bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Preparation and performance of a novel mixed-matrix membrane supported on porous substrate for CH4/N2 separation
Authors: Liang Yuntao , Wang Yongjing , Feng Wenbin , Xu Jingkai , Xiao Wei
Published: October 2024

Coalbed methane enrichment is crucial for improving energy efficiency and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Membrane separation technology shows significant potential for efficient CH4/N2 separation, making membrane material design a key research focus. Metal-organic framework-based mixed-matrix membranes have attracted much attention due to its good comprehensive performances and superior development potential. However, the balance between gas permeability and selectivity in membranes still needs further improvement. In this study, a novel supported mixed-matrix membrane with Ni-MOF-74 as the functional fillers and SBS polymer as the matrix material was fabricated by a simple dip-coating method, in which Al2O3 porous tube was used as the substrate. This strategy can significantly enhance CH4 permeability while maintaining or improving CH4/N2 permeation selectivity. Results show that porous substrate exhibits good compatibility with the polymer-filler composite separation layer. The ratio of SBS polymer to Ni-MOF-74 particles has a significant impact on the comprehensive performances of the membrane. The as-fabricated SBS/Ni-MOF-74 membrane with 10% Ni-MOF-74 loading displays superior morphology and excellent CH4 permeation performance. Pure CH4 and N2 permeation tests indicate that the optimized membrane exhibits a high CH4 permeability of 66.4 Barrer, which is about 1.5 times higher than that of pure SBS membrane. It has an ideal CH4/N2 selectivity of 3.5, greatly exceeding the 1.6 selectivity of SBS membrane. This improvement can be attributed to the differences in diffusion and solubility coefficients of CH4 and N2 in the membrane. Moreover, this membrane exhibits relatively stable gas permeability and selectivity under different pressure differentials. Therefore, the membrane developed in this study exhibits excellent mechanical and gas permeation properties, showing potential applications in methane enrichment.
Mechanisms of psilocybin on the treatment of posttraumatic stress disorder
Authors: Choi Charles , Johnson Danica E , Chen-Li David , Rosenblat Joshua
Published: October 2024

Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a condition that can develop after a traumatic event, causing distressing symptoms, including intrusive re-experiencing symptoms, alterations in mood and cognition, and changes in arousal and reactivity. Few treatment options exist for patients who find conventional psychotherapy and pharmacotherapy to be inaccessible, ineffective, or intolerable. We explore psilocybin as a potential treatment option for PTSD by examining the neurobiology of PTSD as well as psilocybin’s mechanism of action. Based on both pharmacodynamic and psychoanalytic principles, psilocybin may be an underexplored treatment option for patients with PTSD, though further research is required.
N-succinyl chitosan–oxidized hyaluronic acid–calcium chloride hydrogel as hemostatic agent
Authors: Widiyanti Prihartini , Pratama Wahyu Addin
Published: October 2024

This study aims to develop an effective hemostatic agent in the management of irregular and deep wounds that can accelerate the hemostatic process. The background revealed the importance of rapid treatment of bleeding, with data showing a significant risk of death from blood loss. Current treatments use conventional hemostatic dressings, but they are less effective on irregular surgical wounds. Several studies have developed chitosan, hyaluronic acid, and CaCl2-based hydrogels that have hemostatic, regenerative, and antibacterial potential. However, there is still a need to develop hydrogels that are thermally stable, biocompatible, and able to accelerate the hemostatic process. This research will synthesize self-healing hydrogels by modifying the structure of chitosan and hyaluronic acid, using a certain ratio of ingredients. The research procedure was carried out with the preparation of N-succinyl chitosan (NSC) and oxidized hyaluronic acid (OHA) as the main ingredients which were then added with CaCl2 to produce self-healing injectable hydrogel. First, NSC and OHA were dissolved in phosphate buffer solution (pH = 7.4 PBS) to obtain 60 mg/mL NSC and OHA solution respectively. Calcium chloride was then dissolved in water to obtain 120 mg/mL CaCl2 solution. Then NSC-OHA-CaCl2-based hydrogels were synthesized through rapid and full solution mixing above room temperature with the composition of (1-1-0.1; 1-1-0.2; and 1-1-0.3). The targeted findings of this research are sample characterization results that explain and prove the best NSC-OHA-CaCl2 composition variation that can be used as a hemostatic agent for irregular and deep wounds. The results of the analysis obtained FTIR test data with the formation of C = N functional groups in the four samples; blood clotting time test for sample K0, K1, K2, and K3 with time 4.6, 3.33, 2.66, and 1 s; MTT assay with cell viability percentage of 77.82% for sample K0, 84.18% for sample K1, 89.30% for sample K2, and 89.50% for sample K3; hemolysis index percentage of 0.373% for sample K0, 0.555% for sample K1, 0.625% for sample K2, and 0.201% for sample K3; Viscosity test obtained data of 13 dPa s for sample K0, 15 dPa s for sample K1, 16 dPa s for sample K2, and 18 dPa. The injectability test yielded an injectability percentage of 96.84% for sample K0, 95.03% for sample K1, 94.78% dPa s for sample K2, and 94.61% for sample K3; the DSC test results of the four samples obtained a transition peak at the exothermic peak of 62.27°C for sample K0, 70.23°C for sample K1, 73.77°C for sample K2, and 74.49°C for sample K3; and the characteristic graph of the TGA test results, the weight profile of the hydrogel during heating which showed a mass change of 21.64 mg in sample K0, 16.89 mg in sample K1, 15.37 mg in sample K2, and 11.43 mg in sample K3 (°C).
Are New Technologies Empowering Workers? Digital Lean Production and the Reorganization of Work in Manufacturing
Authors: Dupuis Mathieu , Massicotte Alexis
Published: October 2024

While Lean production is the dominant productive system in manufacturing, recent debates over digitalization have given rise to predictions of a new wave of work reorganization with potential benefits for workers. To what extent are Lean production and digitalization making headway in corporations and workplaces, and are they doing so in tandem? The present article argues that contradictions between distinct organizational levels follow the deployment of ‘Digital Lean’ practices. At the corporate level, these principles have spread within firms and managerial beliefs, yet their integration within workplaces has been far from unilateral. An analysis of the aluminum and rubber manufacturing sectors identifies two models of work organization, Empowered Digital Lean and Taylorized Digital Lean systems. The study shows that differences between the two regimes result from differing product markets, production characteristics and levels of workers’ power, while highlighting potential points of resistance for labor.
Comparing health-related quality of life and utility scores of patients undergoing hemodialysis and continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis in Indonesia
Authors: Rokhman M Rifqi , Wardhani Yulia , Partiningrum Dwi Lestari , Purwanto Barkah Djaka , Hidayati Ika Ratna , Idha Arofa , At Thobari Jarir , Postma Maarten J , Boersma Cornelis , van der Schans Jurjen
Published: October 2024

Background

Although both hemodialysis and continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) are covered by national healthcare insurance, 98% of kidney failure disease patients are treated with hemodialysis. This study compared the health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and utility scores of patients receiving hemodialysis and CAPD in Indonesia and determined factors associated with HRQoL and utility scores.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was performed using the Kidney Disease Quality of Life-36 and EQ-5D-5L instruments at six hospitals. Utility scores were presented as SF-6D and EQ-5D scores. Factors associated with the EQ-5D were evaluated using Tobit regressions due to ceiling effects, while the SF-6D and HRQoL were assessed using generalized linear models since the data were not normally distributed.

Results

Among the 613 patients, 76% were treated with hemodialysis. After adjusting for sociodemographic characteristics and clinical parameters, CAPD patients reported better HRQoL compared to hemodialysis patients in terms of the SF-6D ( p = .038), mental component summary ( p = .020), symptoms ( p = .005), and effects of kidney disease ( p<.001), but no significant differences were reported in EQ-5D ( p = .083), physical component summary ( p = .323), burden of kidney disease ( p = .111), and kidney summary scores ( p = .068). Poorer HRQoL and utility scores were likely experienced by older patients who were male, married, with diabetes, treated in Class A hospitals, and with lower education, hemoglobin, and albumin levels.

Conclusion

In Indonesia, patients treated with CAPD had better HRQoL and utility scores compared to patients undergoing hemodialysis. Therefore, CAPD should be promoted by healthcare professionals as the first treatment option for patients who are eligible for both hemodialysis and CAPD.
Comparison studies on acoustic behaviour of natural fibre-reinforced polymer matrix composites
Authors: Pitchumani Shenbaga Velu , Perianayaghi Ajay Manivasakan , Bharathi Bindu Srinivasan , Gopalan Venkatachalam , Sampath Aravindh , Loganathan Thozhuvur Govindaraman
Published: October 2024

In recent decades, innovation has played a role in the growth of many fields, and one such field is acoustics application. Acoustical techniques with natural fibres, fibre-based materials and composite materials may imply a significant environmental responsibility. Such natural fibre-based composites are recognized and proposed as a replacement for synthetic fibre composites for reasons such as being highly secure, consistent, and unaffected by human health and the environment. This paper deals with the acoustic behaviour of three kinds of natural fibres namely coir, banana and palm reinforced in epoxy resin aiming to replace pure plastics or synthetic fibre-reinforced composites with similar acoustic properties. Such attempts make them a relatively greener alternative. The study employs an impedance tube method to experimentally analyze the sound absorption properties of these composites. This method involves measuring the sound absorption coefficient, which is a critical parameter in assessing the acoustic performance of materials. The combination of 75 μm fibre size and 5 wt.% banana fibre results in very high frequencies and a severe reduction in noise coefficient. This is noticed at the maximum sound absorption coefficient of 0.604, which is the highest possible value. The findings also suggest that the experimental combination of 225 μm fibre size and 5 wt.% coir fibre in a sound absorption coefficient of 0.531 while the combination of 75 μm fibre size and 3 wt.% palm fibre yields a sound absorption coefficient of 0.345. These results demonstrate the potential of natural fibre-based composites to offer acoustic properties similar to synthetic fibre composites. In general, the findings indicate that the banana fibre-filled reinforced composite is an outstanding material that has the potential to be utilized in a variety of industries, such as aircraft and mitigation, where the lightweight and acoustic qualities are of major significance.
Evaluation of multiple residual stress components in a thick welded joint using extended contour method
Authors: Yan Yi , Liu Chuan , Li Chaowen , Wang Jinlong , Yue Minjie , Wang Jianxin
Published: October 2024

The conventional contour method (CM) needs multiple cuts at different locations to obtain the multiple components of residual stress in a specimen. To improve the convectional CM, an extended CM was proposed in the present study to determine the multiple stress components in a thick butt-welded joint without cutting at different locations. First, the longitudinal residual stress in the specimen was measured with the CM, then a thin slice was cut from the after-cut specimen, and the remaining transverse stress in the slice was measured with the X-ray diffraction method and the released transverse stress of the slice was constructed by the finite element analysis (FEA), and finally, the transverse stress on the same cross-section was obtained by the superposition of the remaining and the released transverse stresses on the slice. A two-cut CM was also carried out to get the transverse stress along the weld line center. The stress distribution characteristics of the specimen and the release extent of the transverse stress in the slice were discussed. The results show that the extended CM can evaluate the original biaxial residual stresses on a cross-section without multiple cuts at different locations. The transverse stress distribution trend obtained by the extended CM is close to that from the two-cut CM. Without considering the compressive stress induced by ultrasonic impact treatment, the longitudinal stress in the weld region is tensile with a maximum value of 550 MPa and the transverse stress at the weld line center is self-equilibrating with a maximum value reaching 552 MPa. Two peaks of tensile longitudinal and transverse stress appear at a certain distance beneath the top and bottom surfaces. When cutting a thin slice with a thickness of 5 mm along the transverse direction from the after-cut specimen, over 82% of the original tensile transverse stresses are retained in the slice.
Effect of heat treatment on the morphology and mechanical properties of the novel Ni-based superalloy with machinability assessment through electrical discharge machining
Authors: Behera Asit , Sahoo Ashok Kumar , Mahapatra Siba Sankar
Published: October 2024

A superalloy is a high-performance alloy used for achieving stability and strength at elevated temperatures. The present work aims at investigating heat treatment characteristics of a single crystal Nickel-based superalloy used in aero turbine blades in order to check any improvement in property at high temperatures. In the current work, the alloy is subjected to heat treatment at various temperatures such as 950 °C, 1000 °C, 1100 °C, 1200 °C and 1300 °C. It is found that as aging temperature increases the γ’ precipitates diffuse between themselves and form larger cuboidal γ’ (Gamma prime) structures in the superalloy matrix. The larger γ’ phase indicates higher creep strength of the superalloy. Again, through electrical discharge machining, process parameters such as voltage gap (Vg), pulse on time (Ton) and flushing pressure (Fp) are chosen to determine the tool wear rate (TWR), material removal rate (MRR) and surface roughness (SR) of the superalloy. RSM (response surface methodology) along with GRA (grey-relational analysis) is adopted in order to design a model and optimize the process parameters. It is observed that Vg has the most significant effect on the machining process as a whole. It is experimentally validated that Vg of 80 V, Ton of 100 µs, and Fp of 0.5758 kg/mm2 bear the optimal values for the multi-responses. The predicted optimized results of TWR, MRR, SR and grey-relational grade are well fitted with optimized experimental values having a percentage of error <5%.
How much for whom? Explaining preferences for welfare benefits to short-time workers and the unemployed
Authors: Kalleitner Fabian , Schlogl Lukas , Bobzien Licia
Published: October 2024

In response to labour-market crises, governments routinely adopt ‘short-time’ work schemes which supplement the incomes of workers who might otherwise be laid off. Such schemes increase the number of welfare recipients but could also lead to increased competition among different types of welfare claimants. We draw on data from an online panel survey fielded in Austria during the COVID-19 pandemic (2020–2022) to study individual preferences for financially supporting both short-time workers and the unemployed. We find that individuals prefer higher welfare benefits for low-income recipients and for those on short-time work compared to high-income recipients and those in unemployment. While we find cross-sectionally that these differences are related to individuals’ socio-economic position, we do not find longitudinal evidence that people adapt their preferences following switches in and out of different benefit programmes. Focusing on social beliefs as drivers of preferences, we find that negative attitudes towards the unemployed decrease preferences targeted at low income-earners. We conclude that long-term individual characteristics and attitudes rather than short-term changes in circumstances remain central to explaining benefit preferences under a dualised welfare regime during a labour-market crisis.
The Impact of Tobacco Use on Weight Loss During a Peer-Led Healthy Lifestyle Intervention for People With Serious Mental Illness Living in Permanent Supportive Housing
Authors: Hawes Mark R. , Park Michael , Cabassa Leopoldo J.
Published: October 2024

Purpose: Over 50% of people with serious mental illness (SMI) smoke cigarettes. This study evaluated whether tobacco use impacted weight loss outcomes during a peer-led healthy lifestyle intervention (PGLB) for people with SMI living in permanent supportive housing (PSH). Method: Data from an effectiveness trial of PGLB examined whether baseline tobacco use moderated the effectiveness of the intervention compared to usual care (UC) in helping participants lose weight. PGLB was conducted in three sites in two U.S. cities between 2015 and 2018. Results: 63% of participants were current cigarette smokers. Smoking did not moderate the effect of the intervention. However, baseline tobacco use predicted greater weight loss ( b = −4.1, p = .022) over the course of the trial, regardless of treatment group. Discussion: Tobacco use was a significant driver of weight loss for study participants. Findings have implications for offering tobacco cessation treatment during healthy lifestyle interventions for people with SMI.
Reliability of Variables of Consonant Production and Velopharyngeal Competence in 10-year-olds with Cleft Palate Using Multiple Raters
Authors: Klintö Kristina , Schaar Johansson Malin , Andersson Magdalena , Gällstedt Caroline , Lindberg Cecilia , Nelli Cecilia , Okhiria Åsa
Published: October 2024

Objective

To assess the reliability of speech data and speech-related quality indicators in the Swedish quality registry for cleft lip and palate (CLP) at 10 years of age.

Design

Retrospective study.

Setting

University hospitals.

Participants

One hundred twenty-one 10-year-olds with unilateral or bilateral CLP.

Main outcome measures

Six independent raters reassessed audio recordings for comparison with registry data. For calculation of agreement, the single measures intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) was used for percentage of consonants correct (PCC) and non-oral speech errors, quadratic weighted kappa for velopharyngeal competence (VPC), and percentage agreement and kappa for quality indicators. The results of the three to four raters with the highest intra-rater and inter-rater reliability were used for comparison with registry data.

Results

There was excellent agreement between registry data and reassessments for PCC (ICC, 0.93) and percentage of non-oral errors (ICC, 0.80). For VPC, one rater and registry data had good agreement (k, 0.704); the remaining cases had fair agreement (k, 0.476-0.554). The percentage agreement between registry data and reassessments for quality indicators ranged from fair to excellent. When calculated with kappa, agreement was good to excellent (mean of all k values, 0.67-0.70).

Conclusions

The CLP registry variables PCC and percentage of non-oral errors and the quality indicators without non-oral speech errors and competent/marginally incompetent velopharyngeal function are reliable for use in clinical audits and research of 10-year-olds. The three-tier ratings of VPC have weaker reliability but can still be useful in more detailed analyses if interpreted with caution.
Automatic Landmark Annotation and Measurement of 3D Mandibular Morphology Using Non-Rigid Registration: A Preliminary Exploration and Accuracy Assessment
Authors: Chen Zhewei , Lei Bowen , Li Binghang , Ma Hengyuan , Zhong Yehong
Published: October 2024

This study aimed to develop an automatic methodology for mandibular landmarking and measurement using non-rigid registration as well as analyze the accuracy of automatic landmarking and measurements.

Statistical analysis.

Digital technology center, tertiary hospital.

130 healthy Chinese adults with equal gender distribution, average age 28.2 ± 5.6 years.

Four mean shape mesh templates were generated from 100 head CT scans. Following manual indication of landmarks, these templates were applied for automatic landmark annotation and measurements on mandibles from another 30 head CT scans, using non-rigid iterative closest point registration.

Differences of landmark coordinates and measurements between automatic and manual annotation were analyzed using mean difference, centroid size, Euclidean distances and intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC), assessing the accuracy and validity of automatic landmark annotation.

The majority of automatic landmarks (16/22) did not exhibit consistent displacement to specific direction. ICCs of all landmark coordinates exceed 0.950, with 87.9% larger than 0.990. The average Euclidean distance between manual and automatic landmarks was 2.038 ± 0.947 mm. Most ICCs of linear and angular measurements between manual and automatic annotation (20/26) exceeded 0.900, with the average errors being 1.425 ± 0.973 mm and 2.257 ± 0.649 °, respectively.

A novel and efficient method for automatic landmark annotation was established based on non-rigid registration. Its credibility and accuracy in mandibular annotation and measurements were demonstrated.
Case Report: Extramedullary Hematopoiesis in the Prostate
Authors: Fisher Lucas A.B. , Baniak Nicholas
Published: October 2024

Extramedullary hematopoiesis is the physiological process of hematopoiesis occurring outside of the bone marrow and is an extremely rare occurrence in the prostate, with only 1 previously documented report in the English literature. We present a specimen from a 56-year-old man who was found to have a palpable nodule on digital rectal examination and visible findings on ultrasound, confirmed to be extramedullary hematopoiesis on the prostate core.
Nephrogenic Adenoma: A Pitfall on Frozen Section of Urethral Strictures
Authors: Oberc Alexander M. , Sherman Christopher , Downes Michelle R.
Published: October 2024

Urethral strictures are a common cause of urinary obstruction which can be treated with surgical resection. Frozen sections are rare and pose a diagnostic challenge to pathologists due to the presence of benign lesions such as nephrogenic adenoma. We retrospectively examined all specimens of urethral stricture resections submitted to pathology at our institution from 2012 to 2022 (n = 258). Final pathology reports were searched to identify patients with dysplasia, carcinoma, or nephrogenic adenoma. When available, frozen section reports were also examined and compared to the final report, and additional clinical history and microscopic images were collected for patients with nephrogenic adenoma. Nephrogenic adenoma was identified in 3.8% (10/258) of urethral stricture resections. Dysplasia was identified in one patient who underwent two separate resections, and squamous cell carcinoma was found in one resection. Intraoperative frozen section was requested in 3.4% of resections (9/258). In two resections, an initial diagnosis of squamous cell carcinoma was initially favoured, however when reviewed with a genitourinary pathologist the diagnosis was changed to “reactive process” with a final diagnosis of nephrogenic adenoma. Nephrogenic adenoma can be challenging on frozen section due to variable architectural patterns, inflammation, and reactive changes. While urethral strictures are relatively common, their assessment by frozen section is rare and pathologists may lack familiarity with the variable morphology of benign entities that can be seen on frozen section resulting in their misinterpretation. We highlight this potential diagnostic pitfall and demonstrate the value of a second opinion prior to definitive frozen section diagnosis of malignancy.
Exclusion of ranitidine from premedication regimen during paclitaxel treatment: A retrospective single-center analysis
Authors: Iglesias-Santamaría Araceli
Published: October 2024

Introduction

To minimize the risk of hypersensitivity reactions (HSRs) caused by paclitaxel infusion, premedication with corticosteroid, H1-antagonist and H2 antagonist (ranitidine) was standard of care. Discontinuation of ranitidine in 2020 led to adjustments in premedication regimens and a new regimen without ranitidine was implemented in our center. This study aimed to compare the incidence of HSRs during paclitaxel treatment of a standard premedication regimen including ranitidine with a new premedication regimen without ranitidine and with a titrated infusion rate during the first two administrations.

Methods

Retrospective data analysis was performed on two cohorts of adult patients with solid tumors who started treatment with paclitaxel and received a premedication regimen with and without ranitidine over the years 2021 and 2023 respectively (before and after ranitidine withdrawal). Univariable and multivariable logistic regression models were used to investigate any associations with H2 antagonist treatment adjusting for confounding variables.

Results

A total of 319 patients were included. 158 patients received the standard premedication regimen with ranitidine compared to 161 patients who did not received ranitidine. HSRs were observed in 10 of 1101 administrations of paclitaxel (0,90%) in ranitidine group compared to 2 of 899 (0,22%) in the ranitidine-free cohort (p = 0.048). Analysis incidence per patient also found results with statistically significant differences: 5.7% (9 of 158 patients) in the ranitidine cohort compared to 1.2% (2 of 161 patients) in the ranitidine-free cohort (p = 0.029).

Conclusions

The results of the study show the effectiveness of a premedication regimen including only dexchlorpherinamine and dexamethasone, along with a titrated infusion rate during the first two administrations, in reducing the incidence of paclitaxed-induced HSRs.
Sufrimiento psicosocial en trabajadoras migrantes latinoamericanas en tareas de cuidados en España y Alemania, durante la pandemia de COVID-19
Authors: Abanto Ramos Ivette Alejandra , Díaz Bermúdez Ximena Pamela Claudia , Goldberg Alejandro
Published: October 2024

In the context of international migration, many migrant women face an overload of care work for other people, corroborating a lack of adequate care and protection for them, which places them in vulnerable situations and at risk of suffering psychosocial harm. emotional and physical to your health. This is aggravated in the scenario of the COVID-19 pandemic, considering the structural social inequalities that have deepened to unsustainable limits for the subaltern sectors of societies, where Latin American migrant women who work in the field of domestic care of Spain and Germany. In this way, this work seeks to analyze the problem of psychosocial suffering related to care work in migrant Latin American women in Germany and Spain during the COVID-19 pandemic. For this, the integrative review was used as a qualitative synthesis procedure of previous related studies. The importance of this study lies in the fact that there are few studies on the psychosocial health of Latin American migrant women who perform domestic and care work. Some results show that, in this labor niche in Germany and Spain, the identity of women, migrants and Latin Americans, can contribute to unleash psychological and emotional suffering, due to the precarious working conditions to which many submit out of necessity and because of the field. of care to be the first "option", derived mainly from the limited perspectives of labor and social insertion in the country of destination, than from a freely and consciously chosen task.
Earth Rights for the Advancement of a Planetary Health Agenda
Authors: Correa-Salazar Catalina , Marín-Carvajal Isabela , García María Alejandra , Fox Kathleen , Chilton Mariana
Published: October 2024

This article discusses Earth’s Rights as an environmental justice mechanism of reparation, protection, and justice for indigenous communities, environmental defenders, and other populations in Latin America. We argue that Earth’s rights encompass and include the right to health and can be integrated into international human rights frameworks to protect all forms of life, responding to colonial legacies of discrimination and violence. We respond to the scarcity of literature discussing Earth’s rights in relation to situations where human rights and Earth’s rights are violated. We ground our argument in the theoretical conceptualization of Latin American proposals of Earth’s rights and its potential for actionable policy approaches that include human health as inevitably interconnected to our planet’s well-being. We address the environmental injustices that affect the right to health and argue that an Earth’s rights framework can support reparations for historically marginalized communities.
A Strategy to Compare Single-Cell RNA Sequencing Data Sets Provides Phenotypic Insight into Cellular Heterogeneity Underlying Biological Similarities and Differences Between Samples
Authors: Wilkinson Dan C , Tallman Elizabeth , Ashraf Mishal , Romer Tatiana Gelaf , Lee Jeehoon , Burnett Benjamin , Bushel Pierre R
Published: October 2024

Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) allows for an unbiased assessment of cellular phenotypes by enabling the extraction of transcriptomic data. An important question in downstream analysis is how to evaluate biological similarities and differences between samples in high dimensional space. This becomes especially complex when there is cellular heterogeneity within the samples. Here, we present scCompare, a computational pipeline for comparison of scRNA-seq data sets. Phenotypic identities from a known data set are transferred onto another data set using correlation-based mapping to average transcriptomic signatures from each cluster of cells’ annotated phenotype. Statistically derived lower cutoffs for phenotype inclusivity allow for cells to be unmapped if they are distinct from the known phenotypes, facilitating potential novel cell type detection. In a comparison of our tool using scRNA-seq data sets from human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs), we show that scCompare outperforms single-cell variational inference (scVI) in higher precision and sensitivity for most of the cell types. scCompare was used on a cardiomyocyte data set where it confirmed the discovery of a distinct cluster of cells that differed between the 2 protocols for differentiation. Further use of scCompare on cell atlas data sets revealed insights into the cellular heterogeneity underpinning biological diversity between samples. In addition, we used a cell atlas to better understand the effect of key parameters used in the scCompare pipeline. We envision that scCompare will be of value to the research community when comparing large scRNA-seq data sets.
Cutaneous Collagenous Vasculopathy: A Retrospective Clinical and Histopathologic Analysis of 34 Cases
Authors: Aristizabal Miguel A. , Sokumbi Olayemi
Published: October 2024

Background:

Cutaneous collagenous vasculopathy (CCV) is a rare acquired microangiopathy that commonly affects middle-aged, fair-skinned individuals. It presents with telangiectatic lesions involving the lower extremities. Histologic analysis is mandatory for diagnosis.

Objectives:

To describe and characterize the patients diagnosed with CCV at the Mayo Clinic.

Methods:

A multicenter retrospective observational analysis was performed on patients with a clinical and histological diagnosis of CCV at the Mayo Clinic in Florida, Arizona, and Rochester from January 2000 to October 2023.

Results:

The study included 34 patients, 22 (64.7%) females. The median age at diagnosis was 52 years (range, 12-80 years). CCV lesions were found to affect the lower extremities in 29 (85.3%) patients, followed by the trunk in 14 (41.2%). Nineteen (55.9%) patients presented 1 concomitant medical condition, 8 (23.5%) 2 conditions, and 5 (14.7%) 3 or more medical conditions, such as arterial hypertension 10 (29.4%), type 2 diabetes mellitus 3 (8.8%), hyperlipidemia 3 (8.8%), cardiac disease 3 (8.8%), and hematologic malignancy 3 (8.8%). Thirty-one patients (91.2%) were taking medications, with 19 (55.9%) taking 3 or more. Pathology staining revealed periodic acid-Schiff positivity in 23 of 34 cases (67.6%), and collagen IV in 26 of 34 cases (47.1%). Treatments included pulsed dye laser 3 (8.8%) and topical sirolimus 1 (2.9%).

Conclusions:

CCV is an uncommon microangiopathy that affects pediatric, middle-aged, and elderly patients. It involves the lower extremities, trunk, and upper extremities. Patients often present with associated metabolic and cardiovascular conditions and are usually taking at least 1 medication. Treatment options are limited.
Entrepreneurship orientation toward adoption of Metaverse: An MSME entrepreneur perspective
Authors: Sundararajan Rajeswari , Menon Preetha , Jayakrishnan Balaji , Shah Prutha
Published: October 2024

Metaverse will be a game-changer for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in the coming years. Despite its benefits, the entrepreneur's orientation and perception of its usefulness play an essential role in determining its adoption and usage. This study examines the behavioral factors influencing MSMEs’ decisions to integrate Metaverse into their businesses. Additionally, this study investigates MSME entrepreneurs’ perceptions of this new technology and determines the influence of these perceptions on Metaverse adoption. Using the five-dimensional entrepreneurship orientation scale (FDEOS) and parts of the Technology Adoption Model (TAM) as the primary constructs, a survey was conducted among 384 MSMEs. Structural equation modeling was used to analyze the direct effects of FDEOS and the mediating relationship between perceived usefulness and ease of use on the intention to adopt the Metaverse by these MSMEs. Findings reveal the critical dimensions of entrepreneurship orientation that would determine the adoption of the Metaverse. The mediating effects also have significant and interesting results. This study helps segment MSMEs based on their entrepreneur's orientation toward the Metaverse. Platform developers, strategists, and marketers would highly benefit from this study, which provides empirical evidence for MSME user adoption of Metaverse services.
Rational voting behaviour accounting for heterogeneous ballots in British elections
Authors: Mauerer Ingrid , Walter Annemarie
Published: October 2024

The most analysed choice situation by electoral researchers is at the ballot box. In partially contested elections, such as in Britain or Spain, voters cannot vote for all parties in every region or constituency. We present a modelling approach to study rational voting behaviour that integrates such heterogeneous ballots and takes voting for the numerous parties therein seriously. The empirical application to the 2015 British Election demonstrates substantial insights not found when neglecting ballot composition heterogeneity or applying existing approaches.
Corrosion behaviours and prediction of pipeline steels in natural gas field produced water
Authors: Liu Jie , Guo Yongqiang , Yan Ruifeng , Tan Jun , Jiang Chengyin , Li Qiongwei
Published: October 2024

Many potential risks to gas field gathering pipelines stem from CO2 corrosion. This study investigates the impact of CO2 partial pressure, fluid velocity and total pressure on the corrosion rate of carbon steel pipelines. The corresponding corrosion morphology and corrosion product compositions are explored. A grey relational analysis is performed based on the three chosen factors and determined through an orthogonal experiment. The weight of corrosion factors follows the order of CO2 partial pressure > total pressure > liquid velocity. Introducing a multiple linear regression approach, a dedicated model for predicting corrosion rates of gathering pipelines is built based on modified DW 95 model, which prediction accuracy is remarkably improved.
Drinking from the fountain of youth for mTOR-related epilepsy
Authors: Wong Jennifer C.
Published: October 2024

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Readability Level of Spanish Language Online Health Information: A Systematic Review
Authors: Aponte Judith , Tejada Karen , Figueroa Kelin
Published: October 2024

Introduction: Because there is limited online health information in Spanish and it is critical to raise health literacy among Spanish-speaking people, it is essential to assess the readability level of Spanish material. Method: This systematic review included all articles published up to January 3, 2024, and used the CINAHL, MEDLINE, and PubMed databases. The objective was to include the body of knowledge on published articles on the readability levels of Spanish-language, web-based health information intended for lay audiences. Results: There were 27 articles in the final review. Within these articles, 11 tools were used in the Spanish language text. Of the tools, INFLESZ was the most frequently used and the FRY formula, Flesch-Szigriszt Index, and Flesch Formula Index were least used. Most materials (85.2%) reported readability levels of online Spanish information above the 8th grade reading level. Conclusions: The findings show the lack of internet-based Spanish language health information and materials at a recommended (e.g., 5th to 8th grade) reading level. More research is needed to determine which readability tests are more accurate for calculating the readability of Spanish web health information.
Latine Immigrant Perspectives on Trust of Clinical Research
Authors: Tzelios Christine , Velasco Margarita , Saadi Altaf
Published: October 2024

Introduction: Medical mistrust impedes minority group participation in research, but there are few studies assessing determinants of Latine immigrants’ trust in the clinical research enterprise. This qualitative study explored Latine immigrants’ perspectives of clinical research. Methods: We conducted telephonic interviews with 20 Latine immigrants receiving care at a Federally Qualified Health Center in Los Angeles, California. Interviews were conducted between December 2021 and April 2022, and resultant data were coded using thematic analysis. Results: Six main themes emerged across two domains. First, trust was influenced by perceptions of the investigators’ intentions. These perceptions were primarily based on (1) adequacy of information provided about the research, (2) perceived intent of investigators to respect their humanity, and (3) opportunities to share personal experiences. Second, trust was influenced by perceptions of the study's potential impact, including (4) risk of adverse outcomes, including health risks and risk of immigration status exposure, (5) perceived personal benefits, and (6) perceived community-level benefits. Conclusion: Researchers can build trust and promote participation among Latine immigrants by effectively communicating study objectives, risk mitigation efforts, and personal and community benefits. Enhancing the trustworthiness of clinical research can increase the relevance of scientific findings, representing one pathway to achieving health equity.
Screening of the Combined Risk of Genetics and Epidemiology on Infertility Among Indian Men: Synergistic Effect of AZFc Partial Deletions and Habits of Smokeless Chewing Tobacco
Authors: Dutta Saurav , Paladhi Pranab , Pal Samudra , Srimani Souvik , Bose Gunja , Ghosh Papiya , Chattopadhyay Ratna , Ghosh Sujay
Published: October 2024

The AZFc partial deletions of Y chromosome and lifestyle/epidemiological factors such as the use of smokeless chewing tobacco (SCT) exhibit intriguing variations in their association with male infertility across the population, ethnicity, and genetic background. Here, a pioneering attempt has been made to elucidate the interactions of such deletions with the habits of SCT consumption among the participating individuals, using their large epidemiological data. This screening program was conducted among Bengali-speaking men in West Bengal, India. We screened the prevalence and association of distinct partial deletions (gr/gr, b1/b3, and b2/b3) of the AZFc region using locus-specific sequence-tagged site (STS) markers among 728 case subjects and compared them with 264 ethnicity- and age-matched proven-fertile control men. The recorded epidemiological data of the study group and the outcome of partial deletion analysis were compiled to frame the plausible Gene × Epidemiological factor (G × E) interactions. The gr/gr deletion was reported to be significantly associated with azoospermic ( p = .0015, odds ratio [OR] = 3.413) and oligozoospermic ( p = .0382, OR = 3.012) case subgroups, and b1/b3 deletions were also detected among the infertile persons only. The G × E model revealed that men who carried microdeletions as well as were SCT users had an elevated risk of infertility ( p = .002, OR = 6.38). The study highlights the fact that AZFc partial deletions and SCT, when co-occurred, synergistically increase the risk of infertility among men. This work helps to get more insight into the etiology of male infertility in the light of gene–environmental interaction.
Characterizations and practical applications of off-feet conditioning interval training in open skill sports
Authors: Rogers Timothy , Gill Nicholas , Beaven Christopher M
Published: October 2024

The high intensity of training to improve performance in open skill sports such as team invasion and combat sports can have potential negative effects. As a result non-specific forms of training collectively called Off-Feet Conditioning (OFC) have been used to mitigate the possible impact of training. This study conducted a survey of active practitioners in open skill sports into the use of OFC. There were 158 respondents from 16 countries, with an average experience of 11.5 ± 7.6 y experience working with open skill sports. Questions were divided into five categories: responder information implementation, perceived effectiveness, equipment selection and an applicable definition of OFC. A high percentage of respondents employ OFC methods in their typical training programs in conjunction with traditional run-based training. Typically respondents used OFC methods twice per week. While OFC is most commonly used for aerobic development, research suggests that OFC may also be used to improve other areas of physical performance. Short-interval training (15–60 s) are most frequently prescribed method of OFC and is typically used to target aerobic adaptations. Electronic ergometers, or “cardio equipment” were the most commonly used category of equipment, with cycle ergometers were the most commonly used form of OFC. Based on survey responses, we propose that OFC can be defined as “any non-running or non-impact training designed to reduce load and improve physical performance”. This definition will differentiate OFC from the broader term “cross-training” which may include skill and tactical transfer from one sport to another.
Hormone receptor status influences the impact of body mass index and hyperglycemia on the risk of tumor relapse in early-stage HER2-positive breast cancer patients
Authors: Ligorio Francesca , Zambelli Luca , Bottiglieri Achille , Castagnoli Lorenzo , Zattarin Emma , Lobefaro Riccardo , Ottini Arianna , Vingiani Andrea , Pupa Serenella M. , Bianchi Giulia V. , Capri Giuseppe , Pruneri Giancarlo , de Braud Filippo , Vernieri Claudio
Published: October 2024

Background:

High body mass index (BMI) has been associated with worse clinical outcomes in patients with early-stage breast cancer (BC), and its negative effects could be mediated by hyperglycemia/diabetes. However, the prognostic impact of high BMI in early-stage HER2-positive (HER2+) BC patients remains controversial.

Methods:

We conducted a retrospective study to investigate the impact of baseline BMI or glycemia on relapse-free survival (RFS) and overall survival (OS) in patients with surgically resected, stage I–III HER2+ BC treated with standard-of-care, trastuzumab-containing adjuvant biochemotherapy. The optimal BMI and glycemia cut-off values for RFS were identified through maximally selected rank statistics. Cox regression models were used to assess the impact of BMI, glycemia and other relevant variables on clinical outcomes.

Results:

Among 505 patients included in the study, a BMI cut-off of 27.77 kg/m2 was identified as the best threshold to discriminate between patients with low BMI ( n = 390; 77.2%) or high BMI ( n = 115; 22.8%). At multivariable analysis, higher BMI was associated with significantly worse RFS [hazard ratio 2.26; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.08–4.74, p = 0.031] and worse OS (hazard ratio 2.25, 95% CI 1.03–4.94, p = 0.043) in the whole patient population. The negative impact of high BMI was only observed in patients with hormone receptor (HR)-negative/HER2+ BC (hazard ratio 2.29; 95% CI: 1.01–5.20; p = 0.047), but not in patients with HR-positive (HR+)/HER2+ BC (hazard ratio 1.36; 95% CI: 0.61–3.07, p = 0.452). By contrast, hyperglycemia (⩾109 mg/dl) at baseline was associated with a trend toward significantly worse RFS at multivariable analysis only in patients with HR+/HER2+ BC (hazard ratio 2.52; 95% CI: 0.89–7.1; p = 0.080).

Conclusions:

High BMI is associated with worse clinical outcomes in early-stage HR−/HER2+ BC patients treated with trastuzumab-containing adjuvant biochemotherapy, while baseline hyperglycemia could be a predictor of worse RFS in HR+/HER2+ BC patients. Prospective studies are needed to investigate if modifying patient BMI/glycemia during treatment can improve clinical outcomes.
Gatekeeping in a Digital Media Habitat: The Role of Secondary Gatekeepers
Authors: Pantic Mirjana , Ziek Paul
Published: October 2024

This study analyzed mission statements of mainstream news media in the United States and surveyed news consumers to investigate gatekeeping practices in a contemporary news ecosystem. Data show that news organizations expressed commitment to independence, truth-telling, and crafting news based on readers’ interests. However, the mission statements never mentioned any form of citizens’ active engagement in news creation. Looking into the citizens’ perspective, a survey of 280 participants shows that they primarily expect news organizations to provide opportunities for them to post comments on news and share stories, which is the most common form of “secondary gatekeeping.” Other forms of “secondary gatekeeping,” the practice that allows users to share information others might not be able to see otherwise were less likely to occur, partly because of limitations posed by news organizations as they strive to preserve their authority over information.