bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development of a peptide-generated antibody to rabbit hemorrhagic disease virus 2 VP60 and its immunohistochemical application in natural cases
Authors: Weyna Alisia A.W. , Stilwell Natalie K. , Anders Rachel , McHale Brittany , McManamon Rita , Howerth Elizabeth W.
Published: August 2024

Rabbit hemorrhagic disease virus 2 (RHDV2) has spread across the United States infecting and causing death in domestic and wild rabbits. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) would be a useful tool for the detection of RHDV2 antigen in tissues as it is inexpensive and readily achievable in most diagnostic laboratories. However, there is no readily available antibody for this purpose. To fill this void, we generated an RHDV2 capsid protein VP60–specific antibody in chicken eggs and validated the antibody using formalin-fixed tissues from 5 domestic rabbits naturally infected with RHDV2. Viral antigen was detected immunohistochemically in various tissues, most prominently in hepatocytes and macrophages in liver, and in macrophages in spleen and cecal lymphoid tissue. Intravascular mononuclear cells in lung and renal tubular and biliary epithelium also were immunolabeled. Both nuclear and cytoplasmic immunolabeling were observed. This peptide-generated antibody is a potentially useful tool as an adjunct to reverse-transcription PCR or in situ hybridization for detection of RHDV2 in tissues.
Genotyping of infectious bronchitis virus in Canada
Authors: Ojkic Davor , Susta Leonardo , Martin Emily
Published: August 2024

From 2014–2023, infectious bronchitis virus (IBV) was detected in 6,589 samples from Canada, and partial nucleotide (nt) sequences of the IBV spike protein ( S) gene were determined for 1,678 samples. Based on their S gene nt sequence identities and origin, Canadian IBVs could be classified into 4 groups: 1) 50.3% were variant viruses related to strains described in the United States; 2) 45.6% were vaccine-like viruses; 3) 2.1% were Eurasian viruses; 4) 2.0% were Canadian variants. Outbreaks with IBVs related to strains CAL1734/04, 4/91, and DMV/1639/11 were often associated with more severe disease in all chicken commodity groups. With the emergence of numerous IBV strains, the severity of infection and number of affected flocks increased. Outbreaks with various IBV strains overlapped in their emergence, peaked, and regressed, but the introduction of DMV/1639/11 has resulted in a continuous field challenge since its first detection in 2015.
When Failure Is Not Fatal: Examining Venture Resource Acquisition Following Product Development Failure
Authors: Lahiri Amrita , Baid Chandresh , Sahaym Arvin , Fisher Greg
Published: August 2024

Product development in innovation-driven industries often fails. Although such failures cause new ventures to struggle to raise follow-on investments, some overcome this challenge. Why? Synthesizing insights from the research on signaling and social evaluation theory, we identify how certain resources can mitigate the risk of funding termination for new ventures despite product development failure. Through a longitudinal study of 254 venture capital-funded biotechnology ventures, we show that internal quality signals decrease in their effectiveness while industry endorsement signals increase in their effectiveness as quality signals over time. Our findings contribute to the literatures on entrepreneurial failure, entrepreneurial resource acquisition and signaling.
“Look at You Having Fun With Your Markers in Here!”: Child Life Specialists’ Countering of Infantilizating Narratives in Adult Oncology
Authors: Molinaro Monica L. , Taneja Shipra , Lysecki David L. , McKean Heather , Bainbridge Daryl , Sussman Jonathan , Vanstone Meredith
Published: August 2024

Child life specialists are clinically trained and educated healthcare professionals who work in both healthcare environments and the community to address the needs of ill children and their families. However, child life specialists have previously reported potential for their role, responsibilities, and scope of practice to be misunderstood by their clinical colleagues. Using a narrative methodology, this paper presents the composite narrative of Diane, whose story encompasses the stories of the four child life specialists working in adult oncology environments in Ontario, Canada. Diane’s narrative is a counter-story, which counters common assumptions, beliefs, and attitudes about child life specialists. Through spending significant time narrating the multitude of tasks that are encompassed within her scope of care, Diane reaffirms her identity as a valuable member of an interprofessional adult oncology team and counters infantilizing assumptions that she is merely a babysitter or child entertainer. Her story highlights how, while the introduction of child life specialists to adult healthcare environments is new, the work they do is of great benefit to families and their children. The lack of understanding from clinical colleagues of the role of child life specialists, however, hinders not only the development of relationships between colleagues, but also the care for these families.
The Experience of Phenylketonuria in Pregnancy and the Developing Maternal–Infant Relationship: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Harris Charlotte , Larkin Michael , Walker Anne-Marie , Johnson George
Published: August 2024

Phenylketonuria (PKU) is a rare metabolic condition characterised by an inability to metabolise phenylalanine (Phe), found in many foods. When pregnant with PKU, women must adhere to a strict low-Phe diet. If they do not, foetal abnormalities or pregnancy loss can occur. Pregnancies are therefore closely clinically monitored and dominated by dietary management, leaving little “space” for women’s emotional experience. This article explores the emotional impact of PKU during pregnancy and how this effects pre-natal bonding. Based on interviews with six women with PKU, conducted whilst they were pregnant, this article explores their unusual and previously undocumented experience. Image-making during interviews allowed women to uncover aspects of their experience that might otherwise have remained hidden. Interpretative phenomenological analysis of the transcripts and images generated five themes summarising the women’s experiences. Some themes reiterated findings from previous studies, for example, the huge cognitive burden associated with PKU pregnancies and the importance of both expert and informal support to successful pregnancy management. However, new understanding also emerged, including rich description of the emotional load of these pregnancies and strategies that women use to manage this. Anxiety about baby safety was central to their experiences, and the effect of this on pre-natal bonding was explored. This article calls for increased formal and informal support for women with the emotional aspects of their PKU pregnancies, for example, the creation of “attachment-aware” services that support women with their anxiety, promoting strong pre-natal attachment and subsequently protecting maternal and infant mental health throughout pregnancy and beyond.
Immediate Impact of a Patient-Reported Outcome Measure Visual Dashboard on Cleft lip and Palate Care Provision
Authors: Bushman Nicolette T. , Nguyen Tyler , Incorvia Joseph , Meara John G. , Ganske Ingrid M. , Rogers-Vizena Carolyn
Published: August 2024

Cleft-related Patient Reported Outcome Measure (PROM) results were formatted into graphical displays for children scoring below the 25th percentile on one or more scales. Reports were piloted in a multidisciplinary clinic where providers reviewed them, and their impact was qualitatively recorded. Graphical PROM reports informed discussions, led to treatment plan changes, and raised awareness of unmet psychosocial needs. Because of the success of this quality improvement pilot, visual PROM reports will become a regular part of our multidisciplinary cleft care. More broadly, graphical PROM data display facilitates better understanding of the patient's perspective and leads to more informed visits.
Effect of Immune Thrombocytopenic Purpura Medications on Depression Risk: An Analysis of NHANES Data
Authors: Zheng Feiyue , Yu Zhengwei , Zhang Zhang , Miao Jinli , Wang Wenmin , Wu Jiaying , Rao Yuefeng
Published: August 2024

Background:

Immune thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) in adults typically develops slowly and insidiously. The ITP medications might be linked to psychological disorders, but the connection is not well-understood.

Objective:

This study aimed to examine the association between ITP medication use and the risk of depression among participants in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) from 2005 to 2018.

Methods:

Using data from 70 190 NHANES participants, we conducted a cross-sectional study, excluding individuals under 18 years, with hypertension, HIV, hepatitis C, and various comorbidities. A total of 17 299 individuals were included in the analysis of this study. We identified 2 populations within this study: those using ITP medications, including prednisone, dexamethasone, and rituximab and those not using ITP drugs. Depression status was assessed using the Patient Health Questionnaire–9 (PHQ-9), and the relationship between ITP medication use and depression was analyzed through multivariate logistic regression.

Results:

There was no significant association between ITP medication use and an increased risk of depression after adjusting for demographic and health-related variables. Notably, among the study participants, 1.8% of the non-depressed population were on ITP medication compared with 0.3% in the depressed population. The analysis revealed varying depression risks associated with different sociodemographic factors. For instance, the correlation between ITP medication and depression risk was influenced by a combination of age, race, income, and smoking status.

Conclusion and Relevance:

The study suggests that ITP medication use does not independently increase the risk of depression. This finding is crucial for guiding clinical decisions and managing patient expectations regarding ITP treatment and its psychological impacts.
Aberrant HIF1- α and SIX-1 Expression is Associated with Poor Prognosis in Acute Myeloid Leukemia Patients with Isocitrate Dehydrogenase 1 Mutations
Authors: Ali Tariq , Usman Rohma , Shah Syed Alasar , Parvez Aamir , Anwar Summayya , Muneer Zahid , Saeed Muhammad
Published: August 2024

Background

IDH1 mutations are common in many cancers, however, their role in promoting the Warburg effect remains elusive. This study elucidates the putative involvement of mutant-IDH1 in regulating hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF1-α) and Sine-Oculis Homeobox-1 (SIX-1) expression.

Methodology

Genetic screening was performed using the ARMS-PCR in acute myeloid leukemia (AML), brain, and breast cancer (BC) cohorts, while transcript expression was determined using qPCR. Further, a meta-analysis of risk factors associated with the R132 mutation was performed.

Results

Approximately 32% of AML and ∼60% of glioma cases were mutants, while no mutation was found in the BC cohort. ‘AA’ and TT’ were associated with higher disease risk (OR = 12.18 & 4.68) in AML and had significantly upregulated IDH1 expression. Moreover, downregulated HIF1-α and upregulated SIX-1 expression was also observed in these patients, suggesting that mutant-IDH1 may alter glucose metabolism. Perturbed IDH1 and HIF-α levels exhibited poor prognosis in univariate and multivariate analysis, while age and gender were found to be contributory factors as well. Based on the ROC model, these had a good potential to be used as prognostic markers. A significant variation in frequencies of R132 mutations in AML among different populations was observed. Cytogenesis ( R2 = 12.2%), NMP1 mutation status ( R2 = 18.5%), and ethnic contributions ( R2 = 73.21%) were critical moderators underlying these mutations. Women had a higher risk of R132 mutation (HR = 1.3, P < 0.04). The pooled prevalence was calculated to be 0.29 (95% CI 0.26-0.33, P < 0.01), indicating that IDH1 mutations are a significant prognostic factor in AML.

Conclusion

IDH1 and HIF1-α profiles are linked to poor survival and prognosis, while high SIX-1 expression in IDH1 mutants suggests a role in leukemic transformation and therapy response in AML.
The Sounds of Silence: Making Sense of the Absence of Domestic Violence Victims Help Seeking During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Agevall Gross Lotta , Thulin Johanna , Denvall Verner , Kjellgren Cecilia , Skillmark Mikael
Published: August 2024

Increased concern was raised globally at the outbreak of COVID-19 that victims of domestic violence would be even more at risk when isolated with a violent partner and out of reach of support due to restrictions. Swedish staff in violence against women services prepared for increased calls for help. Instead, a worrying silence arose in a time and place of high uncertainty. This article analyzes the narratology of risk, when staff members in violence against women services, reflect upon their accounts, responses, and experiences, during the pandemic. The analysis is based on three themes, accounting for expected increased influx, making sense of silence and accounting for mobilization. The findings are discussed by applying the relational theory of risk.
Evaluation of oral silymarin formulation efficacy in prevention of doxorubicin induced hepatotoxicity in patients with non-metastatic breast cancer
Authors: Fatemi Shandiz Ashkan , Karimi Gholamreza , Dayyani Mahdiyeh , Hosseini Sare , Elyasi Sepideh
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Chemotherapy-induced hepatotoxicity is a common complication in breast cancer patients, especially with doxorubicin-containing regimens. Liver enzyme abnormality is reported in 34.8% of patients undergoing AC-T regimen and fatty liver is reported in 30% to 50% of cases. Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of silymarin, a polyphenolic flavonoid extract derived from Silybum marianum, may be useful in preventing chemotherapy-induced hepatotoxicity. This study evaluated the effect of oral silymarin for preventing doxorubicin induced hepatotoxicity in non-metastatic breast cancer patients.

Methods

In this triple-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial, 50 patients with non-metastatic breast cancer were assigned to receive either 140 mg silymarin tablets or the placebo three times daily for 63 days and were evaluated for liver function test before the study and at the end of each chemotherapy cycle (every 3 weeks) for 4 cycles. In addition, an ultrasonography assessment was performed upon entry and the end of the study.

Results

Based on ultrasonography, the fatty liver grade was significantly higher in the placebo group at the end of the study. Moreover, the serum levels of aspartate aminotransferase ( p = 0.015) and alkaline phosphatase ( p = 0.004) at 6-week intervals, and the serum level of alkaline phosphatase ( p = 0.002) at 9-week intervals were significantly lower in the silymarin group.

Conclusion

Oral formulation of silymarin 420 mg/day for 63 days significantly prevented hepatotoxicity caused by doxorubicin in patients with non-metastatic breast cancer mostly based on liver ultrasonography but not laboratory parameters. Further investigations are suggested on different doses, durations and formulations of silymarin, particularly nano-formulations for increasing its oral bioavailability.
Evaluating ChatGPT's efficacy and readability to common pediatric ophthalmology and strabismus-related questions
Authors: Ahmed H Shafeeq , Thrishulamurthy Chinmayee J
Published: August 2024

Introduction

The rise in popularity of chatbots, particularly ChatGPT by OpenAI among the general public and its utility in the healthcare field is a topic of present controversy. The current study aimed at assessing the reliability and accuracy of ChatGPT's responses to inquiries posed by parents, specifically focusing on a range of pediatric ophthalmological and strabismus conditions.

Methods

Patient queries were collected via a thematic analysis and posed to ChatGPT 3.5 version across 3 unique instances each. The questions were divided into 12 domains totalling 817 unique questions. All responses were scored on the response quality by two experienced pediatric ophthalmologists in a Likert-scale format. All questions were evaluated for readability using the Flesch-Kincaid Grade Level (FKGL) and character counts.

Results

A total of 638 (78.09%) questions were scored to be perfectly correct, 156 (19.09%) were scored correct but incomplete and only 23 (2.81%) were scored to be partially incorrect. None of the responses were scored to be completely incorrect. Average FKGL score was 14.49 [95% CI 14.4004–14.5854] and the average character count was 1825.33 [95%CI 1791.95–1858.7] with p = 0.831 and 0.697 respectively. The minimum and maximum FKGL scores were 10.6 and 18.34 respectively. FKGL predicted character count, R²=.012, F(1,815) = 10.26, p = .001.

Conclusion

ChatGPT provided accurate and reliable information for a majority of the questions. The readability of the questions was much above the typically required standards for adults, which is concerning. Despite these limitations, it is evident that this technology will play a significant role in the healthcare industry.
Wellness communities and vaccine hesitancy
Authors: Daubs Michael S.
Published: August 2024

This article articulates the intersection of wellness communities and anti-vaccine (‘anti-vax’) groups to demonstrate how vaccine misinformation and pseudoscience can propagate. This misinformation is often pushed by wellness influencers. One recent example is wellness figure Pete Evans, a celebrity chef and self-described ‘qualified health coach’. By 2020, however, Evans had developed anti-vax views and began to promote fake COVID cures, anti-vax misinformation, and COVID conspiracy theories from QAnon. This contribution examines this overlap to demonstrate how wellness influencers spread misinformation that fuel vaccine hesitancy. Evans is just one example; journalists have reported on yoga teachers in California protesting against lockdowns and on wellness influencers claiming that a ‘“shadowy cabal” of scientists and companies’ were responsible for COVID. These examples demonstrate how community intersections can amplify misinformation, pseudoscience and anti-vax views to a motivated and highly receptive audience.
Retinal layer thinning for monitoring disease-modifying treatment in relapsing multiple sclerosis—Evidence for applying a rebaselining concept
Authors: Bsteh Gabriel , Hegen Harald , Krajnc Nik , Föttinger Fabian , Altmann Patrick , Auer Michael , Berek Klaus , Kornek Barbara , Leutmezer Fritz , Macher Stefan , Monschein Tobias , Ponleitner Markus , Rommer Paulus , Schmied Christiane , Zebenholzer Karin , Zulehner Gudrun , Zrzavy Tobias , Deisenhammer Florian , Di Pauli Franziska , Pemp Berthold , Berger Thomas
Published: August 2024

Background:

Employing a rebaselining concept may reduce noise in retinal layer thinning measured by optical coherence tomography (OCT).

Methods:

From an ongoing prospective observational study, we included patients with relapsing multiple sclerosis (RMS), who had OCT scans at disease-modifying treatment (DMT) start (baseline), 6–12 months after baseline (rebaseline), and ⩾12 months after rebaseline. Mean annualized percent loss (aL) rates (%/year) were calculated both from baseline and rebaseline for peripapillary-retinal-nerve-fiber-layer (aLpRNFLbaseline/aLpRNFLrebaseline) and macular-ganglion-cell-plus-inner-plexiform-layer (aLGCIPLbaseline/aLGCIPLrebaseline) by mixed-effects linear regression models.

Results:

We included 173 RMS patients (mean age 31.7 years (SD 8.8), 72.8% female, median disease duration 15 months (12-94) median baseline-to-last-follow-up-interval 37 months (18-71); 56.6% moderately effective DMT (M-DMT), 43.4% highly effective DMT (HE-DMT)). Both mean aLpRNFLbaseline and aLGCIPLbaseline significantly increased in association with relapse (0.51% and 0.26% per relapse, p < 0.001, respectively) and disability worsening (1.10% and 0.48%, p < 0.001, respectively) before baseline, but not with DMT class. Contrarily, neither aLpRNFLrebaseline nor aLGCIPLrebaseline was dependent on relapse or disability worsening before baseline, while HE-DMT significantly lowered aLpRNFLrebaseline (by 0.31%, p < 0.001) and aLGCIPLrebaseline (0.25%, p < 0.001) compared with M-DMT.

Conclusions:

Applying a rebaselining concept significantly improves differentiation of DMT effects on retinal layer thinning by avoiding carry-over confounding from previous disease activity.
“Will they assume I’m racist?” How racial ingroup members’ stereotypical behavior impacts White Americans’ interracial interaction experiences
Authors: Taylor Valerie Jones , Yantis Caitlyn , Valladares Juan V.
Published: August 2024

Three studies ( N = 1,427) examine White Americans’ threat and stress appraisals and coping strategies in imagined inter- and intraracial interactions when a nearby White person does something racist. White individuals report heightened concern about being stereotyped as racist (i.e., metastereotyping) following an ingroup member’s stereotype-confirming (vs. neutral) behavior (Studies 1–3). Moreover, across studies, these heightened metastereotypes predict greater anxiety, which in turn predicts anticipated coping strategies (e.g., increased motivation to disprove the stereotype). Additionally, relative to imagined interactions with a White partner, these consequences of witnessing a White person’s anti-Black bias are significantly stronger with a Black or Latinx (Studies 1 and 2) but not an Asian (Study 3, preregistered) interaction partner. This work highlights how an ingroup member’s racist behavior is a situational stressor for White people during intergroup encounters, engendering coping strategies to protect the self and manage the ensuing interaction.
Experimental and numerical investigation on the flexural behavior of a novel composite slab with a joint
Authors: Chen Xiulong , Luo Bin , Lou Feng , Chen Zhong
Published: August 2024

Composite slab has extensive application in building industrialization. In this study, a novel composite slab with a joint was proposed, where the precast planks with bent-up rebar are only partially prefabricated along the thickness direction at the joint for cast-in-site pouring of concrete, and the rest is fully prefabricated in the factory. The flexural performance of the composite slab was compared with that of a traditional cast-in-site slab with the same geometric dimensions through four-point bending test. The results demonstrate that the bending performance of the composite slab, including cracking load, yield load, and ultimate load, is basically consistent with that of the cast-in-site slab, and can meet the engineering requirements. Based on experimental results, numerical research was conducted on the composite slabs. The effects of slab thickness, diameter of steel bar, concrete strength of precast plank, and slab span on the flexural behavior of composite slab were investigated. The numerical results show that the cracking load, yield load, and load corresponding to the deflection limit of the specimen increase with the increase in slab thickness and decrease with the increase in slab span. Increasing the steel bar diameter can increase the load corresponding to the deflection limit and yield load, while the effect on the cracking load is almost negligible. The concrete strength of precast plank has no significant effect on the flexural behavior of the composite slab.
Creep damage and fracture of turbine blade roots
Authors: Breslavsky Dmytro , Mietielov Volodymyr , Senko Alyona , Tatarinova Oksana , Palkov Ihor , Altenbach Holm
Published: August 2024

An approach to modeling creep fracture under a complex stress state using the Finite Element Method is proposed. The model of the turbine blade root was studied. The methodology of the transition in the analysis from the general 3D to the 2D stress state is proposed. For the models of the roots, the characteristics of the damage accumulation were obtained and the analysis of subsequent fracture in roots made of different materials was performed.The novel results of the description the creep fracture behavior after the period of damage accumulation were obtained. Based on the analysis of the numerical results, it was established that for different materials qualitatively different fracture processes occur in different places of the blade root. They were as follows: the fracture with separation of the main part of the root between the lower teeth; destruction of a separate tooth with a transition inside the root, as well as of a separate tooth jointly with the root’s lower part. A novel approach to obtaining the form of an equation for description the current length of a creep crack by use of numerical results is proposed.
Analysis of vibration characteristics of lattice-core sandwich annular spherical shells
Authors: Wang Jianchun , Zarei Mehdi
Published: August 2024

This paper investigates the vibrational characteristics of lattice-core sandwich annular spherical shells. An effective analytical model, based on the Smeared Stiffener technique, is employed to integrate the stiffness contributions of the core with those of the shells. Helical stiffeners are modeled as beams capable of bearing axial forces and bending moments. The governing equations are derived from Donnell's classical thin shell theory. The Galerkin method is applied to extract the natural frequencies. To validate the analytical results and conduct a comprehensive parametric study, a 3D finite element model is developed using ABAQUS CAE software. Comparisons demonstrate a satisfactory agreement between the analytical and numerical results. Additionally, the effects of the spherical shell's geometric parameters, lamination angle, stiffener orientation angle, and various lattice core configurations are examined.
Design of a novel impulse turbine for exhaust energy recovery in a commercial load carrier single cylinder diesel engine
Authors: Ramkumar Jayaraman , Krishnasamy Anand , Ramesh Asvathanarayanan
Published: August 2024

A significant fraction of the fuel energy supplied in a diesel engine is wasted into the atmosphere through the exhaust gases. Although most modern-day diesel engines are turbocharged, a few remain naturally aspirated. Due to technical challenges, single-cylinder engines are not turbocharged and remain naturally aspirated (NA). The intermittent and pulsated exhaust gas flow tends to choke the turbine and increase the back pressure. On the other hand, supercharging a single-cylinder engine leads to superior performance at the expense of fuel efficiency, as a significant fraction of the energy is wasted in the exhaust. The current study employs a novel crank shaft coupled impulse turbine for effective exhaust energy recovery in a supercharged, high-speed, commercial single-cylinder diesel engine. This novel impulse turbo-compounded and supercharged engine layout was simulated using a 1D model developed using AVL BOOST software. Based on the results of the 1D model, the impulse turbine design was carried out. A CFD simulation of the impulse turbine was carried out using commercially available CONVERGE. The major design parameters, including blade profile, blade width, nozzle shape, size and angle, blade angles, blade speed, number of blades, and turbine outlet port opening, were optimized using the CFD software. The simulated results showed that the designed impulse turbine generated 2.67 kW of power, enhancing the power output of the supercharged engine by 21% at the rated operating condition. The turbine efficiency was 68%, considering the available kinetic energy at the exhaust. Simulation results indicate that the impulse turbine compounded supercharged engine could generate 15.4 kW of power, 45% higher than the base NA engine brake power output.
Mass-selective instability and resonance ejection modes for DIT with rectangular asymmetric wave shape
Authors: Ivanov A I , Sysoev A A , Konenkov N V
Published: August 2024

We consider the operation of a digital linear ion trap with resonance radial ejection and mass selective instability modes. Periodic wave shape has a positive part with amplitude [Formula: see text] and duration [Formula: see text] and negative part with amplitude [Formula: see text] and duration [Formula: see text], where T is the period. The mapping of the stability diagram, calculations of the well's depth and ion oscillations spectra are presented. The process of resonant excitation of ion oscillations by a dipole sinusoidal signal is studied, as well as ion ejection at the stability boundary. The trajectory method is used for this purpose. It is shown that the mass selectivity of dipole excitation is twice as large for rectangular wave shape compared to sinusoidal wave shape. Increasing the diameter of the round rods of the linear trap gives an increase in the resolving power. The possibility of DIT operation in mass-selective instability mode at the boundary point [Formula: see text] is discussed.
Navigating spirituality in vegan fashion consumption: Purification and transgression tolerance
Authors: Makkar Marian , Yang Ye (Nicole) , Lamarche-Beauchesne Rachel
Published: August 2024

This study examines how consumers navigate their spiritual needs for transcendence in everyday consumption. While extant literature shows that both spiritual utilities and tensions emerge in sacred consumption, we build on and extend this research by illuminating how consumers navigate sacralisation and problematise profane consumption objects and practices. We employed Mary Douglas’s pollution theory to examine how consumers navigate cultural meanings of purity and transgressions. Through a qualitative study of vegan fashion consumption, we found that consumers negotiate the meaning of purity to govern everyday consumption practices in ways that resemble characteristics of religious institutions (e.g. faith and doctrines). Vegan consumers tolerate consumption transgressions through practices and rituals to sustain their faith within what is regarded as a polluted marketplace. Our study contributes to a novel perspective on consumer spirituality in regulating sacred and secular consumption and moralising relationships with the material world.
Conversions: The emerging informalisation of housing in the Global North
Authors: Ferreri Mara , Sanyal Romola
Published: August 2024

Housing informality in the Global North is becoming an increasingly important topic amongst planners. In this paper, we build on recent debates on informality and planning to highlight forms of housing informality that emerge at the intersection of affordability crises, and capitalism’s new extractivist frontiers through digital platforms. Using the lens of conversions, we show how the flexible transformation of building uses, from commercial to residential (and vice versa) by landlords create new and emerging forms of informality and subsequent planning challenges. These conversions present three specific characteristics: platform-led rapidity, regulatory grey areas, and professional intermediation. These are being extended through corporate and institutional alignments with for-profit motives of rent extraction, and by rapid real estate investment dynamics. Such conversions do not involve material of physical alterations to the built form and thus remain invisible. They exist flexibly in the grey areas of the law, and as a consequence, the rights of tenants, users and those of the wider community become weaker. We focus on examples of property guardianship and digital platforms-enabled home-sharing in England to illustrate our argument, and propose emphasising conversions as dynamic processes to draw attention to their implications for planning theory and practice.
Non-linear mechanical behaviour of thermoplastic elastomeric materials and its vulcanizate under tension/tension fatigue deformation by fourier transform rheological studies
Authors: Awasthi Pratiksha , Banerjee Pratip Sankar , Hirschberg Valerian , Banerjee Shib Shankar
Published: August 2024

Fourier transform (FT) rheology opens up novel frontiers in understanding non-linear mechanical behaviours of polymeric materials under sustained long-term dynamic load. The prediction of the exact point of appearance of a crack in a sample under dynamic mechanical strains of large amplitude and the fatigue analysis has been made possible to such degrees of precision, previously not possible through conventional rheological and mechanical analysis. In this work, the fatigue behaviour of a thermoplastic elastomeric material (TPE) and a thermoplastic vulcanizate (TPV) from thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) and epichlorohydrin− ethylene oxide−allyl glycidyl ether (GECO) rubber is investigated by Fourier transform studies under oscillatory strain-controlled tensional test to understand the linear and non-linear mechanical behaviour. Fatigue analysis is performed through the fingerprint harmonics of the material’s stress response, i.e., the second and third harmonics, ( I 2/1 and I 3/1) to establish the stress nonlinearity, asymmetry, and the formation of macrocracks. Furthermore, these higher harmonics are fitted with the Neo-Hooke and Mooney-Rivlin model to fundamentally understand the mode of fatigue failure, and a close agreement between theoretical fitting and experimental outcomes is established. Strain-life curves were utilized for the thorough investigation of the fatigue behaviour of the specimens and more than 9-fold enhancement in the strain life of the TPV is observed over TPU at a strain amplitude of ∼1.05 indicating an increasing ductility. Finally, the necessity of FT rheology was further emphasised as it is observed that I 2/1 and I 3/1 harmonics are more sensitive towards fatigue response as compared to the storage modulus and the complex modulus. Henceforth, the FT rheology analysis has enabled the current study to efficiently establish the ductility of each individual specimens and for prediction of the dynamic service lifetime of the developed materials.
Empower to grow through higher education
Authors: Strauß Annette , Kowalleck Ireen , Rempel David , Zimmermann Anja
Published: August 2024

IU International University of Applied Sciences with more than 120,000 enrolled students at present and more than 200 bachelor’s and master’s programmes in total is a member of the UN Global Compact and its higher education initiative. The principles of these two initiatives are the key factors which define the sustainability approach of the university. The university has defined several key areas in which it is working to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals of the United Nations. Social aspects play a prominent role and are consistently pursued in the three key areas of students, employees, and community. The paper focuses on the key area of students and sets out the starting points for implementing the university’s mission ‘Everybody can access education to grow’ in relation to the pursuit of the Sustainable Development Goals. Aspects like opening up access for non-traditional students, facilitating access for students facing barriers, and implications for academic teaching will be addressed, and the paper illustrates close and multiple relationships between higher education and the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals. For the necessary trans-sectoral and transdisciplinary effort, the development, consistent implementation, and evaluation of a sustainability-oriented strategy is key.
Stable diffusion in architectural design: Closing doors or opening new horizons?
Authors: Cao Yujie , Abdul Aziz Azhan , Mohd Arshard Wan Nur Rukiah
Published: August 2024

This study explored integrating Stable Diffusion, a generative artificial intelligence (AI), into architectural design workflows, focusing on its impact on design process and students’ learning experiences. A comparative analysis revealed an optimized workflow incorporating Stable Diffusion, which enhanced design exploration, conceptualization and visualization in early design stages. Demonstrations showcased text/image-to-image capabilities generating architectural visuals. Employing a mixed-methods research design, which encompasses comparative analysis and a thorough questionnaire-based exploration, the research sheds light on the challenges and opportunities of integrating Stable Diffusion into architectural education and practice. While receptive, some concerns existed around AI automation risks. The paper contributes to a deeper understanding of the transformative potential of generative AI, particularly Stable Diffusion, in reshaping workflows and educational dimensions of architectural design. Findings advise integrating emerging AI like Stable Diffusion into architecture curricula to equip students for AI-driven industries, emphasizing judicious human-AI collaboration. Further research could continue optimizing hybrid human-AI design workflows.
From theory to practice: Truchet tile as a computational visual coding approach for facade visualization
Authors: EL-Mahdy Deena
Published: August 2024

The study presents unique teaching approach for generating a parametric modular facade fabrication for first-year students in visual design module using a computational visual coding method based on Truchet Tiles. The method followed four main phases: exploring tiling, testing connectivity, fabrication, and assembly. Shape grammar was considered during the design principles implementation to respond to climatic behavior. Space-filling shapes method known as the “Generalized Abeille Tiles” was followed to ensure tiling connectivity. The experimentation involves manual folding techniques without any software. A survey was conducted among first-year and fourth-year students post-introduction to computational software. The results showed a wide range of alternative geometries with different self-shading patterns generated. It highlighted that facade fabrication aided students in comprehending computational logic, easing the understanding of computational software complexity. This pilot study emphasizes the effectiveness of teaching computational concepts in early curricula.
Vale Ross Booth (1952–2024)
Authors: Matheson Victor , Brooks Robert
Published: August 2024

Among his colleagues in North America and Europe, Ross Booth was synonymous with Australian sports economics. He was a dedicated scholar, a champion footballer, and even a better bloke. He will be deeply missed.
Therapeutic Effect of Stem Cells from Different Sources on Diabetic Foot Ulcers: Systematic Review and Network Meta-Analysis
Authors: Tao Yuqi , Yu Yang , He Chengdong , Guo Weiguang
Published: August 2024

Aim

To evaluate the efficacy of stem cell therapy from different sources on the ankle-brachial index, wound closure percentage, and wound closure time in the treatment of diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs).

Methods

A literature search was conducted in PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library's Central Register of Controlled Trials, and Web of Science, extending through June 29, 2023. Quality evaluation was done using the Cochrane's bias risk assessment tool (RoB 2.0). Employing a Bayesian approach, the statistical computations was executed with the JAGS software, leveraging the gemtc 0.8-2 and rjags 4-10 libraries, within the R environment 4.1.2. The included interventions came from peripheral blood, bone marrow, placenta, umbilical cord blood, adipose tissue, or others.

Result

A preliminary search identified 2286 articles, of which 23 randomized controlled trials met the inclusion criteria and were ultimately included. The analysis findings indicated that mesenchymal stem cells derived from the umbilical cord (HUCMSCs) led to a notable enhanced the ankle-brachial index in patients with DFUs compared to standard treatment (MD: 0.2; 95% CI [0.01, 0.36]). HUCMSCs were found to be the optimal therapeutic approach for enhancing the ankle-brachial index (SUCRA = 82.7%). Research on the wound closure percentage revealed that compared to platelet-rich plasma (PRP), processed microvascular tissue (PMVT), peripheral blood stem cells (PBSCs), microfragmented adipose tissue (MFAT), autologous bone marrow-derived stem cell therapy (ABMSCT), adipose-derived stem cells (ASCs), and dehydrated human umbilical cord allograft (EpiCord), Huoxue Shengji Decoction (HXSJD) + ABMSCT (H_Group_hematopoietic) significantly increased the wound closure percentage in DFU patients ( P < 0.05). According to the SUCRA ranking, HXSJD + ABMSCT was the best therapeutic method to increase the percentage of wound closure (SUCRA = 93.8%).

Conclusion

This study employed a network meta-analysis method, combining direct and indirect comparisons, to analyze the latest clinical data and concluded that umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells and the combination of HXSJD + autologous bone marrow hematopoietic stem cell treatment as adjunctive therapies for DFUs may have beneficial effects. Future research needs to focus on this.
Role of Qualitative and Quantitative Indocyanine Green Angiography to Assess Mastectomy Skin Flaps Perfusion: A Prospective Monocentric Experience
Authors: Mastronardi Manuela , Fracon Stefano , Scomersi Serena , Fezzi Margherita , Pellin Zaira , Bortul Marina
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Mastectomy skin flap (MSF) necrosis remains a significant complication in breast reconstruction. This study aims to identify a correlation between the qualitative and quantitative analysis of the MSF perfusion grade and the skin necrosis rate 1 month after surgery using indocyanine green angiography (ICGA), focusing on lag time and perfusion metrics.

Methods

Consecutive women scheduled for nipple/skin-sparing/skin-reducing mastectomy between May 2020 and October 2022 were prospectively enrolled. Patients were divided into Group 1 in the absence of superficial and full-thickness necrosis (SN; FTN) and Group 2 in the presence of both. Demographic data, lag time T1 (time between ICG injection and the initial perfusion of the least perfused MSF area), ICG-Q1, and ICG-Q% (absolute and relative perfusion values of the least vascularized area) were collected.

Results

76 breasts were considered. FTN was reported in 8 breasts (10.5%) and SN in 4 (5.2%). The 2 groups statistically differ in T1 (Group2 > Group1), ICG-Q1, and ICG-Q% (Group1 > Group2) ( P < 0.05). T1 longer than 170 seconds, body mass index, previous chemo/radiotherapy, arterial hypertension, breast weight, type of surgery, and ICG quantitative values can help in predicting MSF necrosis.

Conclusions

MSF qualitative and quantitative perfusion evaluation can be helpful to prevent MSF necrosis. However, it should be considered together with the patient’s characteristics, the type of surgery, and T1. In this way, it is possible to predict the risk of MSF necrosis and plan the best reconstructive strategy.
Educational Games of Museums: A Literature Review
Authors: Zhang Jingwen , Zhu Tong , Chang Xinyi
Published: August 2024

On the basis of theoretical verification and case support of gamified learning effects, educational games have been widely valued by museum education providers for their advantages in enhancing users’ intrinsic motivation, building interactive experiences, and creating social situations. This paper attempts to analyze the learning theories, game elements, and positive effects of specific educational games by conducting an integrated review of the current museum educational game literature in academia and selecting 24 thematic papers from the period 2017–2022. Based on the literature review, it is hoped that the advantages and limitations of current museum educational games can be illustrated to a certain extent, and the value of the games for education and enjoyment can be explored and utilized to provide reference for the design and development and continuous optimization of future museum educational games and promote the further deepening of museum educational functions.
Degree of subarachnoid hemorrhage affects clinical outcome after mechanical thrombectomy for M2 occlusion
Authors: Oka Fumiaki , Nishimoto Takuma , Mori Naomasa , Kawano Akiko , Ishihara Hideyuki
Published: August 2024

Purpose

The prognostic relevance of post-mechanical thrombectomy (MT) subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) remains controversial. This study aimed to investigate whether the thickness of the SAH clot affects clinical outcomes following MT for M2 occlusion.

Methods

A retrospective analysis was conducted on a prospective database of patients who underwent MT for isolated M2 occlusion. Patients were categorized into three groups based on the presence and thickness of SAH. Clinical and angiographical characteristics and outcomes were compared.

Results

Of the 36 patients included, SAH was observed in 15 (42%). When comparing patients with no SAH (grade 0) or thin SAH (grade 1) (N = 28) with those who had thick SAH (grade 2) (N = 8), patients with Grade 2 SAH required a higher number of passes and had a more severe angulation at M2. Patients with SAH Grade 2 had significantly worse NIHSS scores at 24 h (median, 4 vs. 14), but only one patient was identified as having a symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage. Patients with SAH Grade 2 were found to have a lower rate of favorable outcome (modified Rankin scale 0–2) (23% vs. 75%, P = 0.0026) and higher mortality (25% vs. 0%, P = 0.0499) at 90 days.

Conclusion

The study found that thick SAH prevents clinical recovery after MT for M2 occlusion, even in cases of successful recanalization, and is associated with an unfavorable outcome. Thick SAH after MT is also linked to an increase in the number of passes and severe angulation at the M2 segment.
Well-being of international school leaders during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Bailey Lucy , Gibson Mark T.
Published: August 2024

This paper reports on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the well-being of international school leaders. Drawing on a study of 13 leaders of international schools in 14 different countries, its key findings are that the pandemic resulted in increased stress, trauma and isolation for school leaders, and that school leader well-being is interdependent with the well-being of students and teachers. Yet, although student and teacher well-being has become a priority area post the pandemic, school leaders feel there is little or no attention paid to their own well-being. The data presented here suggest that more attention needs to be paid to international school leader well-being, for the benefit of all stakeholders in the school.
Mechanical and cold polymodality coexist in tactile peripheral afferents, and it’s not mediated by TRPM8
Authors: Boada M Danilo , Gutierrez Silvia
Published: August 2024

In the mammalian somatosensory system, polymodality is defined as the competence of some neurons to respond to multiple forms of energy (e.g., mechanical and thermal). This ability is thought to be an exclusive property of nociceptive neurons (polymodal C-fiber nociceptors) and one of the pillars of nociceptive peripheral plasticity. The current study uncovered a completely different neuronal sub-population with polymodal capabilities on the opposite mechanical modality spectrum (tactile). We have observed that several tactile afferents (1/5) can respond to cold in non-nociceptive ranges. These cells’ mechanical thresholds and electrical properties are similar to any low-threshold mechano-receptors (LT), conducting in a broad range of velocities (Aδ to Aβ), lacking CGRP and TRPM8 receptors. Due to its density, cold-response range, speed, and response to injury (or lack thereof), we speculate on its role in controlling reflexive behaviors (wound liking and rubbing) and modulation of nociceptive spinal cord integration. Further studies are required to understand the mechanisms behind this neuron’s polymodality, central architecture, and impact on pain perception.