bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Corruption and Social Norms: A New Arrow in the Quiver
Authors: Kubbe Ina , Baez-Camargo Claudia , Scharbatke-Church Cheyanne
Published: April 2024

One key question driving innovations in corruption studies is how anticorruption reforms can be more impactful and sustainable. This is critical to understand due to the detrimental impact of corrupt practices on equality, human rights, peace, and the rule of law. A significant body of research has shown that many anticorruption initiatives do not produce the expected effect, or they achieve results that fade after the intervention ceases. Seeking to understand how to improve anticorruption outcomes, scholars have turned to causal explanations of the persistence of corruption ranging from institutional settings and individual motives to informal practices and social norms. This article explores the intersection of social norms and corruption as a contribution to improving anticorruption programming. It explains how norms impact our conceptual understanding of corruption and the vicious cycle that exists between corrupt practices and norms. Grounded in the belief that programming and social norm diagnosis need to be contextually driven, we lay out the nascent research on changing social norms that drive corruption and the consequences of ignoring them.
Electrochemical Delamination for Free-Standing Polypyrrole Doped with Dodecylbenzenesulfonate Films and the Effect of Substrate
Authors: Newman Matthew , Doan-Nguyen Vicky
Published: April 2024

Free-standing conducting polymer films, polypyrrole doped with dodecylbenzene sulfonate, were obtained with electrochemical delamination by using redox cycling to delaminate electropolymerized film from the substrate. The use of electrochemical delamination to obtain thinner films than mechanical peeling and the effect of different electropolymerization substrates was investigated. The free-standing films were characterized with electrochemical filling efficiency and scanning electron microscopy. Electrochemical delamination allowed thin free-standing films <10 μm and <1 μm thick to be obtained from 304 stainless steel and gold substrates, respectively. The thinnest films obtainable from 304 stainless steel were limited by the electropolymerization charge density needed for complete film growth and not by electrochemical delamination. The filling efficiency of the films did not appear to be decreased by electrochemical delamination. These findings show the utility of electrochemical delamination to obtain thin free-standing films that also have the benefits of electropolymerization.
An o-Phenylenediamine and MWCNT-Based Electrochemical Sensor for the Detection of Triclosan by Cyclic Voltammetry
Authors: Dutta Kusumita , Pushpavanam Subramaniam
Published: April 2024

Selectivity and sensitivity are the two key parameters for construction of a sensor. In this work, a novel electrochemical sensor based on molecularly-imprinted composites synthesized from o-phenylenediamine (o-PD) and multiwalled carbon nanotube (MWCNT) to detect triclosan is reported. Two different sensors were developed MIC/GC and MIC/cf-MWCNT/GC. To fabricate MIC/GC, molecularly imprinted composite (MIC) was synthesized by cyclic voltammetry using o-PD, COOH-functionalized MWCNT (cf-MWCNT) and triclosan on glassy carbon (GC) electrode, following removal of surface triclosan. MIC/cf-MWCNT/GC was fabricated by synthesizing MIC on cf-MWCNT coated GC. Template removal was performed using NaOH solution. MIC/GC could detect triclosan till 40 ppb while using MIC/cf-MWCNT/GC, 10 ppb of limit of detection (LOD) was achieved. Adsorption isotherms were constructed for both the films. Langmuir adsorption isotherm gave the best fit for MIC/cf-MWCNT/GC with -ΔGads value of 54.952 kJ mol−1 indicating stronger chemisorption. To understand the role of cf-MWCNT in detection of triclosan, electrochemical band gap studies, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, and cyclic voltammetry studies were conducted. Both the sensors were found to be efficient for detection of triclosan in the presence of interfering ions.
DFT Calculations on Defect Induced and Doped ASiNR for Sensing the COPD Breath Biomarker
Authors: Ramasamy Akash , A. Sakthi Balaji , Rajalakshmi Mohan Raj Hariharan , Thiruvadigal D. John
Published: April 2024

COPD is a respiratory disease with a high mortality rate worldwide. The major cause of death in COPD patients is due to late diagnosis. Early detection of COPD is crucial for significantly reducing the risk of death but is challenging to attain. A distinguished way to early diagnosis is by using the nanosensor for sensing the COPD breath biomarkers. For the first time, we report an armchair silicene nanoribbon (ASiNR) as a promising sensing material for the diagnosis of hexanal a COPD breath biomarker. In this present study, the density functional theory (DFT) with Grimme D2 corrected approach was incorporated to observe the ground state electronic properties and adsorption mechanism of hexanal on the pristine, defect induced (D) and B, C, and N-doped ASiNR systems. N-ASiNR systems show the highest adsorption energy value among previously reported works due to the presence of strong covalent interaction, and it does not show recovery at room temperature. The B-ASiNR system with higher charge transfer exhibits large work function change with the fastest recovery at room temperature in 1.81 s. Our results confirms B-doped ASiNR system acts as an efficient reusable work function-based sensor for the early diagnosis of COPD at room temperature.
Molecular Screening and Characterization of Canine Coronavirus Types I and II Strains from Domestic Dogs in Southern Italy, 2019–2021
Authors: Mira Francesco , Schirò Giorgia , Lanave Gianvito , Chiaramonte Gabriele , Canuti Marta , Giudice Elisabetta , Capozza Paolo , Randazzo Vincenzo , Antoci Francesco , Raele Donato Antonio , Vicari Domenico , Guercio Annalisa , Decaro Nicola , Purpari Giuseppa
Published: April 2024

Canine coronavirus (CCoV) is a common agent of gastroenteritis in dogs, although some variants have been found associated with systemic and often fatal diseases. Distinct genotypes (CCoV‐I and CCoV‐II) and subgenotypes (CCoV‐IIa and CCoV‐IIb) are worldwide distributed. In Italy, CCoV infections have been occasionally evaluated, but information about the molecular epidemiology and the genomic features of currently circulating strains is limited. This study reports the detection and molecular characterization of CCoV strains from samples collected from 284 dogs in Italy between 2019 and 2021. CCoV RNA was detected in 39 (13.7%) dogs, as a single viral agent (5 animals, 12.8%) or with other viral pathogens (canine parvovirus types 2a/2b/2c; canine adenovirus type 1; norovirus GIV.2) (34 animals, 87.2%). A total of 48 CCoV strains were detected either alone (CCoV‐I: 51.3%, CCoV‐IIa: 20.5%) or in copresence (CCoV‐I and CCoV‐IIa, 23.1%); surprisingly, CCoV‐IIb was not identified in this study. Five clusters of CCoV‐I were detected, and their spike gene sequences showed the highest nucleotide identities with CCoV‐I strains collected from Greece in 2008/2009 and from China in 2021. CCoV‐IIa spike gene sequences (three variants) had the highest nucleotide identities with CCoV‐IIa strains collected in Greece in 2008/2009 and in Italy in 2009/2011. Given the high CCoV diversity and the variable pathogenicity potential, we underline the need of further surveillance studies to increase our understanding of the epidemiology and evolution of these viruses.
Physicomechanical and Thermal Properties of Particle Board Produced Using Waste Ceramic Materials and Corncob
Authors: Aladegboye O. J. , Oyedepo O. J. , Awolola T. J. , Oguntayo O. D. , Babatunde O. Y. , Ilesanmi O. T. , Ikubanni P. P.
Published: April 2024

Waste management and recycling have led to numerous studies on particleboard production. This study attempted to use milled corncob (MCC) and waste ceramic tiles (WCTs) to produce particleboard. The MCC (100−70 wt.%) and WCT (0–30 wt.%) were mixed at different ratios, mixed and compressed at a pressure of 0.25 MPa using urea formaldehyde (UF) resin as adhesive. The physicomechanical and thermal properties of the particleboards produced were investigated. The physical properties (bulk density, water absorption, and thickness swelling) improved with composite particleboard compared to the 100% MCC particleboard. The increase in WCT yielded improved density and lowered the particleboard’s water absorption and thickness swelling. The mechanical tests showed that MOE values were below the recommended standard, which makes them unsuitable for structural use. However, MOR revealed values above the recommended standard. The thermal conductivity of the particleboards was reduced with increased WCT, and the required standard was found to be met. Hence, the particleboards produced are found helpful as thermal wall insulators. Based on the experiments done, sample R7 (70% MCC and 30% WCT) was considered the most preferable since it achieved the most preferable physicomechanical and thermal conductivity performance. The particleboards produced are recommended for wall partitioning and other internal and external purposes.
Supplementary Data from Antibody-Peptide Epitope Conjugates for Personalized Cancer Therapy
Authors: Zhang Songfa , Yan Chuan , Millar David G. , Yang Qiqi , Heather James M. , Langenbucher Adam , Morton Laura T. , Sepulveda Sean , Alpert Eric , Whelton Lauren R. , Zarrella Dominique T. , Guo Mei , Minogue Eleanor , Lawrence Michael S. , Rueda Bo R. , Spriggs David R. , Lu Weiguo , Langenau David M. , Cobbold Mark
Published: April 2024

Supplementary Data consisting of table 1-4 and supplementary figure 1-4
Understanding smart village concepts: digital literacy and mobile technology
Authors: Dirgatama Chairul Huda Atma , Permansah Sigit , Rusmana Dede
Published: April 2024

This research investigates how a mobile-based archive application and digital literacy impact pre-service administrators' understanding of the smart village concept in rural governance. It uses a quantitative approach with a questionnaire given to 100 pre-service administrators to evaluate their attitudes towards these factors. Validity and reliability tests were conducted as part of the data analysis, and the data were assessed for normality assumption. The data were then analyzed using a multiple linear regression model. The coefficient of determination, which is 99.3%, suggests that nearly all variables related to the smart village concept can be explained through the archive application and digital literacy variables. Furthermore, the mobile-based archive application and digital literacy have a positive and significant impact on understanding the smart village concept, both simultaneously (0.0000.05) and partially (0.0000.05). We found a negative t value (-5.739) for the understanding of the smart village concept, which can be improved through the mobile-based archive application (9.299) and digital literacy (6.538) variables. The implications from these findings indicate that pre-service administrators in rural governance recognize the need for improvement in their understanding of the smart village concept.
Differentiation instruction publications in physical education: bibliometric analysis of the last ten years
Authors: Blegur Jusuf , Hardiansyah Sefri
Published: April 2024

Research and publications on differentiation instruction in various subjectshave developed rapidly in the world. Unfortunately, this trend is not directlyproportional to the subject of physical education, even though differentiation instruction is the latest learning trend that is based on student learning needs. This research aims to analyze the metrics and visualization of differentiation instruction publications over the last ten years (2013-2023) using the literature review method. Google Scholar inspection using the Publish or Perish application only found nine articles (out of 16 articles) that met the VOSviewer visualization analysis criteria. As a result, the highest publication metrics were only three articles in 2014 and 53 citations as the highest top citations in 2019 for two articles. Network term differentiation is limited to three terms: analysis, lesson, and education. The VOSviewer visualization confirms that differentiation instruction has great potential to be developed in physical education to contribute to fulfilling students' learning experiences by their learning potential preferences. Future research can consider aspects of differentiation instruction that are not limited to teachers evaluating student learning outcomes based on differentiation instruction, and using differentiation instruction to improve various skills that help students survive in real life.
Psychometric properties of learning environment diagnostics instrument
Authors: Setiawan Risky , Hadi Samsul , Aman Aman
Published: April 2024

The rise and growing prevalence of juvenile delinquency is a matter of concern for many parties. The objective of this study is to establish a research instrument in the form of a questionnaire that can be deployed to assess the learning environment perceived by high school students. This research endeavor constitutes a developmental study, wherein the outcomes are a single survey instrument encompassing six variables, nineteen indicators, and forty questions. The data-collecting process involved the utilization of a Google Form across five schools situated in five districts, encompassing a total of 1615 participants. The analysis of data provided by experts was conducted utilizing V. Aiken and field trials employing CFA Second Order. The findings of this study indicate that the diagnostic survey instrument used to assess the learning environment's impact on the mental health of high school students demonstrated validity, as evidenced by loading factor values exceeding the established minimal threshold. The reliability of the instrument remains insufficient. This survey can be utilized to detect adolescent persistent tendencies carried out by students or other school members that interfere with mental health.The emergence and significantly raising of juvenile delinquency.
Student engagement and academic achievement: the effect of gamification on case and project-based online learning
Authors: Suartama I Kadek , Sudarma I Komang , Sudatha I Gde Wawan , Sukmana Adrianus I Wayan Ilia Yuda , Susiani Ketut
Published: April 2024

Education is a pivotal pillar in modern society, and technology has brought about major changes in how students learn. Online learning is becoming an increasingly popular form of education, especially since the COVID-19 pandemic broke out. However, the challenge of maintaining student engagement and motivation in online learning environments remains a concern for many educators. This is where the concept of gamification erupts as an innovative solution to this problem. This study aimed to examine the effect of case- and project-based gamification models on student engagement and academic achievement in online learning in tertiary institutions. Quasi-experimental post-test only non-equivalent control group design was chosen as the method of this research. The subjects of this study were 117 students from Universitas Pendidikan Ganesha. The instrument used to measure student engagement was a questionnaire developed by researchers with reference to the online student engagement (OSE) indicator; meanwhile, an objective test was to assess student academic achievement. The data were analyzed using a one-way multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA) technique. The study results show significant differences in student engagement and academic achievement between groups of students taught using case and project-based gamification models and direct e-learning models. Case and project-based gamification models used in online learning were effective in increasing student engagement and student academic achievement.
Improving learning quality through the implementation of electronic teaching materials
Authors: Firdaus Hendi , Syafrizal Syafrizal , Nulhakim Lukman
Published: April 2024

Education in automotive vocational high schools faces challenges in improving the quality of learning. This article discusses efforts to improve the quality of learning in automotive vocational schools through the implementation of electronic teaching materials. The implementation of technology in learning is an important solution in today's digital era. This article describes the advantages of using electronic teaching materials, such as flexibility, accessibility, and ease of content updates. This research involves collaboration between teachers, students, and technology experts to create relevant and interesting teaching materials. In addition, electronic teaching materials allow for more personalized learning adaptations, assist students with special needs, and facilitate distance learning. The results show that the implementation of electronic teaching materials in automotive vocational schools has a positive impact on learning, increasing students' motivation, expanding their knowledge, preparing students to enter the industrial world, and improving practical skills in the automotive field. Teachers also reported increased efficiency in the teaching process. The level of practicality of using electronic teaching materials reached 86.5%, with responses indicating that electronic teaching materials are very helpful in the learning.
Enhancing mathematical reasoning: role of the search, solve, create, and share learning
Authors: Putra Fredi Ganda , Saregar Antomi , Diani Rahma , Misbah Misbah , Widyawati Santi , Imama Khoirunnisa
Published: April 2024

The capacity for mathematical reasoning, pivotal in grasping core math concepts, directly shapes a student's success in their mathematical studies. This study aimed to detail and analyze how the search, solve, create, and share (SSCS) instructional framework impacts mathematical reasoning skills within the context of linear equations. We adopted a quasi-experimental research approach using a non-matching control group design. To gather data on mathematical reasoning proficiency, a validated and reliable essay-type test was employed. Data collection on mathematical reasoning abilities used an essay test instrument that has been valid and is reliable. This research involved 102 eighth grade students whereby they were selected by using a purposive sampling. o measure and describe the effect size, we utilized a specific method, yielding a result of 0.97. The t-test was employed to assess the influence of the SSCS learning model, and the significance value obtained was less than 0.05. The effect size, as determined, stands at 0.97, suggesting a substantial impact. The t-test results underscore a significant relationship between the SSCS learning model and the enhancement of mathematical reasoning abilities. This research delineates a framework for employing the SSCS model to enhance students' mathematical reasoning capabilities. It is evident that such reasoning abilities play a pivotal.
Developing future primary school teachers' communication through pedagogy of partnership
Authors: Franchuk Nataliia , Karuk Inna , Imber Viktoriia , Komarivska Nadiia , Kazmirchuk Natalia , Koval Tetiana
Published: April 2024

The study of the role of the pedagogy of partnership (PoP) in building the professional competence of future primary school teachers is relevant in the context of modern educational and pedagogical transformations, which require the preparation of teachers for new challenges and creating a favourable learning environment. Therefore, the aim of our study was to check the effect of observing the pedagogical partnership principles in the educational process on the development of the communicative competence of future primary school teachers. The study employed the following psychodiagnostic methods: the Thomas-Kilmann conflict mode instrument (TKI), Myers-Briggs type indicator (MBTI), Snyder’s self-control in communication. The implementation of the PoP programme in higher education institutions (HEIs) has a positive effect on the development of the communicative competence of future teachers, in particular, on developing the ability for self-control and increasing the scope of psychological knowledge. The study revealed some important correlations. Our results indicate that cooperation and the ability to make compromises are directly related to the communicative abilities of future teachers. Further research can be focused on studying the impact of pedagogical partnership on other aspects of future teacher training, such as methodical mastery, motivation for learning and development.
Anatomia visceral de Amphisbaena Mertensistrauch, 1881 (Reptilia, Amphisbaenia, Amphisbaenidae)
Authors: Navega-Gonçalves Maria Eliana C. , Souza Ana Maria de
Published: April 2024

.
A igreja no Brasil colonial: agentes da inquisição
Authors: Novinsky Anita
Published: April 2024

The Inquisition acted in Colonial Brazil through a body of agents known as “Commissioners” and “Familiars” of the Holly Office. Their function was to find the heretics and watch carefully the attitudes, actions, expressions of the brazilian population. This body of agents had the right to arrest suspects and confiscate their goods when they find it necessary. The interest in becoming “Familiar” was enormeous, due to the elevated status, highest prestige and increased priviligies which this tittle bestowed. To achieve such a title the candidate had to above all prove that he was of “pure of blood”, that he had not jewish, black, mulato or moor predecessors whatever. Corruption was common and the tittle of “Familiar” was often used without approval of the Holly Office of the Inquisition, merely to satisfy personnal interest. In this article we list the names of candidates, portuguese and brazilian born, who wished to become agents of the Holly Office but who were refused for various reasons, principaly due to jewish (or new christian) origin.
O Mediterrâneo de Braudel
Authors: Arruda José Jobson de Andrade
Published: April 2024

This paper deals with Fernand Braudel's classical book, O Mediterrâneo na Época de Filipe II. It retrieves the historical context in which it was written and reframes its main methodological proposal based on the notion of short-, médium-, and long-term duration: the dialectics of duration as opposed to the dialectis of social relations.
Método Pilates e equilíbrio postural em crianças praticantes de futebol de campo
Authors: Merlo Jeanne Karlette , Oliveira Glênio de , Antunes Fabiana Dias , Oliveira Junior Eros de
Published: April 2024

Changes in the postural balance have their origin in the period of growth and development, that is, during childhood. For that reason, the aim of this study was to assess the application of Pilates exercises to improve postural balance in children who play field soccer. The sample consisted of 15 children practitioners of field soccer. Our study is characterized as transversal, composed of pre-test and post-test with the strength platform and an intervention treatment such as the Pilates method, totalizing 20 sessions. The balance tests included: 1) Bipedal support test; 2) Test in single-leg support with dominant lower limb and 3) Test in single-leg support with non-dominant lower limb. The following balance parameters were analyzed, based on the center of pressure (COP): COP ellipse area, average speed of COP swings and average frequency of the COP swings, in the directions of anteroposterior and lateral medial movement. In the test in bipedal and unipodal support there was no significant difference before and after the application of the Pilates method (p>0,05) for the balance parameters studied. Based on the results in children who practice field soccer, the application of the Pilates methos did not seem to influence the postural balance in most balance parameters studied.
As espécies Neotrópicas do gênero Diogmites (Diptera, Asilidae)
Authors: Carreira Messias
Published: April 2024

Dispondo de material suficientemente representativo do genêro Diogmites Loew, 1866, resolvemos tentar uma revisão de suas espécies, não só para verificar suas relações filogenéticas, como também para proporcionar facilidades ao reconhecimento das mesmas, dentre a multiforme fauna asilidologica neotropical. Este trabalho tornou-se viável graças ao material que nos foi cedido ou emprestado por varias pessoas e instituigoes. A elas, portanto, rendemos o tribute de nossa gratidão e os nossos maiores agradeci[1]mentos, especialmente aos Senhores H. Oldroyd do Museu Britanico, C. L. Fluke da Universidade de Wisconsin, Stanley W. Bromley do Bartlett Tree Research Laboratories, Connecticut, Martin L. Aczel do Instituto Miguel Lillo, Tucuman, Juan M. Bosq do Institute da Sanidad Vegetal, Argentina, Rvmo. Pde. Jose Maria Arnau, Hector C. HeppeR, Argentina, e Dalcy de Albuquerque do Museu Nacional do Rio de Janeiro. Pelos retoques feitos aos desenhos que ilustram este trabalho estendemos nossos agradecimentos a colega Senhora Maria A. V. d'ANDRETA.
Observações sobre Catorama herbarium Gorh. (Besouro Bibliófago) e respectiva simbiose
Authors: Sawaya Michel Pedro
Published: April 2024

Com a excelente publicação de Diogo de Faria (1919) sobre "Os inimigos dos nossos livros houve esclarecimento quanto possível completo a respeito da maior praga das bibliotecas de S. Paulo e, talvez, também do Brasil. Foi, ao que nos consta, o primeiro trabalho sobre os besouros destruidores de livros aparecido em S. Paulo, com resumo de todas as observações ate então publicadas em jornais e revistas do Rio de Janeiro e alguns centros importantes fora do país. A contribuição de Diogo de Faria mereceu e continua a merece encômios, pois deu feijão verdadeiramente cientifica ao combate a praga dos livros, de vez que começou por descrever pormenores interessantes da biologia dos Anobios. A atenção do autor voltou-se, entretanto, mais para a maneira de extermínio da praga, chegando mesmo a inventar uma aparelhagem mais ou menos complicada para tal fim. Mais recentemente, Monsenhor Nabuco (1943) publicou também interessante trabalho sobre os bibliófagos, adicionando valiosas observações pessoais, principalmente quanto aos me[1]todos preventivas para a debelação das pragas, inclusive as tragas, os cupins e as baratas.
Relatório das Atividades do Departamento de Zoologia em 1956
Authors: Editores Os
Published: April 2024

O Museu Zoologico é exemplo vivo da abnegação dos funcionários do C.D.Z. Antiquado, sem recursos para se desenvolver e modernizar,passando a exercer efetivamente a missão que lhe cabe, ou seja, o ensino em todos os niveis, desde o popular até o superior, exibe uma pobreza limpa, sempre a espera de melhores dias. A solução desse caso depende do futuro do prédio e do futuro da Fundação Ibirapuera, (jue projeta um centro museologico, onde poderia se integrar.
Revisão das espécies brasileiras do gênero Cosmisoma Serville, 1834
Authors: Zayciw Dmytro
Published: April 2024

Revisão das espécies brasileiras do gênero Cosmisoma
GLI1+ Cells Contribute to Vascular Remodeling in Pulmonary Hypertension
Authors: Chu Xuran , Kheirollahi Vahid , Lingampally Arun , Chelladurai Prakash , Valasarajan Chanil , Vazquez-Armendariz Ana Ivonne , Hadzic Stefan , Khadim Ali , Pak Oleg , Rivetti Stefano , Wilhelm Jochen , Bartkuhn Marek , Crnkovic Slaven , Moiseenko Alena , Heiner Monika , Kraut Simone , Atefi Leila Sotoodeh , Koepke Janine , Valente Guilherme , Ruppert Clemens , Braun Thomas , Samakovlis Christos , Alexopoulos Ioannis , Looso Mario , Chao Cho-Ming , Herold Susanne , Seeger Werner , Kwapiszewska Grazyna , Huang Xiaoying , Zhang Jin-San , Pullamsetti Soni Savai , Weissmann Norbert , Li Xiaokun , El Agha Elie , Bellusci Saverio
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND:

The precise origin of newly formed ACTA2+ (alpha smooth muscle actin-positive) cells appearing in nonmuscularized vessels in the context of pulmonary hypertension is still debatable although it is believed that they predominantly derive from preexisting vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs).

METHODS:

Gli1

Cre-ERT2

; tdTomato

flox

mice were used to lineage trace GLI1+ (glioma-associated oncogene homolog 1-positive) cells in the context of pulmonary hypertension using 2 independent models of vascular remodeling and reverse remodeling: hypoxia and cigarette smoke exposure. Hemodynamic measurements, right ventricular hypertrophy assessment, flow cytometry, and histological analysis of thick lung sections followed by state-of-the-art 3-dimensional reconstruction and quantification using Imaris software were used to investigate the contribution of GLI1+ cells to neomuscularization of the pulmonary vasculature.

RESULTS:

The data show that GLI1+ cells are abundant around distal, nonmuscularized vessels during steady state, and this lineage contributes to around 50% of newly formed ACTA2+ cells around these normally nonmuscularized vessels. During reverse remodeling, cells derived from the GLI1+ lineage are largely cleared in parallel to the reversal of muscularization. Partial ablation of GLI1+ cells greatly prevented vascular remodeling in response to hypoxia and attenuated the increase in right ventricular systolic pressure and right heart hypertrophy. Single-cell RNA sequencing on sorted lineage-labeled GLI1+ cells revealed an
Acta2

high

fraction of cells with pathways in cancer and MAPK (mitogen-activated protein kinase) signaling as potential players in reprogramming these cells during vascular remodeling. Analysis of human lung-derived material suggests that GLI1 signaling is overactivated in both group 1 and group 3 pulmonary hypertension and can promote proliferation and myogenic differentiation.

CONCLUSIONS:

Our data highlight GLI1+ cells as an alternative cellular source of VSMCs in pulmonary hypertension and suggest that these cells and the associated signaling pathways represent an important therapeutic target for further studies.
Trends of Antihypertensive Prescription Among US Adults From 2010 to 2019 and Changes Following Treatment Guidelines: Analysis of Multicenter Electronic Health Records
Authors: Lin Pi‐I Debby , Rifas‐Shiman Sheryl , Merriman John , Petimar Joshua , Yu Han , Daley Matthew F. , Janicke David M. , Heerman William J. , Bailey L. Charles , Maeztu Carlos , Young Jessica , Block Jason P.
Published: April 2024

Background

Guidelines for the use of antihypertensives changed in 2014 and 2017. To understand the effect of these guidelines, we examined trends in antihypertensive prescriptions in the United States from 2010 to 2019 using a repeated cross‐sectional design.

Methods and Results

Using electronic health records from 15 health care institutions for adults (20–85 years old) who had ≥1 antihypertensive prescription, we assessed whether (1) prescriptions of beta blockers decreased after the 2014 Eighth Joint National Committee (JNC 8) report discouraged use for first‐line treatment, (2) prescriptions for calcium channel blockers and thiazide diuretics increased among Black patients after the JNC 8 report encouraged use as first‐line therapy, and (3) prescriptions for dual therapy and fixed‐dose combination among patients with blood pressure ≥140/90 mm Hg increased after recommendations in the 2017 Hypertension Clinical Practice Guidelines. The study included 1 074 314 patients with 2 133 158 prescription episodes. After publication of the JNC 8 report, prescriptions for beta blockers decreased (3% lower in 2018–2019 compared to 2010–2014), and calcium channel blockers increased among Black patients (20% higher in 2015–2017 and 41% higher in 2018–2019, compared to 2010–2014), in accordance with guideline recommendations. However, contrary to guidelines, dual therapy and fixed‐dose combination decreased after publication of the 2017 Hypertension Clinical Practice Guidelines (9% and 11% decrease in 2018–2019 for dual therapy and fixed‐dose combination, respectively, compared to 2015–2017), and thiazide diuretics decreased among Black patients after the JNC 8 report (6% lower in 2018–2019 compared to 2010–2014).

Conclusions

Adherence to guidelines on prescribing antihypertensive medication was inconsistent, presenting an opportunity for interventions to achieve better blood pressure control in the US population.
Identification of

Prostaglandin I
2
Synthase

Rare Variants in Patients With Williams Syndrome and Severe Peripheral Pulmonary Stenosis
Authors: Chida‐Nagai Ayako , Akagawa Hiroyuki , Sawai Saori , Ma Yue‐Jiao , Yakuwa Satoshi , Muneuchi Jun , Yasuda Kazushi , Yamazawa Hirokuni , Yamamoto Toshiyuki , Takakuwa Emi , Tomaru Utano , Furutani Yoshiyuki , Kato Tatsuya , Harada Gen , Inai Kei , Nakanishi Toshio , Manabe Atsushi , Takeda Atsuhito , Jing Zhi‐Cheng
Published: April 2024

Background

Peripheral pulmonary stenosis (PPS) is a condition characterized by the narrowing of the pulmonary arteries, which impairs blood flow to the lung. The mechanisms underlying PPS pathogenesis remain unclear. Thus, the aim of this study was to investigate the genetic background of patients with severe PPS to elucidate the pathogenesis of this condition.

Methods and Results

We performed genetic testing and functional analyses on a pediatric patient with PPS and Williams syndrome (WS), followed by genetic testing on 12 patients with WS and mild‐to‐severe PPS, 50 patients with WS but not PPS, and 21 patients with severe PPS but not WS. Whole‐exome sequencing identified a rare
PTGIS
nonsense variant (p.E314X) in a patient with WS and severe PPS. Prostaglandin I
2
synthase (PTGIS) expression was significantly downregulated and cell proliferation and migration rates were significantly increased in cells transfected with the
PTGIS
p.E314X variant‐encoding construct when compared with that in cells transfected with the wild‐type
PTGIS
‐encoding construct. p.E314X reduced the tube formation ability in human pulmonary artery endothelial cells and caspase 3/7 activity in both human pulmonary artery endothelial cells and human pulmonary artery smooth muscle cells. Compared with healthy controls, patients with PPS exhibited downregulated pulmonary artery endothelial prostaglandin I
2
synthase levels and urinary prostaglandin I metabolite levels. We identified another
PTGIS
rare splice‐site variant (c.1358+2T>C) in another pediatric patient with WS and severe PPS.

Conclusions

In total, 2 rare nonsense/splice‐site
PTGIS
variants were identified in 2 pediatric patients with WS and severe PPS.
PTGIS
variants may be involved in PPS pathogenesis, and PTGIS represents an effective therapeutic target.
Design, Rationale and Initial Findings From HERA‐FIB on 10 222 Patients With Atrial Fibrillation Presenting to an Emergency Department Over An 11‐Year Period
Authors: Salbach Christian , Yildirim Mustafa , Hund Hauke , Biener Moritz , Müller‐Hennessen Matthias , Frey Norbert , Katus Hugo A. , Giannitsis Evangelos , Milles Barbara Ruth
Published: April 2024

Background

For the majority of patients with atrial fibrillation (AF), disease management has improved in recent years. However, there are still populations underrepresented or excluded in current registries and randomized controlled trials. HERA‐FIB (Heidelberg Registry of Atrial Fibrillation) was planned to assess real‐world evidence for the prevalence, demographic characteristics and management of patients with the diagnosis of AF presenting consecutively to a chest pain unit.

Methods and Results

HERA‐FIB is a retrospective, observational, single‐center study on patients with a diagnosis of AF presenting to a chest pain unit from June 2009 until March 2020. This article describes the structure, governance, outcome assessment, quality and data collection processes of the registry. Additionally, characteristics of populations of special interest are described. The study consecutively enrolled 10 222 patients presenting with AF to the chest pain unit of the University Hospital of Heidelberg. Clinical parameters and patient characteristics were assessed retrospectively. Outcome parameters included rates for all‐cause death, stroke, myocardial infarction and major bleedings. We were able to investigate patient cohorts of special interest such as advanced chronic kidney disease, octogenarians, and those with acute coronary syndrome who are often underrepresented in current studies and randomized controlled trials.

Conclusions

HERA‐FIB is one of the largest real‐world single‐center retrospective registries on patients with AF, which captures the era of transition from vitamin K antagonists to non–vitamin K oral anticoagulation regimens in clinical practice and offers the possibility to investigate patient populations usually underrepresented or excluded in current available randomized controlled trials and registries.

Registration

URL:
https://www.clinicaltrials.gov
; unique identifier: NCT05995561.
Plasma Metabolome Predicts Aortic Stiffness and Future Risk of Coronary Artery Disease and Mortality After 23 Years of Follow‐Up in the General Population
Authors: Ottosson Filip , Engström Gunnar , Orho‐Melander Marju , Melander Olle , Nilsson Peter M. , Johansson Madeleine
Published: April 2024

Background

Increased aortic stiffness (arteriosclerosis) is associated with early vascular aging independent of age and sex. The underlying mechanisms of early vascular aging remain largely unexplored in the general population. We aimed to investigate the plasma metabolomic profile in aortic stiffness (vascular aging) and associated risk of incident cardiovascular disease and mortality.

Methods and Results

We included 6865 individuals from 2 Swedish population‐based cohorts. Untargeted plasma metabolomics was performed by liquid‐chromatography mass spectrometry. Aortic stiffness was assessed directly by carotid‐femoral pulse wave velocity (PWV) and indirectly by augmentation index (AIx@75). A least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regression model was created on plasma metabolites in order to predict aortic stiffness. Associations between metabolite‐predicted aortic stiffness and risk of new‐onset cardiovascular disease, cardiovascular mortality, and all‐cause mortality were calculated. Metabolite‐predicted aortic stiffness (PWV and AIx@75) was positively associated particularly with acylcarnitines, dimethylguanidino valeric acid, glutamate, and cystine. The plasma metabolome predicted aortic stiffness (PWV and AIx@75) with good accuracy (R
2
=0.27 and R
2
=0.39, respectively). Metabolite‐predicted aortic stiffness (PWV and AIx@75) was significantly correlated with age, sex, systolic blood pressure, body mass index, and low‐density lipoprotein. After 23 years of follow‐up, metabolite‐predicted aortic stiffness (PWV and AIx@75) was significantly associated with increased risk of new‐onset coronary artery disease, cardiovascular mortality, and all‐cause mortality.

Conclusions

Aortic stiffness is associated particularly with altered metabolism of acylcarnitines, cystine, and dimethylguanidino valeric acid. These metabolic disturbances predict increased risk of new‐onset coronary artery disease, cardiovascular mortality, and all‐cause mortality after more than 23 years of follow‐up in the general population.
DANSPOT: A Multicenter Stepped‐Wedge Cluster‐Randomized Trial of the Reclassification of Acute Myocardial Infarction: Rationale and Study Design
Authors: Strandkjær Nina , Jørgensen Nicoline , Hasselbalch Rasmus Bo , Kristensen Jonas , Knudsen Marie Sophie Sander , Kock Thilde Olivia , Lange Theis , Lindholm Matias Greve , Bruun Niels Eske , Holmvang Lene , Terkelsen Christian Juhl , Pedersen Claus Kjær , Christensen Martin Kirk , Lassen Jens Flensted , Hilsted Linda , Ladefoged Søren , Nybo Mads , Bor Mustafa Vakur , Dahl Morten , Hansen Annebirthe Bo , Kamstrup Pia Rørbæk , Bundgaard Henning , Torp‐Pedersen Christian , Iversen Kasper Karmark
Published: April 2024

Background

Cardiac troponins are the preferred biomarkers for the diagnosis of acute myocardial infarction. Although sex‐specific 99th percentile thresholds of troponins are recommended in international guidelines, the clinical effect of their use is poorly investigated. The DANSPOT Study (The Danish Study of Sex‐ and Population‐Specific 99th percentile upper reference limits of Troponin) aims to evaluate the clinical effect of a prospective implementation of population‐ and sex‐specific diagnostic thresholds of troponins into clinical practice.

Methods

This study is a nationwide, multicenter, stepped‐wedge cluster‐randomized trial of the implementation of population‐ and sex‐specific thresholds of troponins in 22 of 23 clinical centers in Denmark. We established sex‐specific thresholds for 5 different troponin assays based on troponin levels in a healthy Danish reference population. Centers will sequentially cross over from current uniform manufacturer‐derived thresholds to the new population‐ and sex‐specific thresholds. The primary cohort is defined as patients with symptoms suggestive of acute coronary syndrome having at least 1 troponin measurement performed within 24 hours of arrival with a peak troponin value between the current uniform threshold and the new sex‐specific female and male thresholds. The study will compare the occurrence of the primary outcome, defined as a composite of nonfatal myocardial infarction, unplanned revascularization, and all‐cause mortality within 1 year, separately for men and women before and after the implementation of the new sex‐specific thresholds.

Conclusions

The DANSPOT Study is expected to show the clinical effects on diagnostics, treatment, and clinical outcomes in patients with myocardial infarction of implementing sex‐specific diagnostic thresholds for troponin based on a national Danish reference population.

Registration

URL:
https://www.clinicaltrials.gov
; Unique identifier: NCT05336435.
Aortic Stenosis and Renal Function: A Bidirectional Mendelian Randomization Analysis
Authors: Ciofani Jonathan L. , Han Daniel , Allahwala Usaid K. , Bhindi Ravinay
Published: April 2024

Background

Large observational studies have demonstrated a clear inverse association between renal function and risk of aortic stenosis (AS). Whether this represents a causal, reverse causal or correlative relationship remains unclear. We investigated this using a bidirectional 2‐sample Mendelian randomization approach.

Methods and Results

We collected summary statistics for the primary analysis of chronic kidney disease (CKD) and AS from genome‐wide association study meta‐analyses including 480 698 and 653 867 participants, respectively. We collected further genome‐wide association study summary statistics from up to 1 004 040 participants for sensitivity analyses involving estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) derived from creatinine, eGFR derived from cystatin C, and serum urea nitrogen. Inverse‐variance weighted was the primary analysis method, with weighted‐median, weighted‐mode, Mendelian randomization‐Egger, and Mendelian randomization‐Pleiotropy Residual Sum and Outlier as sensitivity analyses. We did not find evidence of a causal relationship between genetically predicted CKD liability as the exposure and AS as the outcome (odds ratio [OR], 0.94 per unit increase in log odds of genetic liability to CKD [95% CI, 0.85–1.04],
P
=0.26) nor robust evidence of AS liability as the exposure and CKD as the outcome (OR, 1.04 per unit increase in log odds of genetic liability to AS [95% CI, 0.97–1.12],
P
=0.30). The sensitivity analyses were neutral overall, as were the analyses using eGFR derived from creatinine, eGFR derived from cystatin C, and serum urea nitrogen. All positive controls demonstrated strong significant associations.

Conclusions

The present study did not find evidence of a substantial effect of genetically predicted renal impairment on risk of AS. This has important implications for research efforts that attempt to identify prevention and treatment targets for both CKD and AS.
A Global Pela
Authors: Mudzakkir Amin , Mulyasari Prima Nurahmi , Ferza Ray
Published: April 2024

This research delves into the activities of the SSVA, a Moluccan diaspora organisation based in Vlissingen, the Netherlands, explicitly focusing on its pivotal role in establishing a sister-city relationship with the ancestral homeland, Ambon. Moving beyond a conventional development initiative, we posit that the Vlissingen-Ambon sister-city programme is rooted in a Moluccan traditional bond known as pela, which extends its influence globally, leading us to coin the term ‘global pela’. Employing a qualitative approach, we conducted in-depth interviews in May 2022 with key stakeholders and comprehensively analysed primary documents. Our findings revealed that the Moluccan diaspora community in Vlissingen has effectively addressed the psychological trauma experienced upon their initial migration to the Netherlands. Moreover, they have developed a unique diasporic community that transcends traditional notions of nationalism and formal citizenship. This research highlights the lasting importance of cultural bonds in fostering transnational relationships and healing historical wounds.
“A Trade Like Any Other”? Social and Moral Taint in Animal Dirty Work
Authors: Jarzębowska Gabriela
Published: April 2024

This article analyzes the discursive practices related to the professional identity of rat exterminators. I build on the framework of “dirty work” to demonstrate that social and moral taint are central elements in the narrativization of these identities. The study reveals that this identity is constructed on two levels: social, which designates identity built in opposition to the perceived negative social reception, and individual, the “internal” work of facing the ethical challenges associated with the profession, especially with killing animals. These two levels of identity work have a common core, which is a belief in the social utility of extermination work. Based on interviews, I identify four strategies used to rationalize eradication of rodents.
Discerning Providence in the Indies: Calvinist Constructions of Cultural and Physical Landscapes, 1600–1800
Authors: Parker Charles
Published: April 2024

Reformed Protestants in the Netherlands looked for the hand of God at work in the lives of people and in the world around them. As Calvinist ministers in the employ of the VOC embarked on overseas missions in the seventeenth century, they gained unprecedented opportunities for discerning divine providence in action. On the mission field in the East Indies, Formosa, and later in Ceylon, South Asia, and the Cape of Good Hope, ministers reflected anew on how to read the workings of God in humanity and in nature. This study seeks to illustrate the epistemological problems that gripped Calvinists in overseas missionary settings. Careful reading of Dutch Calvinist sources reveals the ways in which ministers overseas and in the Netherlands employed the body and the landscape to construct narratives of conversion and reprobation. These narratives masked complex religious interactions that informed and intersected Calvinist expectations of non-Christian peoples and cultures.
A Deweyan Defense of Truth and Fallibilism
Authors: Ryan Frank X.
Published: April 2024

Scott Aiken and Thomas Dabay contend that a satisfactory account of truth is both infallibilist and antiskeptical. Externalist correspondence theories, they say, preserve the infallibility of the truth-relation yet invite skeptical qualms. In tying truth to experience, pragmatist theories resist skeptical challenges, but embrace a fallibilism that renders their account of truth inconsistent and even incoherent. While agreeing with Aiken and Dabay that externalist accounts are vulnerable to skepticism, I dispute each of the four arguments they offer against pragmatist fallibilism. Though partially successful against Peirce’s more popular view that truth is the final belief of a community of inquirers, their arguments are wholly ineffective against Dewey’s account of truth as warranted assertability.