic (alpha and beta departments) and higher-order logics (gamma department) that Charles S. Peirce created in 1896. This chapter surveys the evolution of Peirce’s notational experiments with graphical notations, from his work of the early 1880s up to the discovery of existential graphs in 1896 and beyond. The chapter explains the main notational differences between Peirce’s logical graphs, early and late, including his algebraical systems, by means of two pairs of notational parameters, “linearity/non-linearity” and “type- / occurrence-referentiality,” and shows how Peirce was able to maintain the expressivity of his algebraical systems while abandoning linearity and type-referentiality in the logical graphs.
Theory, Practice, and Deliberation
Authors: Colapietro Vincent
Published: February 2024

There are important texts in which Peirce draws an extremely sharp distinction between theory and practice, none more significant or seemingly extreme as his condemnation of “the Hellenic tendency to mingle Philosophy [theory par excellence] with Practice.” There are, however, passages in which he, at least, implies that theory is itself an instance of practice, a shared form of deliberate conduct. The aim of this chapter is partly to disambiguate theory in Peirce’s writings, highlighting two different but compatible senses. A larger part of its purpose is to show how human rationality is at bottom a deliberative capacity. While the form of deliberation in an urgently practical context is dramatically different from that in a strictly theoretical context, both practical agents and theoretical inquirers are engaged in deliberative practices. Accordingly, deliberation allows us to see both the unity and the differences between practical and theoretical reason.
Peirce and Religion
Authors: Slater Gary
Published: February 2024

This chapter examines the content, subsequent reception, and contemporary applications of Peirce’s writings on religion. The chapter comprises three sections. Section 1 surveys the most important primary texts on religion from within Peirce’s corpus: Peirce’s first Monist series (1891–1893), his Cambridge Lectures (1898), and his “Neglected Argument for the Reality of God” (1908). Section 2 charts a genealogy of the reception of Peirce’s writings within theology and religious studies; this genealogy extends from Josiah Royce through John E. Smith and into the respective projects of such figures as Robert C. Neville, Peter Ochs, Robert S. Corrington, and Michael Raposa. Section 3 traverses the current landscape of scholarship on Peirce and religion and speculates on potential developments within the discourse.
Why Philosophers Must Be Pragmatists
Authors: de Waal Cornelis
Published: February 2024

Having defined philosophy as the discipline that “contents itself with a more attentive scrutiny and comparison of the facts of everyday life,” Peirce observes that when we engage in it, we should not do so aimlessly, but we should do it deliberately. This means that we need to have some idea of what the outcome is likely to be. Philosophy is a deliberate, purpose-directed activity. And that, Peirce argues, naturally leads to pragmatism. In brief, for Peirce, pragmatism is what philosophy should be.
Peirce’s Views on Education and Learning
Authors: Midtgarden Torjus
Published: February 2024

This chapter considers how Peirce’s semiotic work suggests perspectives on learning and education. It focuses mostly on Peirce’s outlines of a speculative grammar from the mid-1890s, but it also considers earlier and later phases of his philosophical development. In the mid-1890s Peirce analyzed signs used in assertions and how the uses of these signs serve as conditions for learning from experience. Peirce qualifies these signs in terms of his symbol/index/icon typology and analyzes how they enable learning in everyday life and further prepare the learner for scientific education and specialization. The chapter shows how Peirce’s analysis may shed further light on learning processes through a comparison with Habermas’s theory of communicative action. Finally, the chapter considers how Peirce’s semiotic analysis can be complemented by perspectives on learning and education that philosophers of education have recently developed from his post-1900 semiotic work.
Morality and Ethics in the Work of Charles Peirce
Authors: Liszka James Jakόb
Published: February 2024

Peirce began the study of ethics once he realized that logic was a normative science and needed the guidance of ethics for a comprehensive account of reasoning. Given the state of ethics, Peirce sided with the eighteenth-century moral sentimentalists that moral sentiments and instincts were a more reliable guide to practical life. Nonetheless, Peirce pursued a science of ethics with the hope that its proper study would prove useful to logic and the conduct of life. Although Peirce never completed a systematic account of ethics, the argument here is that a good picture of his thought emerges from his writings. Based on the divisions of his logic or semiotic, the outlines of an ethics grammar, critic, and rhetoric can be formulated, one that provides interesting insights about morality, relevant to current debates in metaethics.
Mechanical induction of osteoanabolic Wnt1 promotes osteoblast differentiation via Plat
Authors: Ahmad Mubashir , Haffner‐Luntzer Melanie , Schoppa Astrid , Najafova Zeynab , Lukic Teodora , Yorgan Timur Alexander , Amling Michael , Schinke Thorsten , Ignatius Anita
Published: February 2024

Physical activity‐induced mechanical stimuli play a crucial role in preserving bone mass and structure by promoting bone formation. While the Wnt pathway is pivotal for mediating the osteoblast response to loading, the exact mechanisms are not fully understood. Here, we found that mechanical stimulation induces osteoblastic Wnt1 expression, resulting in an upregulation of key osteogenic marker genes, including Runx2 and Sp7, while Wnt1 knockdown using siRNA prevented these effects. RNAseq analysis identified Plat as a major target through which Wnt1 exerts its osteogenic influence. This was corroborated by Plat depletion using siRNA, confirming its positive role in osteogenic differentiation. Moreover, we demonstrated that mechanical stimulation enhances Plat expression, which, in turn leads to increased expression of osteogenic markers like Runx2 and Sp7. Notably, Plat depletion by siRNA prevented this effect. We have established that Wnt1 regulates Plat expression by activating β‐Catenin. Silencing Wnt1 impairs mechanically induced β‐Catenin activation, subsequently reducing Plat expression. Furthermore, our findings showed that Wnt1 is essential for osteoblasts to respond to mechanical stimulation and induce Runx2 and Sp7 expression, in part through the Wnt1/β‐Catenin/Plat signaling pathway. Additionally, we observed significantly reduced Wnt1 and Plat expression in bones from ovariectomy (OVX)‐induced and age‐related osteoporotic mouse models compared with non‐OVX and young mice, respectively. Overall, our data suggested that Wnt1 and Plat play significant roles in mechanically induced osteogenesis. Their decreased expression in bones from OVX and aged mice highlights their potential involvement in post‐menopausal and age‐related osteoporosis, respectively.
Analysis of genetic variant associated with heart failure mortality implicates thymic stromal lymphopoietin as mediator of strain‐induced myocardial fibroblast‐mast cell crosstalk and fibrosis
Authors: Pimpalwar Neha , Celik Selvi , Karbalaei Sadegh Mardjaneh , Czuba Tomasz , Gidlöf Olof , Smith J. Gustav
Published: February 2024

Heart failure (HF) is a leading cause of death and disability globally. Heritable factors and the extent and pattern of myocardial fibrosis are important determinants of outcomes in patients with HF. In a genome‐wide association study of mortality in HF, we recently identified a genetic polymorphism on chromosome 5q22 associated with HF mortality. Here, we sought to study the mechanisms by which this variant may influence myocardial disease processes. We find that the risk allele is located in an enhancer motif upstream of the TSLP gene (encoding thymic stromal lymphopoietin), conferring increased binding of the transcription factor nescient helix–loop helix 1 (NHLH1) and increased TSLP expression in human heart. Further, we find that increased strain of primary human myocardial fibroblasts results in increased TSLP expression and that the TSLP receptor is expressed in myocardial mast cells in human single nuclei RNA sequence data. Finally, we show that TSLP overexpression induces increased transforming growth factor β expression in myocardial mast cells and tissue fibrosis. Collectively, our findings based on follow‐up of a human genetic finding implicate a novel pathway in myocardial tissue homeostasis and remodeling.
Migrant-Native Disparities in Obstetric Neuraxial Analgesia Use: The Role of Host-Country Language Proficiency
Authors: Hamwi S. , Barros H. , Lorthe E.
Published: February 2024

(Anesth Analg. 2023;137(4):870–881)

Neuraxial analgesia (NA) is highly effective for labor pain relief, but its use varies among countries and is influenced by factors like ethnicity and region of origin. This study investigated how language proficiency affected NA utilization and satisfaction with labor pain management in migrant women compared to native women. Data came from the baMBINO study in Portuguese public hospitals, including migrant and native women. The study involved interviews conducted in various languages and excluded certain cases, resulting in a sample of 3697 women with singleton vaginal deliveries. This research aimed to explore the impact of language barriers on disparities in labor pain management.
Labor Analgesia Initiation With Dural Puncture Epidural Versus Conventional Epidural Techniques: A Randomized Biased-Coin Sequential Allocation Trial to Determine the Effective Dose for 90% of Patients of Bupivacaine
Authors: Maeda A. , Villela-Franyutti D. , Lumbreras-Marquez M.I. , Murthy A. , Fields K.G. , Justice S. , Tsen L.C.
Published: February 2024

(Anesth Analg. 2023. doi: 10.1213/ANE.0000000000006691)

Neuraxial labor analgesia includes the conventional epidural (EPL) technique as well as the combined spinal epidural and dural puncture epidural (DPE) techniques. Some advantages to the DPE technique have been discovered through research in comparison to the EPL technique. A study was conducted using a biased-coin up-down allocation method to determine the effective dose of bupivacaine needed to achieve initial analgesia in 90% of women in labor (ED90) using the DPE and EPL techniques. It was hypothesized that a lower bupivacaine dose would be needed with the DPE versus the EPL.
Public Health’s Role in a Post-Dobbs World—The New York City Abortion Access Hub
Authors: Stein T.B. , Vasan A.
Published: February 2024

(N Engl J Med. 388;21. doi: 10.1056/NEJMp2301278)

The US court case Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization removed the constitutional right to abortion. Currently, 13 states ban abortion with few exceptions, while other states have enacted certain restrictions around abortion. This, coupled with new legislation frequently being introduced that further restricts access to abortions, has made it very difficult for people searching for abortion information or services.
The Compatibility of Oxytocin and Tranexamic Acid Injection Products When Mixed for Coadministration by Infusion for the Treatment of Postpartum Hemorrhage: An In Vitro Investigation
Authors: Lambert P. , Tomazzini A. , Wright P. , McEvoy C. , Gallos I.D. , Ammerdorffer A. , Chinery L. , Coomarasamy A. , Gulmezoglu A.M.
Published: February 2024

(BJOG. 2023;130:741–749)

Postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) is defined as the loss of more than 1000 mL of blood after childbirth. Signs and symptoms are present after birth, and they can be prevented. The World Health Organization has defined treatment for PPH. World Health Organization has created a bundle of recommendations based on evidence consisting of uterotonic medications, tranexamic acid (TXA), intravenous fluids, and uterine massage. This treatment bundle is known as E-MOTIVE intervention and is to be administered in cases of PPH.
Immediate Hypersensitivity to Chlorhexidine: Experience From an Allergy Center in China
Authors: Xiao H. , Zhang H. , Jia Q. , Xu F. , Meng J.
Published: February 2024

(Anesthesiology. 2023; 138:364–371)

Chlorhexidine is a commonly used topical antibacterial agent for Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria and can be found in a great variety of antibacterial products. As use has increased, instances of allergic reactions to the compound have been reported, including contact dermatitis and anaphylaxis. As chlorhexidine is a component ingredient in many products used perioperatively, allergic reactions occurring in this setting can often be attributed to other factors rather than chlorhexidine as the true source. This study was designed to summarize the experience of an allergy center in China with chlorhexidine reactions.
Point of Care Maternal Ultrasound in Obstetrics
Authors: Easter S.R. , Hameed A.B. , Shamshirsaz A. , Fox K. , Zelop C.M.
Published: February 2024

(Am J Obstet Gynecol. 2023;228(5):509–520)

Point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) is generally defined as the medical application of ultrasound directly at a patient’s bedside to assess acute or critical medical conditions. It is routinely used in emergencies, operating rooms, and intensive care units because of its many advantages. POCUS has a lack of radiation, is easily accessible and affordable, and allows obstetricians and other providers to take an ultrasound without having to transport their patients. While POCUS is usually limited to fetal and uterine imaging, it can be adjusted to assess maternal health by helping to diagnose, accelerate the commencement of targeted therapy, and evaluate response to treatment. In turn, earlier diagnoses and treatment can help improve complications in pregnant patients and hopefully reduce causes of preventable death.
Preeclampsia at Term Can Be Classified Into Two Clusters With Different Clinical Characteristics and Outcomes Based on Angiogenic Biomarkers in Maternal Blood
Authors: Chaiworapongsa T. , Romero R. , Gotsch F. , Suksai M. , Gallo D.M. , Jung E. , Krieger A. , Chaemsaithong P. , Erez O. , Tarca A.L.
Published: February 2024

(Am J Obstet Gynecol. 2023;228:569.e1–569.e24)

Pre-eclampsia, a complex and multisystemic disorder affecting a significant percentage of pregnancies worldwide, is a leading cause of preterm birth and maternal mortality. This condition is not uniform and can be classified into different subtypes based on gestational age and underlying pathophysiological mechanisms. Understanding these subtypes is crucial for predicting maternal and fetal outcomes and developing targeted therapeutic strategies.
A Randomized Trial Assessing the Impact of Educational Podcasts on Personal Control and Satisfaction During Childbirth
Authors: Cai F. , McCabe M. , Srinivas S.K.
Published: February 2024

(Am J Obstet Gynecol. 2023;228:592.e1–592.e10)

Educational childbirth resources (including technology) can benefit pregnant women in several different ways. This includes lowering anxiety and fear around childbirth, decreasing perceptions of pain, and improving a sense of overall control throughout the birthing process. This study aimed to assess how educational podcasts can influence a pregnant woman’s labor experience, specifically through patient satisfaction and a sense of control during childbirth.
Virtual Reality is Beneficial in Decreasing Pain in Laboring Women: A Preliminary Study
Authors: Massov L. , Robinson B. , Rodriguez-Ramirez E. , Maude R.
Published: February 2024

(Aust N Z J Obstet Gynaecol.2023; 63: 193–197)

Labor pain is a highly variable experience, with a wide range of both pharmacological and nonpharmacologic methods available to help relieve pain during labor. Virtual reality (VR) distraction therapy is one of many nonpharmacologic modalities shown to assist patients in managing their acute pain in clinical settings. This has been tested in patients undergoing chemotherapy, physical therapy, treatment for dental work, and burn wounds, among other procedures. Those who use VR technology wear a headset to experience a 3D multisensory virtual world. Four published quantitative studies to date have used VR to determine the influence of VR on laboring women’s pain scores. This preliminary study is an open-label, randomized, controlled cross-over trial to examine how effective VR is in decreasing pain in laboring women.
Is 1 Day of Focused Training in Echocardiographic Assessment Using Subxiphoid-Only (EASy) Examination Enough? A Tertiary Hospital Response to the COVID-19 Crisis and the Use of the EASy Examination to Support Unit-Wide Image Acquisition
Authors: Bughrara Nibras F. , Neilson Maegan R. , Jones Stephanie , Workman Lorna , Chopra Amit , Pustavoitau Aliaksei
Published: February 2024

OBJECTIVES:

We assessed the efficacy of 1-day training in echocardiography assessment using subxiphoid-only (EASy) followed by supervised image interpretation and decision-making during patient rounds as a novel approach to scaling up the use of point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) in critically ill patients.

DESIGN:

Retrospective analysis of medical records and EASy examination images.

SETTING:

Tertiary care academic hospital.

PATIENTS:

A total of 14 adults (> 18 yr old) with COVID-19-associated respiratory failure under the care of Albany Medical Center’s surge response team from April 6–17, 2020 who received at least one EASy examination.

INTERVENTIONS:

Residents (previously novice sonographers) were trained in EASy examination using 1 day of didactic and hands-on training, followed by independent image acquisition and supervised image interpretation, identification of hemodynamic patterns, and clinical decision-making facilitated by an echocardiography-certified physician during daily rounds.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS:

We recorded the quality of resident-obtained EASy images, scanning time, and frequency with which the supervising physician had to repeat the examination or obtain additional images. A total of 63 EASy examinations were performed; average scanning time was 4.3 minutes. Resident-obtained images were sufficient for clinical decision-making on 55 occasions (87%), in the remaining 8 (13%) the supervising physician obtained further images.

CONCLUSIONS:

EASy examination is an efficient, valuable tool under conditions of scarce resources. The educational model of 1-day training followed by supervised image interpretation and decision-making allows rapid expansion of the pool of sonographers and implementation of bedside echocardiography into routine ICU patient management.
An advanced machine learning method for simultaneous breast cancer risk prediction and risk ranking in Chinese population: A prospective cohort and modeling study
Authors: Liu Liyuan , He Yong , Kao Chunyu , Fan Yeye , Yang Fu , Wang Fei , Yu Lixiang , Zhou Fei , Xiang Yujuan , Huang Shuya , Zheng Chao , Cai Han , Bao Heling , Fang Liwen , Wang Linhong , Chen Zengjing , Yu Zhigang
Published: February 2024

Background:

Breast cancer (BC) risk-stratification tools for Asian women that are highly accurate and can provide improved interpretation ability are lacking. We aimed to develop risk-stratification models to predict long- and short-term BC risk among Chinese women and to simultaneously rank potential non-experimental risk factors.

Methods:

The Breast Cancer Cohort Study in Chinese Women, a large ongoing prospective dynamic cohort study, includes 122,058 women aged 25–70 years old from the eastern part of China. We developed multiple machine-learning risk prediction models using parametric models (penalized logistic regression, bootstrap, and ensemble learning), which were the short-term ensemble penalized logistic regression (EPLR) risk prediction model and the ensemble penalized long-term (EPLT) risk prediction model to estimate BC risk. The models were assessed based on calibration and discrimination, and following this assessment, they were externally validated in new study participants from 2017 to 2020.

Results:

The AUC values of the short-term EPLR risk prediction model were 0.800 for the internal validation and 0.751 for the external validation set. For the long-term EPLT risk prediction model, the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve was 0.692 and 0.760 in internal and external validations, respectively. The net reclassification improvement index of the EPLT relative to the Gail and the Han Chinese Breast Cancer Prediction Model (HCBCP) models for external validation was 0.193 and 0.233, respectively, indicating that the EPLT model has higher classification accuracy.

Conclusions:

We developed the EPLR and EPLT models to screen populations with a high risk of developing BC. These can serve as useful tools to aid in risk-stratified screening and BC prevention.
Adherence to a reproductive health intervention for young adults with sickle cell
Authors: Eades-Brown Nyema T. , Oguntoye Anne O. , Aldossary Dalal , Ezenwa Miriam O. , Duckworth Laurie , Dede Duane , Johnson-Mallard Versie , Yao Yingwei , Gallo Agatha , Wilkie Diana J.
Published: February 2024

Background:

The CHOICES intervention is tailored specifically for young adults with sickle cell disease (SCD) or sickle cell trait (SCT). The face-to-face (F2F) delivery format is feasible with efficacy for improving knowledge about reproductive health for those with SCD or SCT.

Purpose:

The purpose of the study was to compare the participant adherence to a remote online CHOICES intervention study (N = 107) and a F2F CHOICES intervention study (N = 234).

Methodology:

In both studies, participants with SCD or SCT were randomized into experimental or usual care control groups. Descriptive statistics were collected for all participants by group in both studies. Adherence was measured by retention at each data collection time point. Independent t-tests were conducted to compare mean participant adherence of the F2F and online studies postbaseline (6, 12, 18, and 24 months).

Results:

There was a significant difference in mean adherence postbaseline between the studies (p = .005). The results suggest that more research is necessary for proper online participant retention.

Conclusion:

Advance practice nurses that are well informed on CHOICES can transmit the availability of this evidence-based intervention to this special population. Special referral for the CHOICES intervention, which is tailored specifically for young adults with SCD or SCT, may increase adherence to the intervention if it comes from trusted health care providers.

Implications:

Nurse practitioners are educators in primary and acute care settings. Encounters with reproductive age populations with SCD or SCT can occur in both settings.