bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Using Arts-Based Identity Exploration Activities to Foster Students’ Increased Understanding of and Empathy for Self and Others
Authors: Goodyear Kathleen McMichael
Published: May 2024

In these divisive times, it is more important than ever that education provide holistic ways for students to increase their understanding of and empathy for both themselves and others. Arts-based identity exploration activities involving students’ creative expression and sharing with one another can serve as powerful pedagogical tools in many different types of educational programs at the elementary, secondary/high school, and college levels, including in general education social justice courses, student life programs, and teacher education, social work, counseling, premed, and other helping-profession programs. Engaging in these activities can promote students’ increased awareness, understanding, and empathy both within themselves and with students of similar and differing cultural groups. Students’ emerging sense of self-worth, belonging, and being heard can also foster a sense of community in the classroom.
In this article, I first discuss the in-class dissertation research project I conducted during my arts education PhD program at the Ohio State University during the spring 2016 semester. I then provide examples of how other educators have used arts-based inquiry in their teaching. In conclusion, I propose additional ways in which arts-based inquiry can be used to deepen and enhance students’ educational experiences.
How SoTL can Inform Teaching Traumatic Histories
Authors: Abney Jill M. , Collins Kate , Blaber Isabelle
Published: May 2024

Educators charged with teaching histories marked by oppression and violence navigate a challenging duality: they must foster critical engagement and deep analysis of traumatic events without causing secondary trauma to their students, all within the context of growing political pressures on history curriculum in K-12 and higher education. This article, based on the results of a Scholarship of Teaching and Learning (SoTL) study in a college-level war and society course, explores student-identified challenges to learning about the Holocaust as well as their strategies for navigating emotional distress associated with that learning process. The article also considers SoTL-informed pedagogical interventions for teaching hard histories with a trauma-informed approach sharing student reactions to an oral history podcast assignment for supporting thoughtful and effective communication about sensitive topics. Among other results, this study found that students approached learning about the Holocaust with varied and self-aware strategies for emotional regulation, despite the common expectation that it would be difficult to hear about the tragic experiences of others. Students also expressed both general and specific benefits to learning this content, despite the significant challenge of navigating sensitive topics with careful language.
Cultivating Social Cohesion through Conflict Transformation in Educational Environments
Authors: Silverman Yehuda , McIntyre Sharon
Published: May 2024

Teaching in our current times brings many new challenges that professors and students are navigating together. In the conflict resolution field, there are a variety of frameworks that may support fostering inclusivity in the classroom, though these elements still need to be discovered in mainstream academia and beyond. Several strategies will be shared that were implemented in classes, along with feedback from students, indicating a successful and inclusive atmosphere, even though a majority of the topics discussed were challenging. Developing effective strategies can transform a classroom. Active learning strategies can also create inclusive classrooms. In addition to the traditional challenges that students and teachers face, there are political challenges to what, how, and why specific topics are taught. Looking broadly and critically at these challenges may result in negotiating a collaborative process to actively create social cohesion within the classroom and beyond.
Supporting the Biomedical Science UG Project Research Journey Through Staff-Student Partnerships
Authors: Veuger S. , Cookson L. , Creighton H. , Gallaher S. , Racey S. , Ridley M. , Robson I.
Published: May 2024

Introduction: Developing research skills enhances graduate attributes and student employability. The UG research project is coined the pedagogy of the 21st century but the diversity of supervisory styles is a source of student perceived inequality of experience. The goal of this study was to provide structure and support to undergraduate (UG) biomedical science research students and supervisors by co-creating research informed resources that are accessible, engaging and student centred. We asked 1) How do UG students experience research supervision? 2) What approaches do supervisors use to support UG project students? 3) How do students as partners benefit from being involved in pedagogical research?

Materials and Methods: In Stage One, 3 UG student research partners co-developed questionnaires and followed these up with semi-structured interviews. Fifty two UG project students took part in an interactive poll and 14 supervisors answered a questionnaire. Seven students and 4 supervisors were interviewed. These were analysed by thematic analysis. In Stage Two, the questions were asked of UG project students (n = 79) via an interactive poll and the resource developed in Stage One was trialled with students (n = 68) and supervisors (n = 37).

Results: The global theme identified was that students feel strongly that the student-supervisor relationship influences their experience, satisfaction and success. In all polls, >90% of students but <60% of supervisors agree that a good student/supervisor partnership has an effect on the success of the final project. A smaller percentage of students felt strongly that they were able to develop a successful partnership with their supervisor. We co-created a visual model and a list of discussion points of how the student-supervisor partnership can be developed, aimed at making supervision more effective whilst being non-prescriptive.

Discussion: The resource can be easily adapted. Students believe it helped them to develop a staff-student partnership and supervisors commented that it helps to clarify roles and manage student expectations. This scalable project will support the practice of future UG biomedical science project research students and supervisors. Working with students as partners enabled the development of richer ideas whilst supporting their employability.
Liraglutide, a glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist, inhibits bone loss in an animal model of osteoporosis with or without diabetes
Authors: Wu Zongyi , Deng Wei , Ye Yiming , Xu Jie , Han Deyu , Zheng Yu , Zheng Qun
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Liraglutide (Lrg), a novel anti-diabetic drug that mimics the endogenous glucagon-like peptide-1 to potentiate insulin secretion, is observed to be capable of partially reversing osteopenia. The aim of the present study is to further investigate the efficacy and potential anti-osteoporosis mechanisms of Lrg for improving bone pathology, bone- related parameters under imageology, and serum bone metabolism indexes in an animal model of osteoporosis with or without diabetes.

Methods

Eight databases were searched from their inception dates to April 27, 2024. The risk of bias and data on outcome measures were analyzed by the CAMARADES 10-item checklist and Rev-Man 5.3 software separately.

Results

Seventeen eligible studies were ultimately included in this review. The number of criteria met in each study varied from 4/10 to 8/10 with an average of 5.47. The aspects of blinded induction of the model, blinding assessment of outcome and sample size calculation need to be strengthened with emphasis. The pre-clinical evidence reveals that Lrg is capable of partially improving bone related parameters under imageology, bone pathology, and bone maximum load, increasing serum osteocalcin, N-terminal propeptide of type I procollagen, and reducing serum c-terminal cross-linked telopeptide of type I collagen (P<0.05). Lrg reverses osteopenia likely by activating osteoblast proliferation through promoting the Wnt signal pathway, p-AMPK/PGC1α signal pathway, and inhibiting the activation of osteoclasts by inhibiting the OPG/RANKL/RANK signal pathway through anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and anti-autophagic pathways. Furthermore, the present study recommends that more reasonable usage methods of streptozotocin, including dosage and injection methods, as well as other types of osteoporosis models, be attempted in future studies.

Discussion

Based on the results, this finding may help to improve the priority of Lrg in the treatment of diabetes patients with osteoporosis.
Maternal thyroid function and offspring birth anthropometrics in women with polycystic ovary syndrome
Authors: Trouva Anastasia , Alvarsson Michael , Calissendorff Jan , Åsvold Bjørn Olav , Ujvari Dorina , Hirschberg Angelica Lindén , Vanky Eszter
Published: May 2024

Objectives

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and thyroid disorders have both been linked to adverse pregnancy and neonatal outcomes. Even small variations in thyroid function within the normal range may influence fetal growth. Our aim was to investigate whether maternal thyroid function is associated with newborn anthropometrics in PCOS and explore the potential modifying effect of metformin.

Methods

Post-hoc analyses of two RCTs in which pregnant women with PCOS were randomized to metformin or placebo, from first trimester to delivery. Maternal serum levels of thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) and free thyroxine (fT4) were measured at gestational weeks (gw) 5–12, 19, 32 and 36 in 309 singleton pregnancies. The mean z-scores of birthweight, birth length, and head circumference were estimated in the offspring. Associations of maternal thyroid parameters with offspring anthropometrics and the outcomes large for gestational age (LGA) and small for gestational age (SGA) were studied using linear and logistic regression models, with adjustment for body mass index (BMI) when relevant.

Results

Maternal fT4 at baseline was negatively associated with birth length (b= -0.09, p=0.048). Furthermore, ΔfT4 during pregnancy correlated positively to z-score of both birth weight and length (b=0.10, p=0.017 and b=0.10, p=0.047 respectively), independently of treatment group. TSH at baseline and gw19 was inversely associated with LGA (OR 0.47, p=0.012 and OR 0.58, p=0.042), while ΔTSH was positively associated with LGA (OR 1.99, p=0.023). There were inverse associations between TSH at baseline and SGA (OR 0.32, p=0.005) and between ΔfT4 and SGA (OR 0.59, p=0.005) in the metformin group only. There were no associations between maternal thyroid function and head circumference of the newborns.

Conclusion

In women with PCOS, a higher maternal fT4 in early pregnancy and a greater decrease in fT4 during pregnancy was associated with a lower offspring birthweight and shorter birth length. Higher TSH by mid-gestation and smaller increase in TSH during pregnancy was associated with less risk of LGA. Subclinical variations in maternal thyroid function might play a role for birth anthropometrics of PCOS offspring.
Causal association of immune cells and endometriosis: a Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Fang Xingyi , Deng Qinghua , Yang Haili , Yan Zhaohua , Peng Zhen , Zhao Yuheng , Liao Tantan , Tu Ziying , Liu Jia , Liu Li , Zou Lin , He Honghua
Published: May 2024

Objective

To investigate the causal effect of immune cells on endometriosis (EMS), we performed a Mendelian randomization analysis.

Methods

Mendelian randomization (MR) uses genetic variants as instrumental variables to investigate the causal effects of exposures on outcomes in observational data. In this study, we conducted a thorough two-sample MR analysis to investigate the causal relationship between 731 immune cells and endometriosis. We used complementary Mendelian randomization (MR) methods, including weighted median estimator (WME) and inverse variance weighted (IVW), and performed sensitivity analyses to assess the robustness of our results.

Results

Four immune phenotypes have been found to be significantly associated with the risk of developing EMS: B cell %lymphocyte (WME: OR: 1.074, p = 0.027 and IVW: OR: 1.058, p = 0.008), CD14 on Mo MDSC (WME: OR: 1.056, p =0.021 and IVW: OR: 1.047, p = 0.021), CD14+ CD16− monocyte %monocyte (WME: OR: 0.947, p = 0.024 and IVW: OR: 0.958, p = 0.011), CD25 on unsw mem (WME: OR: 1.055, p = 0.030 and IVW: OR: 1.048, p = 0.003). Sensitivity analyses confirmed the main findings, demonstrating consistency across analyses.

Conclusions

Our MR analysis provides compelling evidence for a direct causal link between immune cells and EMS, thereby advancing our understanding of the disease. It also provides new avenues and opportunities for the development of immunomodulatory therapeutic strategies in the future.
‘Mind the Gap’—reforestation needs vs. reforestation capacity in the western United States
Authors: Dobrowski Solomon Z. , Aghai Matthew M. , Chichilnisky du Lac Ariella , Downer Rebecca , Fargione Joseph , Haase Diane L. , Hoecker Tyler , Kildisheva Olga A. , Murdoch Alix , Newman Shaw , North Malcolm , Saksa Phil , Sjoholm Matt , Baribault Tom , Buonanduci Michele S. , Chambers Marin E. , Gonzales-Kramer Lisa , Harvey Brian J. , Hurteau Matthew D. , Loevner Jonathan , Safford Hugh D. , Sloan Joshua
Published: May 2024

Tree establishment following severe or stand-replacing disturbance is critical for achieving U.S. climate change mitigation goals and for maintaining the co-benefits of intact forest ecosystems. In many contexts, natural post-fire tree regeneration is sufficient to maintain forest cover and associated ecosystem services, but increasingly the pattern and scale of disturbance exceeds ecological thresholds and active reforestation may be warranted. Our capacity to plant trees, however, is not keeping pace with reforestation needs. This shortfall is uniquely apparent in the western U.S., where wildfire size and severity have increased in recent decades and long-term divestment in the reforestation supply chain has limited our ability to respond to existing needs. Here we present an analysis of key facets of both the supply and demand side of reforestation in the western U.S. and address six questions: (1) What is the current backlog of potential reforestation needs driven by high-severity wildfire?; (2) How will increasing wildfire activity through the end of the century affect potential reforestation needs?; (3) What is our capacity to meet current and future reforestation needs?; (4) How can we scale the reforestation supply chain to meet current and future demands?; (5) What approaches to reforestation can promote forest resilience to climate change and wildfire?; and (6) Where are opportunities emerging from recent policy initiatives, innovative public-private partnerships, and natural capital markets for scaling reforestation? Between 1984 and 2000, annual tree planting capacity met post-fire needs but cumulatively over the last two decades (2000 to 2021) it has fallen short of fire-driven needs by an estimated 1.5 million ha (ca. 3.8 million ac). We anticipate this gap will increase 2 to 3 fold by 2050. Scaling up reforestation efforts to close this gap will require increased investment across all facets of the reforestation supply chain, public-private partnerships, and novel approaches to reforestation that increase the resilience of western forests to drought and wildfire. We highlight emerging opportunities from recent policy initiatives and conservation finance for expanding reforestation efforts.
TIGIT+Tfh show poor B-helper function and negatively correlate with SARS-CoV-2 antibody titre
Authors: Edner Natalie M. , Houghton Luke P. , Ntavli Elisavet , Rees-Spear Chloe , Petersone Lina , Wang Chunjing , Fabri Astrid , Elfaki Yassin , Rueda Gonzalez Andrea , Brown Rachel , Kisand Kai , Peterson Pärt , McCoy Laura E. , Walker Lucy S. K.
Published: May 2024

Circulating follicular helper T cells (cTfh) can show phenotypic alterations in disease settings, including in the context of tissue-damaging autoimmune or anti-viral responses. Using severe COVID-19 as a paradigm of immune dysregulation, we have explored how cTfh phenotype relates to the titre and quality of antibody responses. Severe disease was associated with higher titres of neutralising S1 IgG and evidence of increased T cell activation. ICOS, CD38 and HLA-DR expressing cTfh correlated with serum S1 IgG titres and neutralising strength, and interestingly expression of TIGIT by cTfh showed a negative correlation. TIGIT+cTfh expressed increased IFNγ and decreased IL-17 compared to their TIGIT-cTfh counterparts, and showed reduced capacity to help B cells in vitro. Additionally, TIGIT+cTfh expressed lower levels of CD40L than TIGIT-cTfh, providing a potential explanation for their poor B-helper function. These data identify phenotypic changes in polyclonal cTfh that correlate with specific antibody responses and reveal TIGIT as a marker of cTfh with altered function.
The roles of cancer stem cell-derived secretory factors in shaping the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment in hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Muliawan Gregory Kenneth , Lee Terence Kin-Wah
Published: May 2024

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most prevalent malignancies worldwide and has a poor prognosis. Although immune checkpoint inhibitors have entered a new era of HCC treatment, their response rates are modest, which can be attributed to the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment within HCC tumors. Accumulating evidence has shown that tumor growth is fueled by cancer stem cells (CSCs), which contribute to therapeutic resistance to the above treatments. Given that CSCs can regulate cellular and physical factors within the tumor niche by secreting various soluble factors in a paracrine manner, there have been increasing efforts toward understanding the roles of CSC-derived secretory factors in creating an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment. In this review, we provide an update on how these secretory factors, including growth factors, cytokines, chemokines, and exosomes, contribute to the immunosuppressive TME, which leads to immune resistance. In addition, we present current therapeutic strategies targeting CSC-derived secretory factors and describe future perspectives. In summary, a better understanding of CSC biology in the TME provides a rational therapeutic basis for combination therapy with ICIs for effective HCC treatment.
Acute post-renal kidney graft dysfunction due to cytomegalovirus-positive nephrogenic adenoma—case report and review of the literature
Authors: Hosek Nicola , Montani Matteo , Mani Laila-Yasmin
Published: May 2024

Tissue-invasive cytomegalovirus (CMV) disease represents a well-recognized complication after kidney transplantation. However, direct involvement of the urogenital tract and CMV-ureteritis occur less frequently. Nephrogenic adenomas are benign lesions of the urinary tract preferentially reported in kidney transplant recipients. We herein report a second case of a 33-year-old male kidney transplant recipient with acute post-renal allograft dysfunction due to CMV-positive ureteral nephrogenic adenoma. A causal connection might be suspected but remains to be proven.
Sex differences in the combined influence of inflammation and nutrition status on depressive symptoms: insights from NHANES
Authors: Xu Yifeng , Yan Zhaoqi , Liu Liangji
Published: May 2024

Background

Both nutrition and inflammation are associated with depression, but previous studies have focused on individual factors. Here, we assessed the association between composite indices of nutrition and inflammation and depression.

Methods

Adult participants selected from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) between 2005 and 2018 were chosen. The exposure variable was the Advanced Lung Cancer Inflammation Index (ALI) integrating nutrition and inflammation, categorized into low, medium, and high groups. The outcome variable was depression assessed using the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9). A multivariable logistic regression model was employed to evaluate the relationship between ALI and the risk of depression.

Results

After extensive adjustment for covariates, in the overall population, participants with moderate and high levels of ALI had a decreased prevalence of depression compared to those with low ALI levels, with reductions of 17% (OR, 0.83; 95% CI: 0.72–0.97) and 23% (OR, 0.77; 95% CI: 0.66–0.91), respectively. Among females, participants with moderate and high ALI levels had a decreased prevalence of depression by 27% (OR, 0.73; 95% CI: 0.60–0.88) and 21% (OR, 0.79; 95% CI: 0.64–0.98), respectively, compared to those with low ALI levels, whereas no significant association was observed among males. Subgroup analyses based on females and males yielded consistent results.

Conclusion

In this study, we observed a negative correlation between moderate to high levels of ALI and the prevalence of depression, along with gender differences. Specifically, in females, greater attention should be given to the nutritional and inflammatory status.
Environmental conditions modulate the effect of epigenetic factors controlling the response of Arabidopsis thaliana to Plasmodiophora brassicae
Authors: Petitpas Mathilde , Lapous Romane , Le Duc Mathieu , Lariagon Christine , Lemoine Jocelyne , Langrume Christophe , Manzanares-Dauleux Maria J. , Jubault Mélanie
Published: May 2024

The resistance of Arabidopsis thaliana to clubroot, a major disease of Brassicaceae caused by the obligate protist Plasmodiophora brassicae, is controlled in part by epigenetic factors. The detection of some of these epigenetic quantitative trait loci (QTLepi) has been shown to depend on experimental conditions. The aim of the present study was to assess whether and how temperature and/or soil water availability influenced both the detection and the extent of the effect of response QTLepi. The epigenetic recombinant inbred line (epiRIL) population, derived from the cross between ddm1-2 and Col-0 (partially resistant and susceptible to clubroot, respectively), was phenotyped for response to P. brassicae under four abiotic conditions including standard conditions, a 5°C temperature increase, drought, and flooding. The abiotic constraints tested had a significant impact on both the leaf growth of the epiRIL population and the outcome of the epiRIL–pathogen interaction. Linkage analysis led to the detection of a total of 31 QTLepi, 18 of which were specific to one abiotic condition and 13 common to at least two environments. EpiRIL showed significant plasticity under epigenetic control, which appeared to be specific to the traits evaluated and to the abiotic conditions. These results highlight that the environment can affect the epigenetic architecture of plant growth and immune responses and advance our understanding of the epigenetic factors underlying plasticity in response to climate change.
Celiac disease and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder: a bidirectional Mendelian randomization analysis
Authors: Chen Jing , Zhu Qiaozhen , Li Lan , Xue Zheng
Published: May 2024

Background

Recent observational research suggests a potential link between celiac disease (CeD) and an increased incidence of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). However, the genetic relationship between CeD and ADHD remains unclear. In order to assess the potential genetic causality between these two conditions, we conducted a Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis.

Methods

We performed a bidirectional MR analysis to investigate the relationship between CeD and ADHD. We carefully selected single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) from publicly available large-scale genome-wide association studies (GWAS) databases, employing rigorous quality screening criteria. MR estimates were obtained using four different methods: fixed-effect inverse variance weighted (fe-IVW), random-effect inverse variance weighting (re-IVW), weighted median (WM), and MR-Egger. The robustness and reliability of our findings were confirmed through sensitivity analyses, assessment of instrumental variable (IV) strength (F-statistic), and statistical power calculations.

Results

Our MR analyses did not reveal any significant genetic associations between CeD and ADHD (fe-IVW: OR = 1.003, 95% CI = 0.932–1.079, P = 0.934). Similarly, in the reverse direction analysis, we found no evidence supporting a genetic relationship between ADHD and CeD (fe-IVW: OR = 0.850, 95% CI = 0.591–1.221, P = 0.378). Various MR approaches consistently yielded similar results. Sensitivity analysis indicated the absence of significant horizontal pleiotropy or heterogeneity. However, it’s important to note that the limited statistical power of our study may have constrained the causal analysis of the exposure’s influence on the outcome.

Conclusions

Our findings do not provide compelling evidence for a genetic association between CeD and ADHD within the European population. While the statistical power of our study was limited, future MR research could benefit from larger-scale datasets or datasets involving similar traits. To validate our results in real-world scenarios, further mechanistic studies, large-sample investigations, multicenter collaborations, and longitudinal studies are warranted.
Expert opinions on improving coercion data collection across Europe: a concept mapping study
Authors: Lickiewicz Jakub , Efkemann Simone Agnes , Husum Tonje Lossius , Lantta Tella , Pingani Luca , Whittington Richard
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Coercion is frequently used in mental health practice. Since it overrides some patients’ fundamental human rights, adequate use of coercion requires legal and ethical justifications. Having internationally standardised datasets to benchmark and monitor coercion reduction programs is desirable. However, only a few countries have specific, open, publicly accessible registries for this issue.

Methods

This study aims to assemble expert opinions regarding strategies that might be feasible for promoting, developing, and implementing an integrated and differentiated coercion data collection system in Europe at national and international levels. A concept mapping methodology was followed, involving 59 experts from 27 countries in generating, sorting and rating strategies regarding relevance and feasibility. The experts were all researchers and/or practitioner members of an EU-COST-Action focused on coercion reduction Fostering and Strengthening Approaches to Reducing Coercion in European Mental Health Services (FOSTREN).

Results

A hierarchical cluster analysis revealed a conceptual map of 41 strategies organized in seven clusters. These clusters fit into two higher-order domains: “Advancing Global Health Research: Collaboration, Accessibility, and Technological Innovations/Advancing International Research” and “Strategies for Comprehensive Healthcare Data Integration, Standardization, and Collaboration.” Regarding the action with the higher priority, relevance was generally rated higher than feasibility. No differences could be found regarding the two domains regarding the relevance rating or feasibility of the respective strategies in those domains. The following strategies were rated as most relevant: “Collection of reliable data”, “Implementation of nationwide register, including data on coercive measures”, and “Equal understanding of different coercive measures”. In analysing the differences in strategies between countries and their health prosperity, the overall rating did not differ substantially between the groups.

Conclusion

The strategy rated as most relevant was the collection of reliable data in the nationwide health register, ensuring that countries share a standard understanding/definition of different coercive measures. Respondents did not consider the feasibility of establishing a shared European database for coercive measures to be high, nor did they envision the unification of mental health legislation in the future. There is some consensus on the most suitable strategies that can be adopted to enable international benchmarking of coercion in mental health settings.
Theoretical evaluation of integrated Basin at Risk (iBAR) method for international water conflict-cooperation analysis
Authors: Mirhashemi Dehkordi Seyedeh Simin , Mianabadi Hojjat , Bagherzadeh Saeed , Hajiani Ebrahim , Dehghani Firouzabadi Seyed Jalal
Published: May 2024

Comprehensive analysis of water interactions enhances understanding of the dynamic and complex conditions in transboundary river basins. The Basin at Risk (BAR) method is among common methods to analyze water interactions. The integrated Basin at Risk (iBAR) method has recently enhanced BAR. As an extension of BAR, iBAR emphasizes hidden drivers of water conflict and cooperation, whereas BAR includes visible ones. The novelty of iBAR is grounded in Johan Galtung’s theory of violence and the concept of positive peace. This method emphasizes the importance of capturing the hidden aspects of water conflicts as well as the concept of positive peace in water interactions. While iBAR has made significant improvements in addressing water conflicts, some challenges remain. This paper provides a review and theoretical analysis of iBAR. Initially, the iBAR development phases are reviewed in terms of positive peace conceptualization and contextualization in water interactions. Following this, the theoretical background of this method is discussed. The results suggest that the iBAR method could be further enhanced by revising concepts of positive peace, social justice, and environmental justice in water interactions.
Pre-Transplant Frequencies of FoxP3+CD25+ in CD3+CD8+ T Cells as Potential Predictors for CMV in CMV-Intermediate Risk Kidney Transplant Recipients
Authors: Mooslechner Agnes A. , Schuller Max , Pfeifer Verena , Klötzer Konstantin A. , Prietl Barbara , Kirsch Alexander H. , Stiegler Philipp , Sucher Robert , Sourij Harald , Rosenkranz Alexander R. , Eller Kathrin
Published: May 2024

Cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection detrimentally influences graft survival in kidney transplant recipients, with the risk primarily determined by recipient and donor serostatus. However, recipient CD8+ T cells play a crucial role in CMV control. The optimal preventive strategy (prophylaxis vs. pre-emptive treatment), particularly for seropositive (intermediate risk) recipients, remains uncertain. We investigated CD8+ T cell subpopulation dynamics and CMV occurrence (DNAemia ≥ 100 IU/mL) in 65 kidney transplant recipients, collecting peripheral blood mononuclear cells before (T1) and 1 year after transplantation (T2). Comparing the two timepoints, we found an increase in granulocyte, monocyte and CD3+CD8+ T cells numbers, while FoxP3+CD25+, LAG-3+ and PD-1+ frequencies were reduced at T2. CMV DNAemia occurred in 33 recipients (55.8%) during the first year. Intermediate risk patients were disproportionally affected by posttransplant CMV (N = 29/45, 64.4%). Intermediate risk recipients developing CMV after transplantation exhibited lower leukocyte, monocyte, and granulocyte counts and higher FoxP3+CD25+ frequencies in CD3+CD8+ T cells pre-transplantation compared to patients staying CMV negative. Pre-transplant FoxP3+CD25+ in CD3+CD8+ T cells had the best discriminatory potential for CMV infection prediction within the first year after transplantation (AUC: 0.746). The FoxP3+CD25+ CD3+CD8+ T cell subset may aid in selecting intermediate risk kidney transplant recipients for CMV prophylaxis.
Vertebral Bone Density Variations in Scoliotic vs. Non-Scoliotic Juveniles, and Its Implications for Schmorl’s Node Development: A CT-Based Analysis Using the New Mexico Decedent Image Database
Authors: Shakeshaft Ellen , Borrini Matteo , Eliopoulos Constantine
Published: May 2024

Scoliosis, characterized by an abnormal lateral curvature of the spine, is predominantly idiopathic, underscoring the need to delve into its underlying causes for effective treatment and preventive strategies. This study investigates a potential correlation between scoliosis and Schmorl’s nodes (intervertebral disc herniations) influenced by Wolff’s law, which posits that bones adapt to external pressures. We analyzed CT scans from 108 juvenile decedents, including 56 with scoliosis and 52 without. After running multiple statistical tests, there was no significance between the mean bone density when compared to having scoliosis. An independent t-test provided a t-value of 0.041, which, when compared to the original significance level of 0.05, is statistically significant, although weak. When compared to the Bonferroni correction level of 0.008, it throws out the significance to give a result of not being statistically significant. It was the same in the cases of L3 (t = 0.103), L2 (t = 0.084), and L1 (t = 0.053). If compared to the regular significance level of 0.05, T12 (t = 0.012) and T11 (t = 0.042) had weak significance, but that was then excluded when the Bonferroni correction was applied. When looking at any significance of densities in different vertebral regions, the results from a one-way ANOVA (p-value = 0.213) suggest that it is likely that the results are due to random variability or chance, and that there is no statistical significance. With a value of 0.273 from a Chi-squared (χ2)/Fisher’s exact test, it suggests that there is no statistically significant correlation or difference between the variables of scoliosis and Schmorl’s nodes. The general pattern seems to follow that as the spine ascends, the density increases, and this is true in both scoliotic and non-scoliotic individuals. As a whole, it is evident that those with scoliosis have a lower vertebral density than those without, in all of the vertebral regions. There is, however, a weak negative linear relationship between bone density and age in both scoliotic and non-scoliotic individuals. A p-value of −0.229 obtained from a Pearson correlation coefficient analysis in non-scoliotic individuals, as well as a p-value of −0.069 in scoliotic individuals, was obtained. Overall, the findings of this study are comparable to some existing studies on similar topics, but there are few results that hold statistical significance and so this would be interesting to research further, potentially using a different dataset or a larger sample size that is more representative.
Pregnancy and Luteal Responses to Embryo Reinsertion following Embryo Flushing in Donor Mares
Authors: Martínez-Boví Rebeca , Gaber Jana T. H. , Sala-Ayala Laura , Plaza-Dávila María , Cuervo-Arango Juan
Published: May 2024

The effect of embryo reinsertion immediately after embryo flushing was studied. In Experiment 1, eight mares were used during 32 cycles (8 cycles in each group). For the first two groups, inseminated mares were flushed 8 days after ovulation and prostaglandin F2α was not administered: in group EF-ET (embryo flushing and embryo transfer) the embryo was reinserted in the same donor mare, while in the EF group, no further procedure was performed. In the third group (ET), non-inseminated mares (recipients) received a Day 8 embryo. Progesterone concentration was measured before EF/ET and 72 h after in the three groups. In Experiment 2, twelve mares were used during 17 cycles in two groups, EF-ET (n = 11) and ET (n = 6), as in Experiment 1, except that every mare was flushed 24 h after embryo transfer to retrieve the embryo. Fewer pregnancies resulted after transfer in EF-ET cycles (0/8, 0%) than in the ET group (6/8, 75%). Progesterone concentration decreased significantly (p = 0.05) 72 h after EF-ET but not in EF or ET cycles (p > 0.1). Three mares from the EF-ET showed full luteolysis and signs of endometritis. In Experiment 2, more (5/6; p = 0.08) grade 1 embryos were recovered in the ET compared to the EF-ET group (3/7); 4 embryos were graded 3–4 (were broken or had signs of degeneration) in the EF-ET group but none in the ET group. In both groups, capsule fragments were obtained as indicative of the presence of a recently destroyed embryo in the EF-ET (n = 3) and ET (n = 1) groups. Positive bacterial cultures were obtained in 2/11 and 1/6 embryo flushes from the EF-ET and ET groups, respectively.
Collecting and Delivering Fattened Pigs to the Abattoir
Authors: Plà-Aragonés Lluís Miquel , Bao Yun , Llagostera Pol , Juan Angel , Panadero Javier
Published: May 2024

In the context of pig farming, this paper addresses the optimization problem of collecting fattened pigs from farms to deliver them to the abattoir. Assuming that the pig sector is organized as a competitive supply chain with narrow profit margins, our aim is to apply analytics to cope with the uncertainty in production costs and revenues. Motivated by a real-life case, the paper analyzes a rich Team Orienteering Problem (TOP) with a homogeneous fleet, stochastic demands, and maximum workload. After describing the problem and reviewing the related literature, we introduce the PJS heuristic. Our approach is first compared with exact methods, which are revealed as computationally unfeasible. Later, a scenario analysis based on a real instance was performed to gain insight into the practical aspects. Our findings demonstrate a positive correlation between the number of alternative routes explored, the number of trips, the transportation cost, and the maximum reward. Regarding the variability in the number of pigs to collect, when a truck can visit more than one farm, better solutions can be found with higher variability since the load can be combined more efficiently.
Modernist Antagonisms and Material Reciprocities: Chase-Riboud’s Albino
Authors: Speaks Elyse
Published: May 2024

This paper considers the material exchange initiated in the early sculptural practice of Barbara Chase-Riboud when she began to incorporate fiber into her bronze sculptures by looking closely at her 1972 work, The Albino. I suggest that Chase-Riboud staked a claim for sculpture as a symbolic site at which material knowledge might be transferred across time and space. The work’s negotiations open western sculptural practice to a hybridized form located within transhistorical associations that rework the alleged specificities of both craft and bronze into sites for the exchange of ideas and practices.
A Soft Sensor for Flow Estimation and Uncertainty Analysis Based on Artificial Intelligence: A Case Study of Water Supply Systems
Authors: Alencar Gabryel M. Raposo de , Fernandes Fernanda M. Lima , Moura Duarte Rafael , Melo Petrônio Ferreira de , Cardoso Altamar Alencar , Gomes Heber Pimentel , Villanueva Juan M. Mauricio
Published: May 2024

The fourth industrial revolution has transformed the industry, with information technology playing a crucial role in this shift. The increasing digitization of industrial systems demands efficient sensing and control methods, giving rise to soft sensors that have the potential to replace traditional physical sensors in order to reduce costs and enhance efficiency. This study explores the implementation of an artificial neural network (ANN) based soft sensor model in a water supply system to predict flow rates within the system. The soft sensor is centered on a Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) artificial neural network model using Monte Carlo dropout to reduce uncertainty and improve estimation performance. Based on the results of this work, it is concluded that the proposed soft sensor (with Monte Carlo dropout) can predict flow rates more precisely, contributing to the reduction in water losses, as well as cost savings. This approach offers a valuable solution for minimizing water losses and ensuring the efficient use of this vital resource. Regarding the use of soft sensors based on LSTM neural networks with a careful choice of Monte Carlo dropout parameters, when compared to the multilayer perceptron model, the LSTM model with Monte Carlo dropout showed better mean absolute error, root mean square error, and coefficient of determination: 0.2450, 0.3121, and 0.996437 versus 0.2556, 0.3522, and 0.9954. Furthermore, this choice of Monte Carlo dropout parameters allowed us to achieve an LSTM network model capable of reducing uncertainty to 1.8290, keeping the error metrics also at low levels.
The Influence of Preoperative Anticoagulant and Antiplatelet Therapy on Rebleeding Rates in Patients Suffering from Spinal Metastatic Cancer: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Orban Christoph , Abramovic Anto , Gmeiner Raphael , Lener Sara , Demetz Matthias , Thomé Claudius
Published: May 2024

Introduction: The age of patients requiring surgery for spinal metastasis, primarily those over 65, has risen due to improved cancer treatments. Surgical intervention targets acute neurological deficits and instability. Anticoagulants are increasingly used, especially in the elderly, but pose challenges in managing bleeding complications. The study examines the correlation between preoperative anticoagulant/antiplatelet use and bleeding risks in spinal metastasis surgery, which is crucial for optimizing patient outcomes. Material and Methods: In a retrospective study at our department from 2010 to 2023, spinal tumor surgery patients were analyzed. Data included demographics, neurological status, surgical procedure, preoperative anticoagulant/antiplatelet use, intra-/postoperative coagulation management, and the incidence of rebleeding. Coagulation management involved blood loss assessment, coagulation factor administration, and fluid balance monitoring post-surgery. Lab parameters were documented at admission, preop, postop, and discharge. Results: A cohort of 290 patients underwent surgical treatment for spinal metastases, predominantly males (63.8%, n = 185) with a median age of 65 years. Preoperatively, 24.1% (n = 70) were on oral anticoagulants or antiplatelet therapy. Within 30 days, a rebleeding rate of 4.5% (n = 9) occurred, unrelated to preoperative anticoagulation status (p > 0.05). A correlation was found between preoperative neurologic deficits (p = 0.004) and rebleeding risk and the number of levels treated surgically, with fewer levels associated with a higher incidence of postoperative bleeding (p < 0.01). Conclusions: Surgical intervention for spinal metastatic cancer appears to be safe regardless of the patient’s preoperative anticoagulation status. However, it remains imperative to customize preoperative planning and preparation for each patient, emphasizing meticulous risk–benefit analysis and optimizing perioperative care.
A Controlled Discrete-Time Queueing System as a Model for the Orders of Two Competing Companies
Authors: Lefebvre Mario
Published: May 2024

We consider two companies that are competing for orders. Let X1(n) denote the number of orders processed by the first company at time n, and let τ(k) be the first time that X1(n)<j or X1(n)=r, given that X1(0)=k. We assume that {X1(n),n=0,1,…} is a controlled discrete-time queueing system. Each company is using some control to increase its share of orders. The aim of the first company is to maximize the expected value of τ(k), while its competitor tries to minimize this expected value. The optimal solution is obtained by making use of dynamic programming. Particular problems are solved explicitly.
Recent Insights into the Molecular Mechanisms of the Toll-like Receptor Response to Influenza Virus Infection
Authors: Kayesh Mohammad Enamul Hoque , Kohara Michinori , Tsukiyama-Kohara Kyoko
Published: May 2024

Influenza A viruses (IAVs) pose a significant global threat to human health. A tightly controlled host immune response is critical to avoid any detrimental effects of IAV infection. It is critical to investigate the association between the response of Toll-like receptors (TLRs) and influenza virus. Because TLRs may act as a double-edged sword, a balanced TLR response is critical for the overall benefit of the host. Consequently, a thorough understanding of the TLR response is essential for targeting TLRs as a novel therapeutic and prophylactic intervention. To date, a limited number of studies have assessed TLR and IAV interactions. Therefore, further research on TLR interactions in IAV infection should be conducted to determine their role in host–virus interactions in disease causation or clearance of the virus. Although influenza virus vaccines are available, they have limited efficacy, which should be enhanced to improve their efficacy. In this study, we discuss the current status of our understanding of the TLR response in IAV infection and the strategies adopted by IAVs to avoid TLR-mediated immune surveillance, which may help in devising new therapeutic or preventive strategies. Furthermore, recent advances in the use of TLR agonists as vaccine adjuvants to enhance influenza vaccine efficacy are discussed.
ADAM-17 Activity and Its Relation to ACE2: Implications for Severe COVID-19
Authors: Sun Jiangming , Edsfeldt Andreas , Svensson Joel , Ruge Toralph , Goncalves Isabel , Swärd Per
Published: May 2024

There is a lack of studies aiming to assess cellular a disintegrin and metalloproteinase-17 (ADAM-17) activity in COVID-19 patients and the eventual associations with the shedding of membrane-bound angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (mACE2). In addition, studies that investigate the relationship between ACE2 and ADAM-17 gene expressions in organs infected by SARS-CoV-2 are lacking. We used data from the Massachusetts general hospital COVID-19 study (306 COVID-19 patients and 78 symptomatic controls) to investigate the association between plasma levels of 33 different ADAM-17 substrates and COVID-19 severity and mortality. As a surrogate of cellular ADAM-17 activity, an ADAM-17 substrate score was calculated. The associations between soluble ACE2 (sACE2) and the ADAM-17 substrate score, renin, key inflammatory markers, and lung injury markers were investigated. Furthermore, we used data from the Genotype-Tissue Expression (GTEx) database to evaluate ADAM-17 and ACE2 gene expressions by age and sex in ages between 20–80 years. We found that increased ADAM-17 activity, as estimated by the ADAM-17 substrates score, was associated with COVID-19 severity (p = 0.001). ADAM-17 activity was also associated with increased mortality but did not reach statistical significance (p = 0.06). Soluble ACE2 showed the strongest positive correlation with the ADAM-17 substrate score, follow by renin, interleukin-6, and lung injury biomarkers. The ratio of ADAM-17 to ACE2 gene expression was highest in the lung. This study indicates that increased ADAM-17 activity is associated with severe COVID-19. Our findings also indicate that there may a bidirectional relationship between membrane-bound ACE2 shedding via increased ADAM-17 activity, dysregulated renin–angiotensin system (RAS) and immune signaling. Additionally, differences in ACE2 and ADAM-17 gene expressions between different tissues may be of importance in explaining why the lung is the organ most severely affected by COVID-19, but this requires further evaluation in prospective studies.