bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Supplementary Data from Brentuximab Vedotin–Driven Microtubule Disruption Results in Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress Leading to Immunogenic Cell Death and Antitumor Immunity
Authors: Heiser Ryan A. , Cao Anthony T. , Zeng Weiping , Ulrich Michelle , Younan Patrick , Anderson Martha E. , Trueblood Esther S. , Jonas Mechthild , Thurman Robert , Law Che-Leung , Gardai Shyra J.
Published: January 2024

Supplementary figures and table
Figure S1 from Brentuximab Vedotin–Driven Microtubule Disruption Results in Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress Leading to Immunogenic Cell Death and Antitumor Immunity
Authors: Heiser Ryan A. , Cao Anthony T. , Zeng Weiping , Ulrich Michelle , Younan Patrick , Anderson Martha E. , Trueblood Esther S. , Jonas Mechthild , Thurman Robert , Law Che-Leung , Gardai Shyra J.
Published: January 2024

Supplementary Figure S1. Overview of ICD
Supplementary Table S8 from MIG6 Mediates Adaptive and Acquired Resistance to ALK/ROS1 Fusion Kinase Inhibition through EGFR Bypass Signaling
Authors: Chen Nan , Tyler Logan C. , Le Anh T. , Welsh Eric A. , Fang Bin , Elliott Andrew , Davies Kurtis D. , Danhorn Thomas , Riely Gregory J. , Ladanyi Marc , Haura Eric B. , Doebele Robert C.
Published: January 2024

IC50 values for ALK/ROS1 fusion-driven cell lines treated with fusion kinase inhibitors with and without afatinib combination.
Table S5 from Structural Insight into Geranylgeranyl Diphosphate Synthase (GGDPS) for Cancer Therapy
Authors: Pham Andrew C. , Holstein Sarah A. , Borgstahl Gloria E.O.
Published: January 2024

List of drug-bound PDB structures with compound structures
Table S2 from Structural Insight into Geranylgeranyl Diphosphate Synthase (GGDPS) for Cancer Therapy
Authors: Pham Andrew C. , Holstein Sarah A. , Borgstahl Gloria E.O.
Published: January 2024

Residues involved in IPP and FDP binding
Supplementary Figure.6 from The Tautomerase Activity of Tumor Exosomal MIF Promotes Pancreatic Cancer Progression by Modulating MDSC Differentiation
Authors: Jia Xuebing , Xi Jianbei , Tian Binle , Zhang Yuanyuan , Wang Zhilong , Wang Fan , Li Zheng , Long Jiang , Wang JianFei , Fan Guo-Huang , Li Qi
Published: January 2024

The effect of IPG1576 on other immune cells in TME.
Figure S3 from Tyrosine Kinase Inhibition Activates Intratumoral γδ T Cells in Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumor
Authors: Etherington Mark S. , Hanna Andrew N. , Medina Benjamin D. , Liu Mengyuan , Tieniber Andrew D. , Kwak Hyunjee V. , Tardy Katherine J. , Levin Lillian , Do Kevin J. , Rossi Ferdinando , Zeng Shan , DeMatteo Ronald P.
Published: January 2024

Viability of HG129 cells or T1 GIST cells after 24 hours of (A, B) human IL17a or (C, D) anti-human IL17Ra. Representative of 2 separate experiments with experimental groups in triplicate. Data represent mean ± SEM; p values were calculated using a two-sided Student’s t test; *, P < 0.05.
Relapsing Peritoneal Dialysis-Associated Peritonitis due to Kocuria rhizophila: A Case Report
Authors: Nakata Mayumi , Kuji Hiroshi , Toishi Takumi , Inoue Tomohiko , Kawaji Atsuro , Matsunami Masatoshi , Fukuda Junko , Ohara Mamiko , Suzuki Tomo
Published: January 2024

Introduction: The Kocuria genus, encompassing gram-positive coccoid actinobacteria belonging to the Micrococcaceae family, has recently been discovered residing on the human skin and oral flora. Reports of Kocuria-associated infections in humans have been scarce. Herein, we present the first case of relapsing peritoneal dialysis (PD)-associated peritonitis caused by Kocuria rhizophila. Case Presentation: The patient, a 78-year-old male, presented with turbid effluent PD fluid, accompanied by an elevated white blood cell count of 253 cells/μL, of which 59% were neutrophils. A diagnosis of PD-associated peritonitis was established, leading to the initiation of intraperitoneal administration of ceftazidime and vancomycin. Subsequently, Kocuria rhizophila was identified through the bacterial culture of the dialysate. On the seventh day of initial treatment, the antibiotic regimen was changed to penicillin G, and the patient underwent a 3-week course of antibiotics. However, 1 week after discharge, the patient’s dialysis fluid became cloudy once again, with subsequent detection of Kocuria rhizophila in the fluid culture. Ultimately, the decision was made to remove the patient’s PD catheter and transition to hemodialysis. Conclusion: PD-associated peritonitis attributed to Kocuria species may be considered a potential risk for recurrence.
Clinical Experience of Stereotactic Radiosurgery at a Linear Accelerator for Intraocular Melanoma Combined with Iridociliary Tumor Resection: A Case Report
Authors: Valaskova Jela , Chorvat Martin , Grezdo Jozef , Sramka Miron , Furda Robert , Vesely Pavol , Popov Ivajlo , Lyskova Darina , Furdova Alena
Published: January 2024

Introduction: The treatment of iridociliary and choroidal melanoma relies on the patient’s systemic health, tumor size, location, related features, state of the opposing eye, and personal preferences. The two categories are radiation and surgical techniques. Transpupillary thermotherapy, plaque radiotherapy, charged particle irradiation, local resection, enucleation, orbital exenteration, and experimental nanoparticle therapy are all options for treating choroidal melanoma. Case Presentation: The method that entails creating a partial thickness circular, rectangular, or polyhedral scleral flap in the region covering the tumor after removing a portion of the extraocular muscles is the most popular method for local excision in choroidal or choroidal-ciliary body cancers. We discuss our experience treating iridociliary melanoma using block excision and stereotactic irradiation on a linear accelerator with TD 20.0 Gy. Conclusion: One of the treatment modalities is the combined treatment approach using stereotactic irradiation and tumor resection, and our results 1 year after therapy are comparable to the rates of local control and anatomic eye preservation to those achieved in studies of comparable uveal melanoma treatment modalities.
Mechanistic Links between Central Obesity and Cardiorenal Metabolic Diseases
Authors: Al-Chalabi Saif , Syed Akheel A. , Kalra Philip A. , Sinha Smeeta
Published: January 2024

Background: There is a marked increase in the global prevalence of obesity over the last decades with an estimated 1.9 billion adults living with overweight or obesity. This is associated with a sharp rise in prevalence of cardiorenal metabolic diseases such as type 2 diabetes mellitus, chronic kidney disease, and heart failure. With recent evidence of the efficacy of sodium glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors and glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists on cardiorenal protection and weight reduction, it is reasonable to investigate common causative pathways for cardiorenal metabolic diseases. Summary: Central obesity is a common condition with 41.5% prevalence worldwide. It is associated with adverse outcomes even in people with a normal body mass index. Central obesity develops when the personal fat threshold for expansion in the subcutaneous adipose tissue exceeds a certain level. Multiple factors such as age, gender, genetics, and hormones may play a role in determining personal susceptibility to central obesity. Cardiorenal metabolic diseases usually cluster in certain populations – commonly in people with central obesity – and cause a substantial burden on health services and increase the risk of all-cause mortality. In this review, we investigate the pathophysiological pathways between central obesity and cardiorenal metabolic diseases. These pathways include activation of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system and the sympathetic nervous system, inflammation and oxidative stress, haemodynamic impairment, insulin resistance, and endothelial dysfunction. Key Message: Central obesity has a pivotal role in the development of cardiorenal metabolic diseases and should be targeted with population-based approaches, such as dietary and lifestyle interventions, as well as the development of pharmacotherapy to reduce the burden of cardiorenal metabolic diseases.
Self-Efficacy, Core Behavioral Competence and Performance of Teachers: A Scaffold for Proficient and Highly Proficient Teachers
Authors: Bantoc Aris A. , Yazon Alberto D.
Published: January 2024

This research aimed to determine the relationship between self-efficacy, core behavioral competence and level of performance among Public Elementary and Secondary School teachers in two (2) Districts in Mauban, Division of Quezon. The following hypotheses were tested in this study (a) there is no significant relationship between teacher's level of self-efficacy, core behavioral competence and performance among public elementary and secondary school teachers in Mauban District; and (b) teacher's self-efficacy and core behavioral competencies do not significantly predict their level of performance.

 

            A descriptive quantitative research design was used in this study, incorporating descriptive survey, correlation, comparative and causal-comparative methods to answer the specific research problems. The study's respondents were the 247 public elementary and secondary proficient and highly proficient teachers from 39 schools of the two districts in Mauban, Quezon – the Mauban North District and Mauban South District. A stratified random sampling technique was used in selecting the teachers-respondents. A 45-item Likert scale survey questionnaire, the main research instrument, was used.

 

This study found no significant difference in the teachers' self-efficacy and core behavioral competence when grouped according to their number of teaching/ ancillary load, highest educational attainment, number of years in service and teaching position. The level of self-

 

 

efficacy in practicing the PPST domains and teachers' performance level has a strongly positive correlation. Likewise, the level of core behavioral competence in practicing the PPST domains and the level of performance have a strong positive correlation.

 

Regarding the strength of the relationship, there is a strong positive correlation between teachers' self-efficacy and core behavioral competence on the overall teachers' performance. The predicting capacity of self-efficacy and core behavioral competence to the overall performance of teachers is statistically significant. Self-efficacy and core behavioral competencies are predictors of teachers' performance. The higher the teachers' self-efficacy level, the better their performance; the higher the core behavioral competence, the higher their performance.
SUMOylation Fine-Tunes Endothelial HEY1 in the Regulation of Angiogenesis
Authors: Ren Ruizhe , Ding Sha , Ma Kefan , Jiang Yuanqing , Wang Yiran , Chen Junbo , Wang Yunyun , Kou Yaohui , Fan Xiao , Zhu Xiaolong , Qin Lingfeng , Qiu Cong , Simons Michael , Wei Xiyang , Yu Luyang
Published: January 2024

BACKGROUND:

Angiogenesis, which plays a critical role in embryonic development and tissue repair, is controlled by a set of angiogenic signaling pathways. As a TF (transcription factor) belonging to the basic helix-loop-helix family, HEY (hairy/enhancer of split related with YRPW motif)-1 (YRPW motif, abbreviation of 4 highly conserved amino acids in the motif) has been identified as a key player in developmental angiogenesis. However, the precise mechanisms underlying HEY1’s actions in angiogenesis remain largely unknown. Our previous studies have suggested a potential role for posttranslational SUMOylation in the dynamic regulation of vascular development and organization.

METHODS:

Immunoprecipitation, mass spectrometry, and bioinformatics analysis were used to determine the biochemical characteristics of HEY1 SUMOylation. The promoter-binding capability of HEY1 was determined by chromatin immunoprecipitation, dual luciferase, and electrophoretic mobility shift assays. The dimerization pattern of HEY1 was determined by coimmunoprecipitation. The angiogenic capabilities of endothelial cells were assessed by CCK-8 (cell counting kit-8), 5-ethynyl-2-deoxyuridine staining, wound healing, transwell, and sprouting assays. Embryonic and postnatal vascular growth in mouse tissues, matrigel plug assay, cutaneous wound healing model, oxygen-induced retinopathy model, and tumor angiogenesis model were used to investigate the angiogenesis in vivo.

RESULTS:

We identified intrinsic endothelial HEY1 SUMOylation at conserved lysines by TRIM28 (tripartite motif containing 28) as the unique E3 ligase. Functionally, SUMOylation facilitated HEY1-mediated suppression of angiogenic RTK (receptor tyrosine kinase) signaling and angiogenesis in primary human endothelial cells and mice with endothelial cell–specific expression of wild-type HEY1 or a SUMOylation-deficient HEY1 mutant. Mechanistically, SUMOylation facilitates HEY1 homodimer formation, which in turn preserves HEY1’s DNA-binding capability via recognition of E-box promoter elements. Therefore, SUMOylation maintains HEY1’s function as a repressive TF controlling numerous angiogenic genes, including RTKs and Notch pathway components. Proangiogenic stimuli induce HEY1 deSUMOylation, leading to heterodimerization of HEY1 with HES (hairy and enhancer of split)-1, which results in ineffective DNA binding and loss of HEY1’s angiogenesis-suppressive activity.

CONCLUSIONS:

Our findings demonstrate that reversible HEY1 SUMOylation is a molecular mechanism that coordinates endothelial angiogenic signaling and angiogenesis, both in physiological and pathological milieus, by fine-tuning the transcriptional activity of HEY1. Specifically, SUMOylation facilitates the formation of the HEY1 transcriptional complex and enhances its DNA-binding capability in endothelial cells.
Design Activism in South Africa: Design Interventions as Invented Spaces to Encourage Activist Citizenship
Authors: Cassim Fatima
Published: January 2024

This article is premised on the role of design as a vehicle for social and political intervention, with specific reference to design activism. Owing to design activism's prognostic stance, the article explores how South African design interventions facilitated new sites and actors of citizenship beyond the traditional political arena. The examples of design interventions and the subsequent discussion are grounded in empirical data. As such, the South African context of the research brings “theory from the south” into conversation with current design activism discourse. Furthermore, the article makes visible the relationship between acts of design activism and activist citizenship.
Lepidothelphusa menneri n. sp. (Crustacea: Brachyura: Gecarcinucidae), first record of the genus from Kalimantan, Indonesia
Authors: NG PETER K. L. , WOWOR DAISY
Published: January 2024

The gecarcinucid freshwater crab genus, Lepidothelphusa Colosi, 1920, is known only from Sarawak in northern Borneo, with six recognised species i.e. Lepidothelphusa cognettii (Nobili, 1903); L. flavochela Grinang & Ng, 2015; L. limau Grinang & Ng, 2015; L. loi Grinang & Ng, 2015; L. padawan Grinang & Ng, 2015; and L. sangon Grinang & Ng, 2015. The genus is now reported from Indonesian Borneo for the first time, from specimens recently collected from Gunung Kelam in Sintang Regency, Kalimantan Barat Province. Lepidothelphusa menneri n. sp. has a very distinctive tri-coloured pattern in life, unique among congeners. It can also easily be separated from congeners by carapace, epistome, male pleonal and male first gonopod characters.
Three new species of Mesoleptidea Viereck (Hymenoptera, Ichneumonidae) from China
Authors: LI TAO , LI BIN , SUN SHU-PING
Published: January 2024

Three new species of Mesoleptidea Viereck, 1912: M. nigra Li & Sun, sp. nov., M. nigricoxalis Li & Sun, sp. nov. and M. ruficoxalis Li & Sun, sp. nov., collected from the National Forest Park of Mt Wawu and Mt Laojun, Sichuan, on the southern border of the Eastern Palaearctic part of China, are described. A key to species of Mesoleptidea known in China and Eastern Palaearctic region is provided.
A Regionality of the Vocabulary of Novellas Submitted to a Competition Organised by the Kaunas Daily “Dzień Polski” (1936)
Authors: Mędelska Jolanta , Marszałek Marek
Published: January 2024

This article presents specific vocabulary excerpted from twenty-one novellas submitted to the competition announced in 1936 by Dzień Polski [The Polish Day], a Polish daily issued in Kaunas. Prior to publication, the novellas were edited with the aim of eliminating regional accretions. The excerpts include 116 peculiar lexemes: 42 substrate interference items, 69 archaic innovative units, and 5 that are shared with indigenous dialects. Native lexis outweighs foreign lexis; it constitutes 61% of all peculiarities and confirms the conservative nature of the Kaunas variety of Polish in the northern Kresy. It consists mainly of archaic lexis (e.g. żądnie, spokojność, najprzód), as well as innovative lexis (e.g. moderny) and lexis found in indigenous dialects (e.g. rozezłuć). Some of this vocabulary has East Slavic support, e.g. kędy or zrazu. Foreign influences are clearly evident in the novellas: substrate-interference items account for 39% of the material. This is old vocabulary formed under the influence of the Belarusian-Lithuanian substrate and long-term contact with Lithuanian and Belarusian (27 units: 85% Belarusianisms, e.g. odryna, and 15% Lithuanianisms, e.g. pagaluk) and more recent interference from Lithuanian and Russian (15 units: 80% Russianisms, e.g. germaniec, and 20% Lithuanianisms, e.g. naujakur).
Effects of a Passive Back-Support Exosuit on Postural Control and Cognitive Performance During a Fatigue-Inducing Posture Maintenance Task
Authors: Kim Jiwon , Kang Sang Hyeon , Li Jinfeng , Mirka Gary A. , Dorneich Michael C.
Published: January 2024

Objective

To evaluate the effectiveness of passive back-support exosuit on postural control and cognitive performance during a fatigue-inducing posture maintenance task.

Background

Wearable support systems (exoskeletons/exosuits) reduce physical demands but may also influence postural control and cognitive performance by reducing muscular fatigue.

Method

Eighteen participants visited on two different days to test an exosuit system and performed dual-task cognitive assessments based on human information processing (information acquisition, information integration, and action implementation) while maintaining a 35° trunk flexion posture for 16 minutes. Center-of-pressure (CoP), cognitive performance, and perceived workload were recorded, while erector spinae muscle activity was captured to quantify muscle fatigue.

Results

The exosuit was effective in reducing erector spinae muscle fatigue during the static posture maintenance task (61% less in Δmedian frequency: −9.5 Hz (EXO-Off) versus −3.7 Hz (EXO-On)). The fatigue-inducing task increased CoP velocity as a function of time (29% greater: 9.3 mm/sec (pre) versus 12.0 mm/sec (post)), and exosuit use decreased CoP velocity (23% less: 12.1 mm/sec (EXO-Off) versus 9.4 mm/sec (EXO-On)). The exosuit was also effective at mitigating cognitive degradation, as evidenced by a higher hit-to-signal ratio (8% greater: 81.3 (EXO-Off) versus 87.9 (EXO-On)) in the information integration task and reducing perceived workload in all stages of human information processing.

Conclusion

Exosuit provided benefits of postural control and information integration processing during a 16-min static posture maintenance task.

Application

Torso exoskeletons/suits can have positive implications for occupations with concurrent physical and cognitive demands.
Effectiveness of information technology assisted relapse prevention program on relapse among people who live with severe mental disorders
Authors: Ehsani Mona , Maarefvand Masoomeh , Hosseinzadeh Samaneh , Zabihi Poursaadati Maryam
Published: January 2024

Background:

Severe Mental Disorders (SMDs) cause mental health worldwide challenges because of several relapses and extensive recovery periods of hospitalization, which put a lot of economic and social burden on families and governments. Therefore, interventions are necessary to decrease the relapse of these disorders.

Aim:

This study was conducted to investigate the effect of Information Technology Assisted Relapse Prevention Program (ITAREP) on relapse among people who live with SMDs.

Method:

This study was a randomized clinical trial with intervention and control groups. ITAREP is a remote intervention based on monitoring the Early Warning Signs (EWS) to decrease the number of potential relapses. Using convenience sampling, people with SMDs admitted to Sina Juneqan Psychiatric Hospital and their caregivers were recruited in this study and randomly allocated to the control and intervention groups. Two checklists of the EWS for the patient and the patient’s caregiver were used for monitoring the relapse signs. Data were collected at baseline and 90 days after discharge and were analyzed using t-test and Chi-square statistical tests and linear regression in SPSS software.

Results:

Fifty-two patients who lived with SMDs participated in this study (26 in the intervention group and 26 in the control group). The two groups were homogeneous regarding age, gender, type of mental disorder, and duration of the disorder. Forty-two males and ten females participated in this research. Most of the participants were diagnosed with schizophrenia. The results showed that the number of relapses in the intervention group was significantly lower than in the control group in the post-test.

Conclusion:

Social workers, as the case managers and a member of the interdisciplinary psychiatric team, can actively perform follow-up measures after discharge using ITAREP, and it can be expected that these interventions will reduce the number of relapses among patients who live with SMDs.
Construction and application of a simulation optimization model of auxiliary guidance signs in enclosed public places
Authors: Ma Jun , Xiao Chunbei , Hu Jun
Published: January 2024

Many enclosed public spaces with multiple destinations often feature obstacles, such as columns within the building space and dense crowds, which adversely affect the recognition and guidance of pedestrian sign. To mitigate this issue, enhancing traffic efficiency necessitates the implementation of auxiliary guidance signs. However, experience-based schemes for positioning these signs often require iterative adjustments to achieve the desired effect. Thus, this paper endeavors to address this challenge by analyzing the relationship between obstacles and pedestrians’ visual blind areas. It establishes a mathematical model to describe pedestrian visual perception and its correlation with crowd density and individual visual field function. The model employs the effective aggregation area of the population exceeding a certain density threshold as its primary variable and enhances this variable’s function. Subsequently, it formulates an effect function that yields a substantial improvement in various combinations and permutations of auxiliary guidance signs. To exemplify this research, a large subway transfer hall with multiple destinations serves as a simulation model. The study calculates the optimal combination of auxiliary guidance sign placements that align with the enhancement effect function. Based on this combination, an optimized layout plan is derived, resulting in a significant improvement. The results demonstrate that the auxiliary guidance sign layout scheme proposed in this study markedly enhances traffic efficiency in enclosed public spaces. This research serves as a valuable reference for decision-makers seeking to optimize traffic flow in such spaces.
Fluid initialization and dynamic window for smoothed-particle hydrodynamics simulation
Authors: Carensac Samuel , Pronost Nicolas , Bouakaz Saida
Published: January 2024

Fluid simulation is an essential tool to produce realistic looking animations. In particular, Lagrangian simulations offer interactive computation times with an easy integration of the two-way interaction with rigid bodies. However, the interactivity is lost for larger scenes even if only the areas around the bodies have any visual interest. In this paper, we present a novel approach to quickly initialize additional fluid in a rest state in simulations with any 3D boundary shape and able to preserve any already existing fluid. Our approach only uses the density property of the particles to allow compatibility with any smoothed-particle hydrodynamics (SPH) simulation scheme and any boundaries model. This initialization method is fast enough to allow the initialization of new fluid volumes interactively while the simulation is running. We showcase our approach by proposing a method to create a dynamic simulation window, allowing the restriction of simulating the fluid only around moving objects. We propose multiple experiments to demonstrate the capabilities and performance of our approach.
Stereotypes about Muslims in the Netherlands: An Intersectional Approach
Authors: Wiemers Samira A. , Stasio Valentina Di , Veit Susanne
Published: January 2024

We relied on a content analysis of freely generated stereotypes about Muslims and Muslim-majority immigrant groups from a representative sample of Dutch natives. Building on intersectionality theory and stereotype prototypicality, we hypothesized and found that ethnic-group stereotypes more accurately reflect stereotypes of ethnic-minority men compared with ethnic-minority women and that stereotypes of ethnic-minority women contain more unique elements that do not overlap with either stereotypes about the gender group or stereotypes about the general ethnic group. We also examined the overlap between stereotypes about Muslims and those associated with Turks, Moroccans, Somalis, and Syrians in the Netherlands. The overlap in stereotype content was largest with Turks and Moroccans, the two largest and most long-established Muslim immigrant groups in the Netherlands. Overall, our results demonstrate the importance of an intersectional approach to stereotypes based on gender and ethnicity and of distinguishing between different ethnic groups in research about Muslims.
Digital Religion, Modern Society and the Construction of Digital Theology
Authors: Zaluchu Sonny Eli
Published: January 2024

Using a literature approach and a sociology of religion perspective, this research discusses the concept and phenomenon of digital religion in modern society. It is concluded that digital religion is not just the phenomenon of online religious practice for spiritual purposes but rather the extension of traditional religion into a new culture due to the digitalisation of society. The networked nature of modern society has a significant impact on the way people shape their experience of religiosity. Dialogue about God takes place in new forms as a form of cyber-theology. The results of this study challenge further research to see the extent to which people build their faith when spiritual experiences change into digital forms.
Metal Artifact Reduction by Using MARS System of a CBCT Unit with Different Components of Fixed Orthodontic Appliances: An In vitro CBCT Analysis
Authors: Nazir Sheikh Zahid , Mushtaq Mohammad
Published: January 2024

Introduction

During Cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) imaging in the head and neck region of patients who are undergoing fixed orthodontic treatment, the different components of fixed orthodontic appliances can produce various metal artifacts which may degrade the diagnostic image quality in the region of interest. Therefore, the metal artifact reduction software (MARS) system can be used in most CBCT units to reduce the amount of artifacts generated from various fixed orthodontic appliance components including skeletal anchorage devices.

Aims and Objectives

The main purpose of this study was to quantitatively evaluate the effectiveness of MARS system of a CBCT unit in reducing the amount of artifacts generated by various fixed orthodontic appliance components during CBCT imaging.

Materials and Methods

Four dental arch shaped phantoms that were fabricated along with different fixed orthodontic appliance components (metal bracket, molar band, transpalatal arch, mini-implant) underwent CBCT scanning without and with the MARS setting option. After using the MARS system of a CBCT unit, the reduction in the amount of artifacts that were generated by various fixed orthodontic appliance component was calculated by using Google Colab software that utilized Python code and OpenCV system to generate a binary mask image. The resulting mask image highlights the areas where artifacts are detected, allowing for further analysis or visual inspection. The contours found within the mask image represent the boundaries of the artifact regions.

Results

After calculating the percentage decrease in artifact area for each component of fixed orthodontic appliance, one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) test was performed to compare the percentage decrease in artifact area for each component of fixed orthodontic appliances. *P-values are calculated using one-way analysis of variance ( p < 0.05). The percentage decrease in artifact area for different components of fixed orthodontic appliance ranged from 39.67% to 48.58%. The stainless steel bracket showed the significant artifact area reduction with a mean percentage decrease of 48.58% as compared to other components.

Conclusion

The effect of MARS system in reducing the amount of metal artifacts generated varied according to the component type of fixed orthodontic appliance and, MARS system was more efficient for stainless steel brackets as compared to other components. CBCT imaging of head and neck region can be carried out without taking off the orthodontic appliances by applying MARS system which can significantly decrease the artifact area.
Grey matter structure within the visual networks in migraine with aura: multivariate and univariate analyses
Authors: Niddam David M. , Lai Kuan-Lin , Hsiao Yi-Ting , Wang Yen-Feng , Wang Shuu-Jiun
Published: January 2024

Background

The visual cortex is involved in the generation of migraine aura. Voxel-based multivariate analyses applied to this region may provide complementary information about aura mechanisms relative to the commonly used mass-univariate analyses.

Methods

Structural images constrained within the functional resting-state visual networks were obtained in migraine patients with (n = 50) and without (n = 50) visual aura and healthy controls (n = 50). The masked images entered a multivariate analysis in which Gaussian process classification was used to generate pairwise models. Generalizability was assessed by five-fold cross-validation and non-parametric permutation tests were used to estimate significance levels. A univariate voxel-based morphometry analysis was also performed.

Results

A multivariate pattern of grey matter voxels within the ventral medial visual network contained significant information related to the diagnosis of migraine with visual aura (aura vs. healthy controls: classification accuracy = 78%, p < 0.001; area under the curve = 0.84, p < 0.001; migraine with aura vs. without aura: classification accuracy = 71%, p < 0.001; area under the curve = 0.73, p < 0.003). Furthermore, patients with visual aura exhibited increased grey matter volume in the medial occipital cortex compared to the two other groups.

Conclusions

Migraine with visual aura is characterized by multivariate and univariate patterns of grey matter changes within the medial occipital cortex that have discriminative power and may reflect pathological mechanisms.
Systemic allergic reaction to galcanezumab (emgality): a case report
Authors: Pico Michael J. , Badri Malaka , Michalak Nathan , Siefferman Jason W.
Published: January 2024

Background

A previously unreported systemic reaction to Galcanezumab (Emgality) is described. Galcanezumab is a humanized monoclonal antibody designed to bind to calcitonin gene-related peptide, a neuropeptide associated with neurogenic inflammation during migraine attacks. Although clinical trials showed that Galcanezumab had few adverse reactions (injection site related erythema, pruritus, and swelling), no systemic drug reactions have been noted.

Case report

A 50-year-old female with chronic migraine, mast cell disorder, Hashimoto’s disease, positive antinuclear antibody and positive anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide antibody not on immune modulators received the initial dose of galcanezumab 240 mg after failing multiple migraine treatments. The following day, she developed injection site reaction, malar erythema and flu-like symptoms. Symptoms progressed the second day after injection, and she developed swelling in her lips and throat. Intravenous steroid and antihistamines improved airway symptoms, and the remaining symptoms improved after a course of oral steroids.

Conclusions

Delayed system allergic reaction to Galcanezumab requiring emergency intervention may occur. A history of autoimmune disorder may be a predisposing factor.
Changing Regularity of the Interaction Effects of Multi-Scale Factors on Drivers’ Merging Behaviors in the Highway Work Zone
Authors: Huang Lan , Ren Zhibin , Meng Xianghai
Published: January 2024

This study aimed to explore the impacting mechanism of macro- and micro-factors and multi-scale synergy on drivers’ merging behaviors in the highway work zone, and then to facilitate future merging prediction research. The merging behavior, requiring drivers to detect adjacent vehicles and real-time traffic conditions simultaneously, is a complex cognitive process. Previous studies have mainly focused on the stable impacts of limited factors on merging probability, but ignored the varying states and drivers’ performance. Status-changing positions in the whole merging process were first identified by constructing and analyzing the relationship between running speed and distance from the construction area. Subsequently, the interaction analysis was conducted among the multi-scale traffic factors, utilizing optimized logistic models and interaction estimates, thus establishing macro- and micro-factor connections. Besides, the marginal effect was calculated to analyze the fluctuation degree of these connections. Finally, a multilevel identification framework was proposed, whose effectiveness and practicality were validated using 744 naturalistic vehicular trajectories from a real highway work area. At different positions, drivers are affected by various factors to varying degrees. While approaching the construction area, drivers become more passive, thus trying to avoid rear-ending the lead vehicle but ignoring the lag vehicle. Besides, traffic volume also affects drivers’ merging decisions by confusing their cognition toward the time headway. This research indicates that dynamic interaction effects between multi-scale factors could provide far-reaching benefits for lane-changing prediction. The findings provide a basis for formulating traffic management policies and constructing driving assistance systems.
People Who Accommodate Others’ Sexist Views Are Themselves Perceived to Be Sexist
Authors: Vial Andrea C. , Bailey April H. , Dovidio John F.
Published: January 2024

We extend work on how, when, and why people accommodate another's bias by drawing from attribution theories and research on evaluative transfer to investigate how observers reasoned about an actor who accommodated the sexist views of another person. As predicted, participants made stronger internal, sexist attributions for actors who accommodated (vs. rejected) another person's sexism (Study 1). Moreover, participants made stronger sexist attributions when a male (vs. female) actor accommodated a man's prejudice against women, and they responded more negatively as a result. The same actor-gender effect emerged in Study 2, except when the decision to accommodate someone else's sexism contradicted the actor's previous hiring intentions. Across studies, stronger attributions to the sexism of the actor were associated with participants’ negative reactions to the decision and proposed penalties for the actor, and partly explained why participants reacted more negatively when a male (vs. female) actor accommodated gender prejudice. To reduce gender employment discrimination, our findings suggest that organizational leaders may develop interventions that rely on social norms, raising awareness among hiring managers that, although accommodating sexism might seem to align with their job duties, others view it negatively and actively penalize individuals who engage in it. Additional online materials for this article are available on PWQ's website at http://journals.sagepub.com/doi/suppl/10.1177/03616843231221501
Radiative ignition properties of food grains and surface temperatures at ignition
Authors: Oguaka Anene , Flores-Quiroz Natalia , Walls Richard
Published: January 2024

Fire safety of food grains in storage, transport and processing facilities requires knowledge of their ignition properties some of which have been determined in this study. Cowpea, lentils, millet, soybean, unshelled peanut, flax (linseed), sunflower, shelled peanut and sesame, at 10% moisture content were studied. A cone calorimeter heater was used to impose radiative heat fluxes of 25, 35 and 47.5 kW/m2 on the food grains to determine the time to piloted ignition concurrently with the surface temperature at ignition ( Ts,ig). Ignition temperatures ( Tig) were calculated from experimentally determined critical heat fluxes. The thermal response parameter and thermal inertia ([Formula: see text]) essential for the characterization of the ignition of the food grains were also calculated. Thermal response parameter appears to be best suited for distinguishing the ignitability of the food grains. Ignition temperatures range between 239°C and 305°C, while thermal response parameter varies between 261 and 565 kWs0.5/m2. Small particle-sized grains showed higher ignitability.
Reducing NOx emission from palm biodiesel/diesel blends in CI engine: A comparative study of cetane improvement techniques through hydrogenation and fuel additives
Authors: Musthafa B , Asokan MA
Published: January 2024

In this study, the trans-esterification process prepared palm oil biodiesel and 20% biodiesel blended with diesel (PB20) by volume as test fuel. Unsaturated fatty acids are majorly influenced by biodiesel cetane number. This work examines two-fuel reformulation methods of fuel hydrogenation and addition of fuel additive di-tert-butyl peroxide (DTBP) to enhance the engine characteristics of a PB20 blend while maintaining emission control. A reactor (autoclave) was utilized for hydrogenating the palm biodiesel and examining the change in fuel composition using gas chromatography. DTBP is selected as the cetane enhancer and combined with PB20 at a 2000 ppm concentration. Tamson FBT equipment was utilized to evaluate the test fuel's filterability. The filterability, engine characteristics, and emissions were investigated for diesel (D0), PB20, HPB20, and PB20 + DTBP fuel blends in the compression ignition test engine. The FBT results reveal that PB20 and HPB20 have better filtration quality, which aligns with the standard requirements (ASTM D2068-14). An improved NOx (10.2%) and brake thermal efficiency (6.7%) are seen at engine full loads when using modified B20 fuels. The hydrocarbon, carbon monoxide, and smoke emissions decreased by 8.3%, 6%, and 10.14% compared to diesel fuel. Hence, partial hydrogenation has been a better approach to improving biodiesel trade-off features than DTBP addition.
The Anti-tumor Function of Shikonin by Targeting EGFR/AKT/mTOR Signaling in Human Osteosarcoma Cells
Authors: Zhu Rui-Dan , Zhang Jia-Jia , Yao Xiao-Bin , Wang Zhang-Jiao , Du Zhi-Ling , Xu Qing-Xia
Published: January 2024

Background:

Shikonin, a purified naphthoquinone separated from a Traditional Chinese medicinal herb Lithospermum erythrorhixon, which exhibits anticancer properties.

Objectives:

To clarify the molecular mechanisms of therapeutic effects of shikonin against osteosarcoma.

Materials and Methods:

Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) assay was employed to evaluate cell viability. Annexin V-fluorescein isothiocyanate/propidium iodide (Annexin V-FITC/PI) double-staining was conducted to evaluate the apoptotic ratio of the MG-63 cells. The effects of shikonin on the invasiveness of osteosarcoma cells were implemented by a transwell cell migration assay. In the meantime, a western blot assay was employed to detect alterations in the relevant mechanism proteins within osteosarcoma cells. Molecular docking analysis was conducted to anticipate the binding interaction between shikonin and EGFR/protein kinase B (AKT)/mTOR.

Results:

We observed that shikonin suppressed proliferation and induced apoptosis in the MG-63 cells in a dose-dependent manner. Pursuing these findings, the potential molecular mechanisms were detected. Shikonin intervention blocked epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) phosphorylation and decreased epidermal growth factor (EGF)-induced activation of downstream signaling molecules, such as AKT and mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) in the MG-63 cells. However, the additional recombinant human epidermal growth factor (rHuEGF) could stimulate the activation of EGFR/AKT/mTOR signaling and reverse cell apoptosis caused by shikonin. Molecular docking analysis showed that shikonin presented the highest bonding ability with EGFR, AKT, and mTOR.

Conclusion:

Our results show that shikonin inhibits human osteosarcoma development via inactivating EGFR/AKT/mTOR signaling. It demonstrates that shikonin may act as a potential therapeutic agent in osteosarcoma treatment.
Breaking Barriers: Insights into Complex Breastfeeding Scenarios in a Rural Medical College—A Case Series
Authors: Asif Nida , Benakappa Asha
Published: January 2024

Breastfeeding is the only most natural and fundamental part of infant nutrition and early development. It plays a vital role in the optimal nourishment and fostering a myriad of health benefits for newborns. While breastfeeding is a natural process, it may also present challenges. Latching difficulties, maternal perception of inadequate milk supply, maternal medical conditions and her medication use, multiple gestation, congenital abnormalities in the baby, cultural and regional practices of prelacteal feeds, psychosocial factors, and so on can be some of the issues (Charantimath et al. PLoS One. 2020;15(5):e0231755). The problems intensify when these issues present at a rural setting with limited resources and many social factors and myths surrounding breastfeeding. With advancement in the study of breastfeeding techniques and protocols and understanding of the whole physiological process up to molecular level has given us insights as to how these problems can be managed better. An interdepartmental coordination and support are needed for solving these issues and improvise the outcomes in the infant nutrition. We present here a set of 9 mother infant dyads who had a peculiar course of breastfeeding and how they were counseled and managed at a rural medical college setting.
Malignant Para-Testicular Mesothelioma: A Rare Presentation in the Tunica Vaginalis of an Elderly Male With No Prior Asbestos Exposure
Authors: Shaker Nada , Blankenship Heath , Shaker Nuha , Ben Musa Ruwaida , Niu Shuo , Alrohaibani Alaaeddin , Mansoor Ibrahim , Abu Shakra Rafat , Sangueza Omar P.
Published: January 2024

Malignant mesothelioma of the tunica vaginalis is an extremely rare and aggressive tumor that is frequently encountered in elderly patients. The diagnosis of malignant mesothelioma of the tunica vaginalis poses a diagnostic challenge due to its infrequency and nonspecific clinical presentation. Histopathological examination and immunohistochemical staining are essential in differentiating this tumor from other para-testicular masses and establishing a definitive diagnosis. Early detection and comprehensive treatment planning are crucial for improving the prognosis and overall outcomes for patients with this rare malignancy. We present a report of malignant mesothelioma of the tunica vaginalis in a 78-year-old male patient with no history of asbestos exposure who presented with a large infiltrative left para-testicular mass. Histopathological examination revealed a biphasic proliferation composed of epithelioid and spindle cells with infiltrative features, foci of necrosis, and increased mitotic figures. Immunohistochemical staining exhibited positive staining for WT1, D2-40, and calretinin, supporting the mesothelial origin of the tumor. Notably, BerEP4 staining was negative, arguing against carcinoma. Immunostaining for keratin 5 was positive, supporting the mesothelial differentiation. The Ki67 proliferation index was high. The differential diagnosis included adenomatoid tumors, germ cell tumors, and pleomorphic sarcoma. We aim to discuss the clinical presentation, diagnostic approach, and therapeutic approaches of this rare entity.
Genetic Association of Lipids and Lipid-Lowering Drug Target Genes With Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
Authors: Guo Detong , Sheng Wenchao , Cai Yingzi , Shu Jianbo , Cai Chunquan
Published: January 2024

Background:

Lipid metabolism plays an essential role in nervous system development. Cholesterol deficiency leads to a variety of neurodevelopmental disorders, such as autism spectrum disorder and fragile X syndrome. There have been a lot of efforts to search for biological markers associated with and causal to ADHD, among which lipid is one possible etiological factor that is quite widely studied. We aimed to evaluate the causal relationship between lipids traits, lipid-lowering drugs, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) outcomes using Mendelian randomization (MR) studies.

Methods:

We used summary data from genome-wide association studies to explore the causal relationships between circulating lipid-related traits and ADHD. Then, quantitative trait loci for the expression of lipid-lowering drug target genes and genetic variants associated with lipid traits were extracted. Summary-data-based MR and inverse-variance-weighted MR (IVW-MR) were used to investigate the correlation between the expression of these drug-target genes and ADHD.

Results:

After rigorous screening, 939 instrumental variables were finally included for univariable mendelian randomization analysis. However, there is no correlation between lipid profile and ADHD risk. Drug target analysis by IVW-MR method observed that APOB-mediated low-density lipoprotein cholesterol was associated with lower ADHD risk (odds ratio [ OR] = 0.90, 95% confidence interval [CI] [0.84, 0.97]; p = .007), whereas LPL-mediated triglycerides levels were associated with a higher risk of ADHD ( OR = 1.13, 95% CI [1.06, 1.21]; p < .001).

Conclusion:

Our results suggest that APOB gene and LPL gene may be candidate drug target genes for the treatment of ADHD.
Safety Assessment of Butyrospermum parkii (Shea)-Derived Ingredients as Used in Cosmetics
Authors: Burnett Christina L. , Bergfeld Wilma F. , Belsito Donald V. , Hill Ronald A. , Klaassen Curtis D. , Liebler Daniel C. , Marks James G. , Shank Ronald C. , Slaga Thomas J. , Snyder Paul W. , Fiume Monice , Heldreth Bart
Published: January 2024

The Expert Panel for Cosmetic Ingredient Safety (Panel) assessed the safety of 13 Butyrospermum parkii (shea)-derived ingredients, which are most frequently reported to function in cosmetics as skin and hair conditioning agents. The Panel reviewed the available data to determine the safety of these ingredients. Because final product formulations may contain multiple botanicals, each containing similar constituents of concern, formulators are advised to be aware of these constituents and to avoid reaching levels that may be hazardous to consumers. Industry should use good manufacturing practices to limit impurities that could be present in botanical ingredients. The Panel concluded that these ingredients are safe in the present practices of use and concentration when formulated to be non-sensitizing.