bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Data from Diminished Origin-Licensing Capacity Specifically Sensitizes Tumor Cells to Replication Stress
Authors: Zimmerman Kristin M. , Jones Rebecca M. , Petermann Eva , Jeggo Penelope A.
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Previous studies have shown that dormant licensed replication origins can be exploited to enhance recovery from replication stress. Since tumor cells express high levels of origin-licensing proteins, we examined whether depletion of such factors might specifically sensitize tumor versus nontumor cells. Consistent with previous findings, we observed that three tumor-derived cell lines overexpress ORC1, a licensing component, compared with four nontumor cell lines and that a greater level of ORC1 was required to maintain viability in the tumor cells. We determined siRNA-mediated knockdown conditions for each line that maximally reduced ORC1 but did not impact upon viability, which we considered would optimally deplete dormant origins. ORC1 depletion hypersensitized the tumor-derived cells to hydroxyurea and H202 but did not affect the sensitivity of the nontumor lines. Similar results were observed following depletion of ORC6 or CDC6. Furthermore, codepletion of p53 and ORC1 modestly impaired viability of 1BR3hTERT nontumor fibroblasts and more dramatically caused hypersensitivity to hydroxyurea. Finally, overexpression of the c-Myc oncogene combined with ORC1 depletion in nontumor BJhTERT cells diminished viability. Collectively, these findings suggest that tumor cells may have a reliance on origin-licensing capacity, suggesting that licensing factors could represent a target for drug-based cancer therapy. Mol Cancer Res; 11(4); 370–80. ©2013 AACR.
Data from Anti–IL-20 Monoclonal Antibody Alleviates Inflammation in Oral Cancer and Suppresses Tumor Growth
Authors: Hsu Yu-Hsiang , Wei Chi-Chen , Shieh Dar-Bin , Chan Chien-Hui , Chang Ming-Shi
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Interleukin-20 (IL-20) is a proinflammatory cytokine involved in rheumatoid arthritis, atherosclerosis, and osteoporosis. However, little is known about the role of IL-20 in oral cancer. We explored the function of IL-20 in the tumor progression of oral cancer. IL-20 expression levels in tumorous and nontumorous oral tissue specimens from 40 patients with four different stages oral cancer were analyzed with immunohistochemistry (IHC) staining and quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR). Expression of IL-20 and its receptor subunits was higher in clinical oral tumor tissue than in nontumorous oral tissue. The role of IL-20 was examined in two oral cancer cell lines (OC-3 and OEC-M1). In vitro, IL-20 promoted TNF-α, IL-1β, MCP-1, CCR4, and CXCR4 and increased proliferation, migration, reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, and colony formation of oral cancer cells via activated STAT3 and AKT/JNK/ERK signals. To evaluate the therapeutic potential of anti–IL-20 monoclonal antibody 7E for treating oral cancer, an ex vivo tumor growth model was used. In vivo, 7E reduced tumor growth and inflammation in oral cancer cells. In conclusion, IL-20 promoted oral tumor growth, migration, and tumor-associated inflammation. Therefore, IL-20 may be a novel target for treating oral cancer, and anti–IL-20 monoclonal antibody 7E may be a feasible therapeutic. Mol Cancer Res; 10(11); 1430–9. ©2012 AACR.
Data from Molecular Hierarchy of Heparin-Binding EGF-like Growth Factor–Regulated Angiogenesis in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer
Authors: Yotsumoto Fusanori , Tokunaga Eriko , Oki Eiji , Maehara Yoshihiko , Yamada Hiromi , Nakajima Kyoko , Nam Sung Ouk , Miyata Kohei , Koyanagi Midori , Doi Keiko , Shirasawa Senji , Kuroki Masahide , Miyamoto Shingo
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Heparin-binding EGF-like growth factor (HB-EGF) is one of several proangiogenic factors and represents a possible therapeutic target for patients with triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). However, the role of HB-EGF in promoting tumor aggressiveness in TNBC remains unclear. To investigate specific genes and pathways involved in TNBC tumorigenesis, we profiled gene expression changes in two TNBC cell lines under two-dimensional culture (2DC) and three-dimensional culture (3DC) and in a tumor xenograft model. We identified simultaneous upregulation of HB-EGF, VEGFA, and angiopoietin-like 4 (ANGPTL4) in 3DC and tumor xenografts, compared with 2DC. We show that HB-EGF regulates the expression of VEGFA or ANGPTL4 via transcriptional regulation of hypoxia-inducible factor-1α and NF-κB. Furthermore, suppression of VEGFA or ANGPTL4 expression enhanced HB-EGF expression, highlighting a unique regulatory loop underlying this angiogenesis network. Targeted knockdown of HB-EGF significantly suppressed tumor formation in a TNBC xenograft model, compared with individual knockdown of either VEGFA or ANGPTL4, by reducing the expression of both VEGFA and ANGPTL4. In patients with TNBC, VEGFA or ANGPTL4 expression was also significantly correlated with HB-EGF expression. Low concentrations of exogenously added HB-EGF strongly activated the proliferation of endothelial cells, tube formation, and vascular permeability in blood vessels, in a similar fashion to high doses of VEGFA and ANGPTL4. Taken together, these results suggest that HB-EGF plays a pivotal role in the acquisition of tumor aggressiveness in TNBC by orchestrating a molecular hierarchy regulating tumor angiogenesis. Mol Cancer Res; 11(5); 506–17. ©2013 AACR.
Data from Inhibition of TWIST1 Leads to Activation of Oncogene-Induced Senescence in Oncogene-Driven Non–Small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Burns Timothy F. , Dobromilskaya Irina , Murphy Sara C. , Gajula Rajendra P. , Thiyagarajan Saravanan , Chatley Sarah N.H. , Aziz Khaled , Cho Yoon-Jae , Tran Phuoc T. , Rudin Charles M.
Published: January 2024

Abstract
A large fraction of non–small cell lung cancers (NSCLC) are dependent on defined oncogenic driver mutations. Although targeted agents exist for EGFR- and EML4-ALK–driven NSCLCs, no therapies target the most frequently found driver mutation, KRAS. Furthermore, acquired resistance to the currently targetable driver mutations is nearly universally observed. Clearly a novel therapeutic approach is needed to target oncogene-driven NSCLCs. We recently showed that the basic helix-loop-helix transcription factor Twist1 cooperates with mutant Kras to induce lung adenocarcinoma in transgenic mouse models and that inhibition of Twist1 in these models led to Kras-induced senescence. In the current study, we examine the role of TWIST1 in oncogene-driven human NSCLCs. Silencing of TWIST1 in KRAS-mutant human NSCLC cell lines resulted in dramatic growth inhibition and either activation of a latent oncogene-induced senescence program or, in some cases, apoptosis. Similar effects were observed in EGFR mutation–driven and c-Met–amplified NSCLC cell lines. Growth inhibition by silencing of TWIST1 was independent of p53 or p16 mutational status and did not require previously defined mediators of senescence, p21 and p27, nor could this phenotype be rescued by overexpression of SKP2. In xenograft models, silencing of TWIST1 resulted in significant growth inhibition of KRAS-mutant, EGFR-mutant, and c-Met–amplified NSCLCs. Remarkably, inducible silencing of TWIST1 resulted in significant growth inhibition of established KRAS-mutant tumors. Together these findings suggest that silencing of TWIST1 in oncogene driver–dependent NSCLCs represents a novel and promising therapeutic strategy. Mol Cancer Res; 11(4); 329–38. ©2013 AACR.
Data from Glutathione S-Transferase Mu2 Suppresses Cancer Cell Metastasis in Non–Small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Tang Sheau-Chung , Wu Chih-Hsien , Lai Chien-Hung , Sung Wen-Wei , Yang Wan-Jung , Tang Lee-Chun , Hsu Chung-Ping , Ko Jiunn-Liang
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Glutathione S-transferase mu2 (GST-M2) is a phase II detoxification enzyme. Low expression of GST-M2 in lung cancers is due to hypermethylation of its promoter. Lung cancer with the GST mu-null genotype is associated with shorter survival. However, a correlation between GST-M2 and important clinical parameters, as well as the migration of GST-M2–defective cells in lung cancer, has not been established. In the present study, we investigate the role of GST-M2 in cell migration and actin disassembly in lung cancer cells. GST-M2 and CCN2 mRNA levels were significantly reduced in non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) tumors when compared with matched normal lung tissues in 82 patients with NSCLC. We found that high expressions of both GST-M2 and CCN2 are correlated with favorable survival of patients with lung cancer when compared with similar patients without GST-M2 or CCN2 expression. GST-M2 can induce CCN2 expression by driving the CCN2 proximal promoter. Overexpression of GST-M2 decreases the formation of filopodia, resulting in remodeling of the reorganized cytoskeletons. Overexpression of GST-M2 significantly suppressed cancer cell migration on wound-healing assay. In addition, overexpression of GST-M2 dramatically reduced tumor growth and metastasis in a xenograft mouse model. These data highlight the potential of GST-M2 as a novel tumor suppressor. GST-M2 increases the expression of CCN2 in lung cancer cells, which inhibits cancer cell migration in lung cancer and animal models. Mol Cancer Res; 11(5); 518–29. ©2013 AACR.
Puberty Today, Gone Tomorrow: Transient Refractory Central Precocious Puberty in a Toddler with End-Stage Kidney Disease
Authors: Bakhtiani Priyanka , Srivastava Rachana , Geffner Mitchell E.
Published: January 2024

Introduction: The onset of puberty is typically delayed in children with chronic kidney disease (CKD), with only three reported cases of precocious puberty in boys with CKD. Case Presentation: We report the case of a boy with end-stage kidney disease secondary to posterior urethral valves who, while undergoing peritoneal dialysis, presented at 17 months with central precocious puberty characterized by clinical signs of testicular and penile enlargement, pubic hair, and acne; rapid linear growth with advanced bone age; and pubertal luteinizing hormone (LH) and testosterone levels. Monthly leuprolide injections were commenced at 24 months with no pubertal or biochemical suppression thereafter, along with continued rapid bone-age advancement through 32 months. He then received a deceased-donor kidney transplant at 33 months of age, with good graft function. Within 2 months, he was noted to have prepubertal GnRH-stimulated LH and testosterone levels. Leuprolide injections were discontinued at that time with no further progression of puberty. The patient is now 48 months old with minimal further bone-age advancement and consistently prepubertal LH and testosterone levels. Conclusion: Our case demonstrates the development of precocious puberty due to premature activation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-testicular axis, presumably secondary to uremia and/or disordered renal clearance of gonadotropins, which was refractory to standard management with a gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist, perhaps due to excessively rapid removal by peritoneal dialysis and/or the uremic state itself. Kidney transplantation led to a correction of uremia and a return to the prepubertal state.
Angiopoietin as a Novel Prognostic Marker in Kidney Disease
Authors: Yildiz Abdullah B. , Copur Sidar , Tanriover Cem , Yavuz Furkan , Vehbi Sezan , Gaipov Abduzhappar , Magagnoli Lorenza , Ciceri Paola , Cozzolino Mario , Kanbay Mehmet
Published: January 2024

Introduction: Renal injury is among the leading causes of morbidity and mortality; however, there are no reliable indicators for determining the likelihood of developing chronic kidney disease (CKD), CKD progression, or AKI events. Vascular growth factors called angiopoietins have a role in endothelial function, vascular remodeling, tissue stabilization, and inflammation and have been implicated as prognostic and predictive markers in AKI. Methods: Although the exact mechanism of the relationship between kidney injury and angiopoietins is unknown, this review demonstrates that AKI patients have higher angiopoietin-2 levels and that higher angiopoietin-1 to angiopoietin-2 ratio may potentially be linked with a reduced risk of the CKD progression. Results: This review therefore emphasizes the importance of angiopoietin-2 and proposes that it could be an important predictor of AKI in clinical settings. Conclusion: There is a need for further large-scale randomized clinical trials in order to have a better understanding of the significance of angiopoietin-2 and for the determination of its potential clinical implications.
Estimation of Cronbach reliability based on sample size, gender, and the grades
Authors: Ikhsanudin Ikhsanudin , Subali Bambang , Retnawati Heri , Istiyono Edi
Published: January 2024

The study tries to see the effect of different sample sizes on the reliability of creativity tests using Cronbach’s alpha. In addition, the background of the sample (gender and grade) is also detected. The study has a practical significance for designing a sample for estimating reliability using Cronbach alpha. The secondary data are used for analysis. The sample of creativity test is determined purposively, that is, has been administered to 1,960 students. The α-coefficient calculation uses the SPSS program. The result proves in the total sample, the creativity test is reliable (α=0.852). In small sample sizes, the α-coefficients values vary greatly in the different test groups. In the larger sample size, the α-coefficients are closer to constant in the different test groups. For a polytomous scale test with a length of 20 items, the α-coefficients obtained close to constant on the sample size of more than 80 testees. This result indicates for the optimum result the sample size is at least four times larger than the number of test items in reliability analysis, especially Cronbach alpha. Based on the gender aspect, descriptively the α-coefficient in the male group (0.846) was almost equal to the female group (0.851). By grouping the testees based on the grades, there are slight differences in α-coefficients in class IV (0.850), class V (0.841), and class VI (0.809). Regarding the results of this study, in the reliability estimation of test development, it is suggested to consider the adequacy and the characteristic of samples.
Improving student higher order thinking skills using SynecticHOTS-oriented learning model
Authors: Kurniawan Eko Setyadi , Mundilarto Mundilarto , Istiyono Edi
Published: January 2024

The achievement of students’ learning outcomes in physics lessons has a low tendency, this is due to various factors, one of which is higher-order thinking skills (HOTS) based learning that has not been fully implemented in the learning process and assessment. This study aimed to determine the differences in the Synectic-HOTS learning model in physics compared to conventional learning models. This study used a quasi-experimental study with a pre-test–post-test nonequivalent control group design. The instrument used in this study is a two-tier test question that contains 20 items of HOTS aspect. The prerequisite test showed that the data was not homogeneous, while the results of the data homogeneity test were stated to be homogeneous. Therefore, a non-parametric test was carried out using the Mann-Whitney U-test. Based on the results of the data analysis, the Asymp. Sig. (2-tailed) for the pre-test was 0.111 and the post-test was 0.001 (p=.000<05). The effect size calculation shows that the Synectic learning model is effective in the medium category. These results indicate that the application of the SynecticHOTS model significantly improves HOTS when compared to conventional learning models. This work can open up insights to teachers about alternative, creative, and effective learning models to improve higher-order thinking skills and student learning outcomes.
English teachers’ beliefs and practices in integrating digital literacy in the language classroom
Authors: Deiniatur Much , Cahyono Bambang Yudi , Ivone Francisca Maria , Prayogo Johannes Ananto
Published: January 2024

This case study investigates teachers’ beliefs (i.e., behavioral, normative, and control beliefs) and practices in integrating digital literacy in English as foreign language (EFL) classroom. A descriptive study on EFL teachers is used in this research. Four participants were purposively selected to give sufficient information to answer the research questions. Data from the participants were collected by using interviews, observation, and documentation. In terms of the teachers’ beliefs, the finding shows that the behavioral belief was related to the benefits of using digital literacy; normative belief dealt with the expectation in the social context of both superiors and peers; while control belief was about the availability of particular digital technology to be implemented in the classroom and the ability of teachers. With regard to the teachers’ practices, it was found that the teachers used several digital tools for searching for information, communication, collaboration, creativity, critical thinking, cultural understanding, and e-safety. It was evident that teachers’ strong beliefs in integrating digital literacy influence the implementation of digital literacy in the classroom. The findings of this study highlight the importance of cultivating teachers’ beliefs toward the actual implementation of the integration of digital literacy in the EFL classroom.
Technology pedagogy content knowledge framework to prepare Indonesian career counselors
Authors: Zikra Zikra , Fikri Miftahul , Afdal Afdal , Sukmawati Indah , Sin Tjung Hauw , Nurhastuti Nurhastuti , Suryanef Suryanef
Published: January 2024

Technological pedagogical and content knowledge (TPACK) is one of the smart solutions for implementing learning in accordance with the demands of education by integrating technology. The purpose of the study was to analyze the competency level of counselors in Indonesia in terms of age in terms of age, gender, and level of education. The research design used a cross-sectional survey in a non-experimental quantitative study. Respondents in this study amounted to 420 counselors in Indonesia obtained by using a proportional random sampling technique. Data were collected by questionnaire technological pedagogy content knowledge test for counselors (TPACK-TFC). The results of the study found that the TPACK was owned by counselors with an average score of 46.78 in the low category. Judging from the aspect of technology knowledge (TK), a score of 59.88 was obtained in the medium category, content knowledge (CK), pedagogical knowledge (PK), pedagogical content knowledge (PCK), technological content knowledge (TCK), technological pedagogical knowledge (TPK) was at a relatively low level. The results showed that Indonesian counselors have not fully integrated learning models using aspects namely technology, pedagogy, and content, and need to get attention from the government, higher education institutions, and the community for the development of quality guidance and counseling services and counselor careers in the future.
Development of higher order thinking skill assessment instruments in social studies learning
Authors: Handayani Nurizky , Aw Suranto , Zamroni Zamroni , Imanita Myristica , Setiawan Johan , Fadli Muhammad Rijal
Published: January 2024

Higher order thinking skill (HOTS) in social studies learning are still often ignored by teachers despite the need for students to acquire these skills. The purpose of this study is to develop her HOTS assessment in a social studies classroom to help teachers improve their students’ thinking skills. This kind of research is research and development with 4D models. Validation was performed by two social studies learning assessment specialists and three social studies teachers. The HOTS test was administered to 112 students in class VIII (second grade) of Yogyakarta junior high school. Data analysis consisted of validity, reliability, difficulty, selectivity, and distractor index. Explanatory factor analysis (EFA) pathway analysis was used for data analysis of small trials and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) pathway analysis was used for large trials. The multiple-choice HOTS assessment tool consisted of 30 items, and the effectiveness results of this HOTS questions on material, structure, and language aspects by two social studies learning assessment experts where it was valid and suitable for our application. Effective results for three social studies teachers indicated that the assessment tool was valid and applicable. HOTS in social studies learning helps improve quality and learning outcomes, enabling students to examine information critically, develop creativity, and improve problem-solving skills.
Exploring benefits of applying Google Workspace for Education in English as a foreign language classroom
Authors: Thuan Pham Duc , Hong Hanh Nguyen Thi
Published: January 2024

The application of technology in language classrooms is widely believed to benefit learners. In the context of teaching and learning English as a foreign language (EFL) for high school students in Vietnam, there are few studies on the benefits of applying Google Workspace for Education (GWE). This small-scale qualitative study seeks to explore the benefits of applying GWE as a technological solution in the EFL classroom with high school students. The participants were eight eleventh graders in the north of Vietnam learning English in evening classes at an English center. To collect data, the students were interviewed. The qualitative data was analyzed based on themes. The results indicated that the benefits of applying GWE were evident in enhanced attitude and motivation for learning and improved learning skills. Based on the results of this study, it is recommended that Google tools be utilized for English language learning and instruction.
Dietary Vitamin K
1
Intake and Incident Aortic Valve Stenosis
Authors: Schultz Carl J. , Dalgaard Frederik , Bellinge Jamie W. , Murray Kevin , Sim Marc , Connolly Emma , Blekkenhorst Lauren C. , Bondonno Catherine P. , Lewis Joshua R. , Gislason Gunnar H. , Tjønneland Anne , Overvad Kim , Hodgson Jonathan M. , Bondonno Nicola P.
Published: January 2024

BACKGROUND:

Leaflet calcification contributes to the development and progression of aortic valve stenosis. Vitamin K activates inhibitors of vascular calcification and may modulate inflammation and skeletal bone loss. Therefore, we aimed to determine whether higher dietary intakes of vitamin K
1
are associated with a lower incidence of aortic stenosis.

METHODS:

In the Danish Diet, Cancer and Health study, participants aged 50 to 64 years completed a 192-item food frequency questionnaire at baseline, from which habitual intakes of vitamin K
1
were estimated. Participants were prospectively followed using linkage to nationwide registers to determine incident aortic valve stenosis (primary outcome) and aortic stenosis with subsequent complications (aortic valve replacement, heart failure, or cardiovascular disease–related mortality; secondary outcome).

RESULTS:

In 55 545 participants who were followed for a maximum of 21.5 years, 1085 were diagnosed with aortic stenosis and 615 were identified as having subsequent complications. Participants in the highest quintile of vitamin K
1
intake had a 23% lower risk of aortic stenosis (hazard ratio, 0.77 [95% CI, 0.63–0.94]) and a 27% lower risk of aortic stenosis with subsequent complications (hazard ratio, 0.73 [95% CI, 0.56–0.95]), compared with participants in the lowest quintile after adjusting for demographics and cardiovascular risk factors.

CONCLUSIONS:

In this study, a high intake of vitamin K
1
–rich foods was associated with a lower incidence of aortic stenosis and a lower risk of aortic stenosis with subsequent complications.
Combined Prognostic Impact of Low Muscle Mass and Hypoalbuminemia in Patients Hospitalized for Heart Failure: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Mirzai Saeid , Sarnaik Kunaal S. , Persits Ian , Martens Pieter , Estep Jerry D. , Chen Po‐Hao , Tang W. H. Wilson
Published: January 2024

Background

Sarcopenia and hypoalbuminemia have been identified as independent predictors of increased adverse outcomes, including mortality and readmissions, in hospitalized older adults with acute decompensated heart failure (ADHF). However, the impact of coexisting sarcopenia and hypoalbuminemia on morbidity and death in adults with ADHF has not yet been investigated. We aimed to investigate the combined effects of lower muscle mass (LMM) as a surrogate for sarcopenia and hypoalbuminemia on in‐hospital and postdischarge outcomes of patients hospitalized for ADHF.

Methods and Results

A total of 385 patients admitted for ADHF between 2017 and 2020 at a single institution were retrospectively identified. Demographic and clinical data were collected, including serum albumin levels at admission and discharge. Skeletal muscle indices were derived from semi‐automated segmentation software analysis on axial chest computed tomography at the twelfth vertebral level. Our analysis revealed that patients who had LMM with admission hypoalbuminemia experienced increased diagnoses of infection and delirium with longer hospital length of stay and more frequent discharge to a facility. Upon discharge, 27.9% of patients had higher muscle mass without discharge hypoalbuminemia (reference group), 9.7% had LMM without discharge hypoalbuminemia, 38.4% had higher muscle mass with discharge hypoalbuminemia, and 24.0% had LMM with discharge hypoalbuminemia; mortality rates were 37.6%, 51.4%, 48.9%, and 63.2%, respectively. 1‐ and 3‐year mortality risks were highest in those with LMM and discharge hypoalbuminemia; this relationship remained significant over a median 23.6 (3.1–33.8) months follow‐up time despite multivariable adjustments (hazard ratio, 2.03 [95% CI, 1.31–3.16];
P
=0.002).

Conclusions

Hospitalization with ADHF, LMM, and hypoalbuminemia portend heightened mortality risk.
Referral of Pediatric Moyamoya for Revascularization: Financial and Quality Data Supporting Private Insurer Approval for Out‐of‐Network Care
Authors: Rangwala Shivani D. , Singh Nikita , Judge Jennifer , Isibor Christopher , McClain Craig D. , Lehman Laura L. , See Alfred P. , Orbach Darren B. , Smith Edward R.
Published: January 2024

Background

Moyamoya is a rare arteriopathy affecting the intracranial circulation with a risk of stroke in the pediatric population. High‐volume centers provide improved outcomes after surgical revascularization compared with low‐volume centers. However, private insurers are often reluctant to approve care out‐of‐network. We hypothesized that rare diseases that can be treated in a single procedure, such as revascularization for moyamoya, can yield improved clinical outcomes with substantial cost savings to insurance companies when approved for care at high‐volume centers of excellence.

Methods

Longitudinal deidentified data of pediatric patients undergoing surgical revascularization for moyamoya from January 2018 to December 2020 (N = 125) were obtained from national commercial insurers by an independent third‐party analytics core. Patients were selected according to
International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision
(
ICD‐10
) diagnosis and procedure codes. For a 9‐month episode, clinical and cost outcome metrics were compared across centers, with patients from the highest volume center designated as the primary cohort.

Results

Patients in the primary cohort were on average younger at time of surgery, with greater medical comorbidities, yet exhibited decreased postoperative complications and fewer unplanned readmissions. The primary cohort had an overall 42% lower expense compared with patients treated at other single institution health systems ($89 000 versus $153 000). The primary cohort minimized out‐of‐network costs with implementation of a partnership care model, using local resources for preoperative workup in 68% of episodes, compared with only 8% of episodes at a comparator high‐volume center.

Conclusion

Implementation of a partnership model takes advantages of the surgical resources of a high‐volume center while maximizing local resource use for preoperative and postoperative care. Referral to high‐volume centers for pediatric moyamoya revascularization provides both improved outcomes for the patients and substantial cost savings for the insurers. These data suggest the development of high‐volume centers of excellence for select conditions requiring neurosurgical treatment confer benefit to both patients and insurers, even in cases of out‐of‐network care.
Dandelion Rebellion: Creating Crip Natures
Authors: O’Neill Cynthia
Published: January 2024

Inspired by the field of eco-crip theory, Dandelion Rebellion is the crip author’s art-as-research project focused on accessible nature, environmentalism, and activism for weedy species such as the dandelion. Drawing on relationships between dandelions and disabilities, Dandelion Rebellion investigates urban nature and examines multispecies relations and responsibility. Accessibility is central to this project’s design, participation, and conceptual process in digital and analog forms. Even as this project practices a model of accessibility, it also envisions a more fundamental reconceptualization of access called crip nature.
Unveiling Creative Economy Resilience in Indonesia amidst the Global Pandemic
Authors: Kusumaningrum Demeiati Nur , Maulana Prasetya Dion , Farid Styo Wibowo Novin
Published: January 2024

In light of the evolving post-COVID-19 global development agenda, this article delves into the conceptualization of resilience within the creative economy as portrayed in public discourse. Using media analysis, the article scrutinizes discourse patterns evident in Jawa Pos, Indonesia’s premier media outlet, from 2020 to 2021. The insights presented are corroborated by a comprehensive literature review and an examination of official government reports. This study examines seven creative industries that dominated public discourse during the pandemic: games, software applications, film, video production, art performance, culinary arts, and crafts. Digital platforms have invigorated sectors such as gaming, culinary arts, crafts, and video content; furthermore, local tourism initiatives have been instrumental in catalysing economic rejuvenation in areas such as the culinary arts, crafts, and art performance. This analysis encourages further studies on the resilience of the creative economy.
Three New Species of Microsphecodes s.str. (Hymenoptera: Halictidae) with an updated key to species of the subgenus
Authors: GRAHAM LIAM , PACKER LAURENCE
Published: January 2024

We diagnose, describe and illustrate three new species of Microsphecodes Eickwort and Stage, all from the nominate subgenus: M. peckorum Graham and Packer n. sp. from Venezuela, M. fernandoi Graham and Packer n. sp. from French Guiana, and M. septentrionalis Graham and Packer n. sp. from Guatemala. The latter extends the known range of the subgenus further north by approximately 500 km. We provide an updated, illustrated, key to the species of Microsphecodes s.str.
Enhancing Global Food Security: Opportunities for the American Meteorological Society
Authors: Stuart Lauren , Hobbins Mike , Niebuhr Emily , Ruane Alex C. , Pulwarty Roger , Hoell Andrew , Thiaw Wassila , Rosenzweig Cynthia , Muñoz-Arriola Francisco , Jahn Molly , Farrar Michael
Published: January 2024

Food security is a key pillar of environmental security yet remains one of the world’s greatest challenges. Its obverse, food insecurity, negatively impacts health and well-being, drives mass migration, and undermines national security and global sustainable development. Ensuring food security is a delicate balance of myriad concerns within the atmospheric and Earth sciences, agronomy and agriculture engineering, social sciences, economics, monitoring, and policymaking. A Food Security Presidential Session at the American Meteorological Society’s (AMS) 2022 Annual Meeting brought together experts across disciplines to tackle issues at the nexus of weather, climate, and food security. The starkest takeaway was the realization that, despite its importance and clear roles for the atmospheric and climate sciences, food security has not been a focus for the AMS community. The aim of this paper is to build on the perspectives shared by this expert panel and to identify overlapping issues and key points of intersection between the food-security community and AMS. We examine 1) the interactions between weather, climate, and the food system and how they influence food security; 2) the time and spatial scales of food security decision support that match weather and climate phenomena; 3) the role of both providers and users of information as well as decision-makers in improving research to operations for food security; and 4) the opportunities for the AMS community to address food security. We conclude that, moving forward, the AMS community is well-positioned to scale up its engagement across the global food system to address existing scientific needs and technology gaps to improve global food security.
Multiple transitions in the works of Susan Caperna Lloyd
Authors: Marino Elisabetta
Published: January 2024

This article aims to analyse Susan Caperna Lloyd's literary output, emphasizing the writer's multiple transitions. No Pictures in My Grave, her 1992 travel memoir, followed by The Crucifixion of Lucy Reyes (2017) and Dance It Up (2023) – both currently in manuscript form – will serve as the primary objects of investigation. As will be shown, the exploration of her cultural roots as an American of Italian origin is just the starting point for a more complex quest, which leads her to uncover powerful feminine icons and ancestral mothers, who provide her with alternative models of femininity. In her latest work, Caperna Lloyd also delves deeper into the intricate transition between life and death, discovering that these states are not mutually exclusive but rather complementary.
Investigation of interlayer toughening of carbon fiber composites using non-woven polyamide veils under different curing pressures
Authors: Narongdej Poom , Denk Jack , Barjasteh Ehsan
Published: January 2024

Carbon fiber-reinforced composites have become increasingly favored in the aerospace and automotive sectors for their remarkable performance attributes. Nonetheless, their broader adoption is hindered by the concern of delamination. To address this limitation, our study delved into the influence of incorporating a thermoplastic toughening agent on the interlaminar fracture toughness (ILFT) of woven carbon fiber composites. Our investigation focused on the impact of diverse curing pressures on these composites, analyzing configurations both with and without an integrated non-woven polyamide (PA) veil. The PA veil was meticulously positioned within the central layer of a composite, combining benzoxazine and carbon fiber constituents. Our primary objective entailed optimizing curing conditions to enhance ILFT across both Mode-I and Mode-II fracture modes. Our findings unveiled that elevating curing pressure had a limited effect on ILFT in non-interleaved composites while interleaved samples exhibited substantial ILFT reductions under heightened curing pressure. Raising pressure from 1 atm to 3.5 atm caused approximately a 27% drop in the Mode-I strain energy release rate (GIC) value, and this reduction deepened to 42% at 7 atm. This highlighted the inverse relationship between increased curing pressure and GIC values in interleaved specimens, while non-interleaved counterparts experienced less pronounced changes. A parallel trend manifested in Mode-II ILFT, where escalated curing pressure correlated with diminished Mode-II strain energy release rate (GIIC) values. Interleaved samples suffered a notably more significant decline, attributed to resin content reduction caused by heightened pressure. This, in turn, compromised the bond between the PA veil and the matrix, facilitating the propagation of cracks within the composite. This ultimately culminated in significantly reduced GIC and GIIC values. Our study contributes valuable insights into optimizing the interlaminar fracture toughness of carbon fiber composites, shedding light on the complex interplay of curing conditions and material configurations.
Exploring the Lived Experiences of Individuals With Spinal Cord Injury During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Patsakos Eleni M. , Bailey K. Aly , Ditor David S.
Published: January 2024

The global spread of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) has affected over 100 countries and has led to the tragic loss of life, overwhelmed health care systems and severely impacted the global economy. Specifically, individuals living with spinal cord injury (SCI) are particularly vulnerable during the COVID-19 pandemic as they often face adverse impacts on their health, emotional well-being, community participation, and life expectancy. The objective of this study was to investigate the lived experience of individuals with SCI during the COVID-19 pandemic in Ontario, Canada. An exploratory design with a qualitative descriptive approach was used to address the study objective. Nine semi-structured interviews were conducted with individuals with traumatic and non-traumatic SCI (37-69 years, C3-L5, AIS A-D, and 5-42 years post-injury). Using reflexive thematic analysis, the following themes were created: (1) Caregiver exposure to COVID-19; (2) Staying physically active in quarantine; (3) Living in social isolation; (4) Difficulty obtaining necessary medical supplies; (5) Access to health services and virtual care during COVID-19; and (6) Fighting COVID-19 misinformation. This is one of the first studies to explore the impact of COVID-19 on individuals living with SCI in Ontario. This study contributes to a greater understanding of the challenges faced by individuals living with SCI and provides insight into how to better support and respond to the specific and unique needs of individuals with SCI and their families during a national emergency or pandemic.
Nursing Students’ Experiences on Psychosocial Learning Environment, Personal and Social Challenges and Communication in Periods of Social Isolation: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Strand Linn Beate , Eilertsen Mary-Elizabeth , Moksnes Unni Karin , Andre Beate
Published: January 2024

In March 2020, the World Health Organization declared the global COVID-19 pandemic outbreak and the Norwegian government declared lockdown to stop the virus from spreading. In Norway, universities were immediately closed, and all teaching and learning were done digitally for the rest of the spring semester 2020. Our aim was to explore nursing students experience with studying and learning, as well as the psychological consequences it may incur during a period of social isolation during the Covid-19 pandemic lockdown. The study is a qualitative study based on a focus group with 6 nursing students. The analysis was conducted following Kvale’s approach to qualitative analysis. Three main categories were identified: (1) psychosocial learning environment, (2) personal and social challenges, and (3) communication. We found that the restrictions due to social isolation and pandemic restrictions such as closing of the university campus, has impacted students` study situation significantly, both psychosocially and academically. If social isolation should be necessary in the future, universities need to use methods such as group discussions, quizzes, and short breaks in the lectures to prevent unnecessary problems among the students. Personal challenges due to the social isolation, such as anxiety or other mental health issues are more difficult to avoid or prevent, but the universities must be better prepared to give students more personal communication, have unformal meetings and providing more information to the students in times of crisis.
Cohesion, Combat Performance and Civil-Military Relations: Contextualizing “The Word of Command”
Authors: King Anthony
Published: January 2024

In 2006, Armed Forces & Society published my article on small unit cohesion, “The Word of Command.” It has been the focus of considerable discussion since that time. This essay describes the origins and the purpose of that 2006 article, as an attempt to contribute to an emergent “practical” paradigm in the study of cohesion. Instead of focusing on interpersonal cohesion, my original article prioritized skill—task cohesion. This commentary argues that although the political implications of small unit cohesion was subordinate in 2006, that initial article—and my wider work on cohesion—speaks directly to a key theme in the journal: civil-military relations.
When Outsiders Step In: Investigating the Phenomenon of Reputational Support
Authors: Kuenzler Johanna
Published: January 2024

This article introduces reputational support: when individuals who are not part of a public organization publicly explain or promote that organization. Whereas existing research focuses on organizations’ reputation management, reputational support highlights the relevance of unassociated actors’ behavior in organizations’ environment. Relying on social psychology insights, I explore an extreme case of the motivations behind reputational support and its perception and evaluation from the organization. Combining media content analysis and semi-structured interviews, I show that although helping the organization was not a primary motivation, employees perceived and appreciated reputational support. Thus, reputational support constitutes a valuable resource for organizations.
Influence of functional groups on the microporous development and CO2-CH4 adsorption: A molecular simulation investigation
Authors: Liu He , Wang Enyuan
Published: January 2024

In this study, the influence of different functional groups (carbonyl, ether, carboxyl, and hydroxyl) on microporous development and competitive adsorption for CO2-CH4 was investigated using Connolly potential theory, molecular mechanics, molecular dynamics, and grand canonical Monte Carlo based on the macromolecular representation of coal vitrinite (CV). Results indicated that microporous diameter induced from the carboxyl (COOH) and hydroxyl (OH) was more sensitive to increasing temperature than carbonyl (CO) and ether (C2O). The COOH and OH could induce more micropores than the other functional groups. The adsorption capacities of OH-CV and COOH-CV were significantly higher than C2O-CV, CO-CV, and C-CV (coal vitrinite purified by carbon atoms) and they all decrease with the decreasing temperature. Both the calculation results of Locate- and Isotherm task suggested that OH and COOH have a significantly higher adsorption amount than other coal macromolecules and the others have a close adsorption amount. The adsorption selectivities of CO2 over CH4 ( SA/B) for all the functional groups were higher than 1 here, indicating the adsorption preference of CO2 over CH4. For the pressure dependence, the SA/B first decreases significantly for the pressure of < 4 MPa and then slightly for the pressures of >4 MPa with the increasing pressure, indicating that high pressure was not conductive to the replacement of CH4 by CO2. For almost all the pressures here, the SA/B follows the order of COOH-CV > OH-CV≈C2O-CV≈Ori-CV≈CO-CV≈C-CV, indicating the highest adsorption preference of CO2 over CH4 for COOH, and OH-CV.
Spectacular Technology, Invisible Harms: Witnessing Techno-science on Waste Tours in China
Authors: Zhang Amy
Published: January 2024

Investment in science, technologies, and infrastructures has been a critical aspect of China’s development strategy since the early 2000s. China’s national policies designated waste-to-energy (WtE) incinerators as the dominant end-of-life technology to bring about a form of modern and sustainable waste treatment that can turn waste into energy while eliminating pollution. Amid rising citizen skepticism over the safety and efficacy of this technology in China and elsewhere, this article examines the genre of the orchestrated waste tour, which seeks to place the public as witnesses to state performances of technological improvement. Tours to waste facilities illuminate the generic conventions and strategies that China’s late-socialist mode of green techno-scientific governance relied on to legitimize its achievement of environmental improvement. Tours did not produce passive observers. Through an in-depth discussion of a waste tour in Guangzhou, this paper documents that opportunities for firsthand encounters of WtE incinerators provided a forum for those suspicious of the state’s claims of techno-science to form counternarratives.
‘It’s a Man’s Job’: Doing Gender and Male Gatekeeping in the Division of Household Labor
Authors: Christopher Emily
Published: January 2024

Changes to domestic divisions of labor have been widely documented, but some tasks seem particularly resistant to change. Using the lens of ‘doing gender’, this article draws on interviews with 25 heterosexual working parent British couples who produced a ‘household portrait’ of their division of labor. It examines how they explain men’s continuing responsibility for ‘man-typed’ domestic tasks and why this is so resistant to change. Although men’s ‘gatekeeping’ of these tasks is consequential for the overall household division of labor, there is relatively little opposition from their women partners. This gatekeeping reproduces gendered meanings of ‘man-typed’ tasks and enables both men and women to ‘do gender’ while supporting their image of a ‘sharing’ couple.
From humiliation to Christ-like humility: A phenomenological-theological study on the Naga experiences of British colonialism, American Western Christianity, and Indian political statehood
Authors: Naleo Villo
Published: January 2024

This phenomenological study examines the experience of collective humiliation of the Naga people of Northeast India under British colonialism, the impact of Western missionary activity, and Indian politics after independence. The focus is on the impact that such long lasting domination has had and continues to have on the Nagas’ identity. Continued humiliation, it is argued, can lead to a vicious cycle of retaliation and violence. The paper argues that rather than being dominated or retaliating, the Naga Christian should re-evaluate humility. Contrary to the criticism of some modern thinkers that humility is weakness and an instrument of oppression, Christians and the Church, inspired by Christ's kenosis (Phil 2), will find in humility an access to reconciliation as a tool for dialogue open to a future of justice.
BRCA mutation status and pathological characterization of breast cancer in Zhoushan Islands, China
Authors: Bao Shuhui , Sun Nini , Li Yaling , Shu Jiaojie , Xu Jing , Zhang Yong , Qiu Xia
Published: January 2024

Objective

To investigate BRCA1/ 2 gene mutations and their relationship with clinicopathological features in patients with breast cancer in Zhoushan Islands.

Methods

High-throughput whole-exome gene sequencing was used to detect BRCA1/ 2 mutations in 776 breast cancer patients in Zhoushan Islands.

Results

The BRCA1/ 2 mutation rate of breast cancer patients in Zhoushan Islands was 4.38% (34/776). BRCA1 mutations were significantly correlated with age, molecular type, and family history of breast and ovarian cancers. BRCA2 mutations were most commonly found in invasive lobular carcinoma. Moreover, the BRCA2 mutation rate of cancers with molecular type luminal B (receptor protein–tyrosine kinase [HER2]-negative) was also relatively high.

Conclusion

The rate of BRCA1/ 2 mutations in breast cancer patients from Zhoushan Islands is approximately 4.38%, and BRCA1 mutation is related to age, molecular type, and family history of breast and ovarian cancers.