bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Correlation Between Microscopic Current Fluctuations Observed at Ultra-Microelectrodes and Macroscopic Bulk Electrolysis Performance in Redox-Active Microemulsions
Authors: Santiago-Carboney Armando , Konstantinov Filip , Pence Michael A. , Barth Brian , Imel Adam , Zawodzinski Thomas , Rodríguez-López Joaquín
Published: October 2024

Microemulsions (μEs) have been proposed as redox flow battery (RFB) electrolytes that maximize ionic conductivity and charge capacity by synergizing two immiscible phases. However, charge transfer during electrolysis in μEs is poorly understood. Here, we show that ultramicroelectrode electrolysis of ferrocene-loaded μEs −20%, 60%, and 90% water - reveals stochastic current fluctuations. These are differentiated in the scanning electrochemical microscopy (SECM) geometry, where power spectral density analysis showed distinct changes in the frequency contributions. SECM in the substrate generation-tip collection mode showed that fluctuations arise under mass-transfer control. Significant differences in the diffusion coefficient of ferrocene species were deducted from SECM approach curves, suggesting phase transfer behavior. Using bulk electrolysis, we calculated the charge accessibility and cycling behavior in the μEs. A decrease in the stochastic behavior of the μEs seems to correlate to a higher accessibility and cycling performance, with the 90% water μE displaying the best reversibility and the 60% the lowest. Altogether, these results suggest that Marangoni-type convection driven by concentration gradients and/or μE restructuring during charge transfer play a role in the electrochemical performance of μEs. This presents opportunities for screening and diagnosing the performance of these emerging RFB electrolytes.
Ion channel Piezo1 induces ferroptosis of trabecular meshwork cells: a novel observation in the pathogenesis in primary open angle glaucoma
Authors: Liu Kexin , Xu Jing , Yang Rufei , Wang Feng , Su Ying
Published: October 2024

This study is the first to show that cell stretching induces ferroptosis in trabecular meshwork cells (TMCs), dependent on Piezo1 activation. Targeting the Piezo1 pathway offers new therapeutic potential for mitigating trabecular meshwork dysfunction and managing primary open angle glaucoma (POAG). The study also reveals Piezo1 induces ferroptosis via the JNK/p38 signaling pathway.
Transcriptional analysis of cancer cachexia: conserved and unique features across preclinical models and biological sex
Authors: Morena Francielly , Cabrera Ana Regina , Jones Ronald G. , Schrems Eleanor R. , Muhyudin Ruqaiza , Washington Tyrone A. , Murach Kevin A. , Greene Nicholas P.
Published: October 2024

This study is among the first to integrate and compare the skeletal muscle transcriptional landscape across multiple preclinical models and biological sexes. We highlight that 1) early CC transcriptional changes are two-thirds conserved at late stages, 2) DEGs are largely model and sex specific, and 3) transcriptional factors including CLOCK and ARNTL/BMAL1, which influence early CC gene expression, might represent a global therapeutic target with a chance of efficacy across various cancer types.
Untargeted Metabolomics to Investigate the Influence of Epigenetic Modifiers on the Metabolism of Fusarium verticillioides
Authors: Groppi E. , Gadea A. , Monge C. , Cristofoli V. , Vansteelandt M. , Haddad M.
Published: October 2024

Toxigenic fungi are capable of producing toxic metabolites, called mycotoxins. But the presence of silent and lowly expressed genes represents the main challenge for the discovery of novel mycotoxins, especially their lesser‐known forms, commonly referred to as “emerging mycotoxins.” Epigenetic modifiers (EMs) are compounds that are able to alter the production of metabolites through the induction of silent biosynthetic pathways leading to an enhanced chemical diversity. The aim of this study was to assess the effects of different chemical modulators on the metabolic profiles of the well‐known toxigenic fungal species, Fusarium verticillioides. Four EMs, 5‐azacytidine, sodium butyrate, nicotinamide (NIC), and sodium valproate (SV), were used. Following their addition to Fusarium verticillioides cultures, the metabolic profiles were analyzed by using UHPLC–HRMS/MS under targeted and untargeted metabolomics approaches. Metabolites were putatively annotated through the use of MS‐DIAL and MS‐FINDER. Our results show that the treatment with SV induced the most important alteration of the secondary metabolic profile of F. verticillioides, by promoting the expression of cryptic genes. Among the 50 most discriminating metabolites across five culture conditions, 12 were fusarins or fusarin analogs. In contrast, SB and NIC had little impact on these metabolites. The study highlights SV’s ability to alter gene expression by inhibiting DNA deacetylation in fungal strains. This research could have significant implications for agriculture and food industry, especially in regions facing major mycotoxin challenges.
Combining Optimal Controller and Luenberger Observer for an Active Roll Control System on Trucks to Avoid Rollover Phenomenon at High Speeds
Authors: Tan Vu Van , Thang Pham Tat , Tu Do Trong , Thinh Kieu Duc
Published: October 2024

The propensity for roll instability in automobiles, particularly trucks, often arises during high‐speed maneuvers and emergency scenarios. The active roll control (ARC) system presents a promising solution for enhancing truck roll stability. This study delves into designing a controller for the ARC system adapted to high‐speed truck operations. It entails formulating a cost function for the linear quadratic regulator (LQR) optimal controller, incorporating variables directly pertinent to truck roll stability: vehicle body’s roll angle, unsprung masses’ roll angle, and normalized load transfer at the two axles. To streamline sensor usage and prioritize cost‐effectiveness, the Luenberger observer is integrated with the full‐state feedback LQR controller. The investigation involves executing double lane change maneuvers, simulating overtaking and obstacle avoidance, at speeds of 70, 100, 130, and 160 km/h. The maximum absolute value of the normalized load transfer coefficient at the axles is assessed up to speeds of 200 km/h. Research findings underscore the efficacy of the ARC system in enhancing truck safety by reducing the normalized load transfer of all axles over 30% compared to the passive system, particularly during high‐speed operations.
Effect of Interpersonal Effectiveness Skill Training Intervention on Social Functioning and Communication Competence Among Clients With Depressive Disorder
Authors: Atta Mohamed Hussein Ramadan , Abdelaliem Sally Mohammed Farghaly , Alabdullah Amany Anwar Saeed , Ghazi Ghada Ahmed
Published: October 2024

Background: Depressive disorders are prevalent mental health conditions that significantly impair individuals’ social functioning and communication competence. These challenges can exacerbate depressive symptoms, creating a vicious cycle that hinders recovery and overall well‐being. Despite the growing recognition of the impact of depressive disorders on social functioning and communication competence, there remains a significant gap in effective interventions addressing these specific areas.

Aims: This research aims to investigate the effect of interpersonal effectiveness skill training on social functioning and communication competence among clients with depressive disorder.

Design: A quasiexperimental research design.

Setting: The research procedure was carried out in the outpatient clinic of Alexandria University Hospital.

Subjects: The study group, which included 42 males and 18 females, and the control group had the same number of patients.

Tools: After the preliminary assessment of depression, three instruments were used to collect data: a structured interview schedule that gathered sociodemographic and clinical information, the Scale of Communication Competence, and the Social Functioning Scale.

Results: The study group showed a positive difference in their social functioning and communication competence score compared with the control group.

Implication: The findings of this study have significant implications for the treatment and support of clients with depressive disorder by incorporating structured skill‐building programs into therapeutic regimens for individuals with depressive disorders.

Conclusion: IESTI can enhance patients with depression’s ability to communicate competently and function socially.
Western North American Cruise Shipping Network: Space Structure and System
Authors: Li Xumao , Li Chang , Long Zukun
Published: October 2024

Regionalization is the basic feature of cruise shipping network organization. We insist that the cruise networks of Alaska, Hawaii, etc., have developed into a whole with the scaling up of cruise tourism. To prove it, we used complex network analysis methods to explore the port connections and the spatial structure of the cruise shipping network in these regions. We found that Alaska, Hawaii, and the west coast of Mexico all belong to seasonal cruise market areas. Cruise itineraries in these areas are categorized into one‐way and round‐trip itineraries, and more than 70% of the itineraries are short duration and medium duration. These areas build cruise shipping networks used in Vancouver, Los Angeles, Anchorage, San Francisco, Honolulu, and other cruise ports, which can be subdivided into nine single‐core cruise shipping network systems and two dual‐core cruise shipping network systems. The interconnection of different systems forms a T‐shaped cruise shipping network in geographical space.
Evaluation of the Effect of Dietary Manganese on the Intestinal Digestive Function, Antioxidant Response, and Muscle Quality in Coho Salmon
Authors: Liu Dongwu , Xie Wenshuo , Xia Zhiling , Wang Ya , Zhang Xinran , Pang Qiuxiang
Published: October 2024

Manganese (Mn) is a nutritional element required for fish growth and physiology functions. In this study, we examined the effect of Mn on the intestinal digestive function, antioxidant response, and muscle quality in coho salmon (Oncorhynchus kisutch). Nine hundred salmons with initial weight approximately 0.35 g were fed with six isoproteic and isoenergetic diets formulated to contain 2.4, 8.5, 14.8, 19.8, 24.6, and 33.7 mg/kg Mn for 84 days. The result showed that the activity of trypsin and lipase was elevated, whereas α‐amylase activity was not affected by various Mn diets in intestine. Dietary Mn elevated the activity of Mn‐superoxide dismutase (Mn‐SOD), total superoxide dismutase (T‐SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GSH‐PX), and catalase (CAT), but had no influence on copper/zinc‐superoxide dismutase (Cu/Zn‐SOD) in intestine. Dietary Mn at 8.5, 14.8, 19.8, 24.6, and 33.7 mg/kg enhanced the gene expression level of protein kinase B (Akt) and mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR). In addition, the accumulation of Mn in muscle was enhanced with increasing levels of dietary Mn. Dietary Mn elevated the content of sodium (Na), potassium (K), magnesium (Mg), and calcium (Ca), but the content of iron (Fe) and Zn was decreased by dietary Mn in the salmon muscle. The content of fatty acids and amino acids was enhanced by various levels of dietary Mn in muscle. Moreover, a significant quadratic effect was observed on the texture of salmon muscle. The dietary Mn requirement was 16.9–25.7 mg/kg Mn to acquire the highest value of muscle texture using the quadratic regression model. The diets at 14.8 and 19.8 mg/kg Mn had a higher score of sensory evaluation for raw muscle. Our result showed that dietary Mn affected the intestinal digestion function and antioxidant response, which may further result in the change of muscle quality in coho salmon. The result will provide reference for detecting the effect of dietary micronutrients on the muscle quality of salmons.
Oncogenic HRAS Induces Metformin Resistance in Head and Neck Cancer by Promoting Glycolytic Metabolism
Authors: Wu Xingyu , Adame-Garcia Sendi Rafael , Koshizuka Keiichi , Vo Pham Thuy Tien , Hoang Thomas S. , Sato Kuniaki , Izumi Hiroki , Goto Yusuke , Allevato Michael M. , Wood Kris C. , Lippman Scott M. , Gutkind Jorge Silvio
Published: October 2024

Metformin administration has recently emerged as a candidate strategy for the prevention of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). However, the intricate relationship between genetic alterations in HNSCC and metformin sensitivity is still poorly understood, which prevents the stratification of patients, harboring oral premalignant lesions that may benefit from the chemopreventive activity of metformin. In this study, we investigate the impact of prevalent mutations in HNSCC on response to metformin. Notably, we found that the expression of oncogenic HRAS mutants confers resistance to metformin in isogenic HNSCC cell systems, and that HNSCC cells harboring endogenous HRAS mutations display limited sensitivity to metformin. Remarkably, we found that metformin fails to reduce activation of the mTOR pathway in HRAS oncogene-expressing HNSCC cells in vitro and in vivo, correlating with reduced tumor suppressive activity. Mechanistically, we found that this process depends on the ability of HRAS to enhance glycolytic metabolism, thereby suppressing the requirement for oxidative phosphorylation to maintain the cellular energetic balance. Overall, our study revealed that HNSCC cells with oncogenic HRAS mutations exhibit diminished metformin sensitivity, thus shedding light on a potential mechanism of treatment resistance. This finding may also help explain the limited clinical responses to metformin in cancers with RAS mutations. Ultimately, our study underscores the importance of understanding the impact of the genetic landscape in tailoring precision cancer-preventive approaches in the context of HNSCC and other cancers that are characterized by the presence of a defined premalignant state, and therefore, are amenable to cancer interception strategies.

Prevention Relevance: Our findings highlight the challenges of using metformin for cancer prevention in RAS-mutant cancers, where elevated glycolysis may reduce drug efficacy. This underscores the need to explore metformin’s potential in early, premalignant stages, before metabolic shifts render it less effective.
Ex vivo Magnetic Resonance Imaging of the Human Fetal Brain
Authors: Chen Ruike , Tian Chen , Zhu Keqing , Ren Guoliang , Bao Aimin , Shen Yi , Li Xiao , Zhang Yaoyao , Qiu Wenying , Ma Chao , Zhang Jing , Wu Dan
Published: October 2024

Background: The fetal brain undergoes a dynamic process of development during gestation, marked by well-orchestrated events such as neuronal proliferation, migration, axonal outgrowth, and dendritic arborization, mainly elucidated through histological studies. Ex vivo magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has emerged as a useful tool for 3D visualization of the developing fetal brain, serving as a complementary tool to traditional histology. Summary: In this review, we summarized the commonly employed ex vivo MRI techniques and their advances in fetal brain imaging, and proposed a standard protocol for postmortem fetal brain specimen collection and fixation. We then provided an overview of ex vivo MRI-based studies on the fetal brain. Key Messages: According to our review, ex vivo T1- or T2-weighted structural MRI has contributed to the characterization of the anatomy of transient neuronal proliferative zones, the basal ganglia, and the cortex. Diffusion MRI-related techniques, such as diffusion tensor imaging and tractography, have helped investigate the microstructural patterns of fetal brain tissue, as well as the early emergence and development of neuronal migration pathways and white matter bundles. Ex vivo MRI findings have shown strong histological correlations, supporting the potential of MRI in evaluating the developmental events in the fetal brain. Postmortem MRI examinations have also demonstrated comparable, and in certain cases, superior performance to traditional autopsy in revealing fetal brain abnormalities. In conclusion, ex vivo fetal brain MRI is an invaluable tool that provides unique insights into the early stages of brain development.
Pubertal- and Stress-Dependent Changes in Cellular Activation and Expression of Excitatory Amino Acid Receptor Subunits in the Paraventricular Nucleus of the Hypothalamus in Male and Female Rats
Authors: Parkin Catherine , Ortiz Juliet , Cruz Sofia , Bath Kevin G. , Romeo Russell D.
Published: October 2024

Introduction: Pubertal maturation is marked by significant changes in stress-induced hormonal responses mediated by the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, with prepubertal male and female rats often exhibiting greater HPA reactivity compared to adult males and females. Though the implications of these changes are unclear, elevated stress responsiveness might contribute to the stress-related vulnerabilities often associated with puberty. Methods: The current experiments sought to determine whether differences in cellular activation, as measured by FOS immunohistochemistry, or excitatory ionotropic glutamate receptor subunit expression, as measured by qRT-PCR, in the paraventricular nucleus (PVN) were associated with these noted pubertal shifts in stress reactivity in male and female rats. As the PVN is the key nucleus responsible for activating the hormonal stress response, we predicted greater cellular activation and higher expression levels of glutamate receptor subunits in the PVN of prepubertal males and females compared to their adult counterparts. Results: Our FOS data revealed that while prepubertal males showed greater stress-induced activation in the PVN than adult males, prepubertal females showed less activation than adult females. Moreover, many of the NMDA, AMPA, and kainate receptor subunits measured, including Grin1, Grin2b, Gria1, Gria2, Grik1, and Grik2, had higher expression levels in adults, particularly in males. Conclusions: Though not supporting our initial predictions, these data do indicate that age and stress influence the activation of the PVN and the expression of glutamate receptor subunits important in its function. These data also suggest that the effects of age and stress are different in males and females. Though still far from a clear understanding of what mechanism(s) mediate pubertal shift in stress reactivity, these data add to our growing understanding of how age, stress, and sex influence HPA function.
Eleclazine Suppresses Ventricular Fibrillation in Failing Rabbit Hearts with Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury Undergoing Therapeutic Hypothermia
Authors: Lee Hui-Ling , Chang Po-Cheng , Wo Hung-Ta , Liu Hao-Tien , Wen Ming-Shien , Chou Chung-Chuan
Published: October 2024

Introduction: Eleclazine is a highly selective late sodium current inhibitor, possibly effective in reducing ventricular fibrillation (VF) in heart failure (HF) with ischemia-reperfusion (IR) injury. The electrophysiological effects of eleclazine at therapeutic hypothermia (TH) are unknown. We investigated the effects of eleclazine in suppressing VF in failing rabbit hearts with IR injury undergoing TH. Method: HF was induced by right ventricular pacing. An IR model was created using coronary artery ligation for 60 min, followed by reperfusion for 30 min. Hearts were excised and Langendorff-perfused for optical mapping and electrophysiological studies. Electrophysiological studies were repeated after TH (33°C) for 30 min or eleclazine (1 μm) infusion for 20 min. Results: In failing IR-injured hearts, eleclazine reduced action potential duration (APD) dispersion and accelerated intracellular Ca2+ uptake to suppress arrhythmogenic alternans but also exacerbated rate-dependent conduction slowing, resulting in neutral effects on VF inducibility at normothermia. TH increased VF severity. Eleclazine after TH ameliorated TH-induced APD dispersion and further depressed conduction to reduce VF inducibility and severity. TH after eleclazine also slowed conduction to a greater extent to reduce VF inducibility and severity by extrastimulus pacing. In control IR-injured hearts, eleclazine increased VF severity by dynamic pacing at normothermia, which was counteracted by TH. Conclusions: Eleclazine does not prevent VF at normothermia but reduces VF inducibility and severity by extrastimulus pacing at TH in isolated failing hearts with regional IR injury.
Dialogues with the Future: AI Socratic Exploration of Christopher Alexander’s 15 Foundational Properties for Life
Authors: Zhu Dan , Friess Peter
Published: October 2024

Artificial Intelligence (AI) can provide novel insight into how complex lifeforms will evolve. Investigating the hypothesis that this evolution will follow the 15 fundamental properties listed in Christopher Alexander’s Nature of Order, this art project recruits AI to impersonate Socrates and domain experts to probe refutational and constructive elements as a means of facilitating meaningful discourse. The fictional dialogues and their core outcomes are transferred into AI generative visual representations. The project concludes with a synthesis of the insights gained from the exploration, providing a narrative about the Nature of Order as a vision of augmented wisdom.
On the Text and Interpretation of Accius 306-307 Dangel
Authors: Nelis Basil L.P.
Published: October 2024

This article argues that the text of Accius 306-307 Dangel, as transmitted, cannot stand on grammatical grounds. It aims to clarify the use of the word cuiatis, propose an emendation of the text, and suggest a new explanation of the metre of the fragment.
Climate Projection of Tropical Cyclone Lifetime in the Western North Pacific Basin
Authors: Vu The-Anh , Kieu Chanh , Robeson Scott M. , Staten Paul , Kravitz Ben
Published: October 2024

In this study, the potential changes in tropical cyclone (TC) lifetime in the western North Pacific basin are examined for different future climates. Using homogeneous 9-km-resolution dynamical downscaling with the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) Model, we show that TC-averaged lifetime displays insignificant change under both low and high greenhouse gas concentration scenarios. However, more noticeable changes in the tails of TC lifetime statistics are captured in our downscaling simulations, with more frequent long-lived TCs (lifetime of 8–11 days) and less short-lived TCs (lifetime of 3–5 days). Unlike present-day simulations, it is found that the correlation between TC lifetime and the Niño index is relatively weak and insignificant in all future downscaling simulations, thus offering little explanation for these changes in TC lifetime statistics based on El Niño–Southern Oscillation. More detailed analyses of TC track distribution in the western North Pacific basin reveal, nevertheless, a noticeable shift of TC track patterns toward the end of the twenty-first century. Such a change in TC track climatology results in an overall longer duration of TCs over the open ocean, which is consistent across future scenarios and periods examined in this study. This shift in the TC track pattern is ultimately linked to changes in the western North Pacific subtropical high, which retreats to the south during July and to the east during August–September. The results obtained in this study provide new insights into how large-scale circulations can affect TC lifetime in the western North Pacific basin in warmer climates.

Significance Statement

Using high-resolution dynamical downscaling with the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) Model under low- and high-emission scenarios, this study shows that the basin-averaged tropical cyclone (TC) lifetime in the western North Pacific (WNP) basin has no noticeable change under both warmer climate scenarios, despite an overall increase in TC maximum intensity. However, the tails of the TC lifetime distribution display significant changes, with more long-lived (6–20 days) TCs but less short-lived (3–5 days) TCs in the future. These changes in TC lifetime statistics are caused by the shift of the North Pacific subtropical high, which alters large-scale steering flows and TC track patterns. These results help explain why previous studies on TC lifetime projections have been inconclusive in the WNP basin and provide new insights into how large-scale circulations can modulate TC lifetime in a warmer climate.
Evaluation of the EarthSHAB Stratospheric Solar Hot Air Balloon Flight Prediction Model Using Balloon Trajectory Data
Authors: Lien Jessica M. , Wheeler Lauren B. , Bowman Daniel C. , Schuler Tristan K. , Hough Emalee E. , Yap Zachary H.
Published: October 2024

The heliotrope is a solar balloon design which is constructed out of painter’s plastic, and the exterior is coated in charcoal powder. Darkening the plastic gives the balloon a high solar absorptance, which allows it to ascend into the lower stratosphere and float for hours at a time. The balloons have previously been used to lift scientific instruments into the stratosphere to study chemical explosions, earthquakes, and stratospheric aerosols. They have also been proposed as a platform for planetary exploration. Flight predictions are crucial to preflight planning to reduce safety risks and meet flight objectives. However, there exists a wide range of possible flight paths due to varying environmental conditions and solar balloon configurations. EarthSHAB is one such software that was designed to support flight planning using the weather forecasts and balloon properties to predict the flight path of a solar balloon. We compare EarthSHAB-simulated flight paths to a set of observed flight paths for the 3.5-m diameter heliotrope design called the “Cloudskimmer.” Using the criteria that the modeled paths must fall within 5% of the observations to be considered successful, we found that EarthSHAB successfully predicted the Cloudskimmer ascent rate and average float altitude 10% and 90% of the time, respectively. We also found that the average difference in the observed and predicted landing locations was 97 km and landing times were 54 ± 38 min. Significant deviations between the observed and predicted ascent rates and excursions at float were found to be associated with heavy payloads and convective cloud development, respectively.

Significance Statement

Solar balloons are used to lift scientific instruments into the lower stratosphere for hours at a time to study chemical explosions, earthquakes, stratospheric aerosols, and more. The flight paths of solar balloons can be difficult to predict due to variability in their design and surrounding environment. We evaluate the accuracy of EarthSHAB, a software that predicts the altitude profile and horizontal trajectory of a solar balloon using inputs such as the weather, balloon size, and balloon mass. Our results suggest that for the balloon design used in this study, EarthSHAB is best suited for modeling the behavior of balloons with lightweight payloads that do not fly within or directly above clouds.
Evaluation of critical process parameter on the production of sustainable bead foams based on polylactic acid
Authors: Brütting Christian , Klotz Sarah , Ruckdäschel Holger
Published: October 2024

A commercial grade of polylactic acid (PLA) was foamed without using modifiers to obtain expanded polylactic acid bead foams (EPLA). Typically, the foaming process is influenced by both melt properties and crystallization behavior. While factors like water temperature, die structure, and die temperature are known to have effects on bead foam processing, these aspects have not been thoroughly explored in the context of PLA bead foam production. To address this gap, a comprehensive investigation was undertaken, varying water temperature, die structure, and die temperature to discern their impact on PLA processing behavior. Results revealed that water temperature significantly influenced foaming behavior, particularly at elevated temperatures near the glass transition of PLA. Additionally, the study demonstrated that die size wielded a notable influence on all foam properties, dictating process limits. With the selection of an appropriate die size, the die temperature could be manipulated within the range of 190°C to 160°C, revealing a substantial impact on the overall process. Remarkably, the lowest densities achieved were 63 kg/m3 with an average cell size of 36 µm and a cell density of 1.1*107 cells per cm3.
Economic origins of border fortifications
Authors: bin Oslan Afiq
Published: October 2024

Why do contemporary states fortify their borders? Modern military advancements have made such fortifications obsolete for security, yet scholars have offered no satisfactory alternative theory. I propose a theory of fortifications with economic motivations using a game-theoretic model where states compete to extract wealth over a shared population around a border. Such competition generates inefficiency and states have the option to construct fortifications to disrupt competition. Fortifications contain the wealth of citizens inside the state to be taxed and enforce efficient monopolies of extraction. States hence fortify when such profits outweigh short-term expenses. The models suggest that we should expect fortifications between territories of unequal economic capacities as richer states have more to lose from inefficient competition, complementing existing empirical results.
The Impact of Home Environment Insecurity on Tourists’ Self-Protective Behavior in the Event of a Terrorist Attack
Authors: Li Shanshi , Xu Jing (Bill) , Jiang Yawei , Walters Gabby , Lehto Xinran
Published: October 2024

Terrorist attacks have a profound and lasting impact on tourism destinations and tourists’ safety. By applying protection motivation theory as the theoretical lens and adopting the threat of a terrorist attack in London as the study context, this study examines the impact of home environment insecurity on tourists’ risk evaluation (i.e., threat and coping appraisals) and self-protective behavioral intentions amid a terrorism incident while traveling. Data were collected from 793 U.S.-based respondents in Amazon-Mturk. The results show that tourists’ home environment insecurity has a positive (vs. negative) impact on their threat (vs. coping) appraisal of the terrorism related risk. Notably, the lack of security in one’s home environment indirectly affects tourists’ tendency to adopt self-protective measures, through tourists’ coping appraisal in relation to their self-efficacy and response-efficacy. This study offers valuable theoretical and practical insights that may enhance tourist safety during a terrorism incident.
The KMT versus the CCP: Dueling Chinese Nationalisms and the Politics of Colonial Rule During Hong Kong’s 1956 Riots
Authors: Wan Kent
Published: October 2024

During October 10–12, 1956, British Hong Kong was engulfed in a downward spiral of violence that pitted Kuomintang (KMT) supporters against men and women affiliated with the Chinese Communist Party (CCP), forcing the People’s Republic of China (PRC), the Republic of China (ROC), and Great Britain to engage in a series of tense diplomatic exchanges that could have escalated into a wider geopolitical conflict. The actions of KMT supporters precipitated the 1956 riots, thereby granting opportunities to the PRC to repeatedly and strongly criticize the colonial government for allegedly failing to protect Chinese who were loyal to Beijing. While the PRC did not intervene militarily to protect its supporters, the 1956 riots revealed to London the precarious nature of colonial rule and underscored the fact that the colony’s very existence was dependent upon the acquiescence of Beijing.
Effects of positive mGlu5 modulation on D2 signaling and nicotine-conditioned place preference: Mechanisms of epigenetic inheritance in a transgenerational model of drug abuse vulnerability in psychosis
Authors: Peeters Loren D , Wills Liza J , Cuozzo Anthony M , Ahmed Cristal D , Massey Samuel R , Chen Wanqiu , Chen Zhong , Wang Charles , Gass Justin T , Brown Russell W
Published: October 2024

Background:

The metabotropic glutamate type 5 (mGlu5) receptor has emerged as a potential target for the treatment of psychosis that is suggested to have greater efficacy than antipsychotic medications that are currently utilized.

Aims:

This study sought to elucidate mechanisms of therapeutic action associated with the modulation of the mGlu5 receptor in a disordered system marked by dopamine dysfunction. We further explored epigenetic mechanisms contributing to heritable transmission of a psychosis-like phenotype in a novel heritable model of drug abuse vulnerability in psychosis.

Methods:

F1 generation male and female Sprague-Dawley rats that were the offspring of two neonatal quinpirole-treated (QQ) or two saline-treated (SS) animals were tested on nicotine-conditioned place preference (CPP). Regulators of G protein signaling 9 (RGS9) and β-arrestin 2 (βA2), which mediate dopamine (DA) D2 signaling, were measured in the nucleus accumbens shell, prelimbic and infralimbic cortices. Reduced Representation Bisulfite Sequencing (RRBS) was used to analyze the cytosine methylation in these brain regions.

Results:

Pretreatment with the mGlu5-positive allosteric modulator 3-Cyano-N-(1,3-diphenyl-1H-pyrazol-5-yl)benzamide (CDPPB) 20 min prior to conditioning trials blocked enhanced nicotine CPP and mitigated aberrant G protein-dependent and -independent signaling in QQ animals. RRBS analysis revealed region-specific changes in several pathways, including nicotine addiction, dopamine synapses, and neural connectivity.

Conclusions:

These results reveal an important region-specific mechanism of action for CDPPB in a system marked by enhanced DAD2 receptor signaling. Results additionally reveal DNA methylation as an epigenetic mechanism of heritability, further validating the current model as a useful tool for the study of psychosis and comorbid nicotine use.
Urban Air Mobility Passengers’ Profiling: Evidence from Milan Airports, Italy
Authors: Coppola Pierluigi , Fabiis Francesco De , Silvestri Fulvio
Published: October 2024

Urban air mobility (UAM) is expected to offer new travel options for passengers to and from airports in the near future, despite uncertainties associated with regulatory issues, environmental concerns, and societal impacts. This paper analyzes the socioeconomic and behavioral factors that could influence users’ modal choices (including UAM services) for accessing and egressing airports. Using revealed and stated preference data collected at Milan airports (Italy), mixed logit and hybrid choice modeling specifications are estimated and compared with profile potential UAM passengers. Our findings suggest that the level of service, socioeconomic factors, and trip-related variables explain passengers’ choices better than latent traits such as fear of flying, propensity for technological advances, and expectations about the safety of UAM services. In other words, the additional complexity of hybrid choice modeling is not justified by the slight gain in likelihood compared with the estimated mixed logit model. The results also indicate that high-income individuals traveling for business purposes are the most likely demand segment to use UAM services, at least initially. Moreover, highly educated individuals and employees who have their travel expenses reimbursed for work trips are less likely to choose UAM services for airport access or egress, preferring traditional ground taxis.
Social Cognitive Processes in Children With Specific Learning Disorder: The Importance of Language
Authors: Bailey Katharine M. , Im-Bolter Nancie
Published: October 2024

Children with specific learning disorder (SLD) have poor academic skills, but they also experience difficulties with their peers, including an inability to recognize interpersonal conflict, infer emotion, and resolve social conflict. In addition, children with SLD are known to have problems with language. The importance of language to social cognition is well-established in research with children with typical and atypical development. Thus, we review literature that investigates language and social cognition in children with SLD compared with their peers. We also explore the link between language and social cognition in children with typical and atypical language development. Review of this literature suggests that the language deficits associated with SLD put children with SLD at a risk for deficits in social cognitive skill. The literature also points toward a critical need for early identification of SLD and research investigating social perspective taking in individuals with SLD across the lifespan. Last, we propose that clinicians should assess language before diagnosing and implementing intervention for the academic and social difficulties that children and adolescents with SLD experience.
Investigation on chatter stability of thin-walled parts milling considering the effects of fixture support force and tool position
Authors: Liu Ze , Wang Ping , Chen Gang , Wang Biao , Han Lei , Wang Pingzhang
Published: October 2024

The chatter stability of thin-walled parts milling has garnered widespread attention in recent years, leading to numerous important findings. However, the effects of tool position and the fixture support force applied to the workpiece on the chatter stability have yet to be adequately studied. Therefore, this paper aims to explore the mechanisms by which these two factors affect the chatter stability of thin-walled parts milling. First, based on the structural characteristics of the milling system, a three-degree-of-freedom dynamic model for thin-walled parts milling is developed. Subsequently, modal impact tests are conducted to obtain the dynamic parameters under different fixture support forces and tool positions, and the evolution of these dynamic parameters under different fixture support forces and tool positions is explored in depth. Next, the semi-discrete method is employed to solve the dynamic model, analyzing the effects of fixture support force and tool position on the chatter stability of thin-walled parts milling. Finally, milling experiments are carried out to validate the accuracy of the model. The experimental results indicate that the stability prediction results from the established dynamic model are in agreement with the experimental results, demonstrating its effectiveness in assessing the chatter stability of thin-walled parts milling.
State of health estimation for lithium-ion batteries with Bayesian optimized Gaussian process regression
Authors: Ye Li-hua , He Zhou , Ke Cheng-long , Cheng Xing , Zhao Xu , Zhang Zi-xing , Shi Ai-ping
Published: October 2024

The estimation of the state of health (SOH) of lithium-ion batteries is of great importance to ensure the safe and stable operation of a lithium-ion battery management system (BMS). Accurate estimation of SOH can effectively prevent unnecessary losses of lithium-ion batteries due to failures. Therefore, a Bayesian-optimized Gaussian process regression (BO-GPR) method is proposed for SOH estimation. Firstly, the ageing characteristics reflecting the SOH of the battery are extracted from the charge/discharge time and incremental capacity (IC) curve, and the correlation between the health characteristics and the SOH is analysed by means of grey correlation (GRA). On the other hand, a Bayesian optimization algorithm is used to automatically find the optimal hyperparameters of the GPR model and trained using the battery dataset to obtain the SOH estimating model. To validate the effectiveness of the method, the datasets provided by NASA and Oxford are used as experimental objects and compared with different data-driven models to verify the accuracy and reliability of the proposed model. The experimental results show that the method proposed in this paper has a high accuracy in the estimation of the SOH, with the maximum average estimation error being within 1%.
Relationships between depression level and serum inflammatory factors and thyroxine levels in patients with malignant bone tumors associated with depression
Authors: Ao Man , Yang Xin , Wang Shuping , Li Min , Zhang Wenru , Ou Qihui , Xu Kun , Sun Dongxue
Published: October 2024

Objective

To elucidate the relationships between depression level and serum inflammatory factors and thyroxine levels in patients with malignant bone tumors associated with depression.

Methods

The depression ( n = 28) and non-depression groups ( n = 35) were established. Another 35 healthy subjects were selected as the control group. The severity of depression was assessed, and the depression group received the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor antidepressant sertraline for 4 weeks. Serum levels of inflammatory factors and thyroxine, and the correlation between inflammatory factors, thyroxine, and HAMD-17 score were analyzed.

Results

The IL-1β, IL-6, and IL-21 levels were lower and TGF-β1, IL-10, and IL-27 were higher in the depression group after treatment than before treatment. After treatment, T3 levels were higher and T4 levels were lower in the depression group. T4 levels were higher in patients with major depression than those with mild depression. IL-1β and IL-21 levels were elevated in moderately depressed patients [(11.13 ± 1.49) ng/L、(9.71 ± 1.26) ng/L], and IL-1β levels were elevated in severely depressed patients [(11.26 ± 1.95) ng/L], compared to mildly depressed patients [(9.36 ± 1.25) ng/L, (7.95 ± 1.31) ng/L] (all p < 0.05). Serum IL-1β, IL-6, and IL-21 were positively correlated with the total HAMD-17 score, and TGF-β1 and IL-10 were negatively correlated with the total HAMD-17 score.

Conclusion

Depression degree in patients with malignant bone tumors correlates with serum inflammatory factors and thyroxine levels. Measurement of serum inflammatory factors and thyroxine levels can assess the progression and prognosis of depressed patients.
Drug Repurposing for Rare (Orphan) Diseases—Scope and Limitations
Authors: Kumar Dhavendra
Published: October 2024

Effective and affordable treatment for rare diseases remains a huge challenge. Only a few drugs have made inroads into the therapeutic arena for rare diseases. The current focus is shifted to different uses for expensive new drugs, referred to as drug repurposing. It is also called drug repositioning or reprofiling, refers to the identification of new therapeutic applications of existing or investigational drugs. This concept and novel approaches have promising role in the treatment of many potentially incurable diseases, particularly certain forms of cancer, neurodegenerative conditions, immunological disorders and uncommon infectious diseases. There are huge expectations filled with optimism that the drug repurposing would offer fresh opportunities for the treatment and management of rare diseases. This is undoubtedly more relevant for low and middle income countries.
Elevation and distraction of the Tibial periosteum in the management of chronic ischemic lower limb diseases
Authors: Gan Meng , Xia Xiqin , You Yi , Xu Wei , Peng Xinyu , Xu Jinjun , Wu Wengao , Tang Yinkui , Chen Qiong , Wu Yun , Zeng Naxin
Published: October 2024

Objective

This study investigates the effectiveness of tibia periosteum distraction (TPD) applied to the tibial periosteum, an innovative approach grounded in Ilizarov’s tension-stress theory, for the treatment of ischemic diabetic foot and vasculitic foot conditions.

Methods

A retrospective analysis was conducted on 33 patients (36 limbs) who underwent TPD between June 2019 and May 2022. The study comprised 21 males (23 limbs) and 12 females (13 limbs), aged 41 to 80 years (mean age: 63.4 years). Diabetic foot accounted for 27 cases, thromboangiitis obliterans for 2 cases, and arterial occlusive disease for 4 cases. The distribution of affected limbs included 15 left feet and 21 right feet. Periosteum traction commenced on the third postoperative day at a rate of approximately 0.75 mm/day, adjusted biweekly. The traction device was removed after two weeks. Evaluation included capillary refill and wound healing assessment, along with pre- and postoperative analysis of foot skin temperature, ankle-brachial index (ABI), visual analogue scale (VAS) pain scores, and peripheral blood oxygen saturation. CT angiography (CTA) was utilized to assess vascular conditions in both lower limbs.

Results

All 33 patients were successfully followed up for a duration ranging from 4 to 24 weeks (mean: 11.03 weeks). VAS pain scores significantly decreased from preoperative (5.09 ± 1.70, range: 2-8) to postoperative two weeks (2.24 ± 0.90, range: 1-4) (t = 9.44, p < .001). Oxygen saturation levels increased from 83.88% ± 11.82% (range: 58%-97%) preoperatively to 91.36% ± 5.69% (range: 76%-98%) at two weeks postoperatively (t = −4.21, p < .001). Foot skin temperature also showed a significant increase (t = −3.98, p < .001). Capillary refill test at two weeks postoperatively demonstrated notable improvement. CTA revealed evident neovascularization in the operated limbs compared to preoperative conditions. Wound improvement was significant in all 33 patients within two months postoperatively.

Conclusion

TPD emerges as a promising technique for chronic ischemic lower limb diseases, demonstrating favorable preliminary outcomes in wound healing promotion and amputation rate reduction. Nevertheless, large-scale randomized controlled trials are essential to further validate its efficacy.
Out of The Box, Onto the Screen: Insights from an OOBE Study of the Xbox Adaptive Controller
Authors: Van Ommen Carmen , Walton Corey , Dhanpaul Amanda , Curtorillo Isabella , Chaparro Barbara S.
Published: October 2024

This study investigates the Out-of-Box Experience (OOBE) of the Xbox Adaptive Controller and Logitech Gaming Kit, focusing on users with varying levels of disability and gaming experience. Fifteen participants were recruited from a university population and had varying levels of gaming and disability experienced. The study observed participants’ interactions with the packaging, instructions, and setup process for both the controller and the switch kit. The Xbox Adaptive Controller received positive feedback for its easy-to-open packaging, aesthetically pleasing design, and a relatively easy setup and use process. However, weaknesses included a lack of clear information on functionalities of additional switches, difficulties with cable management, and unclear instructions with a reliance on diagrams Incorporating individuals with diverse gaming backgrounds and experience with disability throughout the design process can help identify challenges and opportunities for a wider range of users.
Supporting Driver Attention Toward Potential Hazards During Takeover: A Preliminary Result
Authors: Han Doo Won , Liu Jundi , Yang X. Jessie , Romo Alicia , Horrey William , Tilbury Dawn , Zhou Feng , Robert Lionel , Molnar Lisa
Published: October 2024

This study investigates the impact of a supportive system on takeover transitions in conditionally automated driving (SAE Level 3). The supportive system is designed to direct drivers’ attention toward potential hazards in the environment when a takeover request occurs. The study comprises two components: (a) identifying various types of potential hazards using naturalistic driving data, and (b) conducting a driving simulator study to develop and assess a gaze guidance system based on the N-SEEV model of visual attention. Results indicate that drivers using a highly salient attention guidance system were less likely to collide with a secondary hazard during takeover transitions. This suggests that gaze guidance support is an effective approach for assisting drivers during takeover transitions.