bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Solid Electrolyte Interphase Formation at the Ionic Liquid Electrolyte—Lithium-Metal Interface Using an Ab Initio Molecular Dynamics Approach
Authors: Galvez-Aranda Diego E. , Seminario Jorge M.
Published: March 2024

An interfacial study is performed using ab initio molecular dynamics (AIMD) simulations to elucidate the electrochemical interfacial stability of an ionic liquid (IL) as component of an electrolyte in contact with a Li-metal anode when an additive, vinylene carbonate (VC), is added to the electrolyte. The IL electrolyte is composed of 1-butyl-1-methylpyrrolidinium bis(fluoro-sulfonyl)-imide (PYR14+FSI−) with lithium bis(trifluoromethane-sulfonyl)imide salt (Li+TFSI−) in a 8:2 concentration ratio. Reactions observed at the interface electrolyte/Li-metal during the AIMD simulations are verified by electronic structure calculations using density functional theory calculations considering a continuum solvent model. We found that the addition of VC to the IL prevents further reduction of the counter-ion TFSI− and retards reduction of FSI− in comparison to the case when the additive VC is absent. The PYR14+ reduction is never observed with or without the additive. The 1st, 2nd, and 3rd electron affinities of the PYR14+ are −0.08, −0.36 and −3.65 eV, indicating little to large repulsive behavior against electrons. The opposite is observed for the two negative ions, FSI− and TFSI−, which yield 1st electron affinities of 1.73 and 1.83 eV, respectively. Reactions obtained under open circuit conditions. Dissociation mechanisms are presented for all IL components reduced at the IL/Li-metal interface.
Antibacterial and Antioxidant Efficacies of Secondary Metabolites from the Roots of Cyphostemma adenocaule: A Combined In Vitro and In Silico Study
Authors: Gebrehiwot Hadush , Melaku Yadessa , Aliye Muhdin , Ensermu Urgessa , Dekebo Aman , Endale Milkyas , Rentsch Daniel , Hunsen Mo
Published: March 2024

Cyphostemma adenocaule is a therapeutic plant traditionally used to treat rabies, snake bite, diarrhea, and wound healing. To address the bioactive compounds exhibiting these activities, we performed a comprehensive study on the roots of the plant. Thus, the present study aims to inspect the in vitro antioxidant and antibacterial efficacies of compounds isolated from the combined dichloromethane : methanol (1 : 1) and methanol extracts of C. adenocaule along with the in silico study of their interaction with selected protein targets. The silica gel column chromatography technique was used for the isolation of compounds, and the antibacterial and antioxidant activities were evaluated using agar disc diffusion and DPPH radical scavenging assays, respectively. Furthermore, in silico molecular docking screening, pharmacokinetics, and toxicity protocols of the compound isolates were performed to offer the potential applications of the compounds in developing novel medications. A BIOVIA Discovery Studio in combination with AutoDock Vina 4.2 software, SwissADME, and ProTox-II prediction web tools were used to generate the molecular docking, pharmacokinetics, and toxicity profiles, respectively. Notably, the chromatographic separation of the combined extracts yielded six known compounds, namely, β-sitosterol (1), 3-hydroxyisoagatholactone (2), ε-viniferin (3), myricetin (4), tricuspidatol A (5), and parthenocissin A (6). The in vitro antibacterial activities revealed the highest inhibition zone by tricuspidatol A (5) (16.67 ± 0.47), showcasing its potent activity against S. aureus at 2 mg/mL, compared to ciprofloxacin (21.50 ± 0.41). ε-Viniferin (3) (IC50: 0.32 μg/mL) exhibited greater antioxidant activity than the others and displayed promising results compared to ascorbic acid (0.075 μg/mL). The molecular docking study revealed the highest binding affinity by ε-viniferin (3) (−9.9 kcal/mol) against topoisomerase II α. 3-Hydroxyisoagatholactone (2) and ε-viniferin (3) fulfilled Lipinski’s rule with no violation, and the organ toxicity predictions revealed that all the compounds showed no cytotoxicity and hepatotoxicity effects. Thus, this study’s combined in vitro and in silico outcomes suggest the potential use of the isolated compounds in drug discovery and support the traditional relevance of C. adenocaule.
Clinical and Imaging Characteristics of Smear Negative Pulmonary Tuberculosis Patients: A Comparative Study
Authors: Alemayehu Alem , Wassie Liya , Neway Sebsib , Ayele Samuel , Assefa Abraham , Bobosha Kidist , Petros Beyene , Howe Rawleigh
Published: March 2024

Background. Prevalence surveys in Ethiopia indicate smear negative pulmonary tuberculosis (SNPTB) taking the major share of the overall TB burden. It has also been a diagnostic dilemma worldwide leading to diagnostic delays and difficulty in monitoring treatment outcomes. This study determines and compares the clinical and imaging findings in SNPTB and smear positive PTB (SPPTB). Methodology. A case-control study was conducted on 313 PTB (173 SNPTB) patients. Data and sputum samples were collected from consented patients. Smear microscopy, GeneXpert, and culture analyses were performed on sputum samples. Data were analyzed using Stata version 17; a P value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results. Of the 173 SNPTB patients, 42% were culture positive with discordances between test results reported by health facilities and Armauer Hansen Research Institute laboratory using concentrated smear microscopy. A previous history of TB and fewer cavitary lesions were significantly associated with SNPTB. Conclusions. Though overall clinical presentations of SNPTB patients resemble those seen in SPPTB patients, a prior history of TB was strongly associated with SNPTB. Subject to further investigations, the relatively higher discrepancies seen in TB diagnoses reflect the posed diagnostic challenges in SNPTB patients, as a higher proportion of these patients are also seen in Ethiopia.
The Influence of Connection on Early Career Nurses’ Rural Experiences: A Descriptive Phenomenological Study
Authors: Barry Rebecca , Kernaghan Latitia , Green Elyce , Seaman Claire Ellen
Published: March 2024

Introduction. Rural nursing careers offer a multitude of benefits for individuals. Despite this, there continues to be a growing deficit in the number of nurses choosing to practice in rural areas. As the first 12–18 months of a nursing career are fundamental in shaping career location decisions, it is important to explore factors that influence early career nurses’ employment decisions. Methods. A phenomenological study was undertaken to explore early career nurses’ experiences during their first year of rural practice and describe how the nurses’ experiences influenced their decision to remain in rural employment. Data were collected via semistructured interviews and underwent inductive thematic analysis. Results. Seven early career nurses practicing in rural locations were interviewed and described several influences on their career location decisions, particularly related to whether they would stay in or leave their rural employer. The themes derived from the nurses’ stories included the effect of their vulnerability entering a new workplace, the importance of connection to person, place, and profession and the nuances of rural nursing rhythms. These had implications on their employment decisions. Conclusion. This research demonstrates the distinct form of nursing practice that occurs in rural areas which was experienced by the early career nurses as a breadth of skills, volume of presentations, and continuity of care. The nurses described the importance of establishing connections to person, place, and their profession. These connections can support nurses through a period of vulnerability entering a new workplace.
Autoreactive Antibodies Associated with Castleman Disease Triad
Authors: Turner Jacqueline A. , Hakimi Ali , Lee Hannah , Schowinsky Jeffrey T. , Sippel Jeffrey M. , Siegele Bradford J. , Torres Raul M. , Robinson William A.
Published: March 2024

The Castleman triad has been described in a select few patients presenting with a retroperitoneal mass, mucocutaneous pemphigus vulgaris, and bronchiolitis obliterans. Here, we describe the Castleman triad in a 19-year-old male with unicentric hyaline vascular type Castleman disease (HV-CD). This patient presented with an array of positive antibodies, including anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide, anti-double-stranded DNA, and Sjogren’s IgG. Interestingly, the patient’s rheumatologic symptoms resolved after tumor resection, while his antibody profile remained relatively unchanged. HV-CD, with a triad presentation, was thought to be from a paraneoplastic syndrome secondary to an underlying lymphoproliferative disorder. The findings presented here identify multiple autoantibodies potentially contributing to this patient’s presentation with HV-CD.
The Influence of Preoperative Neurological Complications on Outcomes after Surgery for Infective Endocarditis
Authors: Al-Tawil Mohammed , Friedrich Christine , Mandler Kira , Brandl Julia , Salem Mohamed , Schoettler Jan , de Silva Nora , Puehler Thomas , Cremer Jochen , Haneya Assad
Published: March 2024

Background. Infective endocarditis (IE) is considered a life‐threatening cardiac infection with a predilection to involve heart valves. One of the most feared complications of IE is the development of new‐onset neurological complications (NCs). The aim of this study is to compare the short‐ and long‐term outcomes of surgery in patients with IE presenting with vs. without NCs. Methods. We retrospectively reviewed patient records which were regularly collected in our institutional database. Between January 2002 and August 2020, 438 consecutive patients who underwent open cardiac surgery in our university hospital due to IE were included in the retrospective study. Results. Of the total cohort, 89 patients (20.3%) had preoperative NCs. Patients in the NC group were more likely to be female (33.7% vs. 23.5%; P = 0.049), had more acute kindly injury at presentation (22.5% vs. 10.0%; P = 0.002), were more likely to be admitted to ICU (36.0% vs. 18.3%; P < 0.001), and had significantly more vegetations (84.3% vs. 69.8%; P = 0.006) and overall higher preoperative embolization (92.1% vs. 11.7%; P < 0.001). Staphylococcus aureus as causative organism of IE was significantly higher in the NC group (35.2% vs. 16.1%; P < 0.001). Patients in the NC group had significantly higher affection of the mitral valve. There was no difference in postoperative outcomes between the two groups. The long‐term survival was also similar in both groups. Preoperative atrial fibrillation (adjusted odds ratio (aOR): 2.03; 95% CI [1.04–3.93]; P = 0.037) and Staphylococcus aureus IE (aOR: 2.60; 95% CI [1.4–4.8]; P = 0.002) were independent risk factors of developing NCs, while previous endocarditis was a protective factor (aOR: 0.33; 95% CI [0.11–0.99]; P = 0.048). Conclusion. Our study emphasizes the shared risk factors between mortality and developing NCs. NCs are critical in IE’s clinical presentation, but they do not independently predict short‐ or long‐term survival following surgery for IE.
Introducing Five New Cancer Grand Challenges Teams
Authors: Scott David , Singer Dinah S.
Published: March 2024

Cancer Grand Challenges is an international funding initiative that aims to unite the world's best scientists to tackle some of cancer's toughest problems by funding team science on a global scale. Here, we discuss the five newly funded teams and the challenges they will address over the coming years.
FIGURE 4 from Single-Cell CD4 and CD8 T-Cell Secretome Profiling Reveals Temporal and Niche Differences in Acute Myeloid Leukemia Following Immune Checkpoint Blockade Therapy
Authors: Root Jessica L. , Desai Poonam N. , Ly Christopher , Wang Bofei , Jelloul Fatima Zahra , Zhou Jing , Mackay Sean , Alfayez Mansour , Matthews Jairo , Pierce Sherry , Reville Patrick K. , Daver Naval , Abbas Hussein A.
Published: March 2024

Single-cell analysis of IsoPlexis data for CD4 cells (left) and CD8 cells (right). A, UMAP visualization colored by sample location (orange for PB, purple for BM). B, UMAP colored by time point (green for baseline, pink for post-therapy). C, Neighborhood graph depicting differential abundance testing results obtained from miloR. Colors represent the log fold-change between baseline (red) and post-IO (blue) cells. White neighborhoods are nondifferential (FDR 10%). The edges depict links between cells shared by neighborhoods. D, Beeswarm plot of the distribution of neighborhoods by timepoint. E, Beeswarm plot of the distribution of neighborhoods by UMAP-based cluster.
Data from Single-Cell CD4 and CD8 T-Cell Secretome Profiling Reveals Temporal and Niche Differences in Acute Myeloid Leukemia Following Immune Checkpoint Blockade Therapy
Authors: Root Jessica L. , Desai Poonam N. , Ly Christopher , Wang Bofei , Jelloul Fatima Zahra , Zhou Jing , Mackay Sean , Alfayez Mansour , Matthews Jairo , Pierce Sherry , Reville Patrick K. , Daver Naval , Abbas Hussein A.
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a heterogeneous malignancy of the blood primarily treated with intensive chemotherapy. The allogeneic T-cell antileukemic activity via donor lymphocyte infusions and stem cell transplantation suggests a potential role for checkpoint blockade therapy in AML. While clinical trials employing these treatments have fallen short of expected results, a deeper exploration into the functional states of T cells in AML could bridge this knowledge gap. In this study, we analyzed the polyfunctional activity of T cells in a cohort of patients with relapsed/refractory (RelRef) AML treated on the clinical trial (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT02397720) of combination therapy using azacitidine and nivolumab (Aza/Nivo). We utilized the single-cell polyfunctional multiplexed immune assay IsoPlexis to evaluate the CD4 and CD8 T cells in peripheral blood and bone marrow samples collected before and after immunotherapy. This revealed at a pseudobulk level that the CD4 T cells exhibited higher functional activity post-immunotherapy (post-IO), suggesting that CD4-directed therapies may play a role in RelRef AML. Additional single-cell analysis revealed significant differences in baseline polyfunctionality in bone marrows of responders as compared with nonresponders for both CD4 and CD8 T cells. Overall, this study highlights the impact of polyfunctional assessment in understanding CD4 and CD8 dynamics in contexts of therapy in AML.
Significance:
We found T-cell polyfunctionality differs between local and systemic microenvironments. Enhanced variability in proteomic profiles of bone marrow CD4 T cells post-IO suggests their pivotal role in AML treatment response. Single-cell analysis identified novel CD4 and CD8 T-cell functional groups linked to immunotherapy response within the bone marrow.
Association of Biological Age with Tumor Microenvironment in Patients with Esophageal Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Ravensbergen Cor , van Holstein Yara , Hagenaars Sophie , Crobach Stijn , Trompet Stella , Portielje Johanneke , de Glas Nienke , van Heemst Diana , van den Bos Frederiek , Tollenaar Rob , Mesker Wilma , Mooijaart Simon , Slingerland Marije
Published: March 2024

Introduction: Esophageal cancer is the seventh most common cancer worldwide and typically tends to manifest at an older age. Marked heterogeneity in time-dependent functional decline in older adults results in varying grades of clinically manifest patient fitness or frailty. The biological age-related adaptations that accompany functional decline have been shown to modulate the non-malignant cells comprising the tumor microenvironment (TME). In the current work, we studied the association between biological age and TME characteristics in patients with esophageal adenocarcinoma. Methods: We comparatively assessed intratumoral histologic stroma quantity, tumor immune cell infiltrate, and blood leukocyte and thrombocyte count in 72 patients stratified over 3 strata of biological age (younger <70 years, fit older ≥70 years, and frail older adults ≥70 years), as defined by a geriatric assessment. Results: Frailty in older adults was predictive of decreased intratumoral stroma quantity (B = −14.66% stroma, p = 0.022) relative to tumors in chronological-age-matched fit older adults. Moreover, in comparison to younger adults, frail older adults (p = 0.032), but not fit older adults (p = 0.302), demonstrated a lower blood thrombocyte count at the time of diagnosis. Lastly, we found an increased proportion of tumors with a histologic desert TME histotype, comprising low stroma quantity and low immune cell infiltration, in frail older adults. Conclusion: Our results illustrate the stromal-reprogramming effects of biological age and provide a biological underpinning for the clinical relevance of assessing frailty in patients with esophageal adenocarcinoma, further justifying the need for standardized geriatric assessment in geriatric cancer patients.
Klotho Stabilizes the Podocyte Actin Cytoskeleton in Idiopathic Membranous Nephropathy through Regulating the TRPC6/CatL Pathway
Authors: Wang Hongyun , Liu Hongyan , Cheng Hong , Xue Xue , Ge Yamei , Wang Xiaoqin , Yuan Jun
Published: March 2024

Introduction: The aim of this study was to explore the renoprotective effects of Klotho on podocyte injury mediated by complement activation and autoantibodies in idiopathic membranous nephropathy (IMN). Methods: Rat passive Heymann nephritis (PHN) was induced as an IMN model. Urine protein levels, serum biochemistry, kidney histology, and podocyte marker levels were assessed. In vitro, sublytic podocyte injury was induced by C5b-9. The expression of Klotho, transient receptor potential channel 6 (TRPC6), and cathepsin L (CatL); its substrate synaptopodin; and the intracellular Ca2+ concentration were detected via immunofluorescence. RhoA/ROCK pathway activity was measured by an activity quantitative detection kit, and the protein expression of phosphorylated-LIMK1 (p-LIMK1) and p-cofilin in podocytes was detected via Western blotting. Klotho knockdown and overexpression were performed to evaluate its role in regulating the TRPC6/CatL pathway. Results: PHN rats exhibited proteinuria, podocyte foot process effacement, decreased Klotho and Synaptopodin levels, and increased TRPC6 and CatL expression. The RhoA/ROCK pathway was activated by the increased phosphorylation of LIMK1 and cofilin. Similar changes were observed in C5b-9-injured podocytes. Klotho knockdown exacerbated podocyte injury, while Klotho overexpression partially ameliorated podocyte injury. Conclusion: Klotho may protect against podocyte injury in IMN patients by inhibiting the TRPC6/CatL pathway. Klotho is a potential target for reducing proteinuria in IMN patients.
Functional organization of the human corpus callosum unveiled with BOLD-fMRI gradients
Authors: Huang Huan , Jiang Yuchao , Li Hechun , Wu Hanxi , Feng Xiaorong , Gong Jinnan , Jiang Sisi , Yao Dezhong , Luo Cheng
Published: March 2024

Gradients capture the underlying functional organization of the brain. Cortical gradients have been well characterized, however very little is known about the underlying gradient of the white matter. Here, we proposed a functionally gradient mapping of the corpus callosum by using blood-oxygen-level-dependent functional magnetic resonance imaging (BOLD-fMRI), which for the first time uncovered three distinct but stable spatial axes: posterior-anterior, dorsal-ventral, and left-right. The three spatial patterns were replicated in another independent cohort and robust across scanning conditions. We further associated the three gradient maps with brain anatomy, connectome, and task-related brain functions, by using structural magnetic resonance imaging, both resting-state and task fMRI, and diffusion tensor imaging data. The posterior-anterior gradient distribution of the corpus callosum showed a similar pattern with the cerebral cortex, gradually extending from the primary cortex to the transmodal cortex. The dorsal-ventral gradient distribution revealed an N-shaped pattern from the primary cortex to the higher-order cognitive cortex. The posterior-anterior and dorsal-ventral gradient maps were also associated with white-matter microstructures, such as fractional anisotropy and myelin water fraction. The left-right gradient showed an inverted V-shaped pattern, which delineated the inter-hemisphere separation. These findings provide fundamental insight into the functional organization of the human corpus callosum, unveiling potential patterns of functional interaction with the cerebral cortex and their associations with cognitive behaviors.
Pathologic burden goes with the flow: MRI perfusion and pathologic burden in frontotemporal lobar degeneration due to tau
Authors: Olm Christopher A. , Peterson Claire S. , Irwin David J. , Lee Edward B. , Trojanowski John Q. , Massimo Lauren , Detre John A. , McMillan Corey T. , Gee James C. , Grossman Murray
Published: March 2024

Regional cerebral blood flow (CBF) changes quantified using arterial spin labeling (ASL) are altered in neurodegenerative disorders such as frontotemporal lobar degeneration due to tau (FTLD-tau), but the relationship between ASL CBF and pathologic burden has not been assessed. Our objective was to determine whether regional ASL CBF acquired antemortem in patients with FTLD-tau is related to pathologic burden measured at autopsy in those same regions in the same patients to directly test the imaging-pathology relationship. In this case-control study, data were acquired between 3/4/2010 and 12/16/2018. Data processing and analysis were completed in 2023. Twenty-one participants with autopsy-confirmed FTLD-tau (N = 10 women, mean[SD] age 67.9[7.56] years) along with 25 control participants (N = 15 women, age 64.7[7.53]) were recruited through the cognitive neurology clinic at the University of Pennsylvania. All participants had ASL and T1-weighted images collected antemortem. ASL images were processed to estimate CBF and T1-weighted images were processed to estimate gray matter (GM) volumes in regions corresponding to regions sampled postmortem. Digital quantification of pathologic burden was performed to find the percent area occupied (%AO) of pathologic FTLD-tau at autopsy. Regional CBF and GM volumes were both related to pathologic burden in the same regions from the same participants. Strengths of model fits of imaging measures to pathologic burden were compared. CBF in FTLD-tau and controls were compared, with results considered significant at p < 0.05 after Bonferroni correction. We found that relative to controls, FTLD-tau displayed hypoperfusion in anterior cingulate, orbitofrontal, middle frontal, and superior temporal regions, as well as angular gyrus. For patients with FTLD-tau regional CBF was significantly associated with pathologic burden (beta = -1.07, t = -4.80, p < 0.005). Models including both GM volume and CBF provided significantly better fits to pathologic burden data than single modality models (p < 0.05, Bonferroni-corrected). Our results indicate that reduced CBF measured using ASL MRI is associated with increased pathologic burden in FTLD-tau and adds complementary predictive value of pathologic burden to structural MRI.
Redescriptions of Indian species of Nigrobaetis Kazlauskas (in Novikova & Kluge) 1987 (Ephemeroptera, Baetidae)
Authors: KLUGE NIKITA , SIVARUBAN T. , SRINIVASAN PANDIARAJAN , BARATHY S. , ISACK RAJASEKARAN
Published: March 2024

The European species Nigrobaetis gracilis (Bogoescu & Tabacaru 1957) and more than 19 Asian and African species of Nigrobaetis Kazlauskas (in Novikova & Kluge) 1987 belong to the subgenus Margobaetis Kang & Yang 1994, which is characterized by peculiar asymmetric eggs and narrow paraglossa of larval labium. A new synonymy is established: Nigrobaetis (Margobaetis) minutus (Müller-Liebenau 1984) = N. paramakalyani Kubendran & Balasubramanian in Kubendran et al. 2015 = N. sumbensis Kaltenbach & Gattolliat 2023, synn. n.; winged stages (male and female imagines and subimagines) and eggs of this species are described for the first time. N. (M.) minutus is widely distributed on Oriental Region, being revealed in West Malaysia, Southern India, Sumba and Sulawesi islands in Indonesia. Winged stages (male and female imagines and subimagines) and eggs of Nigrobaetis (Margobaetis) klugei Sivaruban et al. 2022 are described for the first time.
Calamoceras sp. nov. (Trichoptera: Calamoceratidae) from the Western Rif area, Morocco
Authors: HARRAK RIHAB , ALAMI MAJIDA EL , HAJJI KAMILIA , MORSE JOHN C. , DAKKI MOHAMED
Published: March 2024

We describe a new species of the genus Calamoceras which currently has only two species: Calamoceras illiesi Malicky & Kumanski 1974 and Calamoceras marsupus Brauer 1865. We also discuss its ecology by analyzing some biophysical parameters. The larva and the adult of this new species, Calamoceras riffensis sp. nov. have been found by specialists from the Rif region in northwestern Morocco since 1998. All the specimens collected differ from the two known species by conspicuous morphological differences.
The Science of Human Milk Oligosaccharides (HMO) for Developing Immunity and Healthy Digestive System in Newborn Infants Throughout Life
Authors: Parvin Ruma , Hamid Nazmul , Rahman Khadija , Khan Ashfaque Ahemmed , Rahat Farhana , Rahman Shakibur , Hossain Belayet , Rashid Ismail Ibne
Published: March 2024

Human milk oligosaccharides (HMO) are the third most significant solid component in human milk, working in conjunction with other bioactive components. Numerous factors, including secretor status, race, geography, climate, season, maternal nutrition and weight, gestational age, and delivery method, significantly affect the individual HMO levels and distribution among mothers. In addition to strengthening the epithelial barrier, producing immunomodulatory metabolites, and promoting a gut microbiota rich in Bifidobacterium, HMO also help to enhance the gastrointestinal barrier. HMO perform a range of physiological roles, such as possible immune system support, brain growth, and cognitive function. HMO supplementation to infant formula is safe and supports the newborn's healthy growth, with benefits for infection prevention and the makeup of the microbiota. Through a thorough and methodical evaluation of relevant literature, this study investigated the complex interactions between gut microbiota, the immune system, and HMO in neonates. A sizable corpus of recently released original research publications and thorough review papers were examined in the review. SCOPUS, PubMed, and Google Scholar were reliable and strong sources of information. In addition to these, a few more trustworthy sources were consulted. By reading this article, readers will have a clear understanding of how HMO play a crucial role in influencing the dynamics of the gut microbiota and supporting the development of the immune system in newborns. The knowledge gained from these exchanges may help direct measures meant to improve the health of newborns. However, further investigation is necessary to identify certain underlying processes and possible treatment paths. It is unknown if HMO provide an extra clinical advantage over non-human oligosaccharides due to a lack of research comparing the effects of the two. Better study of the variables controlling HMO composition and their functions will assist to comprehend their short- and long-term advantages for Immunity and Healthy Digestive System in Newborn Infants Throughout Life.
Speech Outcomes of Frenectomy for Tongue-Tie Release: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Carnino Jonathan M. , Rodriguez Lara Frances , Chan Wang Pong , Kennedy Dean G. , Levi Jessica R.
Published: March 2024

Objective:

Tongue-tie, which is also known as ankyloglossia, is a common condition where the lingual frenulum is unusually tight or short. While most literature investigates the impact of tongue-tie on breastfeeding, recent articles have examined its role in speech production in children. However, these have not previously been reviewed systematically. This study aims to determine the impact of tongue-tie on speech outcomes and assess whether frenectomy can improve speech function.

Methods:

In this systematic review, we conducted a comprehensive search of PubMed/MEDLINE, Cochrane Library, Embase, and speechBITE to analyze primary studies investigating the impact of frenectomy for tongue-tie on speech outcomes. We extracted data regarding patient age, male to female ratio, procedure type, follow-up time, and speech outcomes and ran statistical analyses to determine if frenectomy for tongue-tie leads to improvement in speech issues in pediatric patients. Speech outcomes extracted were subjectively measured based on the interpretation of a speech and language pathologist or parent.

Results:

Our analysis included 10 studies with an average patient age of 4.10 years, and average cohort size of 22.17 patients. Overall, frenectomy for tongue-tie was associated with an improvement in speech articulation (0.78; 95% CI: 0.64-0.87; P < .01). Increasing patient age was found to be negatively correlated with post-frenectomy speech outcomes ( P = .01). However, this relationship disappeared in the adjusted model.

Conclusion:

Overall, we conclude that frenectomy is a suitable treatment to correct speech issues in select patients with tongue-tie if caught early in childhood. Despite the limited investigations around speech outcomes post-frenectomy, these results are informative to providers treating tongue-tie.
Lipoaspirate Injection in Relapsing Idiopathic Subglottic Stenosis: Preliminary Results
Authors: Mattioli Francesco , Serafini Edoardo , Andreani Alessandro , Cappiello Gaia , De Maria Federico , Marchioni Daniele , Pinelli Massimo , Marchioni Alessandro
Published: March 2024

Objectives:

The management of idiopathic subglottic stenosis (iSGS) poses a clinical challenge due to high recurrence rates following both endoscopic and open approaches, often leading to tracheostomy. The activation of abnormal T-cells and cytokine pathways has been linked to iSGS pathogenesis. Autologous adipose tissue centrifugation yields lipoaspirate, offering optimal anti-inflammatory effects and biocompatibility widely utilized in various medical settings. This report presents the first 3 cases employing endoscopic dilation (ED) in combination with local lipoaspirate injection to address recurrent iSGS.

Methods:

A prospective observational study was conducted, involving multidisciplinary evaluation by the Tracheal Team at the University of Modena. Patients meeting specific criteria were directed to undergo ED + lipoaspirate injection.

Results:

Three patients fulfilled the inclusion criteria. The mean number of prior endoscopic procedures performed was 8. Endoscopic examination revealed 90% stenosis in patient A, 60% stenosis in patient B, and 60% stenosis in patient C. All patients presented inflammatory tissue or incipient granulations at the stenotic site, with an average time of 6 months between previous procedures. After 15 months, none of the patients required further procedures, and endoscopic examination revealed a significant reduction or disappearance of inflammatory tissue with a stable airway lumen.

Conclusions:

The observed results are encouraging in terms of reducing local inflammation and halting stenosis progression, especially in cases of short-term relapsing iSGS.
Attentional Tunneling in Pilots During a Visual Tracking Task With a Head Mounted Display
Authors: Van der Burg Erik , Ledegang Wietse D. , Kooi Frank L. , Houben Mark M. J. , Groen Eric L.
Published: March 2024

Objective

We examined whether active head aiming with a Helmet Mounted Display (HMD) can draw the pilot’s attention away from a primary flight task. Furthermore, we examined whether visual clutter increases this effect.

Background

Head up display symbology can result in attentional tunneling, and clutter makes it difficult to identify objects.

Method

Eighteen military pilots had to simultaneously perform an attitude control task while flying in clouds and a head aiming task in a fixed-base flight simulator. The former consisted of manual compensation for roll disturbances of the aircraft, while the latter consisted of keeping a moving visual target inside a small or large head-referenced circle. A “no head aiming” condition served as a baseline. Furthermore, all conditions were performed with or without visual clutter.

Results

Head aiming led to deterioration of the attitude control task performance and an increase of the amount of roll-reversal errors (RREs). This was even the case when head aiming required minimal effort. Head aiming accuracy was significantly lower when the roll disturbances in the attitude control task were large compared to when they were small. Visual clutter had no effect on both tasks.

Conclusion

We suggest that active head aiming of HMD symbology can cause attentional tunneling, as expressed by an increased number of RREs and less accuracy on a simultaneously performed attitude control task.

Application

This study improves our understanding in the perceptual and cognitive effects of (military) HMDs, and has implications for operational use and possibly (re)design of HMDs.
The financial dimension of organizational stratification in European higher education
Authors: Czarnecki Krzysztof , Sauer Petra
Published: March 2024

This article contributes to the knowledge on organizational stratification in higher education by exploring its financial dimension in 21 European countries over the period 2013–2017. Cross-country differences in the inequality of revenues among higher education institutions are considerable. Decomposing inequality indices shows that they are related to the various degrees of institutional diversity in size, research activity, and subject specialization. Financial stratification is higher in countries where revenues are more unequally distributed among universities involved in research, especially those with a broad disciplinary focus. This inequality is in turn driven by the role of third-party funding in higher education financing.
The Sense of Certainty and the Access to Inner Experience: A Qualitative Investigation
Authors: Göken Jonas , Weger Ulrich
Published: March 2024

Questions about private experiences such as future-related thinking or anger rumination are standard repertoire in many types of psychological research. Evaluating the quality and reliability of participant reports in response to such questions is, however, a complex endeavor—especially for third-person research where observer and observed are distributed across two different individuals and disparate scales of reference may hence challenge the interpretation of findings. Reliable tools to assess an individual’s actual experience are thus needed. In the present article, we conceptually specified and empirically explored the sense of certainty as a vehicle to assess participant’s access to their experience. We conducted semi-structured interviews with 20 participants performing mathematical calculation, imagination, and memory tasks and cross-validated the qualitative reports with their certainty ratings. The results of the Thematic Analysis revealed affective, cognitive, somatic, and rudimentary behavioral dimensions of the sense of certainty. The qualitative data provide the basis for a sense of certainty scale that we argue can assess the sense of certainty as an internal criterion for access to inner experience in a more differentiated manner than standard rating tasks.
Speech Fluency Production and Perception in L1 (Slovak) and L2 (English) Read Speech
Authors: Mareková Lucia , Beňuš Štefan
Published: March 2024

Research on fluency in native (L1) and non-native (L2) speech production and perception helps us understand how individual L1 speaking style might affect perceived L2 fluency and how this relationship might be reflected in L1 versus L2 oral assessment. While the relationship between production and perception of fluency in spontaneous speech has been studied, the information provided by reading has been overlooked. We argue that reading provides a direct and controlled way to assess language proficiency that might complement information gained from spontaneous speaking. This work analyzes the relationship between speech fluency production and perception in passages of L1 (Slovak) and L2 (English) read by 57 undergraduate Slovak students of English and rated for fluency by 15 English teachers who are Slovak natives. We compare acoustic production measures between L1 and L2 and analyze how their effect on perceived fluency differs for the two languages. Our main finding is that the articulation rate, the overall number of pauses, and the number of between-clause and mid-clause pauses predict ratings differently in L1 Slovak versus L2 English. The speech rate and durations of pauses predict ratings similarly in both languages. The contribution of our results to understanding fluency aspects of spontaneous and read speech, the relationship between L1 and L2, the relationship between production and perception, and to the teaching of L2 English are discussed.
Human on human violence in the Psalter
Authors: deClaissé-Walford Nancy L.
Published: March 2024

Violence takes many forms in the book of Psalms: descriptions of violence against the psalm singer(s), violence inflicted by the wicked upon others, violence enacted by God against the psalm singer(s), and violence enacted by God against the enemies of the psalm singer(s). This study mainly examines the first two categories: human on human violence. Focusing on Psalms 55, 139, and 109, the work explores three types of human on human violence (direct or immediate violence, textual or symbolic violence, and structural and cultural violence), including interpretations from feminist scholars and voices from South Africa. The concluding discussion attempts to answer questions of how people might understand these psalms and incorporate them into their own language of freedom and faith.
Effects of small-sided games training programs on physiological and physical adaptations of youth basketball players: A systematic review
Authors: Li Tingyu , Xu Qi , Sarmento Hugo , Zhao YongXing , Silva Rui Miguel , Clemente Filipe Manuel
Published: March 2024

The primary objective of this study was to systematically investigate the physiological and physical fitness adaptations resulting from small-sided games (SSGs) training programs in basketball players competing at youth competitive levels, as compared to other training approaches and/or control groups. To achieve this, we conducted a literature search on PubMed, Scopus, SPORTDiscus, and Web of Science, adhering to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. From the initial 626 studies retrieved, five were considered eligible for the current study. Among the five included articles, four conducted comparisons between the effects of SSGs and running-based high-intensity interval training. Regarding this, the four studies revealed a significant improvement in the final velocity during the 30–15 Intermittent Fitness Test, ranging from 4.07% to 7.29% following SSG-based interventions. This improvement was not significantly different from the comparator group. Additionally, two studies indicated that the SSGs group showed a significant advantage in change-of-direction time, with improvements ranging from −2.11% to 6.69% after interventions, and these results were not significantly different from the comparator group. However, the effects on repeated sprint ability yielded contradictory findings; two studies reported significant improvements ranging from −5.00% to −2.16%, while two others did not show significant effects following SSGs-based interventions. Similarly, in the linear sprint, the results of SSGs-based interventions were inconsistent. In summary, based on the available research, it can be concluded that SSG-based training is effective in significantly enhancing aerobic performance and change of direction, comparable to alternative approaches. However, the effects on repeated sprint ability and sprint performance are not consistently demonstrated.
The Shape of the Sieve: Which Components of the Admissions Application Matter Most in Particular Institutional Contexts?
Authors: Taylor Barrett J. , Rosinger Kelly , Ford Karly S.
Published: March 2024

Admission to selective colleges has grown more competitive, yielding student bodies that are unrepresentative of the U.S. population. Admission officers report using sorting (e.g., GPA, standardized tests) and concertedly cultivated (e.g., extracurricular activities) and ascriptive status (e.g., whether an applicant identifies as a member of a racially minoritized group) criteria to make decisions. Using latent class analysis, we identified three groupings of institutions based on the admission criteria they claim to value. Public institutions largely practiced a “coarse sieve” approach that relied on sorting criteria. Some private institutions practiced “fine sieve” admissions by emphasizing concertedly cultivated and ascriptive status criteria. A few privates employed the “double sieve” that combined sorting and concertedly cultivated criteria. Results illuminate the shape of the admissions sieve, identifying institutional contexts that inform the admissions practices selective colleges claim to use.
Superamphiphobic fabrics: design principles, preparation methods, and multifunctional applications
Authors: Liu Xiang , Yu Weidong
Published: March 2024

Enabling fabrics to achieve superoleophobicity and superhydrophobicity can greatly improve their application prospects. The superamphiphobic surface based on fabric has attracted widespread attention from researchers and industrial fields due to its unique flexibility and breathability, which are significantly different from other substrates. Herein, we review some important nodes in the development process of superamphiphobic surfaces that chiefly impact superamphiphobic fabrics (SAFs). Meanwhile, the construction mechanism of SAF based on the research progress of low surface energy materials and fabric surfaces was summarized. Finally, we summarize the existing research on SAF, including different preparation methods such as material modification and surface roughness construction, as well as multifunctional applications of SAF achieved by adding other functional materials.
Addiction Frameworks, Social Stigma, and NIMBY Syndrome: Examining Barriers to Responding to the Opioid Crisis
Authors: Kruis Nathan E. , Kaynak Övgü , Whipple Christopher , Saylor Erica , Kensinger Weston
Published: March 2024

Scholars have argued that stigma of opioid use disorder (OUD) is a significant barrier to implementing evidence-based responses to the opioid crisis, including the use of medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD). They have also documented a relationship between addiction frameworks and support for punitive responses to substance use. Using a representative sample of Pennsylvania residents ( N = 1,033), the current study synthesizes this literature by empirically examining the relationship between addiction frameworks, opioid-related stigma, and policy-related attitudes (i.e., NIMBY syndrome, support for punitive treatment of OUD, and support for employment discrimination against individuals prescribed MOUD). Results show that support for the disease model of addiction was negatively associated with endorsing NIMBY syndrome for opioid-treatment centers, support for punitive treatment of OUD, and support for employment discrimination against individuals prescribed MOUD; however, these relationships were fully mediated by opioid-related stigma, such that support for the disease model of addiction impacted outcome measures only indirectly through opioid-related stigma. Policy implications are discussed within.
Offending Trajectories in an Australian Birth Cohort: Differences and Similarities Across Sex
Authors: Kuluk Aydan , Allard Troy , Thompson Carleen , Ogilvie James M. , Broidy Lisa
Published: March 2024

Despite the rise in female offending, we know little about how female offending patterns vary with age and how they compare to those of males. In this study, we used linked administrative data from a 1983 and 1984 Australian birth cohort ( N = 83,362) to estimate offending trajectories separately for males and females and to examine how these patterns vary within and across sex. Results indicated that there was significant heterogeneity within sex, with five offending trajectories identified separately for both males and females. Males and females classified in chronic offending trajectories had the highest mean number of offenses than all other groups, and Indigenous females were more likely than non-Indigenous males to populate chronic and early adult-onset trajectory groups. The findings highlight the importance of recognizing the heterogeneity of female offending pathways to inform effective, targeted, and timely policies and interventions to reduce female offending.
Evaluation of the mesoscale–microscale (WRF–WAsP) coupling methodology for wind resource parameters in Fiji
Authors: Dayal Kunal K , Cater John E , Bellon Gilles , Kingan Michael J , Sharma Rajnish N
Published: March 2024

This study presents an analysis of the proposed Weather Research and Forecasting–Wind Atlas Analysis and Application Program (WRF–WAsP) models coupling methodology and evaluates the improvement in the accuracy of the wind predictions for the small island developing state (SIDS) of Fiji in the tropical Southwest Pacific region. The results revealed that the proposed WRF–WAsP coupling methodology can be used as a wind resource assessment methodology provided very-high resolution dynamically downscaled wind resource data is available in the order of 10 years for utility-scale wind power applications. The analysis also revealed that the 1 km  ×  1 km WRF model data from the finest (high-resolution) domain (d03) is best for coupling WRF–WAsP for wind resource parameters evaluation. The coupling methodology of WRF–WAsP improved the accuracy of the wind prediction by 0.2–6% for the wind resource parameters evaluated for Fiji.
Choanal Polyps With Osseous Metaplasia From the Nasal Septum: A Case Report and the Literature Review
Authors: Li Hongjin , Chen Jiawei , Du Yucong , Zhang Rui , Chen Xiaodong , Zha Dingjun
Published: March 2024

Choanal polyps belong to a special type of nasal polyps, which are quite uncommon if originating from the nasal septum, especially those with osseous metaplasia. In this article, we report the case of a 63-year-old male patient with persistent nasal obstruction on the right side. An irregular light yellow lobulated mass with smooth surface could be visualized in the nasal cavity through nasal endoscopy, arising from the right nasal septum and extending to the nasopharynx. Computed tomography scan showed a large soft tissue shadow of the nasal meatus, with ossified structure in the center. Histopathological biopsy revealed nasopharyngeal mucositis. The patient underwent functional endoscopic sinus surgery and the polypoidal mass sent for histopathological examination proved to be choanal polyps.