bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Abstract IA024: Mechanistic insights into how RADX regulates RAD51 nucleoprotein filaments to maintain genome stability and control replication stress responses
Authors: Adolph Madison , Balakrishnan Swati , Chazin Walter , Cortez David
Published: January 2024

RAD51 nucleoprotein filaments are central to maintaining genome stability, governing crucial processes like homology-directed double-strand break repair, replication fork reversal, and shielding replication forks from nucleases. The precise regulation of RAD51 filament formation and stability is critical for these functions, which suppress tumorigenesis and determine cellular responses to common cancer therapies. RADX is a pivotal regulator of RAD51 in the context of DNA replication, impacting replication fork reversal and fork stabilization. After identifying RADX as an RPA-related RAD51 regulator, we have worked to understand how it acts, thereby elucidating its role in genome stability and its influence on cancer cell responses to PARP inhibitors and chemotherapies. Genetically, RADX exhibits a dual role, capable of either inhibiting or promoting replication fork reversal based on the levels of replication stress. Biochemical studies show that RADX has inhibitory effects on RAD51 strand exchange and D-loop formation activities, achieved through direct binding to single-strand DNA and RAD51, along with the stimulation of RAD51 ATP hydrolysis. These activities collectively destabilize RAD51 nucleofilaments, opposing the stabilizing effects of BRCA2. Cells lacking RADX regulatory functions exhibit replication defects, DNA damage accumulation, reduced growth, and heightened sensitivity to DNA damage and replication stress. Structural analyses, including cryo-electron microscopy and mass photometry, revealed how RADX binds ssDNA and show it exists in multiple oligomeric states with a preference for trimers when bound to single-stranded DNA. Negative stain electron microscopy imaging supports a model wherein RADX functions by capping and restricting the growing ends of RAD51 filaments. In summary, our findings provide a comprehensive understanding of the regulatory mechanisms governing RAD51 nucleofilament dynamics by RADX, emphasizing its crucial role in coordinating replication fork stability and genome integrity. This knowledge not only contributes to the fundamental understanding of cellular processes but also offers insights into potential therapeutic interventions targeting RAD51-controlled pathways.

Citation Format: Madison Adolph, Swati Balakrishnan, Walter Chazin, David Cortez. Mechanistic insights into how RADX regulates RAD51 nucleoprotein filaments to maintain genome stability and control replication stress responses [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Special Conference in Cancer Research: DNA Damage Repair: From Basic Science to Future Clinical Application; 2024 Jan 9-11; Washington, DC. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2024;84(1 Suppl):Abstract nr IA024.
Abstract PR011: Novel role of glycogen synthase kinase-3β in determining cancer cell response to PARPi through regulation of 53BP1 function
Authors: Xia Fen , Allam Heba , Acklin Scarlett , Patra Mousumi , West Kirk , Leung Justin
Published: January 2024

Glycogen synthase kinase-3β (GSK3β) is a multifunctional serine/threonine kinase involved in various cellular processes and signaling pathways. Accumulating evidence suggests GSK3β plays a role in cancer treatment with effects on tumorigenesis and treatment response. We have previously shown that inhibition of GSK3β protects neurons from ionizing radiation-induced apoptosis through regulation of the repair of double strand breaks (DSBs). Here, we investigate the molecular mechanism underlying GSK3β regulation of DSB repair. We illustrate that GSK3β directly interacts with 53BP1 and phosphorylates 53BP1 at threonine 334 amino acid (T334) within a region heavily phosphorylated by several stress kinases. Phosphorylation at T334 inhibits 53BP1’s function in recruitment to and retention at DSB sites as well as canonical NHEJ. In contrast, phosphorylation at Thr334 of 53BP1 enhances single strand DNA resection and promotes homologous recombination (HR) repair. Most importantly, genetic and pharmacologic inhibition of GSK3β-53BP1 signaling axis dramatically enhances the PARPi cytotoxic response of BRCA1 proficient cancer cells. The assessment of the effect of GSK3β-53BP1 axis on tumor cell response to radiation treatment is underway. In conclusion, this study establishes the connection between GSK3β kinase and DSB repair through its phosphorylation and regulation of 53BP1 property. Moreover, it demonstrates that GSK3β kinase activity uniquely results in inhibition of 53BP1 as opposed to other kinases that enhance 53BP1 function. Importantly, this novel signaling axis provides a strategy for targeting BRCA1-proficinet cancer cell resistance to PARPi.

Citation Format: Fen Xia, Heba Allam, Scarlett Acklin, Mousumi Patra, Kirk West, Justin Leung. Novel role of glycogen synthase kinase-3β in determining cancer cell response to PARPi through regulation of 53BP1 function [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Special Conference in Cancer Research: DNA Damage Repair: From Basic Science to Future Clinical Application; 2024 Jan 9-11; Washington, DC. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2024;84(1 Suppl):Abstract nr PR011.
Supplementary Figure 7 from The Oncolytic Activity of Zika Viral Therapy in Human Neuroblastoma In Vivo Models Confers a Major Survival Advantage in a CD24-dependent Manner
Authors: Mazar Joseph , Brooks Jeanne K. , Peloquin Matthew , Rosario Rosa , Sutton Emma , Longo Matthew , Drehner Dennis , Westmoreland Tamarah J.
Published: January 2024

Evaluation of the tumor size of individual neuroblastomas post-treatment with Zika virus over the course of survival studies.
Supplementary Figure 6 from The Oncolytic Activity of Zika Viral Therapy in Human Neuroblastoma In Vivo Models Confers a Major Survival Advantage in a CD24-dependent Manner
Authors: Mazar Joseph , Brooks Jeanne K. , Peloquin Matthew , Rosario Rosa , Sutton Emma , Longo Matthew , Drehner Dennis , Westmoreland Tamarah J.
Published: January 2024

Direct comparison of the relative expression of CD24.
FIGURE 4 from The Oncolytic Activity of Zika Viral Therapy in Human Neuroblastoma In Vivo Models Confers a Major Survival Advantage in a CD24-dependent Manner
Authors: Mazar Joseph , Brooks Jeanne K. , Peloquin Matthew , Rosario Rosa , Sutton Emma , Longo Matthew , Drehner Dennis , Westmoreland Tamarah J.
Published: January 2024

Evaluation of the Zika viral time course on neuroblastoma tumors by IHC. ZIKV-treated tumors were compared with vehicle-treated tumors at each timepoint. A, IMR-32 tumors were H&E stained at day 0, 2, 5, and 7 posttreatment. Percent necrosis is indicated under each image. B, IMR-32 tumors were stained using a Zika viral NS1 protein antibody at day 0, 2, 5, and 7 posttreatment. C, SK-N-AS tumors were H&E stained at day 0, 4, 7, and 10 posttreatment. Percent necrosis is indicated under each image. D, SK-N-AS tumors were stained using a Zika viral NS1 protein antibody at day 0, 4, 7, and 10 posttreatment. Tissues were stained using a Leica Bond Maxfive and images were generated using an Olympus BX43 at 40x magnification with a 10x zoom.
FIGURE 3 from The Oncolytic Activity of Zika Viral Therapy in Human Neuroblastoma In Vivo Models Confers a Major Survival Advantage in a CD24-dependent Manner
Authors: Mazar Joseph , Brooks Jeanne K. , Peloquin Matthew , Rosario Rosa , Sutton Emma , Longo Matthew , Drehner Dennis , Westmoreland Tamarah J.
Published: January 2024

Time course of the In vivo modeling of the Zika viral treatment of neuroblastoma tumors. ZIKV was introduced once at a concentration of 2 × 106 pfu for all tumors in NCr nude mice. A, Time course assessment of the application of ZIKV to IMR-32 tumors. Tumor size was measured at day 0, 2, 5, and 7 posttreatment compared with vehicle control treatment. Each timepoint within the study utilized an n = 3 for both vehicle- and Zika-treated cohorts. Error bars represent SD. *, P < 0.05 from Vehicle, unpaired t test, days 2, 5, and 7. B, Viral copy number was also measured in vehicle control treated mice for each timepoint in the IMR-32 tumor model, measuring the tumor, kidneys, spleen, liver, heart, and brain by absolute quantification PCR. C, Time course assessment of the application of ZIKV to SK-N-AS tumors. Tumor size was measured at day 0, 4, 7, and 10 posttreatment compared with vehicle control treatment. Each timepoint within the study utilized an n = 3 for both vehicle- and Zika-treated cohorts. Error bars represent SD. *, P < 0.05 from vehicle, unpaired t test, days 4, 7, and 10. D, Viral copy number was also measured in vehicle control treated mice for each timepoint in SK-N-AS tumor models, measuring the tumor, kidneys, spleen, liver, heart, and brain by absolute quantification PCR. E, Relative expression for CD24 was assessed using qRT-PCR at each timepoint for IMR-32 tumors. F, Relative expression for CD24 was assessed using qRT-PCR at each timepoint for SK-N-AS tumors. Both qRT-PCR studies compare cells with tumors for each neuroblastoma. Expression was normalized to GAPDH. All qPCR data shown are the composite of triplicate wells acquired from triplicate experiments. Error bars represent SD. *, P < 0.05 from In vitro cells, one-way ANOVA for tumor day 0, 4, 7, and10.
FIGURE 1 from The Oncolytic Activity of Zika Viral Therapy in Human Neuroblastoma In Vivo Models Confers a Major Survival Advantage in a CD24-dependent Manner
Authors: Mazar Joseph , Brooks Jeanne K. , Peloquin Matthew , Rosario Rosa , Sutton Emma , Longo Matthew , Drehner Dennis , Westmoreland Tamarah J.
Published: January 2024

Assessment of neuroblastoma patient samples for CD24 expression and permissiveness of ZIKV in Ex Vivo patient isolate. A, Human neuroblastoma patient tissue samples stained for expression of CD24. Representative samples include tumors isolated from the Adrenal gland (Adr), Mediastinum/left posterior (Med), Pelvic cavity (Pel), and Retroperitoneum (Ret) as well as control Peripheral nerve (Per) tissue. Visualization of the tissues was performed using Keyence and quantified using FIJI ImageJ. B, qRT-PCR was performed comparing IMR-32 cells (in vitro), SK-N-AS cells (in vitro), and a neuroblastoma (NB) patient tumor isolate (ex vivo) for CD24 expression. Expression was normalized to GAPDH. All qPCR data shown are the composite of triplicate wells acquired from triplicate experiments. Error bars represent SD. *, P < 0.05 from SK-N-AS Cells, one-way ANOVA for IMR-32 and NB patient. C, Bright-field comparison of ex vivo neuroblastoma patient sample with and without application of ZIKV. Ex vivo tumor was cultured in DMEM, IMDM, MEMα, or RPMI1640 and treated with either 0, 103, 104, or 105 pfu ZIKV. Cultures were assessed over the course of 5 days posttreatment in 40x magnification. D, Time course of cellular toxicity in ex vivo neuroblastoma patient sample with and without application of virus. Cultures were treated with CellTox Green as well as 0, 103, 104, or 105 pfu ZIKV and measured every 24 hours for 5 days. The results were normalized to uninfected (0) controls. Data shown are the composite of sextuplicate wells, performed in triplicate from independent measurements. Error bars represent SD.
The Oncolytic Activity of Zika Viral Therapy in Human Neuroblastoma In Vivo Models Confers a Major Survival Advantage in a CD24-dependent Manner
Authors: Mazar Joseph , Brooks Jeanne K. , Peloquin Matthew , Rosario Rosa , Sutton Emma , Longo Matthew , Drehner Dennis , Westmoreland Tamarah J.
Published: January 2024

Neuroblastoma is the most common extracranial tumor, accounting for 15% of all childhood cancer-related deaths. The long-term survival of patients with high-risk tumors is less than 40%, and MYCN amplification is one of the most common indicators of poor outcomes. Zika virus (ZIKV) is a mosquito-borne flavivirus associated with mild constitutional symptoms outside the fetal period. Our published data showed that high-risk and recurrent neuroblastoma cells are permissive to ZIKV infection, resulting in cell type–specific lysis. In this study, we assessed the efficacy of ZIKV as an oncolytic treatment for high-risk neuroblastoma using in vivo tumor models. Utilizing both MYCN-amplified and non-amplified models, we demonstrated that the application of ZIKV had a rapid tumoricidal effect. This led to a nearly total loss of the tumor mass without evidence of recurrence, offering a robust survival advantage to the host. Detection of the viral NS1 protein within the tumors confirmed that a permissive infection preceded tissue necrosis. Despite robust titers within the tumor, viral shedding to the host was poor and diminished rapidly, correlating with no detectable side effects to the murine host. Assessments from both primary pretreatment and recurrent posttreatment isolates confirmed that permissive sensitivity to ZIKV killing was dependent on the expression of CD24, which was highly expressed in neuroblastomas and conferred a proliferative advantage to tumor growth. Exploiting this viral sensitivity to CD24 offers the possibility of its use as a prognostic target for a broad population of expressing cancers, many of which have shown resistance to current clinical therapies.

Significance:

Sensitivity to the tumoricidal effect of ZIKV on high-risk neuroblastoma tumors is dependent on CD24 expression, offering a prognostic marker for this oncolytic therapy in an extensive array of CD24-expressing cancers.
Maternal and Fetal Outcomes in Critically Ill Patients Infected with COVID‐19: A Case Series
Authors: Tambawala Zenab Yusuf , Cherifi Fatima , Mohsen Wafa , Makhdoom Tazeen , Hamza Lama Khaled
Published: January 2024

Introduction: Maternal mortality is a critical event. Maternal mortality rates over the last century had reduced significantly, at least until the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed three pregnant women who succumbed to severe COVID-19. Results: Despite trying all available known therapies for COVID-19 at the time they presented, such as remdesivir, favipravir, steroid, hydroxychloroquine, pegylated interferon, N-acetyl cysteine, anticoagulants, prone positioning, mechanical ventilation, extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, and early delivery by cesarean, these young women in the reproductive age group could not be saved. Pregnancy was the factor that aggravated COVID-19 pneumonia. Although the patients were given extensive multidisciplinary care, they were not able to survive. However, all three neonates were delivered alive. Conclusion: Three cases of catastrophic fatal maternal outcomes occurred due to severe COVID-19 pneumonia, even though all available treatments were provided.
Inventando a nação: aspectos do nacionalismo literário romântico Israelense pré-independência, suas origens e contradições
Authors: Oliveira Leopoldo Osório de
Published: January 2024

Poderia uma literatura de alguns imigrantes judeus, das mais variadas procedências e falantes nativos de uma miríade de idiomas, produzida em um local cuja soberania política e a autonomia cultural ainda não passava de um ideal, a Palestina, e escrita em uma língua arcaica e morta (ao menos na fala), eminente usada em escritos religiosos, com pouquíssimas relações com vida cotidiana deste grupo heterogêneo aspirar ao status de uma literatura nacional ou nacionalista, que exprimisse o caráter do povo e suas mais amplas aspirações? Poderia a ideologia política, a herança e as tradições históricas e religiosas, já bastante diluídas no secularismo desde a subida de Napoleão Bonaparte ao poder, elevar tal literatura, e, por conseguinte, tal língua, a este status? Partindo destes questionamentos e tomando como base as principais características da literatura romântica em geral, investigaremos os modelos de produção literária, prosa e poesia, do chamado Romantismo Israelense e suas contradições quanto aos pressupostos da estética em questão.
Characteristics of Turbulence Intermittency, Fine Structure, and Flux Correction in the Taklimakan Desert
Authors: Zhang Lu , Zhang Hongsheng , Cai Xuhui , Song Yu , Zhang Xiaoye
Published: January 2024

The Taklimakan Desert is one of key climate regions in East Asia, both highly influencing and highly sensitive to local/regional climate change. Based on a comprehensive observation experiment from 1 to 31 May 2022 in the hinterland of the Taklimakan Desert, the characteristics and mechanisms of turbulence intermittency are investigated in this study, with the purpose to correct turbulent fluxes. Using an improved algorithm to decompose turbulence and submeso motions, two intermittency regimes are recognized in the Taklimakan Desert, namely, D and T intermittency and onD intermittency. The former occurs under strongly stable conditions, characterized by the coexistence of dynamic and thermodynamic turbulence intermittency. The latter occurs under strongly unstable conditions and represents only dynamic turbulence intermittency. Physically, the D and T intermittency regime is related to submeso waves, whereas the onD regime is caused by the horizontal convergence/divergence of convective circulations. With the influence of intermittency and submeso motions, the observed turbulent statistics deviate from reality, which would mask the similarity relationships. To overcome the problem, turbulent statistics are corrected by removing submeso components from original fluctuations. The effectiveness of this method is demonstrated based on the flux–gradient relationships. It is also suggested that, for a big dataset, the impact of onD intermittency can be simply corrected by a correction factor while that of D and T intermittency cannot. The results of this study are helpful to develop the parameterization of turbulent exchange processes in the Taklimakan Desert, which is significant to improve the accuracy of weather forecasting and climate prediction.

Significance Statement

The Taklimakan Desert plays an important role in the evolution of weather and climate in East Asia. With strong surface thermal forcing, turbulence often shows distinctive intermittency, which largely constrains the evaluation of land–atmosphere exchange in this key climate region. This study aims to understand the characteristics of turbulence intermittency and its physical mechanisms, and further to correct the influence of turbulence intermittency on turbulent fluxes in the Taklimakan Desert. This is significant because the results are helpful to improve the parameterization of subgrid processes in the key climate region for atmospheric models, which points the way toward enhancing the accuracy of weather forecasting and climate prediction.
Why Is the Westward Rossby Wave Propagation from the California Coast “Too Fast”?
Authors: Clarke Allan J. , Buchanan Sean
Published: January 2024

Past work has shown that interannual California coastal sea level variability is mostly of equatorial origin, and decades of satellite sea surface height (SSH) and in situ dynamic height observations indicate that this interannual signal propagates westward from the California coast as nondispersive Rossby waves (RWs). These observations agree with standard linear vertical mode theory except that even when mean flow and bottom topography are considered, the fastest baroclinic vertical mode RW in each case is always much slower (1.6–2.3 cm s−1) than the observed 4.2 cm s−1. This order-1 disagreement is only resolved if the standard bottom boundary condition that the vertical velocity w′ = 0 is replaced by perturbation pressure p′ = 0. Zero p′ is an appropriate bottom boundary condition because south of San Francisco the northeastern Pacific Ocean boundary acts approximately like an impermeable vertical wall to the interannual equatorial wave signal, and therefore equatorial quasigeostrophic p′ is horizontally constant along the boundary. Thus, if equatorial p′ = 0 at the bottom, then this condition also applies off California. The large-scale equatorial ocean boundary signal is due to wind-forced eastward group velocity equatorial Kelvin waves, which at interannual and lower frequencies propagate at such a shallow angle to the horizontal that none of the baroclinic equatorial Kelvin wave signal reaches the ocean floor before striking the eastern Pacific boundary. Off California this signal can thus be approximated by a first baroclinic mode with p′ = 0 at the bottom, and hence the long RW speed there agrees with that observed (both approximately 4.2 cm s−1).

Significance Statement

The California Current System is one of the most biologically rich and best-documented coastal regions in the world. In this region coastal sea level propagates westward from the coast at about 110 km month−1, slow enough to enable us to make large-scale ocean climate forecasts of the California Current ecosystem using coastal sea level. Although the westward speed seems slow, theoretically it is about double what we would expect. Offered here is an explanation of why this speed is “too fast” by linking the California wave signal to the equator, El Niño, and the shallow equatorial ocean response to the wind.
Impact of Periodontitis on the Leakage of Oral Bacteria to the Gut
Authors: Buetas E. , Jordán-López M. , López-Roldán A. , Mira A. , Carda-Diéguez M.
Published: January 2024

Colorectal cancer (CRC) and periodontitis have recently been related due to the higher incidence of CRC in periodontal patients and the involvement of periodontal pathogens in carcinogenesis, suggesting that leakage from the oral cavity to the gut occurs. However, the magnitude of this pass-through in healthy individuals is controversial, and the effect that periodontitis could play in it is understudied. To evaluate the rate of bacterial leakage from the oral cavity to the gut, we analyzed the microbial composition of saliva, subgingival plaque, and fecal samples in healthy individuals without gastrointestinal disorders, including 20 periodontitis patients and 20 oral healthy controls, using PacBio full-length 16S rRNA gene sequencing. As expected, we observed a higher abundance of periodontal pathogens in the subgingival plaque and saliva of periodontal patients. In contrast, no significant differences were found between the fecal samples of both groups, implying that gut samples from periodontal patients were not enriched in periodontal pathogens. Fusobacterium nucleatum, a biomarker of CRC, was not found in the fecal samples of any participant. Our study does show a small leakage of some oral bacteria (mainly streptococci) to the gut, regardless of periodontal health status. Future studies should test whether other host factors and/or the preexistence of a gut disorder must be present in addition to periodontitis to promote the colonization of the gut by oral pathogens. The absence of periodontal pathogens in feces supports the idea that these bacteria could be used as biomarkers of intestinal disorders, including CRC.
Experiential Avoidance, Post-Traumatic Stress Symptoms, and Academic Impairment
Authors: Laman-Maharg Benjamin , Valentiner David P. , Szöllös Sebastian , Mounts Nina S.
Published: January 2024

The ways in which Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) symptoms lead to impairments in functioning, including academic performance, are not well understood. The present study sought to examine the role of a common maladaptive coping strategy, experiential avoidance, as a moderator of the relationship between posttraumatic stress symptoms (PTSS) and academic achievement. Participants ( N = 326) were undergraduate students enrolled in introductory psychology courses at a large university in the Midwestern United States who reported at least one event potentially meeting Criterion A for PTSD. The prospective association of PTSS with current and subsequent semester GPAs, and with experiential avoidance as the moderator, were examined. The interaction between PTSS and experiential avoidance significantly predicted both current semester GPA and subsequent semester GPA, with stronger associations between PTSS and GPA being observed at higher levels of experiential avoidance. These results were not fully explained by control variables of high school performance, standardized test scores, and general negative affect. This study found that experiential avoidance significantly moderates the relationship between PTSS and academic performance. These results suggest that interventions that target PTSS and/or experiential avoidance may increase GPA. Limitations and future directions are discussed.
Greenhouse gas emissions from petroleum production in Guyana: An examination of the implications for the country's net carbon sink status
Authors: Bynoe Paulette , Wood Shevon , Simmons Denise
Published: January 2024

The emerging petroleum production sector has been positively impacting Guyana's economic prospects while contributing to an anticipated increase in the country's greenhouse gas emissions. This article presents a case study that adopts a convergent mixed methods approach. The methods selected for data collection consisted of in-depth interviews, document review and quantitative analysis to examine the implications of the GHG emissions from Guyana's emerging petroleum production sector for the country's net carbon sink status. The article explores measures to enable Guyana to remain a net carbon sink. The study reveals that fugitive emissions were the highest component of greenhouse gas emissions, mostly accounted for by flaring and venting from well testing and flaring from conventional petroleum production. The annual GHG emissions from petroleum production for 2025, 2027 and 2030 were 9034, 13,397 and 20,516 kilotons of CO2e, respectively. Moreover, the combination of the emissions from the oil and gas production and those from three scenarios of growth in Guyana's energy sector, the total annual GHG emissions could vary from 4445 kilotons of CO2e by 2025 to the largest amount of 24,888 kilotons of CO2e by 2030 across various scenarios and conditions. Further, the highest total GHG emissions for 2025 would be 11,015 kilotons CO2e compared to a sequestration rate of 154,060 kilotons CO2 (7%) for 2025. In 2027, the highest total GHG emissions would be 16,234 kilotons CO2e as compared to a sequestration rate of 153,860 kilotons CO2 (11%). No negative implication for Guyana's net carbon sink is projected. However, Guyana should review, update and implement policies to mitigate GHG emissions and offset unavoidable ones. This research highlights the efforts of Guyana to adopt a development path that seeks to fulfil obligations to the UNFCCC and the Paris Accord while improving the social and economic well-being of its citizens.
Detailed investigation of Mn-substituted Zn ferrites for microwave applications up to 6 GHz
Authors: Ahmad Mukhtar , Amin Khurshid , Rehman Atiq ur , Wahab Abdul , Wabaidur Saikh Mohammad
Published: January 2024

Mn-substituted Zn ferrites with chemical formula Zn1−xMnxFe2O4 (0.0, 0.1, 0.2, 0.3) were synthesised via sol-gel auto-combustion. The structural analysis reveals that tetrahedral lengths decrease while octahedral lengths increase due to strong affinity of large ionic radii Mn for octahedral sites as compared to Zn. Scanning electron microscopy reveals that the grain size of all the ferrites lies in the range 200–250 nm. Hysteresis loops of all samples show the coercivity to be several hundred Oersted, indicating the soft magnetic nature of spinel ferrites. High-frequency parameters like complex permittivity and permeability, direct conductivity and loss tangent were measured against varying frequencies (∼ 6 GHz) for a selected sample.
Microstructure and mechanical properties of electroless Ni–P–Si3N4–TiN composite coatings
Authors: Li Qiangguo , Ni Ming , Huang Weigang
Published: January 2024

A high performance electroless Ni–P–Si3N4–TiN multi-nanocomposite coating was prepared on the surface of AZ31 Mg alloy. The results showed that the surface morphology of this multi-nanocomposite coating exhibits a uniform nodular structure, and the nodular size decreases clearly while increasing TiN nanoparticle concentrations to 2 g/L in the bath, resulting in the finest size of approximately 3 μm. Furthermore, the incorporation of TiN nanoparticles and Si3N4 nanowires into the Ni–P matrix can significantly enhance the microhardness and reduce the friction coefficient of the multi-nanocomposite coatings. The maximum hardness value of 921.4 HV200 and lowest friction coefficient of 0.54 as well as minimum wear weight loss of 0.7 mg can be also reached at a TiN nanoparticle concentration of 2 g/L.
Performance of an adjustable compression wrap in occupational leg swelling
Authors: Taha Wassila , Benigni Jean Patrick , Uhl Jean François , Carpentier Patrick H , Filori Pascal , Bishara Rashad
Published: January 2024

Background

Edema in some subjects worsens over time and wraps help to reduce the leg volume.

Material and methods

An adjustable compression wrap was tried on volunteers for 5 h and volumes measured in each limb before and after wrapping using a 3D surface scanner (HandySCAN 3D®) to estimate the volume of the leg. The contralateral leg was used as control.

Results

We observed a significant decrease in volume in the wrap legs and an increase in the control legs ( p < .001), both in the lower part of leg ( p = .001) and in the upper part ( p = .001).

Conclusions

Using the Readywrap® for 5 hours significantly reduces the leg volume. This study enables Readywrap to be studied in a population that is easy to observe in the context of a research program. The Handyscan3D® was shown accurate and reproducible to assess leg volume in future studies.
‘I guess that’s the price of decentralisation… ’: Understanding scam victimisation experiences in an online cryptocurrency community
Authors: Childs Andrew
Published: January 2024

There is a distinct lack of criminological research examining victimisation experiences in emerging cryptocurrency frauds. At the same time, online cryptocurrency communities have become a key part of the social milieu of the cryptocurrency ecosystem where scams are commonplace. Using Reddit forum data from the subreddit r/ CryptoCurrency, this exploratory qualitative study investigates how users in an online cryptocurrency community share knowledge and experiences of cryptocurrency scams. Thematic analysis revealed how online cryptocurrency communities discuss scams by (1) arming the community (e.g. newcomer guides, personal disclosures of scam victimisation, and reflections on the technological affordances in scams); and (2) establishing community norms in response to cryptocurrency scams (e.g. protecting the community, ‘scambaiting’ practices, normalising scams as an outcome of ‘decentralisation’). Gaining a deeper understanding of cryptocurrency scam experiences provides timely insights into the intersections between victims/offenders in digital environments, how we can respond to the recent growth in cryptocurrency scams, and the variegated ways that victims seek assistance following experiences.
Caroli disease combined with Banti syndrome in a woman: a case report
Authors: Yu Shian , Yuan Hang , Cao Yong
Published: January 2024

Caroli disease is a rare congenital malformation that predisposes to segmental cystic dilatation of the intrahepatic bile ducts. Banti syndrome is characterized by persistent splenomegaly due to chronic congestion, resulting in a low hematocrit and ultimately leading to pancytopenia. In this report, we describe a 29-year-old woman who presented with a >20-year history of hepatitis B surface antigen positivity and a >1-year history of recurrent fatigue and malaise. On examination, the patient had abdominal distension with marked splenomegaly (7 cm below the ribs) and ascites with tenderness of the abdominal muscles to palpation. A complete blood count showed a low white blood cell count, red blood cell count, and hemoglobin concentration. During the course of treatment, the patient developed multiple symptoms of pancytopenia and concomitant splenomegaly, and she was discharged after total splenectomy with good recovery. The combination of Banti syndrome and Caroli disease results in severe symptoms of portal hypertension.
A project-based learning (PBL) on gas dynamic concepts using hydraulic analogy technique
Authors: Rajamurugu Natarajan
Published: January 2024

This article suggests the hydraulic analogy technique as a cost-effective approach for flow visualization in fluid mechanics, particularly in dealing with challenges related to supersonic flow, such as shock waves and flow past wedges. The project-based learning approach is adopted to engage students in the study effectively. This active learning method allows students to actively participate in research activities, from setting project goals to designing and executing experiments. The article highlights the positive impact of project-based learning on students’ learning outcomes through internal and external evaluations. The study shows that project-based learning enhances technical competence and encourages a lifelong passion for learning. The cost-effectiveness of the hydraulic analogy method inspires neighbouring academic institutions to consider similar approaches, further promoting the use of practical and affordable solutions for flow visualization experiments.
Comprehensive Selection of Base Asphalt Binders for Effective Formulation of Polymer-Modified Asphalts
Authors: Kumbargeri Yogesh , Planche Jean-Pascal , Adams Jeramie J. , Rovani Joseph , Elwardany Michael D.
Published: January 2024

Polymer-modified asphalts (PMAs) are known to improve the rutting, cracking, and durability of pavements, especially creating better resistance to aging susceptibility. Although the properties, benefits, and performance of PMAs overall are fairly well known and talked about in the asphalt industry, the key aspect of selecting a good base binder for effective styrene–butadiene–styrene compatibility and enhanced performance still remains largely unexplored, and is generally based on trial-and-error methodologies. The main objective of this study was to perform in-depth physical, chemical, rheological, and microstructure characterization of base (neat/unmodified) and corresponding PMA binders to understand and quantify important aspects of their composition that would contribute to developing robust and better-performing PMAs. The experimental matrix included three base asphalt binders from different sources but similar SuperpaveTM performance grades (PG) and three corresponding PMAs. A comprehensive characterization effort was carried out on these binders that included PG grading, Black Space analysis, G* master curves, determination of ΔTc, determination of saturates, aromatics, resins, and asphaltenes fractions, differential scanning calorimetry, size-exclusion chromatography, Fourier transform infrared, and microscopy. The key outcome of this study is a set of guidelines and recommendations for preferable characteristics of base binders that contribute to formulating effective PMAs and certain “dos and don’ts” with respect to the interpretation of data and/or the analysis approach. It is expected that the outcome of this study will become an important tool for formulating well-performing PMAs that will be useful to asphalt and additive suppliers as well as contractors, agencies, or both, that procure, handle, and use PMAs for pavement applications in general.
How to influence food waste behaviour of urban residents? The combined effect of network embeddedness and incentive measures
Authors: Cheng Xiu , Zhang Jie , Zhang Linling
Published: January 2024

Residents’ food waste is a key part of environmental sustainability and food security. This study investigates influencing factors in reducing food waste by constructing a conceptual model examining the relationship between network embeddedness (NE) and food waste behaviour (FWB), using questionnaire data from 853 urban residents in eastern China, as well as the moderating role of incentive measures (IMs). We find that NE consists of three dimensions: structural embeddedness, relational embeddedness and functional embeddedness. There is an inverted-U-shaped relationship between structural embeddedness and food waste reduction behaviour, whereas relational embeddedness and functional embeddedness positively correlate with food waste reduction behaviour. Furthermore, IMs significantly strengthen the inverted-U-shaped relationship between NE and food waste reduction behaviour. This article reveals the significance of NE and IMs in influencing FWB, expands the application fields of NE and provides valuable guidance for policymakers to better utilize policy interventions.
Artificial Intelligence and Deep Learning in Preservation Rhinoplasty: A Review
Authors: Ghasemi Shohreh , Dashti Mahmood
Published: January 2024

Study Design:

This review explores the potential applications of artificial intelligence (AI) and deep learning in preservation rhinoplasty. Preservation rhinoplasty is a surgical technique that aims to enhance the aesthetic appearance of the nose while preserving its natural structures and functions. Artificial intelligence and deep learning offer new avenues for improving surgical planning, intraoperative guidance, and postoperative analysis in this specialized field.

Objective:

The objective of this review is to examine how AI and deep learning can enhance preservation rhinoplasty by providing tools for precise surgical planning, real-time guidance during surgery, and comprehensive postoperative analysis.

Methods:

The review synthesizes information from relevant studies and articles in the field of rhinoplasty, AI, and deep learning. It discusses the potential benefits and challenges associated with the integration of AI into preservation rhinoplasty, drawing from the literature and expert insights.

Results:

The review highlights several key findings:

Surgical Planning:

Artificial intelligence can analyze preoperative imaging data to assist surgeons in planning the procedure accurately. It can predict postoperative outcomes and enhance discussions with patients.

Intraoperative Guidance:

Artificial intelligence can provide real-time guidance to surgeons, ensuring the preservation of natural nasal structures during surgery.

Postoperative Analysis:

Artificial intelligence can automate the analysis of postoperative images and patient-reported outcomes, aiding in assessing surgical success and patient satisfaction.

Challenges and Ethical Considerations:

The integration of AI in preservation rhinoplasty should prioritize patient safety, ethical considerations, and validation to ensure its effectiveness.

Conclusions:

Artificial intelligence has the potential to greatly impact the field of preservation rhinoplasty. Using advanced algorithms and machine learning techniques, AI can assist surgeons in analyzing patient data, predicting outcomes, and optimizing surgical techniques. This technology can help improve surgical precision, reduce complications, and enhance patient satisfaction. However, it is important to note that AI should be seen as a tool to support and enhance the surgeon’s expertise rather than replacing human judgment and experience. As AI continues to evolve, it is crucial for surgeons to stay updated with the latest advancements and incorporate them judiciously into their practice to achieve the best possible outcomes for their patients.
Impact of Sedation Practices on Mortality in COVID-19-Associated Adult Respiratory Distress Syndrome Patients: A Multicenter Retrospective Descriptive Study
Authors: Alwakeel Mahmoud , Wang Yan , Torbic Heather , Sacha Gretchen L. , Wang Xiaofeng , Abi Fadel Francois , Duggal Abhijit
Published: January 2024

Background: Reduction in sedation exposure is an important metric in intensive care unit (ICU) patients. However, challenges arose during the coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic in adhering to this practice, driven by concerns on transmission and disease severity issues. Accordingly, diverse sedation approaches emerged, although the effect on mortality has not been studied thoroughly. Methods: Retrospective cohort study in the medical ICU of seven hospitals within a major Health System in Northeast Ohio. We included all adult patients admitted with COVID-19 requiring invasive mechanical ventilation (IMV) from March 2020 to December 2021. Results: Study included 2394 COVID-19 patients requiring IMV. Across waves, sample included 55-63% male subjects, with an average age of 61-68 years ( P < 0.001), Acute Physiologic and Chronic Health Evaluation (APACHE)-III score 65.8-68.9 ( P = 0.37), median IMV duration 8-10 days ( P = 0.14), and median ICU duration 9.8-11.6 days ( P = 0.084). Propofol remained the primary sedative (84-92%; P = 0.089). Ketamine use increased from the first (9.7%) to fourth (19%) wave ( P = 0.002). Midazolam use decreased from the first (27.4%) to third (9.4%) wave ( P = 0.001). Dexmedetomidine use declined from 35% to 27-28% ( P = 0.002) after the first wave. A multivariable regression analysis indicated clinical variables explained 34% of the variation in hospital mortality (R2). Factors associated with higher mortality included age [aOR = 1.059 (95% CI 1.049-1.069); P < 0.001], COVID-19 wave, especially fourth wave [aOR = 2.147, (95% CI 1.370-3.365); P = 0.001], and higher number of vasopressors [aOR = 31.636, (95% CI 17.603-56.856); P < 0.001]. Addition of sedative medications to a second model led to an increase in the R2 by only 1.6% to 35.6% [aOR = 1 (95% CI 1-1); P > 0.05] for propofol, ketamine, and midazolam. Dexmedetomidine demonstrated a decrease in the odds of mortality [aOR = 0.96 (95% CI 0.94-0.97); P < 0.001]. Conclusion: Mortality in critical COVID-19 patients was mostly driven by illness severity, and the choice of sedation might have minimal impact when other factors are controlled.
Assessing Public Opinion Regarding Appropriate Responses to Would-be Mass Shooters: Applying a Balanced Justice Framework
Authors: Sloas Lincoln B. , Cesar Gabriel
Published: January 2024

The unpredictable and widespread threat of mass shootings make them a concern that could affect anyone, anywhere. As such, being able to interrupt the process of planning and conducting a mass shooting represents a matter of public safety. Willingness to report, particularly on loved ones or associates, ultimately requires the public to be supportive of the interventions they think will be applied. In this study, we analyzed responses to an online “opt-in” survey ( n = 274) that measured public opinion regarding how punitive (or therapeutic) the public at large suppose the sanctions for planning (but not [yet] conducting) a mass shooting should be. Our findings suggest the public is supportive of a balanced justice approach for both juveniles and adults, with and without mental illness, who plan a mass shooting when given the option.
Experimental and numerical investigation on the influence of different detailed and deformed tires on the aerodynamics of electric vehicles
Authors: Ren Chao , Fan Mengyu
Published: January 2024

To increase the driving range of electric vehicles, the reduction of aerodynamic drag plays an extremely important role. The wheels contribute more than a quarter of the overall aerodynamic drag for electric cars with relatively smooth underbody. As an essential component of the wheel, the aerodynamic performance of tires has also received extensive attention in recent years. This study investigated the influence of four different production tires combined with two rim designs on the vehicle’s aerodynamic performance based on an electric SUV. The wind tunnel tests were conducted to evaluate the aerodynamic forces, and the flow field changes around the tires were measured using a 14-hole pressure probe. Then, the dynamic deformation of the tires was captured to reproduce the actual tire geometry for simulation. The reasons for the drag differences caused by varying tires were thoroughly analyzed by comparing simulation and experimental results. The results show that the difference in drag coefficient between tires reaches up to 0.015, and the enlarged upstream separation induced by the front tires also alters the rear wake structure, significantly reducing base pressure. The effect of tire sidewall labeling and separation edge on drag was isolated by simulation, where the labeling protruding from the sidewall raises the drag coefficient by 0.004, accompanied by more vortices, while the separation edge increases the drag by up to 0.005 depending on its strength and number. It was also found that the dynamic deformation expands the size difference between tires, further increasing the drag differences.
Ostracod palaeolimnology as an indicator of past human–environment interactions in Chełm Hills, south-eastern Poland
Authors: Kulesza Piotr
Published: January 2024

Both modern and historical data show that lake systems are undergoing profound changes because of human impacts from local to global scales. Research on this topic shows that human pressure on water systems can take various forms and is highly variable in time and space. This article presents the results of Ostracoda fauna research as an indicator of anthropogenic changes covering the time span from 7000 BP to the Mediaeval Period. The palaeoecological information (abundance and habitat preferences of Ostracoda assemblages) obtained in studies of fossil Ostracoda fauna communities amplified by palynological and archaeological data allowed to answer the following questions: (1) to what extent the impact of successive archaeological settlement cultures caused ecological changes in the lake catchment areas without directly affecting the lakes themselves, and when anthropogenic pressure caused transformations in the functioning of lake ecosystems and (2) whether the neolithization, as the first clearly legible stage of anthropopression, had a decisive influence on the functioning of lake ecosystems. Results of Ostracoda fauna studies have been compared with archaeological data available in the literature and multiproxy paleoenvironmental data previously published in a study of lake sediments in the Chełm Hills in South-Eastern Poland. Presented results of study of Ostracoda in lake sediments as a bioindicators of anthropogenic impact suggest that the pressure of prehistoric settlement in older phases (up to the early Middle Ages) was most clearly reflected in the landscape, while the functioning of lake ecosystems was disturbed only by the periodic increase in lake trophic status. A substantial change resulting from the analysis of the subfossil Ostracoda in all the studied lake ecosystems occurred in the phase of settlement related to the Early Middle Ages, which was reflected in the permanently changed species composition of the fauna.
The Significance of Insulinoma-Associated Protein 1 in the Pathological Diagnosis of Small-Cell Lung Cancer in Biopsy Specimens
Authors: Yan Limin , Zhao Xueli , Chang Liming , Jiang Haixian , Zhang Zhiyong
Published: January 2024

Objective: Our purpose was to investigate the clinicopathological diagnostic value of immunohistochemical antibody for insulinoma-associated protein 1 (INSM1) in biopsy specimens of SCLC. Methods: Biopsy specimens of SCLC diagnosed at the pathology department of Tangshan Gongren Hospital from January 2022 to June 2023 were selected. INSM1 expression was detected and compared with conventional neuroendocrine markers synaptophysin (SYP), chromogranin A (CHGA), and CD56 regarding expression sensitivity and specificity. Results: The sensitivity of INSM1 expression was significantly higher than that of CHGA (95% vs 50%, P = .000), but there was no statistically significant difference in the specificity of INSM1, SYP, CHGA, and CD56 expression (100% vs 94% vs 98% vs 92%, respectively, P = .241, 1.000, .126). Conclusions: INSM1 antibody shows high sensitivity and specificity in the expression of SCLC and serves as a reliable immunohistochemical marker in the clinicopathological diagnosis of SCLC in biopsy specimens.