bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sustained release of MAPK14‐targeting siRNA from polyelectrolyte complex hydrogels mitigates MSC osteogenesis in vitro with potential application in growth plate injury
Authors: Adhikari Bikram , Stager Michael A. , Collins Elise G. , Fischenich Kristine M. , Olusoji Jesutomisin , Ruble Ana Ferreira , Payne Karin A. , Krebs Melissa D.
Published: August 2024

The growth plate is a cartilage structure at the end of long bones which mediates growth in children. When fractured, the formation of bony repair tissue known as a “bony bar” can occur and cause limb deformities. There are currently no effective clinical solutions for the prevention of the bony bar formation or regeneration of healthy growth plate cartilage after a fracture. This study employs previously developed alginate/chitosan polyelectrolyte complex (PEC) hydrogels as a sustained release vehicle for the delivery of short‐interfering RNA (siRNA). Specifically, the siRNA targets the p38‐MAPK pathway in mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) to prevent their osteogenic differentiation. In vitro experimental findings show sustained release of siRNA from the hydrogels for 6 months. Flow cytometry and confocal imaging indicate that the hydrogels release siRNA to effectively knockdown GFP expression over a sustained period. MAPK‐14 targeting siRNA was used to knockdown the expression of MAPK‐14 and correspondingly decrease the expression of other osteogenic genes in MSCs in vitro over the span of 21 days. These hydrogels were used in a rat model of growth plate injury to determine whether siMAPK‐14 released from the gels could inhibit bony bar formation. No significant reduction of bony bar formation was seen in vivo at the one concentration of siRNA examined. This PEC hydrogel represents a significant advancement for siRNA sustained delivery, and presents an interesting potential therapeutic delivery system for growth plate injuries and other regenerative medicine applications.
Do Presence and Authenticity in VR Experience Enhance Visitor Satisfaction and Museum Re‐Visitation Intentions?
Authors: Choi Kwangsik , Nam Yoonjae
Published: August 2024

This study explores the impact of VR experiences in museums on visitor satisfaction and revisiting intentions, focusing on presence and authenticity perceptions. While VR as an educational tool does not directly affect VR satisfaction, its entertainment and esthetic value can foster re‐engagement with the technology. Moreover, the results indicate that satisfaction with the VR experience does not directly translate into museum revisit intentions. Visitors currently perceive VR as an additional feature rather than part of the exhibition program. The research underlines the need for early‐stage VR content development that integrates a stronger connection to original exhibits and promotes VR as a tool to boost interest and visits. Additionally, this study suggests that VR should aim to implement existential authenticity created through a sense of presence, rather than portraying objective authenticity.
Oncogenic SLC2A11–MIF fusion protein interacts with polypyrimidine tract binding protein 1 to facilitate bladder cancer proliferation and metastasis by regulating mRNA stability
Authors: Cheng Liang , Yang Chenwei , Lu Junlin , Huang Ming , Xie Ruihui , Lynch Sarah , Elfman Justin , Huang Yuhang , Liu Sen , Chen Siting , He Baoqing , Lin Tianxin , Li Hui , Chen Xu , Huang Jian
Published: August 2024

Chimeric RNAs, distinct from DNA gene fusions, have emerged as promising therapeutic targets with diverse functions in cancer treatment. However, the functional significance and therapeutic potential of most chimeric RNAs remain unclear. Here we identify a novel fusion transcript of solute carrier family 2‐member 11 (SLC2A11) and macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF). In this study, we investigated the upregulation of SLC2A11–MIF in The Cancer Genome Atlas cohort and a cohort of patients from Sun Yat‐Sen Memorial Hospital. Subsequently, functional investigations demonstrated that SLC2A11–MIF enhanced the proliferation, antiapoptotic effects, and metastasis of bladder cancer cells in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistically, the fusion protein encoded by SLC2A11–MIF interacted with polypyrimidine tract binding protein 1 (PTBP1) and regulated the mRNA half‐lives of Polo Like Kinase 1, Roundabout guidance receptor 1, and phosphoinositide‐3‐kinase regulatory subunit 3 in BCa cells. Moreover, PTBP1 knockdown abolished the enhanced impact of SLC2A11–MIF on biological function and mRNA stability. Furthermore, the expression of SLC2A11–MIF mRNA is regulated by CCCTC‐binding factor and stabilized through RNA N4‐acetylcytidine modification facilitated by N‐acetyltransferase 10. Overall, our findings revealed a significant fusion protein orchestrated by the SLC2A11–MIF–PTBP1 axis that governs mRNA stability during the multistep progression of bladder cancer.
Preparation and characterization of gelatin‐pectin‐based active films incorporated with Styrax benzoin oleo gum resin
Authors: Bhatia Saurabh , Jawad Muhammad , Chinnam Sampath , Al‐Harrasi Ahmed , Shah Yasir Abbas , Koca Esra , Aydemir Levent Yurdaer , Alam Tanveer , Mohan Syam , Zoghebi Khalid , Khalid Asaad
Published: August 2024

In this study, benzoin oleogum resin (BOGR) loaded antioxidant gelatin/pectin (GEPE) based films were developed and characterized for various parameters including mechanical, barrier, optical, film hydrophilicity/hydrophobicity, surface roughness, chemical, thermal, morphological and antioxidant properties. The incorporation of BOGR decreased water solubility, moisture content, tensile strength, and elongation at break. However, water permeability, opacity, thickness, and water hydrophobicity were increased. Moreover, SEM and AFM analysis confirmed that the films loaded with BOGR showed heterogeneous and rougher surfaces in comparison to blank film. The intermolecular interactions between GEPE and BOGR was confirmed by infrared spectroscopy. Thermal stability of the prepared BOGR loaded films was improved. Additionally, antioxidant activities of the film were significantly increased with increase in concentration of BOGR as indicated by ABTS and DPPH assays. Our findings indicate that BOGR loaded composite films could be used as an active material for food packaging applications.
Effect of application time of DC electric field on properties of h‐BN/EP composites
Authors: Chen Xuesong , Feng Yu , Liang Liang , Zhang Zhonghua , Chen Qingguo
Published: August 2024

By applying an electric field, the thermal conductivity(λ) of composites can be enhanced through the induced orientation of high λ fillers within the matrix. As far as the DC electric field is concerned, the pattern of the electric field application time on the λ of the composites is not clear. In this work, a 400 V/mm DC electric field was selected to prompt the alignment of boron nitride (h‐BN) within the epoxy resin (EP) matrix, with an in‐depth analysis of how the timing of the electric field application influences the λ of the composites. Results demonstrate that the λ of h‐BN/EP composites exhibits a pattern of increasing, decreasing, then increasing and finally stabilizing when the electric field application time is 0–480 min. When the electric field was applied for 20 min, the composites exhibited a maximum λ of 0.544 W/(m K), a value that is 3.88 times of pure EP, and 2.32 times of that of the composites without electric field under the same filling content. In addition, the composite exhibits an AC breakdown field strength (Eb) that is slightly elevated compared to the pure EP.

Highlights

Boron nitride (h‐BN) was successfully oriented in epoxy resin (EP) matrix by electric field induction.

λ of the composite is proportional to orientation Angle of h‐BN in the matrix.

λ of composite can be increased by electric field induced fillers orientation.

Electric field induction does not damage the insulation properties of composite.

The excellent in‐plane λ and insulation properties of h‐BN are fully utilized.
Evaluation of Medication Adherence Among Prevalent Users in Hypertension, Dyslipidemia, and Diabetes Using Health Insurance Claims: A Population‐Based Cohort Study in Japan
Authors: Matsumoto Minako , Harada Sei , Ikuta Harufumi , Iida Miho , Kato Suzuka , Sata Mizuki , Shibuki Takuma , Ishibashi Yoshiki , Miyagawa Naoko , Hisamatsu Moeko , Hirata Aya , Kuwabara Kazuyo , Takeuchi Ayano , Sugiyama Daisuke , Suzuki Sayo , Nakamura Tomonori , Okamura Tomonori , Takebayashi Toru
Published: August 2024

Purpose

Hypertension (HT), dyslipidemia (DL), and diabetes mellitus (DM) are major risk factors for cardiovascular diseases. Despite the wide availability of medications to reduce this risk, poor adherence to medications remains an issue. The aim of this study is to evaluate medication adherence of prevalent users in these disease medications (HT, DL, DM) using claims data. Factors associated with non‐adherence were also examined.

Methods

Of 7538 participants of the Tsuruoka Metabolomics Cohort Study, 3693 (HT: 2702, DL: 2112, DM: 661) were identified as prevalent users of these disease medications. Information on lifestyle was collected through a questionnaire. Adherence was assessed by a proportion of days covered (PDC) and participants with PDC ≥0.8 were defined as adherent. Predictors of non‐adherence were determined by performing multivariable logistic regression.

Results

Medication adherence differed by treatment status. Among those without comorbidities, those with HT‐only showed the highest adherence (90.2%), followed by those with DM‐only (81.2%) and those with DL‐only (80.8%). Factors associated with non‐adherence in each medication group were skipping breakfast and poor understanding of medications among those with HT medications, females, having comorbidities, having a history of heart disease, and drinking habit among those with DL medications, and good sleep quality and skipping breakfast among those with DM medications.

Conclusion

While participants showed high medication adherence, differences were observed across medication groups. The identified predictors of non‐adherence could help target those in need of adherence support.
Set input‐to‐state stability for nonlinear time‐delay systems with disturbances
Authors: Sinha Pallavi , Morarescu Irinel‐Constantin , Srikant Sukumar
Published: August 2024

We propose new results on input‐to‐state stability (ISS) subject to time delays in the input for compact, invariant sets that contain the origin. First, using nonlinear small‐gain theory, we prove a Razumikhin‐type theorem that ensures ISS for sets in the context of functional differential equations with delayed disturbances. Next we demonstrate that this theorem can be used to ensure set ISS for nonlinear systems with input delays and disturbances. In comparison to the existing research on robustness of set ISS with respect to time delays at the input, our results are more general, retain the ISS gain, and do not impose constraints on time delayed states. The advantages of the method are illustrated through two case‐studies on set‐stability for classes of nonlinear oscillators of practical interest.
Utility of artificial river reef structures to enhance fish habitat below a hydropeaking dam
Authors: Cavallaro Michael C. , Schumann David A.
Published: August 2024

Large‐scale modification of river ecosystems for navigation, power generation, flood control, and irrigation has largely homogenized benthic habitats and altered fish assemblages. Although riverine habitat rehabilitation and enhancement techniques are well‐studied for wadable streams and small rivers, relatively little is known about the potential utility of artificial fish habitat installation in large rivers impacted by hydropeaking. Lightweight artificial fish habitat structures composed of wood or plastic have demonstrated effects on fish populations in static environments; however, these structures are not able to withstand the high discharge and dynamic flows of a large river system. The Colorado River below the Davis Dam is a representative ecosystem impacted by hydropeaking, where water release can range from 2000 to 23,000 ft3/s (56.6–651.3 m3/s) in a single day. In coordination with multiple state and federal government agencies, we deployed a series of concrete river reef structures, mimicking small‐scale artificial reefs, to increase habitat complexity and provide in‐river patches of relief from high‐flow events. Benthic habitat cover measurements were paired with visual surveys of river reef structures 6 months and 2.5 years post‐deployment. Generalized linear models indicated that cobbles increased structure visibility above the riverbed, displayed less erosion, and allowed for greater potential fish use, whereas sand and gravel (i.e., loose bedload materials) decreased visibility and caused structures to sink into the riverbed over time, limiting fish use. Our case study provides instructional information on the construction of artificial river reef structures and recommendations for deployment, and highlights their potential to increase benthic habitat heterogeneity, with conservation and sport fish implications.
White Christian Nationalism, Biblical Proof Texting, and Literacy Curriculum and Instruction
Authors: Juzwik Mary , Witte Rebecca , Burke Kevin , Prins Esther
Published: August 2024

If the White Christian nationalist movement has significantly galvanized parent, community, and larger‐scale political groups whose guiding ethos challenges teacher professional roles in shaping literacy curriculum and instruction, then how can literacy teachers and teacher educators better understand this movement, its interpretive orientation to biblical proof texting, and implications for literacy scholarship and education? We focus on the locality of Ottawa County and surrounding areas of western Michigan, where Reformed [Calvinist] Christianity became the dominant ethnoreligious group after Dutch immigrants colonized the area in the 1800s. Grounded in this context, the essay describes the Christian nationalist movement, distinguishing it from the American evangelical movement and exploring the significance of biblical proof texting to it. We then discuss implications of our argument about biblical proof texting and White Christian nationalism, focusing around three questions: (a) What is the significance of naming, identifying, and situating the White Christian nationalist movement (as a type of ethnoreligious nationalism) for literacy stakeholders? (b) How, if at all, can the Bible and biblical interpretation be engaged in US public school literacy classrooms—and other commons concerned with literacy teaching and learning—without embracing “cultural uniformity through coercion”? and (c) How can Christian school literacy educators engage the Bible in ways that challenge White Christian nationalism appropriations of it? We engage these questions by sharing examples from our own teaching and from an elementary teacher whose literacy pedagogy in a Reformed Christian (Calvinist) school in western Michigan gently challenges the core assumptions of this movement and its orientation to biblical interpretation.
Skin Sensing and Wearable Technology as Tools to Measure Atopic Dermatitis Severity
Authors: Khan Yasmin , Todorov Alexandar , Torah Russel , Beeby Stephen , Ardern-Jones Michael Roger
Published: August 2024

Wearable medical technology encompasses a range of electronic devices that act as biosensors. Atopic dermatitis (AD) is the commonest inflammatory skin disease and represents an important area of need in which to leverage the power of wearable biosensor technology, especially as the impact of COVID-19 increases the likelihood of virtual consultations becoming an integrated part of clinical practice. The aim of this review is to systematically define the published evidence for the utility of wearable biosensors in assessment and management of atopic dermatitis (AD). A systematic literature search was conducted for publications from 1995 onwards for ‘sensor’ OR ‘sensing’ OR ‘biosensor’ OR ‘biomarker’. Results were combined (‘AND’) with a search for ‘wearable’ OR ‘actigraphy’ OR ‘Internet of things’ OR ‘microneedle’ OR ‘patch’ OR ‘e-textile’ OR ‘smart textile’ and atopic dermatitis (MESH terms). Fifty seven abstracts were identified from the database search of which 39 were selected for detailed review. Broadly, wearable sensing systems in atopic dermatitis were split into three categories: wearable biosensor modules (actigraphy and smartwatches), clothing and integrated fabrics placed onto the epidermis and intradermal or subcutaneous sensors. The best evidence for correlation with AD disease severity was with actigraphy measurements of itch. However, newer approaches including sensing skin barrier function, inflammation and small molecule analysis as well as employing artificial intelligence offer more potential for advanced disease monitoring. Skin diseases, specifically AD, stand to benefit greatly from wearable technology, because of the ease of direct contact to the skin, the high prevalence of the disease and the large unmet need for better disease control in this group. However, important emphasis must be placed on validating the correlation of data from such technology with patient-reported outcomes. Wearable biosensors offer a huge potential to deliver better diagnostics, monitoring and treatment outcomes for patients.
A Middle Triassic Cassian‐type fauna (Pelsa‐Vazzoler Lagerstätte) and the adaptive radiation of the Modern evolutionary fauna
Authors: Dominici Stefano , Danise Silvia , Tintori Andrea
Published: August 2024

We describe a high‐diversity silicified assemblage of marine molluscs (Pelsa‐Vazzoler Lagerstätte) from the upper Ladinian of the Agordo Dolomites (northeastern Italy). New data on the Triassic rebound, after the end‐Permian mass extinction, constrain it to an interval of relatively stable climatic conditions. This Lagerstätte, in the Sciliar Formation, yields a structure comparable to the famous lower Carnian San Cassiano Lagerstätte and suggests that the radiation of benthic molluscs may have occurred as early as the late Middle Triassic. We classified more than 4800 Cassian‐type molluscs, measuring abundance distributions of 109 species, including one new family (Rhaetidiidae), three new genera (Pelsia, Gaetania, Agordozyga) and 21 new species: Grammatodon egortinus, Modiolus friesenbichlerae, Myoconcha busattae, Schizogonium letiziae, Predazzella? monarii, Eucycloscala nitida, Tricolnaticopsis elongatus, Cortinella stricta, Triadoskenea alpicornu, Trachynerita tenuicostata, Coelostylina civettae, Gaetania coronata, Agordozyga caprina, Euthystylus dincae, Zygopleura elongata, Diatrypesis agordina, Cryptaulax pelsae, Pseudoscalites karapunari, Promathildia gracile, Camponaxis ladinica and Striactaeonina ingens. In this fauna, associated with tropical carbonate platforms, epifaunal filter‐feeding bivalves adopted new antipredatory features and gastropods conquered new ecospace, including parasitism and microcarnivory on sponges and scleractinian corals. Small size was an advantage in an ecosystem of small, isolated patch reefs. This is how, where and when caenogastropod and heterobranch snails (groups that today dominate global marine diversity) began their rise in the marine benthos. The origins of some evolutionary innovations that are key to our understanding of the time and place of the Mesozoic Marine Revolution, are therefore pushed back to the Middle Triassic.
Intraoperative computerised tomography scan for percutaneous fixation of the pelvis: a retrospective case series
Authors: Kevin Monahan , William Hogan , Chilton Matthew , Michael Maher , Alice Hughes , Gregory Altman , Daniel Altman , Erik Hammarstedt Jon
Published: August 2024

Purpose

Fractures and dislocations of the pelvic ring are complex injuries that when treating require meticulous attention to detail and often specialized technical skill. These injuries can be the result of high-energy trauma, particularly in younger patients, or low energy trauma more often found in the elderly. Regardless of mechanism, these injuries lie on a spectrum of severity and can be treated conservatively or surgically. Percutaneous fixation under fluoroscopic guidance is the preferred standard technique when treating these fractures. This technique can be challenging for a variety of reasons including patient characteristics, intra-operative image quality, fracture morphology, among others.

Methods

This retrospective study evaluated the use of intra-operative computed tomography (CT) using an O-arm imaging system for critical evaluation of fluoroscopic-guided screw placement in twenty-three patients. We retrospectively reviewed all cases of patients who were treated by three fellowship-trained orthopaedic traumatologists during a one-year span. Patients undergoing percutaneous pelvis fixation using both standard fluoroscopy and intraoperative CT with the Medtronic O-arm® (Minneapolis, MN) imaging system. Additionally, procedures performed included open reduction internal fixation (ORIF) of the pelvic ring, acetabulum, and associated extremity fractures.

Results

Twenty-three patients were included in this study. On average, the use of intraoperative CT added 24.4 min in operative time. Five patients (21.7%) required implant adjustment after O-arm spin. Fourteen patients underwent additional post-operative CT. No secondary revision surgeries were attempted after any post-operative CT.

Conclusions

Our study suggests that intra-operative CT scan, compared to post-operative CT scan, can be utilized to prevent take-back surgery for misplaced implants and allow for adjustment in real-time.
E148Q variant: a familial Mediterranean fever-causing mutation or a sequence variant?
Authors: Orouk Awaad Elham , Khoury Lana , van Straalen Joeri W. , Miller-Barmak Adi , Gazitt Tal , Haddad-Haloun Jumana , Brik Riva , Hamad Saied Mohamad
Published: August 2024

Familial Mediterranean fever (FMF) is an autosomal recessive autoinflammatory disease, linked to mutations in the MEFV gene. The p.E148Q variant, found on exon 2, has an uncertain role in FMF, with debates on whether it is a benign polymorphism or a pathogenic mutation. This study aimed to assess the clinical characteristics and severity of FMF in patients homozygous for the p.E148Q variant and to evaluate the impact of the p.V726A variant in these patients. This retrospective cohort study analyzed data from electronic medical records at Carmel Medical Center, Israel. Patients who underwent genetic testing for FMF from November 2004 to December 2019 and had p.E148Q/p.E148Q or p.E148Q/p.E148Q + p.V726A variants were included. Disease severity was assessed using the Tel Hashomer Key to Severity Score. Statistical analyses compared clinical characteristics and severity between genotype groups. The study included 61 FMF patients, with 24 (39%) having p.E148Q/p.E148Q and 37 (61%) having p.E148Q/p.E148Q + p.V726A variants. The majority (72%) were Druze. Most patients (65.5%) exhibited mild disease, while 31.1% had moderate disease, with no cases of severe disease. Colchicine treatment significantly reduced CRP levels in all patients.

Conclusion: These findings suggest that the p.E148Q variant, whether alone or with p.V726A, generally results in mild to moderate FMF severity, supporting its pathogenic role in particular ethnicity. These results contribute to understanding the clinical significance of the p.E148Q variant and considering the patient’s need for Colchicine treatment.

What is Known:• The role of the p.E148Q variant in FMF is debated, with questions about whether it is a benign polymorphism or a pathogenic mutation.• The prevalence of MEFV variants can vary significantly among different ethnic groups.

What is New:• The p.E148Q variant has clinical significance in particular ethnicities, as supported by a significant reduction in CRP levels following colchicine treatment.• The p.E148Q variant, whether alone or with p.V726A, generally results in mild to moderate FMF severity.
Laparoscopic ablation for liver malignancies: initial experience at a Scandinavian high volume HPB center
Authors: Klubien Jeanett , Knøfler Lucas Alexander , Larsen Peter Nørgaard , Nielsen Susanne Dam , Fukumori Daisuke , Hillingsø Jens Georg , Tschuor Christoph , Pommergaard Hans-Christian
Published: August 2024

Background

Ablation is an effective, parenchymal-sparing treatment for primary liver cancer and liver metastases. The purpose of this study was to report our initial experience with laparoscopic microwave ablation regarding postoperative complications, rate of conversions to open procedure, and technical efficacy.

Methods

This was a quality improvement project carried out at a tertiary care center in Denmark. Patients ≥ 18 years old with liver malignancies, not available for percutaneous ablation, and treated with ultrasound-guided laparoscopic ablation were included.

Results

From March 2023 to December 2023, 39 patients were referred for laparoscopic ablation after a multidisciplinary team conference. Of these, two procedures were converted to open procedures due to adhesion and tumor progression. Three patients rejected the sharing of medical information, two procedures were canceled and in one case the strategy was changed perioperatively. Therefore, 32 procedures in 31 patients were available for analysis. Complete ablation was evaluated after 1 month and was achieved in 100% of the procedures. None of the patients died, and no complications were reported in 21 cases (65.6%). Most patients with complications had a grade 1 complication based on the Clavien–Dindo classification, which among others included abdominal and shoulder pain, atrial fibrillation, and subcutaneous hematoma. Two patients had a complication grade 2 (wound infection and decompensated cirrhosis) and one had a grade 4b (sepsis due to pneumonia and urinary tract infection). The median Comprehensive Complication Index was 12.2 (interquartile range 8.7–24.2). Furthermore, univariable logistic regression showed that ≥ 2 tumors treated were associated with a higher risk of complications (odds ratio 6.37, 95% confidence interval [1.20;33.85], p-value = 0.0297).

Conclusion

Ultrasound-guided laparoscopic microwave ablation of liver malignancies is feasible and safe with little risk for complications, a high technical efficacy, and a low rate of conversions to open procedures.
Mixed Reality in the Operating Room: A Systematic Review
Authors: Magalhães Renato , Oliveira Ana , Terroso David , Vilaça Adélio , Veloso Rita , Marques António , Pereira Javier , Coelho Luís
Published: August 2024

Mixed Reality is a technology that has gained attention due to its unique capabilities for accessing and visualizing information. When integrated with voice control mechanisms, gestures and even iris movement, it becomes a valuable tool for medicine. These features are particularly appealing for the operating room and surgical learning, where access to information and freedom of hand operation are fundamental. This study examines the most significant research on mixed reality in the operating room over the past five years, to identify the trends, use cases, its applications and limitations. A systematic review was conducted following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) guidelines to answer the research questions established using the PICO (Population, Intervention, Comparator and Outcome) framework. Although implementation of Mixed Reality applications in the operations room presents some challenges, when used appropriately, it can yield remarkable results. It can make learning easier, flatten the learning curve for several procedures, and facilitate various aspects of the surgical processes. The articles’ conclusions highlight the potential benefits of these innovations in surgical practice while acknowledging the challenges that must be addressed. Technical complexity, equipment costs, and steep learning curves present significant obstacles to the widespread adoption of Mixed Reality and computer-assisted evaluation. The need for more flexible approaches and comprehensive studies is underscored by the specificity of procedures and limited samples sizes. The integration of imaging modalities and innovative functionalities holds promise for clinical applications. However, it is important to consider issues related to usability, bias, and statistical analyses. Mixed Reality offers significant benefits, but there are still open challenges such as ergonomic issues, limited field of view, and battery autonomy that must be addressed to ensure widespread acceptance.
Pest trap and natural enemy nursery merged in Lobularia maritima?
Authors: Koller Janique , Norgrove Lindsey , Dekumbis Virginie , Maret Dylan , Sutter Louis
Published: August 2024

Planting crops to push or pull pests from a main crop and floral enhancements to attract natural enemies are emerging as pivotal agroecological strategies to shift away from synthetic pesticides. The brassica, Lobularia maritima, has great potential to act as a floral enhancement as it is attractive to many insects and improves the fitness of and biocontrol services provided by multiple natural enemies. It has been mainly deployed as an insectary plant; few studies have been conducted on its use as a trap plant. We explored the potential of L. maritima as a targeted flower enhancement in sheltered cropping systems through three case studies: (1) as flower strips alongside a cucumber crop, (2) as flower strips alongside a strawberry crop in a replicated on-farm experiment, and (3) as hanging pots under strawberry cultivation gutters. We monitored beneficial and pest insects in flowers and crops and assessed crop damage. Lobularia maritima stands out as an excellent floral enhancement plant due to its ease of cultivation and its ability to flower consistently over an extended period. Generalist predatory bugs, such as Orius laevigatus and Macrolophus pygmaeus, had higher densities on L. maritima than on other flowers grown next to strawberries. We found more thrips on L. maritima and less thrips on crops in two out of three experiments, compared with controls. Further research is needed to confirm if L. maritima is an effective trap crop for thrips and other pests and to detect possible dis-services, such as the attraction of phytophagous bugs.
Tribological study of two ammonium chloride-decanoic acid deep eutectic solvents (DESs) as high-performance lubricants
Authors: Li Zhuocheng , Zhang Enhui , Li Weimin , Liu Haichao
Published: August 2024

Deep eutectic solvents (DESs) are acknowledged as a novel class of functional liquid. DESs share similar physical properties with ionic liquids (ILs) and have the potential to be a novel class of lubricants. In this study, two DESs, namely tetrabutylammonium chloride-decanoic acid DES (C4-DES) and methyl tricaprylmethylammonium chloride-decanoic acid DES (C8-DES), were synthesized, and their physico-chemical properties and tribological performances were evaluated. Post-analysis of the rubbing surfaces used multiple techniques to gain insights into the lubrication mechanisms. Results show that the coefficient of friction (COF) and wear were reduced by approximately 29% and 91% for the C4-DES, and 36% and 94% for the C8-DES, compared to an ester base oil. The friction reduction behavior of the DESs is attributed to the monolayer adsorption of the polar group in the decanoic acid (DEAC), whose effectiveness is affected by the component of the ammonium salts in the DESs and the operating temperatures. In addition to the adsorbed film, worn surface analysis revealed that an ultra-thin tribochemical film with a thickness of 3–7 nm was formed on the surfaces lubricated with the C8-DES. The composition of the film was studied, and the lubrication mechanisms of the two DESs were discussed.
The evolution of data storage architectures: examining the secure value of the Data Lakehouse
Authors: Janssen Nathalie , Ilayperuma Tharaka , Jayasinghe Jeewanie , Bukhsh Faiza , Daneva Maya
Published: August 2024

The digital shift in society is making continuous growth of data. However, choosing a suitable storage architecture to efficiently store, process, and manage data from numerous sources remains a challenge. Currently, there are three storage architecture generations in practice, and the most recent one is Data Lakehouse. Given its novelty, limited research has been done into the rationale behind its introduction, strengths, and weaknesses. In order to fill this gap, this study aims to investigate the secure value (comparative strengths) of the data lakehouse architecture compared to data warehouse and data lake architectures. After conducting a comprehensive systematic literature review, we propose a data storage evolution model showing the comparative strengths and weaknesses of data warehouse, lake, and lakehouse architectures. With the use of the proposed model and expert interviews, this study demonstrates the secure value of the data lakehouse compared to the preceding architectures. In addition, the study presents a high-level view of the overlapping strengths of data Lakehouse with both data warehouse and data lake. In essence, the artifact produced by this study can be used to explain the rationale behind the evolution of data storage architectures. Further, the proposed model will help the practitioners in studying the trade-off between different architectures to offer recommendations. Finally, authors acknowledge that this study has several limitations, such as the limited sample size for the interviews and the bias due to the use of qualitative research approach. However, all the available measures were taken to minimize the effects of these limitations.
Low carbon multi-binder composite using lithomargic soil, biomass, and calcined seashell powder for sustainable bricks
Authors: Rao A. U. , Bhandary R. P. , Tantri Adithya , Narayana Sabhahit , Kamath Muralidhar
Published: August 2024

Bricks are manufactured using clays, which are fired at temperatures ranging from 1000 to 1200 °C. Due to the lack of quality clay, it is necessary to find alternate soils and waste materials for manufacturing bricks. The use of agricultural, aqua-cultural, and industrial wastes in the manufacturing of construction bricks leads to low-carbon material. This addresses the problem of agro-aqua-industrial waste disposal. The present study focuses on the utilization of biomass (BM) and slaked seashell powder (SSP) in compressed soil bricks made with locally available lithomargic soil (LS). The proposed soil bricks are prepared with 85% processed lithomargic soil, 12.5% biomass and 2.5% seashell powder. The reaction of multi-binder materials has been activated by one-part activation. The cast soil blocks are temperature cured at 100 °C, 250 °C, 500 °C & 750 °C to understand the effect of temperature on the hydration process of binder material. The compressed soil bricks are tested for compressive strength, initial rate of absorption, water absorption test, chloride content, sulphate content, microstructure analysis and thermal conductivity. The strength of soil bricks in bonding and in masonry, 3 prism and 4 prism tests were also conducted. Overall results indicate that bio-based alkali-activated brick masonry is superior for real-time adaptation because it reaches 10 MPa to 11.2 MPa compressive strength and 0.98 MPa to 1.2 MPa shear strength with curing at 500 °C.
A systematic literature review of education for Generation Alpha
Authors: Höfrová Alena , Balidemaj Venera , Small Mark A.
Published: August 2024

Generation Alpha are the first to grow up immersed in digital technology and presumed to be wired differently than previous generations. This systematic review synthesizes the research literature on what has been learned so far and broadly answers the following question: What is happening in the education and training of Generation Alpha? The literature review was conducted based on guidelines outlined by The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA). Titles of 2,093 studies, abstracts of 603 studies, and 335 full-text studies were evaluated for inclusion criteria. A total of 83 studies were included into the literature review. The studies were sorted into four major categories: (1) the role of teachers, (2) the role of new approaches to education, (3) the role of teaching tools, and (4) the role of blended/online learning. Despite frequent use of the term “Generation Alpha” in the research literature, relatively few studies report generational differences that reveal how children of this generation are characteristically different from previous generations. There is simply a strong assumption that Generation Alpha is different. A major concern is that the use of technology by Generation Alpha has decreased opportunities for social-emotional development and increased mental health problems. There are digital educational tools and online strategies being developed and tested but none have emerged to be dominant.
Association of Lifelines Diet Score (LLDS) with type 2 diabetes mellitus and hypertension among postmenopausal women: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Fateh Hawal Lateef
Published: August 2024

Background

The Lifelines Diet Score (LLDS), which adheres to the 2015 Dutch Dietary Guidelines, has not undergone testing yet, despite previous research indicating a potential link between diet quality and the occurrence of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and hypertension (HTN). As such, this study was undertaken to explore the relationship between the Lifelines Diet Score (LLDS) and the prevalence of T2DM and HTN in postmenopausal women.

Method

1341 women, with an average age of 49.45 ± 14.65 years old, enrolled in this study. Anthropometric measurements, biochemical testing, and body composition was assessed using standardized procedures for each participant. Utilizing a validated and dependable 147-item food frequency questionnaire (FFQ), the Lifelines Diet Score (LLDS) was computed using 12 constituent elements. In addition to this, the estimations were determined through the application of both multiple and univariate logistic regression techniques.

Results

In healthy participants, the mean LLDS was 55.48 ± 4.28; in women with HTN, T2DM, or T2DM&HTN, the average LLDS was 27.37 ± 12.44, 26.47 ± 11.51, and 35.32 ± 5.74, respectively (P = 0.001). After adjusting for energy intake, age, carbohydrate, protein, fat, physical activity, and body mass index (BMI) the probability of developing HTN is 38% lower in the third tertile of LLDS than in the first tertile (OR = 0.62, CI 95% = 0.39–0.98) (P < 0.001). and 39% lower for developing T2DM (OR = 0.61, CI 95% = 0.35–0.99), (P < 0.001).

Conclusion

The results of this study revealed a correlation between LLDS and HTN, and T2DM, as well as the risk factors linked to these health conditions among postmenopausal women. Dietary adjustments are advisable for mitigating inflammation.
Literary Imaginations from Below: Crowdsourced Verse and African Literature’s Digital Publics
Authors: Adeoba ‘Gbenga
Published: August 2024

What could be called a digital turn has amplified conversations around publics, literary cultures, and African literature’s broadened genres. Drawing on conceptual frameworks and debates from literary, cultural, and media studies, Adeoba examines the literary imaginations and ekphrastic practices that emerge from the digital cultures of African Twitter users. Adeoba argues that crowdsourced verse demonstrates the creative agency of digitally connected everyday people and newer modes of sociality enabled by African poetry in digital contexts. Crowdsourced verse presents opportunities to examine the digital publics of African literature and their contributions to the body of literary works circulating in digital spaces.
European human rights law and the legality of sex offence prosecutions based on deception as to gender history
Authors: Sharpe Alex
Published: August 2024

This paper considers the legality of the UK practice of prosecuting trans people for sexual offences on the basis of deception as to gender history, a practice unknown in other member states. It argues that such prosecutions may constitute an unjustified violation of Article 8 of the European Convention on Human Rights. Moreover, it argues that where criminal prosecution falls within the scope of Article 8 but is viewed as objectively justified under Article 8(2), it may constitute a violation of Article 14. The paper will proceed as follows. Part 2 will provide some background context regarding prosecution of trans people for deception as to gender history in the UK. Part 3 will set out the current law pertaining to sexual fraud in England and Wales. Part 4 will present two arguments as to why prosecutions based on current English law, or Crown Prosecution Service interpretations of it, may violate Article 8: (1) a right to respect for privacy is undermined by lack of legal certainty regarding the threshold of criminal liability; and (2) deception as to gender history ought not to be considered a material deception serving to vitiate consent as a matter of law. Part 5 will consider the issue of potential discrimination under Article 14.
Control of breathing in preterm infants on incubator oxygen or nasal cannula oxygen
Authors: Travers Colm P. , Chahine Rouba , Nakhmani Arie , Aban Inmaculada , Carlo Waldemar A. , Ambalavanan Namasivayam
Published: August 2024

Background

Incubator oxygen may improve respiratory stability in preterm infants compared with nasal cannula oxygen.

Methods

Single center randomized trial of infants <29 weeks’ gestation on supplemental oxygen at ≥32 weeks’ postmenstrual age. Infants were crossed-over every 24 hours for 96 hours between incubator oxygen and nasal cannula ≤1.0 L/kg/min. We measured episodes of intermittent hypoxemia (oxygen saturations (SpO2) < 85% ≥10 seconds), bradycardia, cerebral and abdominal hypoxemia, and end-tidal carbon dioxide.

Results

We enrolled 25 infants with a gestational age of 26 weeks 4 days±15 days (mean ± SD) and birth weight 805 ± 202 grams. There were no differences in episodes of intermittent hypoxemia, bradycardia, or cerebral hypoxemia between groups. There were fewer episodes of abdominal hypoxemia <40% ≥10 seconds with incubator oxygen compared with nasal cannula (132 ± 130 versus 158 ± 125; p < 0.01). Time with SpO2 < 85% and abdominal hypoxemia was lower among infants on incubator oxygen. Carbon dioxide values were higher while on incubator oxygen (41 ± 11 versus 36 ± 10 mmHg; p < 0.02).

Conclusion

There was no difference in intermittent hypoxemia between incubator and nasal cannula oxygen among preterm infants on supplemental oxygen. Infants had higher levels of carbon dioxide while on incubator oxygen, which may have improved some measures of respiratory stability.

ClincalTrials.gov identifiers

NCT03333174 and NCT03174301.

Impact Statement

In this randomized cross-over trial of preterm infants on supplemental oxygen, incubator oxygen did not decrease episodes of intermittent hypoxemia compared with nasal cannula oxygen. Incubator oxygen reduced time with oxygen saturations less than 85%, reduced abdominal hypoxemia, and increased carbon dioxide levels.

Differences in measures of respiratory stability on incubator oxygen may be partly due to higher carbon dioxide levels compared with nasal cannula oxygen.

The mode of supplemental oxygen administration may impact control of breathing in preterm infants through its effect on hypopharyngeal oxygen stability and carbon dioxide levels.
Branched-chain amino acid transaminase 1 confers EGFR-TKI resistance through epigenetic glycolytic activation
Authors: Zhang Tao , Pan Zilu , Gao Jing , Wu Qingqing , Bai Gang , Li Yan , Tong Linjiang , Feng Fang , Lai Mengzhen , Liu Yingqiang , Song Peiran , Ning Yi , Tang Haotian , Luo Wen , Chen Yi , Fang Yan , Zhang Hui , Liu Qiupei , Zhang Yudi , Wang Hua , Chen Zhiwei , Chen Yi , Geng Meiyu , Ji Hongbin , Zhao Guilong , Zhou Hu , Ding Jian , Xie Hua
Published: August 2024

Third-generation EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs), exemplified by osimertinib, have demonstrated promising clinical efficacy in the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Our previous work has identified ASK120067 as a novel third-generation EGFR TKI with remarkable antitumor effects that has undergone New Drug Application (NDA) submission in China. Despite substantial progress, acquired resistance to EGFR-TKIs remains a significant challenge, impeding the long-term effectiveness of therapeutic approaches. In this study, we conducted a comprehensive investigation utilizing high-throughput proteomics analysis on established TKI-resistant tumor models, and found a notable upregulation of branched-chain amino acid transaminase 1 (BCAT1) expression in both osimertinib- and ASK120067-resistant tumors compared with the parental TKI-sensitive NSCLC tumors. Genetic depletion or pharmacological inhibition of BCAT1 impaired the growth of resistant cells and partially re-sensitized tumor cells to EGFR TKIs. Mechanistically, upregulated BCAT1 in resistant cells reprogrammed branched-chain amino acid (BCAA) metabolism and promoted alpha ketoglutarate (α-KG)-dependent demethylation of lysine 27 on histone H3 (H3K27) and subsequent transcriptional derepression of glycolysis-related genes, thereby enhancing glycolysis and promoting tumor progression. Moreover, we identified WQQ-345 as a novel BCAT1 inhibitor exhibiting antitumor activity both in vitro and in vivo against TKI-resistant lung cancer with high BCAT1 expression. In summary, our study highlighted the crucial role of BCAT1 in mediating resistance to third-generation EGFR-TKIs through epigenetic activation of glycolysis in NSCLC, thereby supporting BCAT1 as a promising therapeutic target for the treatment of TKI-resistant NSCLC.
Comparing transplant outcomes in ALL patients after myeloablative conditioning in mismatch-related or unrelated donor settings
Authors: Otoukesh Salman , Yang Dongyun , Mokhtari Sally , Pourhassan Hoda , Agrawal Vaibhav , Arslan Shukaib , Amanam Idoroenyi , Ball Brian , Koller Paul , Salhotra Amandeep , Sandhu Karamjeet , Aribi Ahmed , Artz Andrew , Aldoss Ibrahim , Pullarkat Vinod , Ali Haris , Blackmon Amanda , Becker Pamela , Curtin Peter , Stewart Forrest , Smith Eileen , Stein Anthony , Marcucci Guido , Forman Stephen J. , Nakamura Ryotaro , Al Malki Monzr M.
Published: August 2024

The optimal myeloablative conditioning regimen for ALL patients undergoing hematopoietic cell transplant (HCT) with an alternative donor is unknown. We analyzed HCT outcomes ALL patients (n = 269) who underwent HCT at our center from 2010 to 2020 in complete remission (CR) after FTBI-etoposide and CNI-based GvHD prophylaxis for matched donor HCT (ETOP-package; n = 196) or FTBI-Fludarabine and post-transplant cyclophosphamide (PTCy)-based prophylaxis for HLA- mismatched (related or unrelated) donors (FLU-package; n = 64). Patients in FLU-package showed a significant delay in engraftment (p < 0.001) and lower cumulative incidence (CI) of any and extensive chronic GVHD (p = 0.009 and 0.001, respectively). At the median follow up of 4.6 years (range 1–12 years); non-relapse mortality, overall or leukemia-free survival and GVHD-free/relapse-free survival were not significantly impacted by the choice of conditioning. However, in patients at CR2 or with measurable residual disease (MRD+), there was a trend towards higher relapse after FLU-package (p = 0.08 and p = 0.07, respectively), while patients at CR1 regardless of MRD status had similar outcomes despite the package/donor type (p = 0.9 and 0.7, respectively). Our data suggests that FLU-package for alternative donors offers comparable outcomes to ETOP-package for matched donor HCT to treat ALL. Disease status and depth of remission at HCT were independent predictors for better outcomes.