bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Data from Facts and Hopes on Chimeric Cytokine Agents for Cancer Immunotherapy
Authors: Ren Zhenhua , Zhang Xuhao , Fu Yang-Xin
Published: May 2024

Abstract
Cytokines are key mediators of immune responses that can modulate the antitumor activity of immune cells. Cytokines have been explored as a promising cancer immunotherapy. However, there are several challenges to cytokine therapy, especially a lack of tumor targeting, resulting in high toxicity and limited efficacy. To overcome these limitations, novel approaches have been developed to engineer cytokines with improved properties, such as chimeric cytokines. Chimeric cytokines are fusion proteins that combine different cytokine domains or link cytokines to antibodies (immunocytokines) or other molecules that can target specific receptors or cells. Chimeric cytokines can enhance the selectivity and stability of cytokines, leading to reduced toxicity and improved efficacy. In this review, we focus on two promising cytokines, IL2 and IL15, and summarize the current advances and challenges of chimeric cytokine design and application for cancer immunotherapy. Most of the current approaches focus on increasing the potency of cytokines, but another important goal is to reduce toxicity. Cytokine engineering is promising for cancer immunotherapy as it can enhance tumor targeting while minimizing adverse effects.
Data from The Irreversible FGFR Inhibitor KIN-3248 Overcomes FGFR2 Kinase Domain Mutations
Authors: Balasooriya Eranga R. , Wu Qibiao , Ellis Haley , Zhen Yuanli , Norden Bryanna L. , Corcoran Ryan B. , Mohan Adithi , Martin Eric , Franovic Aleksandra , Tyhonas John , Lardy Matthew , Grandinetti Kathryn B. , Pelham Robert , Soroceanu Liliana , Silveira Vanessa S. , Bardeesy Nabeel
Published: May 2024

AbstractPurpose:
FGFR2 and FGFR3 show oncogenic activation in many cancer types, often through chromosomal fusion or extracellular domain mutation. FGFR2 and FGFR3 alterations are most prevalent in intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC) and bladder cancers, respectively, and multiple selective reversible and covalent pan-FGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKI) have been approved in these contexts. However, resistance, often due to acquired secondary mutations in the FGFR2/3 kinase domain, limits efficacy. Resistance is typically polyclonal, involving a spectrum of different mutations that most frequently affect the molecular brake and gatekeeper residues (N550 and V565 in FGFR2).
Experimental Design:
Here, we characterize the activity of the next-generation covalent FGFR inhibitor, KIN-3248, in preclinical models of FGFR2 fusion+ ICC harboring a series of secondary kinase domain mutations, in vitro and in vivo. We also test select FGFR3 alleles in bladder cancer models.
Results:
KIN-3248 exhibits potent selectivity for FGFR1–3 and retains activity against various FGFR2 kinase domain mutations, in addition to being effective against FGFR3 V555M and N540K mutations. Notably, KIN-3248 activity extends to the FGFR2 V565F gatekeeper mutation, which causes profound resistance to currently approved FGFR inhibitors. Combination treatment with EGFR or MEK inhibitors potentiates KIN-3248 efficacy in vivo, including in models harboring FGFR2 kinase domain mutations.
Conclusions:
Thus, KIN-3248 is a novel FGFR1–4 inhibitor whose distinct activity profile against FGFR kinase domain mutations highlights its potential for the treatment of ICC and other FGFR-driven cancers.
Data from Mesenchymal Stem/Stromal Cell Therapy for Radiation-Induced Xerostomia in Previous Head and Neck Cancer Patients: A Phase II Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Trial
Authors: Jakobsen Kathrine Kronberg , Carlander Amanda-Louise Fenger , Todsen Tobias , Melchiors Jacob , Paaske Natasja , Østergaard Madsen Anne Kathrine , Kloch Bendtsen Simone , Mordhorst Christine , Stampe Helene , Kastrup Jens , Ekblond Annette , Haack-Sørensen Mandana , Farhadi Mohammad , Maare Christian , Friborg Jeppe , Lynggaard Charlotte D. , Werner Hauge Anne , Christensen Robin , Grønhøj Christian , von Buchwald Christian
Published: May 2024

AbstractPurpose:
No effective treatment exists for radiation-induced xerostomia. The objective of this study was to compare the effect of adipose-derived mesenchymal stem/stromal cell (ASC) injection, relative to placebo, on salivary gland function in patients with radiation-induced xerostomia.
Patient and Methods:
In this single-centre, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, patients with hyposalivation were randomised to receive ultrasound-guided injections of allogeneic ASCs or placebo into the submandibular glands. Patients were followed for 4 months. We evaluated unstimulated whole salivary flow rate (UWS), stimulated salivary flow rate, and patient-reported outcomes. Adverse events were recorded and immune response determined in blood samples.
Results:
We enrolled 120 patients. ASC treatment resulted in a statistically significant UWS increase of 0.04 [95% confidence interval (CI), 0.02–0.06] mL/min (38%) compared with pretreatment baseline whereas placebo treatment did not cause a significant increase [0.01 (95% CI, −0.01 to 0.04) mL/min (21%)]. Both the ASC and placebo treatment yielded notable symptom reductions, with dry mouth decreasing by 13.6 and 7.7 units, sticky saliva decreased by 14.8 and 9.3 units, swallowing difficulties decreased by 7.9 and 8.0 units, and the summary score of the Xerostomia Questionnaire decreased 5.9 and 5.1 units for the ASC and placebo arms, respectively. We found no statistically significant group difference between the ASC and placebo arms for any of the outcomes.
Conclusions:
We could not confirm superiority of the ASC relative to placebo. ASC therapy significantly improved UWS in previous patients with head and neck cancer, whereas placebo resulted in an insignificant increase.
MYC Family Amplification Dictates Sensitivity to BET Bromodomain Protein Inhibitor Mivebresib (ABBV075) in Small-Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Plotnik Joshua P. , Zha Zheng , Feng Weiguo , Lee Irene , Riehm Jacob , McClure Ryan A. , Sandoval Stephanie , Uziel Tamar , Murphy Erin , Lu Xin , Lam Lloyd T.
Published: May 2024

Small-cell lung cancer (SCLC) accounts for nearly 15% of all lung cancers. Although patients respond to first-line therapy readily, rapid relapse is inevitable, with few treatment options in the second-line setting. Here, we describe SCLC cell lines harboring amplification of MYC and MYCN but not MYCL1 or non-amplified MYC cell lines exhibit superior sensitivity to treatment with the pan-BET bromodomain protein inhibitor mivebresib (ABBV075). Silencing MYC and MYCN partially rescued SCLC cell lines harboring these respective amplifications from the antiproliferative effects of mivebresib. Further characterization of genome-wide binding of MYC, MYCN, and MYCL1 uncovered unique enhancer and epigenetic preferences.

Implications: Our study suggests that chromatin landscapes can establish cell states with unique gene expression programs, conveying sensitivity to epigenetic inhibitors such as mivebresib.
FIGURE 6 from Mutant RAS-driven Secretome Causes Skeletal Muscle Defects in Breast Cancer
Authors: Wang Ruizhong , Khatpe Aditi S. , Kumar Brijesh , Mang Henry Elmer , Batic Katie , Adebayo Adedeji K. , Nakshatri Harikrishna
Published: May 2024

Cytokines/chemokines/growth factors secreted from cells transformed with mutant HRAS or PIK3CA. The assay was done twice in duplicate and intensity of the signals was normalized to internal controls in the array. Those with signals >5% of internal controls were considered for statistical analysis. A, Heat map of cytokines/chemokines/growth factors in array that compared data from TKTB34-RAS+TKTB6-RAS with TKTB34-PIK3CA. Statistically significant differences (P < 0.05) are shown on top. B, Same as in A except that comparison was limited to TKTB34-RAS with TKTB34-PIK3CA. C, Select cytokines/chemokines/growth factors differentially released by TKTB34-RAS and TKTB34-PIK3CA cells.
FIGURE 3 from Mutant RAS-driven Secretome Causes Skeletal Muscle Defects in Breast Cancer
Authors: Wang Ruizhong , Khatpe Aditi S. , Kumar Brijesh , Mang Henry Elmer , Batic Katie , Adebayo Adedeji K. , Nakshatri Harikrishna
Published: May 2024

Impact of PDXs on activation status of select signaling molecules in skeletal muscle. A, Tumors from ER+/PR+ tumor cells reduced AKT phosphorylation in skeletal muscle. B, AKT protein levels in skeletal muscles were not affected by tumors. C, PTEN protein levels in skeletal muscles were not changed by tumors, compared with the control group. D, TNBC-derived PDX upregulated phospho-p38 in skeletal muscle. E, Tumors did not affect total p-38 protein levels in skeletal muscle. Quantification of western blotting was performed using NIH ImageJ software 1.X.
FIGURE 1 from Mutant RAS-driven Secretome Causes Skeletal Muscle Defects in Breast Cancer
Authors: Wang Ruizhong , Khatpe Aditi S. , Kumar Brijesh , Mang Henry Elmer , Batic Katie , Adebayo Adedeji K. , Nakshatri Harikrishna
Published: May 2024

Tumor subtypes differentially affect skeletal muscle function in mice with PDXs. A, Growth rate of PDXs in NSG mice. B, Histology of PDXs confirming their molecular subtype. C, Impaired rotarod performance of mice with PDXs across all tumor subtypes. D, Differential impact of tumors by subtype on grip strength of mice with PDXs. Mice with TNBC tumors had severe loss of grip strength. E, Loss of grip strength was improved by Curaxin (CBL0137) treatment in nude mice with tumors from MDA-MB-436 cells. F, Impaired rotarod performance was ameliorated by Curaxin (CBL0137) in nude mice with tumors from MDA-MB-436 cells.
The Association of Systemic Inflammatory Response Index and Neutrophil-to-High-Density Lipoprotein Ratio Mediated by Fasting Blood Glucose with 90-Day Prognosis in Acute Ischemic Stroke Patients
Authors: Zhang Aimei , Zhu Yuan , Liao Junqi , Wu Dan , Yan Xiaohui , Chen Jingyi , He Qiuhua , Song Fantao , Li Li , Li Yunze , Chen Zhaoyao , Li Wenlei , Yang Qin , Fang Zhuyuan , Wu Minghua
Published: May 2024

Introduction: The contribution of individual and combined inflammatory markers for the prognosis of acute ischemic stroke (AIS) remains elusive. This study investigated the effect of systemic inflammatory response index (SIRI), and neutrophil to high-density lipoprotein ratio (NHR), which is mediated by fasting blood glucose (FBG), on 90-day prognosis of patients with AIS. Methods: In this pre-specified substudy of an observational cohort study, 2,828 patients with AIS were enrolled from the Nanjing Stroke Registry between January 2017 and July 2021. Peripheral venous blood was collected from patients fasting for at least 8 h within 24 h of admission to gather information on the following parameters: neutrophil count, lymphocyte count, monocyte count, HDL level, and fasting blood glucose level. Then, the SIRI and NHR values were calculated. Following this, the correlation among SIRI, NHR, and modified Rankin Scale (mRS) scores 90 days after onset was examined via univariate and multivariate logistic analyses. Lastly, mediation analysis was performed to examine the relationship between systematic inflammatory response and study outcomes mediated by FBG. Results: SIRI and NHR were both negatively correlated with clinical outcomes (p < 0.05). Logistic regression analysis revealed that SIRI and NHR were independently associated with poor outcomes after adjusting for potential confounders. Subgroup analyses further validated these correlations. Meanwhile, mediation analysis corroborated that FBG partially mediated the associations between SIRI and a poor prognosis at 90 days (indirect effect estimate = 0.0038, bootstrap 95% CI 0.001–0.008; direct effect estimate = 0.1719, bootstrap 95% CI 0.1258–0.2179). Besides, FBG also played a mediating role between NHR and poor outcomes (indirect effect estimate = 0.0066, bootstrap 95% CI 0.002–0.120; direct effect estimate = 0.1308, bootstrap 95% CI 0.0934–0.1681). Conclusion: Our study demonstrated that SIRI and NHR are positively associated with poor clinical and mortality outcomes at 90 days in AIS patients, which was partially mediated by FBG.
Predictors of Early versus Delayed Neurological Deterioration after Thrombolysis for Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Han Qiao , You Shoujiang , Maeda Toshiki , Wang Yanan , Ouyang Menglu , Li Qiang , Song Lili , Zhao Yang , Ren Xinwen , Chen Chen , Delcourt Candice , Zhou Zien , Cao Yongjun , Liu Chun-Feng , Zheng Danni , Arima Hisatomi , Robinson Thompson G. , Chen Xiaoying , Lindley Richard I. , Chalmers John , Anderson Craig S. , Wang Xia
Published: May 2024

Introduction: We aimed to determine predictors of early (END) and delayed neurological deterioration (DND) and their association with the functional outcome in patients with acute ischemic stroke (AIS) who participated in the international Enhanced Control of Hypertension and Thrombolysis Stroke Study (ENCHANTED). Methods: END and DND (without END) were defined as scores of a ≥2-point increase on the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) or a ≥1-point decrease on the Glasgow coma scale or death, from baseline to 24 h and 24–72 h, respectively. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to determine independent predictors of END and DND and their association with 90-day outcomes (dichotomous scores on the modified Rankin scale [mRS] of 2–6 vs. 0–1 and 3–6 vs. 0–2 and death). Results: Of 4,496 patients, 871 (19.4%) and 302 (8.4%) patients experienced END and DND, respectively. Higher baseline NIHSS score, older age, large-artery occlusion due to significant atheroma, cardioembolic stroke subtype, hemorrhagic infarction and parenchymatous hematoma within 24 h were all independent predictors for both END (all p ≤ 0.01) and DND (all p ≤ 0.024). Moreover, higher baseline systolic blood pressure (BP) (odds ratio [OR] 1.07, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.02–1.12), higher diastolic BP variability within 24 h (OR 1.07, 95% CI 1.04–1.09), patients from Asia (OR 1.25, 95% CI 1.03–1.52) were the only independent predictors for END. However, Asian ethnicity was negatively associated with DND (OR 0.64, 95% CI 0.47–0.86). Hemorrhagic infarction and parenchymatous hematoma within 24 h were the key predictors of END across all stroke subtypes. END and DND were all associated with a poor functional outcome at 90 days (all p < 0.001). Conclusion: We identified overlapping and unique demographic and clinical predictors of END and DND after thrombolysis for AIS. Both END and DND predict unfavorable outcomes at 90 days.
The Behavioral and Neurobiological Response to Sound Stress in Salmon
Authors: Oppedal Frode , Barrett Luke T. , Fraser Thomas W.K. , Vågseth Tone , Zhang Guosong , Andersen Oliver G. , Jacson Lea , Dieng Marie-Aida , Vindas Marco A.
Published: May 2024

Introduction: Noise associated with human activities in aquatic environments can affect the physiology and behavior of aquatic species which may have consequences at the population and ecosystem levels. Low-frequency sound is particularly stressful for fish since it is an important factor in predator-prey interactions. Even though behavioral and physiological studies have been conducted to assess the effects of sound on fish species, neurobiological studies are still lacking. Methods: In this study, we exposed farmed salmon to low-frequency sound for 5 min a day for 30 trials and conducted behavioral observations and tissue sampling before sound exposure (timepoint zero; T0) and after 1 (T1), 10 (T2), 20 (T3), and 30 (T4) exposures, to assess markers of stress. These included plasma cortisol, neuronal activity, monoaminergic signaling, and gene expression in 4 areas of the forebrain. Results: We found that sound exposure induced an activation of the stress response by eliciting an initial startle behavioral response, together with increased plasma cortisol levels and a decrease in neuronal activity in the hypothalamic tubercular nuclei (TN). At T3 and T4 salmon showed a degree of habituation in their behavioral and cortisol response. However, at T4, salmon showed signs of chronic stress with increased serotonergic activity levels in the dorsolateral and dorsomedial pallium, the preoptic area, and the TN, as well as an inhibition of growth and reproduction transcripts in the TN. Conclusions: Together, our results suggest that prolonged exposure to sound results in chronic stress that leads to neurological changes which suggest a reduction of life fitness traits.
Association between Body Mass Index and Early Renal Function after Kidney Transplantation: Observational and Mendelian Randomization Study
Authors: Ming Shaopeng , Zeng Chunrong , Wen Haiming , Li Zhaoyu , Liu Hongtao , Qin Ke
Published: May 2024

Introduction: The relationship between BMI and early renal function recovery after kidney transplantation is important due to the rising global obesity rates. Methods: A retrospective study on 320 patients who received allograft kidney transplantation at Guangxi Medical University Hospital explored the BMI-kidney function relationship using various statistical methods. Mendelian randomization (MR) was also employed to investigate causality. Results: Based on the univariate analysis, multivariate linear regression models, and trend analysis, it was found that there were significant positive correlations between BMI and creatinine, urea, and cystatin C on the 7th day after kidney transplantation (p < 0.05). The sensitivity analysis further confirmed these correlations in different gender stratification, adolescents, and adults. However, the positive correlation with cystatin C was only significant in males. Additionally, after conducting smooth curve fitting analysis and threshold saturation analysis, it was revealed that the negative correlation between early renal function recovery was most significant when BMI was between 22.0 and 25.5 kg/m2, and early postoperative renal function may be optimal when BMI was at 22.2 kg/m2. Finally, the MR analysis confirmed a causal relationship between BMI and renal failure, as indicated by the IVW method (p = 0.003), as well as the weighted median estimator (p = 0.004). Conclusion: This study on kidney transplant patients found that maintaining a BMI within the range of 22.0–25.5 kg/m2, with an optimal BMI of 22.2 kg/m2, improves early renal function recovery. This correlation holds true for different age-groups and genders. Monitoring and controlling BMI in high-risk patients can enhance post-transplantation renal function.
Single-Cell Dissection of the Immune Response After Acute Myocardial Infarction
Authors: van Blokland Irene V. , Oelen Roy , Groot Hilde E. , Benjamins Jan Walter , Pekayvaz Kami , Losert Corinna , Knottenberg Viktoria , Heinig Matthias , Nicolai Leo , Stark Konstantin , van der Harst Pim , Franke Lude , van der Wijst Monique G.P.
Published: May 2024

BACKGROUND:

The immune system’s role in ST-segment–elevated myocardial infarction (STEMI) remains poorly characterized but is an important driver of recurrent cardiovascular events. While anti-inflammatory drugs show promise in reducing recurrence risk, their broad immune system impairment may induce severe side effects. To overcome these challenges, a nuanced understanding of the immune response to STEMI is needed.

METHODS:

For this, we compared peripheral blood mononuclear single-cell RNA-sequencing (scRNA-seq) and plasma protein expression over time (hospital admission, 24 hours, and 6–8 weeks post-STEMI) in 38 patients and 38 controls (95 995 diseased and 33 878 control peripheral blood mononuclear cells).

RESULTS:

Compared with controls, classical monocytes were increased and CD56
dim
natural killer cells were decreased in patients with STEMI at admission and persisted until 24 hours post-STEMI. The largest gene expression changes were observed in monocytes, associating with changes in toll-like receptor, interferon, and interleukin signaling activity. Finally, a targeted cardiovascular biomarker panel revealed expression changes in 33/92 plasma proteins post-STEMI. Interestingly, interleukin-6R, MMP9 (matrix metalloproteinase-9), and LDLR (low-density lipoprotein receptor) were affected by coronary artery disease–associated genetic risk variation, disease status, and time post-STEMI, indicating the importance of considering these aspects when defining potential future therapies.

CONCLUSIONS:

Our analyses revealed the immunologic pathways disturbed by STEMI, specifying affected cell types and disease stages. Additionally, we provide insights into patients expected to benefit most from anti-inflammatory treatments by identifying the genetic variants and disease stage at which these variants affect the outcome of these (drug-targeted) pathways. These findings advance our knowledge of the immune response post-STEMI and provide guidance for future therapeutic studies.
Short-Lived Active Prorenin: Precursor of So-Called Native Prorenin
Authors: Schalekamp Maarten A.D.H. , Deinum Jaap , Danser A.H. Jan
Published: May 2024

The enzymatic activity of the aspartic protease, renin, is critical for its function in blood pressure regulation and sodium homeostasis. Incubation of so-called native prorenin at low pH leads to its activation. After binding to transition-state mimicking renin inhibitors at neutral pH, prorenin attains the active conformation, as indicated by immunosorbent assay using monoclonal antibodies specific for epitopes of the prosegment or the renin body. A comparison of immunosorbent assay with enzyme-kinetic assay revealed the intermediary steps of prorenin auto-activation/inactivation. The kinetically identified intermediary steps of activation/inactivation correspond with the published crystal structures of free renin, free prorenin, and renin in complex with inhibitors. Both renin and activated prorenin exist in 2 forms, α and β. The α form is active, and the α/β quantity ratio is 2.5. The kidney produces renin and prorenin, while the ovarium, placenta, and eye produce inactive prorenin. The production of renin by these organs has never been demonstrated. We propose that the so-called native prorenin in extracellular fluid, including the circulation, is derived, at least partly, from short-lived active prorenin. Its potential paracrine function is discussed.
The Effects of Housing Price Declines on Children's Educational Outcomes
Authors: Been Vicki , Ellen Ingrid , Figlio David , Nelson Ashlyn Aiko , Ross Stephen L. , Schwartz Amy Ellen , Stiefel Leanna
Published: May 2024

We examine the effects that household exposure to housing price declines, captured by measures of negative equity, have on children's academic performance, using data on public school students and housing transactions from the State of Florida. Our empirical strategy exploits variation over time in the timing of family moves to account for household sorting into neighborhoods and schools and selection into initial mortgage terms. In contrast to the existing literature on the effects of foreclosure, we find that students with the highest risk of negative equity exhibit significantly higher test score growth, with the largest effects among Black students and students qualifying for free or reduced-priced lunch. We find evidence supporting two underlying mechanisms: (1) families in negative equity may reduce the impact of income losses on consumption by forgoing mortgage payments, and (2) families exposed to high levels of negative equity may move to schools that received higher average school report card grades. While negative equity and foreclosure are undesirable, negative equity may have encouraged homeowners to forgo mortgage payments to mitigate the impact of the Great Recession, and temporarily reduced the housing market barriers low-income households faced in accessing educational opportunities.
Assessing School District Decision Making: In-Person Schooling and COVID-19 Transmission
Authors: Christian Alvin , Jacob Brian , Singleton John D.
Published: May 2024

Recent controversies have highlighted the importance of local school district governance, but little empirical evidence exists evaluating the quality of district policy makers or policies. In this paper, we take a novel approach to assessing school district decision making. We posit a model of rational decision making under uncertainty that emphasizes districts learning over time. We test the predictions from the model using data on a set of highly visible and consequential decisions facing school district leaders—the choice of learning mode during the 2020–21 school year. We find that district behavior is consistent with a Bayesian learning process in several key respects. Districts respond on the margin to health risks: All else equal, a marginal increase in new cases reduces the probability that a district offers in-person instruction the next week. This negative response is magnified when the district was in-person the prior week and attenuates in magnitude over the school year, suggesting that districts learn from experience about the effect of in-person learning on disease transmission in schools. We also find evidence that districts are influenced by the learning mode decisions of peer districts, but not their peers' experiences with in-person instruction and disease transmission, which implies that some important frictions exist.
The Impact of Theology on Disaffiliation, Disengagement, and Disbelief
Authors: Raymond Christopher D.
Published: May 2024

While the reasons for the differences in the growth rates of conservative and liberal churches are well studied, one important potential reason for this difference has received little attention. The argument that liberal theology undermines the basis of belief implies that those with liberal theological views may be more likely to lose faith and disaffiliate than those holding conservative theologies that reinforce adherents’ religious faith and practice. Using a nationally representative panel survey of the American public, the analysis performed here shows that those with liberal theologies were significantly more likely to disaffiliate from Christianity, attend church less often, and cease believing in God between the two waves of the survey than those with more conservative theologies. On the basis of these findings, more attention should be given to the role that theology may play in understanding patterns of secularization.
‘They Will Shoot You to a Pulp!’ The Racialisation of Migrant Workers in the Emotive Cyberspace of ptt
Authors: Cockel Isabelle
Published: May 2024

This article analyses how social media users ‘reimagined’ the death of an undocumented Vietnamese migrant worker in 2017 in Taiwan and revealed their views on ethnic hierarchy and the judicial system as a public institution. By conceptualising posting on ptt, a Chinese-language bbs platform likened to Reddit, as a racialising process, this article finds posters’ reimagination of this event being characterised by criminalisation, dehumanisation, and distrust of the judicial system. Laden with emotions, some users displayed racial othering of migrant workers through militant masculinity, whereas others called for intersubjectivity and respect for life and rights. Some users equated being pro-police with being pro-violence, in contrast to others’ demand to regulate the police’s use of firearms. The totality of these views suggests that ptt is a volatile sociopolitical space facilitating antagonistic views. The racialising discourse echoes the exclusionary guest worker system adopted in Taiwan that regards migrant workers as the disposable and inferior other.
Description of three new species of Larnaca Walker, 1869 (Orthoptera: Gryllacrididae: Gryllacridinae) from Xizang, China
Authors: SU JIE , DUAN YANHAO , LI YONGHUI , SHI FUMING
Published: May 2024

This paper reports three new species of the genus Larnaca Walker, 1869 from Xizang, China, i.e. Larnaca (Larnaca) rufifronta Su, Duan & Shi sp. nov., Larnaca (Larnaca) rubiabdomina Su, Duan & Shi sp. nov. and Larnaca (Larnaca) xizangensis Su, Duan & Shi sp. nov. The diagnostic illustrations are provided.
Listening to Stakeholders III: Potential Users Evaluate Product Content and Design for Subseasonal Extreme Precipitation Forecasts
Authors: Schroers Melanie A. , Dickinson Ty A. , Ćwik Paulina , McPherson Renee A. , Martin Elinor R.
Published: May 2024

Extreme precipitation over a 2-week period can cause significant impacts to life and property. Trustworthy and easy-to-understand forecasts of these extreme periods on the subseasonal-to-seasonal time frame may provide additional time for planning. The Prediction of Rainfall Extremes at Subseasonal to Seasonal Periods (PRES2iP) project team conducted three workshops over 6 years to engage with stakeholders to learn what is needed for decision-making for subseasonal precipitation. In this study, experimental subseasonal-to-seasonal (S2S) forecast products were designed, using knowledge gained from previous stakeholder workshops, and shown to decision-makers to evaluate the products for two 14-day extreme precipitation period scenarios. Our stakeholders preferred a combination of products that covered the spatial extent, regional daily values, with associated uncertainty, and text narratives with anticipated impacts for planning within the S2S time frame. When targeting longer extremes, having information regarding timing of expected impacts was seen as crucial for planning. We found that there is increased uncertainty tolerance with stakeholders when using products at longer lead times that typical skill metrics, such as critical success index or anomaly correlation coefficient, do not capture. Therefore, the use of object-oriented verification that allows for more flexibility in spatial uncertainty might be beneficial for evaluating S2S forecasts. These results help to create a foundation for the design, verification, and implementation of future operational forecast products with longer lead times, while also providing an example for future workshops that engage both researchers and decision-makers.
Anatomical Depiction: How Showing a Product's Inner Structure Shapes Product Valuations
Authors: Kang Seo Yoon , Kim Junghan , Lakshmanan Arun
Published: May 2024

Anatomical depiction is a technique whereby the product is decomposed into components that are spatially arranged layer by layer to visually explicate its inner structure. The authors demonstrate that anatomical depiction, compared with nonanatomical depiction, enhances product valuation. This effect occurs because anatomical depiction elicits a “coming together” of the inner components in consumers’ minds, thereby evoking a gestalt image of the product—a process labeled “simulated assemblage.” The elicitation of simulated assemblage in turn boosts confidence in the product's performance. Two field experiments demonstrate that anatomical depiction leads to greater engagement in online settings such as peer-to-peer selling and social media advertising. Subsequently, seven laboratory and online experiments show when and how anatomical depiction elicits simulated assemblage (Studies 1a–c), test the process underlying the effect of anatomical depiction on product valuation (Studies 2a–b), and delineate two boundary conditions, showing that the positive effect of anatomical (vs. nonanatomical) depiction attenuates for consumers higher (vs. lower) in technology anxiety (Study 3) and when consumers have a hedonic (vs. utilitarian) consumption goal (Study 4). Collectively, this work provides insights to firms on how and when to use anatomical depiction to enhance consumers’ confidence in and valuation of the product.
A Comparative Study of Prevalence and Associated Factors of Social Support Among Chinese Shidu Parents and Non-Shidu Parents
Authors: Rong Chao , Wu Qun-Hong , Xu Hong-Yan , Tang Lu , Zhu Ying-Ying , Li Na , Ma Zhen-Jie
Published: May 2024

The number of parents in China who have lost their only child, referred to as shidu parents, currently exceeds one million and is increasing by approximately 76,000 annually. Shidu parents face a unique challenge in long-term care, primarily stemming from the sudden and tragic loss of their only child, which leads to a substantial decrease in their social support network. A multi-stage, stratified, and cluster sampling method was employed across various economic belts. Linear regression analysis was utilized to examine factors associated with the social support status of shidu and non-shidu parents. The level of social support decreases as the severity of depression increases. Shidu parents with grandchildren tend to have good social support. The city of Hangzhou exhibits relatively high levels of social support. Married individuals typically report higher levels of social support. It is recommended to prioritize shidu parents without grandchildren as a primary focus for government and societal support. Key recommendations include strengthening social skills training and developing social support networks. Drive economic development, particularly in relatively underdeveloped regions. Strengthen social organizations and community development. Enhancing access to support services, leveraging technology, and encouraging volunteerism for non-married parents.
“Able to stop things from escalating” – Stakeholders’ perspectives of police, ambulance and mental health co-response to 911-mental health calls
Authors: Kuehl Silke , Cooper Lucy , Every-Palmer Susanna
Published: May 2024

This qualitative study explored New Zealand police, paramedic and mental health staff’s experiences of co-response (when these three agencies work together to respond to suicide/mental health-related crises) and how this compared to usual practice. Themes were identified from 24 in-depth interviews using thematic analysis. ‘ Dread, fear and failure’ encapsulated the reactions toward usual practice, characterized by fears of inadequate support, coercive measures, risk and poor outcomes. The ‘gamechanger’ co-response model provided police and paramedics with supportive and accessible mental health expertise. Participants felt safer and better able to provide person-and family-centered input. Continuation and extension of co-response models are recommended.
The impact of active social network sites use on depression: analyzing the sequential mediating role of social support and loneliness
Authors: Wu Jing , Xiao Qianxiu , Zhang Xu
Published: May 2024

With the continuous development of the modern information society, social networking sites are increasingly becoming an important part of people’s daily lives. The relationship between college students’ mental health and online behavior needs more research. This study investigated the multiple roles of perceived social support and loneliness in mediating the relationship between Chinese university students’ active use of social network sites and depression. A total of 684 college students ( Mage = 19.11, SD = 0.94) were recruited from a university in Shaoxing, China. The independent variable was active social network sites use; the dependent variable was depression; the mediating variables were perceived social support and loneliness. Controlling for demographic variables, active social network sites use significantly and negatively predicts students’ depression levels ( p < .01). Active social network sites use can influence depression through perceived social support ( p < .01). Perceived social support and loneliness played a sequential mediating role in the relationship between active social network sites use and depression ( p < .01).
From liberation to freedom: Governing the “ghetto” in post-war Hungary
Authors: McCombs Jonathan
Published: May 2024

This article investigates the relationship between race and property in Hungary by examining the shifting discourse of the “ghetto” in post-war Hungary. I unpack the relationship between norms of propriety, or logics of use, associated with colonial epistemologies of land and the various racial projects deployed by the Hungarian state between socialist and liberal-capitalist governments. To operationalize this project, I put into conversation Brenna Bhandar’s racial regimes of ownership with David Theo Goldberg’s racial governmentality to understand the shifting logics and tactics of racial management toward Roma in Hungary. I show that the concept of the ghetto was crucial in the deployment of the racial project “The Elimination of Settlements with Unacceptable Social Conditions,” where the project was understood by officials as a palliative to the damage done by capitalist social relations. On the heels of this project, a group of liberal dissidents led by sociologist and demographer Istvan Kemeny forged a new problematic that centered state interventions on the Roma family. I show how this problematic was used to deny Roma tenure claims in the majority Roma Eighth District during the transition to liberal capitalism.
Shaping innovation outcomes: The role of CIOs for firms’ digital exploration
Authors: Schäper Thomas , Bendig David , Foege Johann Nils , Wagner Robin
Published: May 2024

Digital technologies have rapidly pervaded firms, industries, and economic networks. This development has raised expectations that a firm’s chief information officer (CIO) will take a more strategic role, including innovation leadership and digital exploration. In this study, we argue from an upper echelons perspective that CIOs’ career variety and role tenure are critical in shaping the extent to which firms explore digital technologies in their patent portfolio, that is, digital exploration. We expect a U-shaped relationship between CIO career variety and digital exploration, and an inverted U-shaped relationship between CIO role tenure and digital exploration. We test our conceptual model using a cross-industry panel of U.S. firms. As predicted, the results show high digital exploration for low and high career variety, and low digital exploration for moderate career variety, that is, a U-shape. Conversely, they show low digital exploration for low and high role tenure, and high digital exploration for moderate role tenure, that is, an inverted U-shape. These insights indicate that CIOs do become strategic leaders in exploring and shaping digital innovation.
Aging in the Digital Age: Public Beliefs About the Potential of Virtual Reality (VR) for the Aging Population
Authors: Mahmoud Ali B.
Published: May 2024

This paper responds to the scholarly call for investigating the role of technology consumption in promoting healthy aging—it aims to identify the public's beliefs about the potential of virtual reality technology (VR) for the well-being of older adults. The study utilized a big-data methodology and employed machine learning to scrape comments made by social media users on the most popular YouTube videos that discuss older people's use of VR technology. After the data cleaning process, the study was left with 1,917 comments out of 3,952 that were then subject to analysis through thematic, emotion, and sentiment analyses. The findings revealed three themes of the public beliefs: 1) empowerment through technology, generational adaptability, and learning; 2) social and ethical implications of VR for healthy aging; and 3) cognitive and physical engagement. The emotion and sentiment analyses indicated that the general public has a predominantly positive perception of the application of virtual reality technology for older people. In summary, the synthesis of the results from the three analyses suggested that VR has the potential to empower seniors and promote mental and physical activity while also highlighting the importance of maintaining genuine connections and ethical standards.
Continuity Between Waking Life and Dreaming: A Research Note and Study in Adolescents
Authors: Schredl Michael
Published: May 2024

A vast number of empirical findings support the continuity hypothesis of dreaming. Interestingly, research on that topic in adolescents is scarce. In a sample of 100 adolescents (50 female, 50 male) with a mean age 15.30 ± 0.80 years, it was found that for all six topics (watching TV, video gaming, social media use, engage in hobbies, caring for pets, and spending time with the partner), dream percentages of a specific topic was higher if the adolescents spent more time with this activity in waking life. Partner dreams and social media dreams were more frequent compared to adults, stressing the importance these issues have for adolescents. Future research can help to understand the well-being of adolescents by analyzing the emotional quality and content of their dreams.
Impact of cerium on microstructure of rust and corrosion resistance of Cu-Cr-Ni-V micro-alloyed steels in NaHSO3 acid accelerated test
Authors: Zhang Xiaofeng , Zhi Jianguo , Song Xiwen , An Shengli
Published: May 2024

Corrosion resistance, microstructure and corrosion products of rust and inclusions of Cu-Cr-Ni-V micro-alloyed steels containing 0.0015% cerium (Ce) were investigated by NaHSO3 acid-accelerated test. The results revealed the presence of three-layer microstructures in rust: bottom layer (Fe3O4), interface layer(α-FeOOH) and cracks layer(α-Fe2O3) from inner to outside. The introduction of cerium facilitated the formation of α-FeOOH and Fe3O4 in the rust, while reducing the prevalence of α-Fe2O3 in the rust. The type of inclusions transitioned from undissolved inclusions to dissolved Ce-based inclusions in the acid solution and corrosion rate was reduced by 27% by adding the Ce to the micro-alloyed steels.
Design and development of a low-cost open-type wind tunnel
Authors: Vieira Eduardo M , Farias Eduardo S
Published: May 2024

A wind tunnel is a device that facilitates the study of fluid flow behavior around the geometry under investigation. However, not everyone has access to a wind tunnel, and some educational institutions have initiated their own projects to construct these facilities. In light of this, we aim to present a more accessible alternative for individuals who want to build their own wind tunnel. Consequently, we have designed and developed a low-cost, open-type wind tunnel, and have captured photographs to facilitate a qualitative comparison between the streamlines obtained through the tunnel and those generated by computational simulations. Our research findings confirm that the affordable wind tunnel can produce good results, thereby establishing it as a readily available resource for educational institutions.
Utilizing Machine Learning for Cone Penetration Test-Based Soil Classification
Authors: Fatehnia Milad , Mahmoudabadi Vahidreza , Amiri Sharid
Published: May 2024

The cone penetration test (CPT) is widely used in geotechnical engineering to assess soil properties. Traditional methods of interpreting CPT data and classifying soils have limitations and are time-consuming. Machine learning (ML) algorithms offer a data-driven approach to automate and improve soil classification based on CPT data. In this study, the applicability of ML techniques was investigated to measure the reliability of soil classification prediction using raw CPT data. A dataset comprising raw CPT data and corresponding soil classifications derived from the adjacent boreholes was prepared for training and testing the selected ML techniques. Five ML algorithms, namely logistic regression, the support vector machine, the random forest (RF), K-nearest neighbors (KNN), and extreme gradient boosting (XGBoost), were applied. The results showed that the RF algorithm outperformed other ML methods, achieving an F1-score of 0.896. Comparing the performance of different algorithms, the RF consistently showed the best results, followed by XGBoost and KNN. These findings highlight the potential of ML algorithms, particularly the RF, in accurately predicting soil classification based on CPT data, thus improving the efficiency and reliability of geotechnical engineering applications.
Enhanced Imaging Analysis of Aggregates for Road and Railway Applications
Authors: Anochie Boateng Joseph , Mvelase Gculisile Mavis , Moaveni Maziar
Published: May 2024

The South African pavement community has shown a keen interest in the use of imaging techniques to characterize the morphological characteristics of aggregates used in road and railway construction. This interest arises from the need to overcome the limitations of the traditional methods currently employed to quantify the shapes of these materials. Recent advancements and the use of enhanced aggregate imaging techniques for quantifying the shapes of crushed stone and ferro slag materials from 10 sources across the country are presented in this paper. A wide range of railway track ballast and road aggregates were selected from various quarries and sources across different provinces for this study. As part of this research, an improved protocol was developed to standardize imaging acquisition and ensure the repeatability of shape property measurements, thereby providing meaningful results and facilitating data analysis. The imaging analysis conducted in this study, which involved close to 2000 aggregate particles, revealed valuable insights into the angularity, surface texture, and flat and elongated ratio properties of coarse aggregates. Preliminary specification limits for these shape properties have been established. This contribution represents an initial step toward supporting the South African road and railway industry in adopting advanced techniques for the selection of aggregate materials.
The Impact of Palliative Care Consultation on Aggressive Medical Interventions in End-of-life Among Patients with Metastatic Breast Cancer: Insights from the U.S. National Patient Sample
Authors: Zhang Zidong , Lovell Alexandria , Subramaniam Divya S. , Hinyard Leslie
Published: May 2024

Background

Advancement in treatment has led to prolonged survival and a rising number of women living with metastatic breast cancer (MBC) in the United States. Due to its high symptom burden, it is recommended that palliative care be integrated into the standard care to help improve quality of life. However, little is known about the use of palliative care among MBC patients in the nation.

Objectives

To determine utilization of palliative care consult (PCC) after metastasis and the influence of PCC on healthcare utilization in the end of life among women living with MBC in the US.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study examined a national electronic health record database to quantify the PCC use after metastasis diagnosis until death and the associations of PCC with Emergency Department (ED), Intensive Care Unit (ICU), and chemotherapies in the end-of-life women (age ≥ 18 years) living with MBC.

Results

From a cohort of 2615 deceased MBC patients, 37% received PCC in the last 6 months of life. Patients who had received PCC in the end-of-life were more likely to be hospitalized, admitted to ED and ICU, and receive chemotherapies in the last 60 days before death. However, patients who had received end-of-life PCC had less hospital and ED visits and received less chemotherapies after PCC initiated.

Conclusion

While PCC can reduce end-of-life aggressive interventions, it was underutilized among patients with MBC in the end-of-life. A myriad of clinical and patient factors may still challenge timely consultation. We urge for future endeavors in developing strategies to remove barriers in the implementation, especially earlier in the disease course, to assure timely PC treatments and reduce discomfort amid aggressive interventions for MBC.