bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A checklist to publish collections as data in GLAM institutions
Authors: Candela Gustavo , Gabriëls Nele , Chambers Sally , Dobreva Milena , Ames Sarah , Ferriter Meghan , Fitzgerald Neil , Harbo Victor , Hofmann Katrine , Holownia Olga , Irollo Alba , Mahey Mahendra , Manchester Eileen , Pham Thuy-An , Potter Abigail , Van Keer Ellen
Published: November 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to offer a checklist that can be used for both creating and evaluating digital collections, which are also sometimes referred to as data sets as part of the collections as data movement, suitable for computational use.

Design/methodology/approach

The checklist was built by synthesising and analysing the results of relevant research literature, articles and studies and the issues and needs obtained in an observational study. The checklist was tested and applied both as a tool for assessing a selection of digital collections made available by galleries, libraries, archives and museums (GLAM) institutions as proof of concept and as a supporting tool for creating collections as data.

Findings

Over the past few years, there has been a growing interest in making available digital collections published by GLAM organisations for computational use. Based on previous work, the authors defined a methodology to build a checklist for the publication of Collections as data. The authors’ evaluation showed several examples of applications that can be useful to encourage other institutions to publish their digital collections for computational use.

Originality/value

While some work on making available digital collections suitable for computational use exists, giving particular attention to data quality, planning and experimentation, to the best of the authors’ knowledge, none of the work to date provides an easy-to-follow and robust checklist to publish collection data sets in GLAM institutions. This checklist intends to encourage small- and medium-sized institutions to adopt the collection as data principles in daily workflows following best practices and guidelines.
Adoption of human resource sourcing strategies for managing supply chain performance during COVID-19 crisis: evidence from manufacturing companies
Authors: Akhil N.S.B , Kumar Vimal , Raj Rohit , De Tanmoy , Gangaraju Phanitha Kalyani
Published: November 2023

Purpose

Even the greatest developed countries have capitulated to the destructions imposed on the global supply systems, as the COVID-19 pandemic has revealed. The purpose of this study is to explore human resource sourcing strategies for managing supply chain performance during the COVID-19 outbreak. There are six human resource sourcing strategies such as outsourcing, near sourcing, integration, the requirement of suppliers, joint ventures and virtual enterprise that are considered to measure supply chain performance.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on collecting data from the potential respondents of Indian manufacturing companies, the elevation of human resource sourcing strategies to supply chain performance is measured considering the multiple regression analysis techniques.

Findings

The results of the study revealed that four of the six hypotheses have a significant and positive relationship with supply chain performance during the COVID-19 outbreak while two hypotheses are partially supported that lent good support to this study.

Research limitations/implications

In this critical situation, this study will enable managers and practitioners to support the business in giving customers the best services on time.

Originality/value

The novelty of this study is to identify the key human resource sourcing strategies by using multiple regression analysis methods, considering the case of Indian manufacturing companies to measure their supply chain performance during the COVID-19 outbreak era.
Bullying prevention and intervention strategies under UAE law
Authors: Al-Tawil Tareq Na’el , Abdallah Salam
Published: November 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the nature of cyberbullying and corresponding strategies being used under the New United Arab Emirates (UAE) Cybercrimes Law.

Design/methodology/approach

The analysis begins with a review of the nature of cyberbullying, focusing primarily on key concepts, underlying risk factors, forms of cyberbullying and adverse effects. Background information about the nature of cyberbullying will then lay the foundation for the subsequent sections of the analysis, which will focus on preventive strategies and legislative measures. The second section of the analysis will entail a review of the legislative framework for cyberbullying in the UAE. The goal here is to examine how the UAE is responding to the emerging threat of cyberbullying in its jurisdiction. The next section will then shift gears to interventions and strategies being implemented at the global level. A global perspective is central to comparing practices in the UAE to international standards and regulations.

Findings

Findings from the analysis have shown that the UAE has the most robust and comprehensive cyberbullying laws internationally. Nonetheless, the New Cybercrimes Law is ambiguous, and it is not expressively specific to cyberbullying. The law does not have a clear definition of cyberbullying, as well as the scope of its application to specific cases involving students. A comparative analysis across jurisdictions has revealed that most countries neither have specific cyberbullying laws nor explicitly define the phenomenon in existing laws. Thus, cyberbullying is a gray area in the UAE national law, requiring a clear definition and scope of application. The courts will establish case law that will finally address the current definitional challenges and extend of applying the New Cybercrimes Law.

Originality/value

The analysis concludes with the application of international best standards and practices to the UAE context, focusing specifically on how to strengthen laws and procedures in the UAE.
The allelochemical potential of an invasive ornamental plant, the Indian blanket flower (Gaillardia pulchella Foug.)
Authors: Nagy Krisztina Napsugár , Kardos Luca Viktória , Orbán Zsófia , Bakacsy László
Published: November 2023

Global spread of invasive plant species threatens biodiversity significantly, with a particularly high presence of invasives in the Asteraceae family. This is partly due to their wide use as ornamental plants and their rapid reproduction and allelopathy. The Indian blanket flower (Gaillardia pulchella) is a native North American species widely used as an ornamental plant and has become invasive in other countries. Although it contains bioactive compounds, its allelopathic impact on other plants has been largely unexplored. We conducted in vitro tests on oilseed rape (Brassica napus) germination and early growth to assess blanket flower's allelopathy. Seeds were exposed to aqueous extracts at three different concentrations (10%, 20%, and 40%). The 40% extract significantly inhibited germination during the treatment. All three concentrations inhibited root growth, with the 40% treatment showing this effect from the second day. In contrast, the extracts promoted significantly shoot elongation. Fresh weight of seedlings was not affected by the extract, but the 10% treatment resulted in higher mass. These findings provide evidence of blanket flower's allelopathic effects, shedding light on its invasive potential.
Informing the ‘Broad Masses’: Early‐Twentieth‐Century Birth Control Debates and Activism in the Polish‐American Community
Authors: Kuźma‐Markowska Sylwia
Published: November 2023

During 1925–26 and 1928, debates about birth control took place in the readers' column of North Star (Gwiazda Polarna), a US Polish language weekly. These discussions provide a rare insight into how ideas spread by the US birth control movement were received by an immigrant and ethnic working‐class Catholic community. The readers’ letters showed the prevalence of socialist rationales for birth control, expectation from men to play an active role in family limitation, the lack of references to women's sexual pleasure and an ambivalence towards the teachings of the Catholic Church. In the wake of the discussion, one North Star editor established a birth control association to inform the ‘broad masses’. This role was also played by the North Star letters, which spread family planning information and dispelled the misconceptions regarding birth control possessed by many Polish‐Americans at that time.
An electropenetrography waveform library for the probing and ingestion behaviors of Culex tarsalis on human hands
Authors: Cooper Anastasia M. W. , Jameson Samuel B. , Pickens Victoria , Osborne Cameron , Backus Elaine A. , Silver Kristopher , Mitzel Dana N.
Published: November 2023

Culex tarsalis Coquillett (Diptera: Culicidae) mosquitoes are capable of vectoring numerous pathogens affecting public and animal health. Unfortunately, the probing behaviors of mosquitoes are poorly understood because they occur in opaque tissues. Electropenetrography (EPG) has the potential to elucidate these behaviors by recording the electrical signals generated during probing. We used an AC–DC EPG with variable input resistors (Ri levels) to construct a waveform library for Cx. tarsalis feeding on human hands. Biological events associated with mosquito probing were used to characterize waveforms at four Ri levels and with two electrical current types. The optimal settings for EPG recordings of Cx. tarsalis probing on human hands was an Ri level of 107 Ohms using an applied signal of 150 millivolts alternating current. Waveforms for Cx. tarsalis included those previously observed and associated with probing behaviors in Aedes aegypti L. (Diptera: Culicidae): waveform families J (surface salivation), K (stylet penetration through the skin), L (types 1 and 2, search for a blood vessel/ingestion site), M (types 1 and 2, ingestion), N (type 1, an unknown behavior which may be a resting and digestion phase), and W (withdrawal). However, we also observed variations in the waveforms not described in Ae. aegypti, which we named types L3, M3, M4, and N2. This investigation enhances our understanding of mosquito probing behaviors. It also provides a new tool for the automated calculation of peak frequency. This work will facilitate future pathogen acquisition and transmission studies and help identify new pest and disease management targets.
The effect of TRIM5 variants on the susceptibility to HIV‐1 infection and disease progression in the Polish population
Authors: Bratosiewicz‐Wąsik Jolanta , Miklasińska‐Majdanik Maria , Wąsik Tomasz J.
Published: November 2023

Backgroud

Tripartite motif containing 5α protein is a factor contributing to intracellular defense mechanisms against human immunodeficiency virus‐1 (HIV‐1) infection. The studies of TRIM5 variants effects on the risk of HIV‐1 infection and the clinical course of disease provided inconclusive results in different ethnic groups. The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of TRIM5 variants on susceptibility to HIV‐1 infection and clinical parameters among Polish HIV‐1‐infected patients.

Materials & Methods

In our study, we investigated 301 HIV‐1‐infected patients and 186 age‐matched seronegative controls. Seven variants of the TRIM5 gene (rs7127617, rs3824949, rs3740996, rs11601507, rs10838525, rs11038628, and rs28381981) were genotyped using both sequencing and polymerase chain reaction‐restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR‐RFLP) techniques.

Results and Conclusions

The frequencies of rs7127617 TT genotype and T allele occurrence were lower in HIV‐1‐infected subjects compared to controls (0.14 vs. 0.26 for T/T genotype and 0.45 vs. 0.54 for T allele), suggesting their possible protective effect (p = 0.005 and p = 0.007, respectively). Heterozygosity and presence of the T allele at rs3740996 were enriched in controls compared to HIV‐1‐infected group (0.19 vs. 0.12 for C/T genotype and 0.11 vs. 0.07 for T allele; p = 0.03 and p = 0.02, respectively). Moreover, rs3824949 CC genotype carriers had a lower viral load than patients bearing rs3824949 GG/CG genotypes (4.0 vs. 4.6 log copies/mL; p = 0.049); however, none of the variants affected CD4+ cell count. In conclusion, our data confirm the role of TRIM5 variants in the HIV‐1 transmission and the clinical course of HIV‐1 infection. The presence of rs7127617 TT genotype and T allele seems to protect against HIV‐1 transmission in examined population.
Prenatal diagnosis of isolated bilateral clubfoot: Is amniocentesis indicated?
Authors: Leyne Edouard , Anselem Olivia , Jordan Pénélope , Vivanti Alexandre J. , Benachi Alexandra , Salomon Laurent , Jacquier Mathilde , Jouannic Jean‐Marie , Dhombres Ferdinand , Cambier Tatiana , Rosenblatt Jonathan , Pannier Emmanuelle , Goffinet François , Tsatsaris Vassilis , Athiel Yoann
Published: November 2023

Introduction

The aim of this study is to evaluate the benefit of cytogenetic testing by amniocentesis after an ultrasound diagnosis of isolated bilateral talipes equinovarus.

Material and methods

This multicenter observational retrospective study includes all prenatally diagnosed cases of isolated bilateral talipes equinovarus in five fetal medicine centers from 2012 through 2021. Ultrasound data, amniocentesis results, biochemical analyses of amniotic fluid and parental blood samples to test neuromuscular diseases, pregnancy outcomes, and postnatal outcomes were collected for each patient.

Results

In all, 214 fetuses with isolated bilateral talipes equinovarus were analyzed. A first‐degree family history of talipes equinovarus existed in 9.8% (21/214) of our cohort. Amniocentesis was proposed to 86.0% (184/214) and performed in 70.1% (129/184) of cases. Of the 184 karyotypes performed, two (1.6%) were abnormal (one trisomy 21 and one triple X syndrome). Of the 103 microarrays performed, two (1.9%) revealed a pathogenic copy number variation (one with a de novo 18p deletion and one with a de novo 22q11.2 deletion) (DiGeorge syndrome). Neuromuscular diseases (spinal muscular amyotrophy, myasthenia gravis, and Steinert disease) were tested for in 56 fetuses (27.6%); all were negative. Overall, 97.6% (165/169) of fetuses were live‐born, and the diagnosis of isolated bilateral talipes equinovarus was confirmed for 98.6% (139/141). Three medical terminations of pregnancy were performed (for the fetuses diagnosed with Down syndrome, DiGeorge syndrome, and the 18p deletion). Telephone calls (at a mean follow‐up age of 4.5 years) were made to all parents to collect medium‐term and long‐term follow‐up information, and 70 (33.0%) families were successfully contacted. Two reported a rare genetic disease diagnosed postnatally (one primary microcephaly and one infantile glycine encephalopathy). Parents did not report any noticeably abnormal psychomotor development among the other children during this data collection.

Conclusions

Despite the low rate of pathogenic chromosomal abnormalities diagnosed prenatally after this ultrasound diagnosis, the risk of chromosomal aberration exceeds the risks of amniocentesis. These data may be helpful in prenatal counseling situations.
Vaginal microecology and its role in human papillomavirus infection and human papillomavirus associated cervical lesions
Authors: Ye Jiatian , Qi Xiaorong
Published: November 2023

The vaginal microecology comprises the vaginal microbiome, immune microenvironment, vaginal anatomy, and the cervicovaginal fluid, which is rich in metabolites, enzymes, and cytokines. Investigating its role in the female reproductive system holds paramount significance. The advent of next‐generation sequencing enabled a more profound investigation into the structure of the vaginal microbial community in relation to the female reproductive system. Human papillomavirus infection is prevalent among women of reproductive age, and persistent oncogenic HPV infection is widely recognized as a factor associated with cervical cancer. Extensive previous research has demonstrated that dysbiosis of vaginal microbiota characterized by a reduction in Lactobacillus species, heightens susceptivity to HPV infection, consequently contributing to persistent HPV infection and the progression of cervical lesion. Likewise, HPV infection can exacerbate dysbiosis. This review aims to provide a comprehensive summary of current literatures and to elucidate potential mechanisms underlying the interaction between vaginal microecology and HPV infection, with the intention of offering valuable insights for future clinical interventions.
Using the theory of planned behaviour to predict pre‐service teachers' preferences for scientific sources
Authors: Gold Bernadette , Thomm Eva , Bauer Johannes
Published: November 2023

Background

Despite the growing emphasis on research‐based teacher education and calls for evidence‐informed practice, teachers tend to prefer experiential over scientific knowledge sources to inform their actions, justify decisions and analyse educational problems. This tendency already occurs as early as during initial teacher education, and it is possibly bolstered by school internships where mentors emphasise the value of practical over scientific knowledge.

Aims

The present study applied the theory of planned behaviour (TPB) to investigate under what conditions pre‐service teachers intend to use and prefer scientific sources from educational research.

Methods

The study's participants were 343 pre‐service teachers in a half‐year school internship who indicated their attitudes towards educational research, behavioural control (i.e. self‐efficacy), perceived subjective norm, intentions of using research and preference for scientific sources in a survey. Perceived subjective norm was established by measuring whether pre‐service teachers believed their mentors considered research‐based knowledge.

Results

In line with the predictions of the standard TPB model, structural equation modelling confirmed the effects of positive attitudes, self‐efficacy and perceived subjective norm on pre‐service teachers' intentions of using research. In turn, intentions and self‐efficacy predicted preferences for scientific sources but not the use of scientific sources when planning a lesson in the internship.

Conclusions

Pre‐service teachers' scientific source preferences are shaped not only by personal dispositions but also by the social context of school.
An experimental investigation of persuasion through selective disclosure of evidence
Authors: Degan Arianna , Li Ming , Xie Huan
Published: November 2023

We experimentally study the interaction between a persuader and a decision‐maker. The former would like to persuade the latter to approve a project by providing evidence on the project's value. He may choose a selective disclosure strategy on the basis of his private information. Our experimental design contrasts situations where the persuader observes private information or not and where the decision‐maker interacts with a human or robot persuader. The experimental results confirm the theoretical prediction that the human persuader manipulates the production of evidence. Although the decision‐maker does not adequately take into account such manipulation, the comparative static analysis across treatments is mostly consistent with theoretical predictions with a rational decision‐maker. Our findings on the welfare effect of the persuader's manipulation on the decision‐maker are consistent with theory. In particular, the decision‐maker may benefit from such manipulation. However, the welfare effect on the persuader is not always consistent with theory, in that there are instances in which the persuader is not hurt by manipulation even though theory predicts that he is.
Antitumor activities against breast cancers by an afucosylated anti‐HER2 monoclonal antibody H2Mab‐77‐mG2a‐f
Authors: Tanaka Tomohiro , Suzuki Hiroyuki , Ohishi Tomokazu , Kaneko Mika K. , Kato Yukinari
Published: November 2023

Breast cancer patients with high levels of human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) expression have worse clinical outcomes. Anti‐HER2 monoclonal antibody (mAb) is the most important therapeutic modality for HER2‐positive breast cancer. We previously immunized mice with the ectodomain of HER2 to create the anti‐HER2 mAb, H2Mab‐77 (mouse IgG1, kappa). This was then altered to produce H2Mab‐77‐mG2a‐f, an afucosylated mouse IgG2a. In the present work, we examined the reactivity of H2Mab‐77‐mG2a‐f and antitumor effects against breast cancers in vitro and in vivo. BT‐474, an endogenously HER2‐expressing breast cancer cell line, was identified by H2Mab‐77‐mG2a‐f with a strong binding affinity (a dissociation constant [KD]: 5.0 × 10−9 M). H2Mab‐77‐mG2a‐f could stain HER2 of breast cancer tissues in immunohistochemistry and detect HER2 protein in Western blot analysis. Furthermore, H2Mab‐77‐mG2a‐f demonstrated strong antibody‐dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC) and complement‐dependent cytotoxicity (CDC) for BT‐474 cells. MDA‐MB‐468, a HER2‐negative breast cancer cell line, was unaffected by H2Mab‐77‐mG2a‐f. Additionally, in the BT‐474‐bearing tumor xenograft model, H2Mab‐77‐mG2a‐f substantially suppressed tumor development when compared with the control mouse IgG2a mAb. In contrast, the HER2‐negative MDA‐MB‐468‐bearing tumor xenograft model showed no response to H2Mab‐77‐mG2a‐f. These findings point to the possibility of H2Mab‐77‐mG2a‐f as a treatment regimen by showing that it has antitumor effects on HER2‐positive breast tumors.
Acute‐onset distal dominant neuropathy after severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 vaccination in a male patient with recent dengue infection: A case report
Authors: Prado Mario B. , Adiao Karen Joy B.
Published: November 2023

Objective

Guillain–Barré Syndrome (GBS) is an autoimmune degenerative disease commonly presenting with acute progressive sensorimotor paralysis, sometimes associated with dysautonomia, facial diplegia and severe respiratory distress. Gastroenteritis due to Campylobacter jejuni and respiratory infection secondary to Epstein–Barr virus usually precede GBS; however, vaccination or recent dengue infection as temporal causes are rarely reported.

Case Presentation

Here, we present a 20‐year‐old man, who complained of a 5‐day history of a progressively worsening tingling sensation isolated in the hands and feet, and unilateral Bell's palsy on the left side of his face, which occurred 2 weeks after his severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 vaccination and 6 weeks from his recent hospitalization from Dengue fever. Except for the left complete unilateral facial paralysis, weakness in the intrinsic hands and feet muscles, and sensory ataxia, the rest of his physical examination was unremarkable. On work‐up, the findings of albuminocytological dissociation and distal sensorimotor demyelinating polyneuropathy in the nerve conduction study supported the diagnosis of GBS.

Conclusion

The enhanced immune response from a recent dengue infection and severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 vaccination might increase the risk of GBS. The predominantly distal GBS phenotype has rarely been reported in the literature, adding to the peculiarity of this case.
Early therapeutic intervention guided by electroencephalography surveillance in infants with tuberous sclerosis complex
Authors: Jóźwiak Sergiusz
Published: November 2023

This commentary is on the original article by Lindsay et al. on pages 635–643 of this issue.
A dynamic fracture model of the pipeline with girth weld considering welding residual stresses
Authors: Zhao Qiankun , Cao Yuguang , Jiao Zhenghao , Zhen Ying , Zu Yizhen
Published: November 2023

The fracture analysis of girth‐welded pipes is a vital link in the integrity assessment of oil and gas pipelines. However, the effect of welding residual stresses (WRS) on the load‐carrying capacity of the girth‐welded pipe with the crack remains unclear. In this study, based on the WRS simulation results verified by the full‐scale pipe welding experiment, a dynamic fracture finite element model could describe the fracture process of the pipe with the crack in the inner surface of the girth weld considering WRS was developed by the Gurson–Tvergaard–Needleman (GTN) damage model. Based on this fracture model, the fracture behavior of the pipe under tensile load in the presence of WRS was clarified, and the effect of WRS on the load‐carrying capacity was studied. The results indicated that the critical displacement and strain capacity of the pipeline decreased by 12.42% and 13.04% due to the negative action of the WRS.
‘Sometimes, men cannot do what women can’: Pacific labour mobility, gender norms and social reproduction
Authors: Petrou Kirstie , Withers Matt
Published: November 2023

Australia's 2018 introduction of the Pacific Labour Scheme (PLS) broadened the scope and duration of labour mobility pathways available to Pacific Island countries. Although longer term temporary migration schemes like the PLS expand livelihood opportunities for migrant households, they also create challenges related to the maintenance of personal relationships and care practices during transnational family separation. Though pressing concerns for Pacific Island governments, these issues have received little scholarly attention. Drawing on in‐depth interviews with migrants and their households in Kiribati, Tonga and Vanuatu, this article offers some preliminary insights into the way gender norms intersect with the reorganization of socially reproductive labour during migration. Findings indicate that women were disproportionately involved in the performance of additional unpaid care work within migrant households adjusting to transnational family life, but also suggest that women's participation in labour mobility may offer nascent opportunities to increase financial autonomy and social standing through the act of ‘remitting care’.
Caring is resisting: Lessons from domestic workers' mobilizations during COVID‐19 in Latin America
Authors: Acciari Louisa
Published: November 2023

Domestic workers were one of the most negatively affected groups by COVID‐19 in Latin America, yet they have also been resisting and mobilizing in impressive and innovative ways. This article shows that domestic workers' organizations were able to adapt to an extremely adverse context in order to protect their members and defend their rights. Furthermore, their mobilizations provide an alternative vision of society grounded on love and solidarity and offer concrete ways forward to “build back better.” Indeed, their core campaign, “Care for those who care for you”, demands the recognition of care work as real work and fair treatment for those who provide this care. Based on an analysis of this campaign, I have identified 3 repertoires of care‐resistance: the promotion of self‐care and well‐being, concrete practices of solidarity through the distribution of humanitarian aid, and legal mobilizations for the recognition of care as a fundamental right. I argue that these forms of action contribute to feminist ethics and theories of care and that putting forward the right to care and be cared for in times of crisis is an act of resistance.
Die Begattung bei der weißen Maus*
Authors: Lipkow Jürgen
Published: November 2023

♀♀der weißen Maus (Mus musculus L.) in der Brunstphase ihres Vaginalzyklus können vor und während der Begattung das ♂ durch Einnahme der Demutstellung abwehren.

Im Verlauf der Begattung reitet das ♂ in der Regel oftmals auf das ♀ auf. Die Zwischenpausen sind verschieden lang.

Meist reitet das ♂ aus eigenem Antrieb ab, wenn es vom Aufreiten erschöpft ist.

Erst während des letzten Aufreitens, nach welchem das ♂ umfällt, erfolgt die Ejakulation und der Verschluß von Vagina bzw. Cervix durch den Vaginalpfropf, der weitere Begattungen verhindert.

Ein ähnlicher Begattungsablauf wie bei der Maus wird nach Darstellung der Verhältnisse bei der Ratte auch für diese und die anderen Nagetierarten angenommen, die nach der Ejakulation einen Vaginalpfropf bilden.
Dynamic Time‐Staged Model for R&D Portfolio Planning—A Real World Case
Authors: GROSSMAN DOV
Published: November 2023

Abstract— A dynamic, time‐staged mixed integer model is currently being used for the selection of industrial long‐range R&D portfolio. Input data from research and marketing are processed through logical programs to provide the discounted payoffs, probabilities (Bayesian, parallel strategies), subjective nonmonetary multiple criteria weights, and the matrix for the mathematical programming model. The multiperiod portfolio is revised sequentially for resources exhaustion throughout the planning horizon by the staged introduction of additional projects. Marginal payoff function (additional investments vs. expected payoff) is a by‐product for the support of additional resources justification. Mathematical and heuristic techniques used to overcome common difficulties confronted by previously discussed models are presented. Experience with model introduction to management is also discussed.
Mechanical properties of corn: Correlation with endosperm hardness
Authors: Gao Peng , Tian Shuangqi , Chen Yanyan , Lu Jing
Published: November 2023

The purpose of this study was to explore the effects of different factors on the compressive mechanical properties of corn kernels. Explore the relationship between endosperm hardness and compressive mechanical properties of corn kernels by polynomial regression analysis. The results showed that the variety and kernel orientation had a significant effect on the compressive mechanical properties of corn kernels. Flint corn had a stronger ability to resist damage than floury corn. As the loading rate increased from 5 to 25 mm/min, the rupture force and rupture energy of corn kernels changed accordingly. The hardness of horny endosperm was significantly higher than that of floury endosperm. The dense starch‐protein network structure of horny endosperm leads to higher hardness. According to the fitting results, the compressive mechanical properties of corn kernels could be predicted using the hardness of the horny endosperm within a certain range.

Practical applications

As a widely planted food crop in the world, corn is not only an important food crop, but also a high‐quality feed for livestock and poultry. The compressive mechanical properties (elastic modulus, compressive failure force, failure energy, etc.) of corn kernels were explored, and the relationship between endosperm hardness and its mechanical properties was analyzed. It can provide technical parameters for mechanical processing equipment, reduce the loss of corn grain in the processing process, and improve its economic value.
Novel single‐nucleus transcriptomics unravels developmental and functionally controlled principles of mammalian neuromuscular junctions
Authors: Soreq Hermona
Published: November 2023

Prof Ohno's team (Ohkawara et al. 2023, current issue) underscored the dynamic and functional features that co‐shape the embryonic and early post‐natal development of mammalian neuromuscular junctions (NMJs) using single‐nucleus transcriptomics which provides specific insights into the activities of individually studied nuclei and their functional characteristics. Unlike other single‐nucleus transcriptomics studies, which tend to be limited to single developmental time points, this article provides novel views of the complex developmental and regulatory dynamics and embryonic cell type origins underscoring the formation of functioning mammalian NMJs by combining this transcriptomic approach with interference tests in cultured C2C12 myotubes. This reveals intriguing novel links between the particular nicotinic acetylcholine receptor genes (nAChR) and regulator transcripts thereof and enables outlining the sequential development of functioning NMJs along embryogenesis and soon after delivery. Specifically, the timewise and cell type origins of the studied nuclei emerged as essential for NMJ neurogenesis and inter‐cellular transfer of specific regulators has been indicated. Breaking the barriers between distinct research subdisciplines, this study opens new neurochemistry research directions that recombine developmental, regulatory, and functional transcriptomics in NMJ‐including tissues. Moreover, these findings may facilitate tests of diverse pharmaceutical and therapeutic modulators of neuromuscular functioning in health and disease, assisting the translational research progress in treating devastating neuromuscular states such as in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, myasthenia gravis or individuals poisoned occupationally or otherwise with anticholinesterase inhibitors.

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Genetics of human longevity: From variants to genes to pathways
Authors: Smulders Larissa , Deelen Joris
Published: November 2023

The current increase in lifespan without an equivalent increase in healthspan poses a grave challenge to the healthcare system and a severe burden on society. However, some individuals seem to be able to live a long and healthy life without the occurrence of major debilitating chronic diseases, and part of this trait seems to be hidden in their genome. In this review, we discuss the findings from studies on the genetic component of human longevity and the main challenges accompanying these studies. We subsequently focus on results from genetic studies in model organisms and comparative genomic approaches to highlight the most important conserved longevity‐associated pathways. By combining the results from studies using these different approaches, we conclude that only five main pathways have been consistently linked to longevity, namely (1) insulin/insulin‐like growth factor 1 signalling, (2) DNA‐damage response and repair, (3) immune function, (4) cholesterol metabolism and (5) telomere maintenance. As our current approaches to study the relevance of these pathways in humans are limited, we suggest that future studies on the genetics of human longevity should focus on the identification and functional characterization of rare genetic variants in genes involved in these pathways.
Melatonin rescues the mitochondrial function of bone marrow‐derived mesenchymal stem cells and improves the repair of osteoporotic bone defect in ovariectomized rats
Authors: Gu Chao , Zhou Quan , Hu Xiayu , Ge Xiaoyang , Hou Mingzhuang , Wang Wenhao , Liu Hao , Shi Qin , Xu Yong , Zhu Xuesong , Yang Huilin , Chen Xi , Liu Tao , He Fan
Published: November 2023

Osteoporotic bone defects, a severe complication of osteoporosis, are distinguished by a delayed bone healing process and poor repair quality. While bone marrow‐derived mesenchymal stem cells (BMMSCs) are the primary origin of bone‐forming osteoblasts, their mitochondrial function is impaired, leading to inadequate bone regeneration in osteoporotic patients. Melatonin is well‐known for its antioxidant properties and regulation on bone metabolism. The present study postulated that melatonin has the potential to enhance the repair of osteoporotic bone defects by restoring the mitochondrial function of BMMSCs. In vitro administration of melatonin at varying concentrations (0.01, 1, and 100 μM) demonstrated a significant dose‐dependent improvement in the mitochondrial function of BMMSCs obtained from ovariectomized rats (OVX‐BMMSCs), as indicated by an elevation in mitochondrial membrane potential, adenosine triphosphate synthesis and expression of mitochondrial respiratory chain factors. Melatonin reduced the level of mitochondrial superoxide by activating the silent information regulator type 1 (SIRT1) and its downstream antioxidant enzymes, particularly superoxide dismutase 2 (SOD2). The protective effects of melatonin were found to be nullified upon silencing of Sirt1 or Sod2, underscoring the crucial role of the SIRT1‐SOD2 axis in the melatonin‐induced enhancement of mitochondrial energy metabolism in OVX‐BMMSCs. To achieve a sustained and localized release of melatonin, silk fibroin scaffolds loaded with melatonin (SF@MT) were fabricated. The study involved the surgical creation of bilateral femur defects in OVX rats, followed by the implantation of SF@MT scaffolds. The results indicated that the application of melatonin partially restored the mitochondrial energy metabolism and osteogenic differentiation of OVX‐BMMSCs by reinstating mitochondrial redox homeostasis. These findings suggest that the localized administration of melatonin through bone implants holds potential as a therapeutic approach for addressing osteoporotic bone defects.
Insomnia medications: History, characteristics, and guidelines for optimal use in clinical practice
Authors: Krystal Andrew D.
Published: November 2023

This article reviews the history of insomnia pharmacotherapy, documenting the evolution that has occurred over time in the increasing availability of medications with novel mechanisms of action that more specifically target the neural systems that modulate sleep/wake function. This evolution provides an increasing capacity to improve the effectiveness of insomnia pharmacotherapy by allowing the selection of medications that specifically target the particular type of sleep difficulty present in each patient. As a result, they can achieve a therapeutic effect with fewer effects on aspects of brain function other than those needed to achieve benefit, thereby minimising adverse effects. The accumulated evidence‐base is such that it can serve as the basis for a personalised insomnia pharmacotherapy paradigm. Here we outline a set of best‐practice recommendations for how to carry out optimised personalised insomnia pharmacotherapy based on that evidence base in the hope that it will improve the treatment delivered to the many individuals suffering from insomnia.
Strange Affinities in the Search for Personalized Health: New Age Practices and Genetic Testing
Authors: Scheitle Christopher P. , DiGregorio Bernard D. , Corcoran Katie E.
Published: November 2023

A prominent focus of New Age beliefs and practices has always been health and healing—including the use of holistic healing, power crystals, homeopathy, and complementary and alternative medicine. Given its association with modern science and medicine, genetic testing would seem to run counter to New Age alternative medical practices. On the other hand, the use of at‐home genetic health tests and the use of such New Age alternative medical practices could both be motivated by a desire for personalized healthcare. Using data generated from a survey fielded on a probability sample of U.S. adults, we examine associations between individuals’ use of at‐home genetic health tests and their use of power crystals and acupuncture or other homeopathic medicine. Logistic regression models find that those who use power crystals or homeopathic medicine have significantly greater odds of having used an at‐home genetic health test. We discuss the implications of these findings for our understanding of the direct‐to‐consumer genetic testing market and the relationship between science, religion, and spirituality more broadly.
Comparative evaluation of use of apexo elevators versus crane pick elevators in extraction of mandibular posterior root stumps
Authors: Mehta Mili , Shah Sonal , Rudagi Bhimappa , Lunkad Piyush , Bhagat Bhushan , Ticku Smriti
Published: November 2023

Purpose

The crane pick elevator is a solid version of the pick‐type dental elevator that rolls the root out of the socket using the wheel and axle method. The traditional apexo elevator works on the wedge principle, wherein it helps to retrieve root stumps below the gingival line. Although most of the extractions can be performed with routine techniques and instruments, there is a constant urge to improve these conventional procedures with newer instruments and techniques. Thus, we intend to do a comparative study, evaluating the efficiency of apexo elevators versus crane pick elevators in the extraction of mandibular root stumps.

Patients and Methods

This was a comparative in vivo study conducted on a total of 68 patients aged 18 years and above. They were divided into two groups of 34 each using a random number generator. The patients were evaluated on the basis of their gender, whether extraction was successful, time taken for extraction, operators' difficulty, root length and the tooth that was extracted.

Results

Majority of the participants were males in the apexo group (61.7%) and females in the crane pick group (55.8%). InAU terms of successful extraction, it was seen to be more with apexo elevators compared to crane pick elevators and is statistically significant (0.04*). The operator encountered greater difficulty during the removal of root stumps with crane pick elevators.

Conclusion

We concluded that crane pick elevators are useful in luxating apical one third of the root when fractured. However, apexo elevators are better when it comes to delivering the tooth out of the socket.
Collagen‐Based Hydrogels for Cartilage Regeneration
Authors: Sun Lihui , Xu Yan , Han Yu , Cui Jing , Jing Zheng , Li Dongbo , Liu Jianguo , Xiao Chunsheng , Li Dongsong , Cai Bo
Published: November 2023

Cartilage regeneration remains difficult due to a lack of blood vessels. Degradation of the extracellular matrix (ECM) causes cartilage defects, and the ECM provides the natural environment and nutrition for cartilage regeneration. Until now, collagen hydrogels are considered to be excellent material for cartilage regeneration due to the similar structure to ECM and good biocompatibility. However, collagen hydrogels also have several drawbacks, such as low mechanical strength, limited ability to induce stem cell differentiation, and rapid degradation. Thus, there is a demanding need to optimize collagen hydrogels for cartilage regeneration. In this review, we will first briefly introduce the structure of articular cartilage and cartilage defect classification and collagen, then provide an overview of the progress made in research on collagen hydrogels with chondrocytes or stem cells, comprehensively expound the research progress and clinical applications of collagen‐based hydrogels that integrate inorganic or organic materials, and finally present challenges for further clinical translation.
Optimizing electronic blood ordering and supporting administration workflows to improve blood utilization in the pediatric hospital setting
Authors: Stoffel Michelle , Leu Michael G. , Barry Dwight , Hrachovec Jennifer , Saifee Nabiha H. , Migita Darren S. , Deam Nate , Villavicencio Carlos E. , O'Hare M. Pauline , Pagliarulo Amy , Delaney Meghan
Published: November 2023

Background

Red blood cell wastage occurs when blood is discarded rather than transfused, and ineffective ordering results in unnecessary crossmatch procedures. We describe how a multimodal approach to redesigning electronic ordering tools improved blood utilization in a pediatric inpatient setting and how using innovative application of time series data analysis provides insights into intervention effectiveness, which can guide future process improvement cycles.

Methods

A multidisciplinary team used best practices and Toyota Production System methodology to redesign electronic blood ordering and improve administration processes. We analyzed crossmatch to transfusion ratio and red blood cell wastage time series data extracted from our laboratory information system and electronic health record. We used changepoint analysis to identify statistically discernible breaks in each time series, compatible with known interventions. We performed causal impact analysis on red blood cell wastage time series data to estimate blood wastage avoided due to the interventions.

Results

Changepoint analysis estimated an 11% decrease in crossmatch to transfusion ratio and a 77% decrease in red blood cell monthly wastage rate during the intervention period. Causal impact analysis estimated a 61% reduction in expected wastage compared to the scenario if the interventions had not occurred.

Discussion

Our results show that electronic health record design is an important factor in reducing waste and preventing unnecessary crossmatching, and that time series analysis can be a useful tool for evaluating the long‐term impact of each stage of intervention in a longitudinal process redesign effort for the purpose of effectively targeting future improvement efforts.
Coloring unions of nearly disjoint hypergraph cliques
Authors: Mubayi Dhruv , Verstraete Jacques
Published: November 2023

We consider the maximum chromatic number of hypergraphs consisting of cliques that have pairwise small intersections. Designs of the appropriate parameters produce optimal constructions, but these are generally known to exist only when the number of cliques is exponential in the clique size (Glock, Kühn, Lo, and Osthus, Mem. Amer. Math. Soc. 284 (2023) v+131 pp; Keevash, Preprint; Rödl, Eur. J. Combin. 6 (1985) 69–78). We construct near designs where the number of cliques is polynomial in the clique size, and show that they have large chromatic number. The case when the cliques have pairwise intersections of size at most one seems particularly challenging. Here, we give lower bounds by analyzing a random greedy hypergraph process. We also consider the related question of determining the maximum number of caps in a finite projective/affine plane and obtain nontrivial upper and lower bounds.
Transition (From Sport) Experiences of Former National Football League Players: An NFL-LONG Study
Authors: DeFreese J.D. , Weight Erianne A. , Lempke Landon B. , Walton Samuel R. , Kerr Zachary Yukio , Brett Benjamin L. , Chandran Avinash , Mannix Rebekah , Echemendia Ruben J. , McCrea Michael A. , Meehan William P. , Guskiewicz Kevin M.
Published: November 2023

Transition from professional football life has important implications for the health and well-being of former National Football League (NFL) players. The study purpose was to examine former NFL players’ experiences of transitioning from sport including factors that helped and factors that made transition difficult. This study used a convenience sample of former NFL players drawn from a larger study of health and function. Participants included 1,784 former NFL players, mean age = 52.3 ± 16.3 years, 59% White, and a discontinuation mean of 24.0 ± 15.6 years after leaving the league. Participants responded to open-ended transition questions via mail or electronic questionnaire with responses analyzed using conceptual content analysis. The most frequently reported factors that helped transition included career transition plan/options (48%) and social support (40%). Whereas, structure- (33%) and identity-related (23%) difficulties were reported as factors that made transition difficult. Findings identify areas for targeted interventions to enhance NFL player well-being during transition from sport.
How do our environments affect our minds?
Authors: Bower Isabella S.
Published: November 2023

Neuroscience reveals how building design shapes our behavioral, brain, and body responses
Napkin math can change the world
Authors: Goshua George
Published: November 2023

Mathematical models hold the key to equitable patient care
Staying stably cool in the sunlight
Authors: Zhao Dongliang , Tang Huajie
Published: November 2023

Microporous ceramics passively cool buildings and reduce the need for air conditioners
Impending U.S. helium sale worries researchers
Authors: Rosen Julia
Published: November 2023

Fearing supply disruptions, industry calls for delay to unloading of federal reserve
Global algal outbreaks are crowding out corals
Authors: Pennisi Elizabeth
Published: November 2023

Reefs already stressed by bleaching are being smothered by crust-forming red algae
Researchers close in on fully artificial yeast genome
Authors: Leslie Mitch
Published: November 2023

Cells can survive when nearly half their chromosomes are humanmade
Complete genome sequence of the probiotic
Bifidobacterium adolescentis
strain iVS-1
Authors: Chacón-Vargas Katherine , Van Haute Mallory J. , Kessinger Isabella M. K. , McClain Kaylee A. , Yumul Shara R. P. , Christensen Chloe M. , Lewis Zachery T. , Auchtung Thomas A.
Published: November 2023

Bifidobacterium adolescentis
iVS-1 is a human-isolated strain known to possess several probiotic properties. Here, its genome was completely sequenced to examine genes associated with lactose metabolism and other potentially beneficial traits, such as the production of folate and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA).