bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Abstract P50: PAX9 Activates Cell Death via Autophagic Degradation of EGFR in Oral squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Bhol Chandra Sekhar , Sethi Gautam , Bhutia Sujit Kumar
Published: April 2024

PAired boX 9 (PAX9) gene belongs to the PAX family and is critically essential for physiology and development. It has a significant role in maintaining squamous cell differentiation, and its downregulation is associated with tumor initiation and malignant transformation. In this study, we have analyzed the tumor suppressive potential of PAX9 by activating autophagy-dependent apoptosis in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). PAX9 overexpression inhibited cell growth and triggered apoptosis in OSCC. Moreover, PAX9 restricted orosphere formation and epithelial-mesenchymal transition in OSCC. Similarly, overexpression of PAX9 in OSCC induced autophagy activation and displayed enhanced lysosomal function in the transcriptional-dependent mechanism. Interestingly, PAX9-activated autophagy caused EGFR degradation leading to OSCC inhibition, thus establishing that PAX9 could induce lethal autophagy. In addition, PAX9 involves chemosensitizing OSCC to anticancer drugs, which exhibited profound growth inhibitory potential in OSCC. To check the status of PAX9 expression in OSCC in patient tissue, we performed IHC, and surprisingly, the expression of PAX9 was found to decreased in a higher grade of cancer tissues compared to the normal tissues. Further, we established a DMBA-induced oral carcinoma in hamster model, and it was observed that the expression of PAX9 was decreased in the 12th and 16th weeks of DMBA-exposed tissue compared to the normal tissue. On a mechanistic view, PAX9 expression was reduced with enhanced expression of DNMT1 in exposure to carcinogen in OSCC in vitro, indicating a potential association of methylation in controlling the expression of PAX9 during carcinogenesis.

Citation Format: Chandra Sekhar Bhol, Gautam Sethi, Sujit Kumar Bhutia. PAX9 Activates Cell Death via Autophagic Degradation of EGFR in Oral squamous Cell Carcinoma [abstract]. In: Proceedings of Frontiers in Cancer Science; 2023 Nov 6-8; Singapore. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2024;84(8_Suppl):Abstract nr P50.
Abstract P65: Single Cell Profiling Reveals Unique TCR Repertoire and Transcriptomic Signatures of Epstein-Barr Virus-Specific T cells (EBVSTs) Armoured with Chimeric Antigen Receptors (CARs)
Authors: Kua Lindsay , Lim Ting Wei , Wong Fiona , Teo Pei Yun , Low Lionel , Horak Ivan , Chen Jinmiao , Tan Kar Wai
Published: April 2024

Allogeneic Epstein-Barr Virus-specific T cells (EBVSTs) have thus far been a safe immunotherapy product in the clinic, with little graft-versus-host-disease reported in over 300 recipients to date. Consequently, EBVSTs armoured with chimeric antigen receptors (CARs) have emerged as a promising platform for allogeneic T cell therapies. Believing that a deep characterisation of CAR EBVST cell products can enhance insights into their clinical safety, we performed single cell T cell receptor (TCR) sequencing on CAR EBVSTs, taking CD30.CAR EBVSTs as a prototype.

Non-transduced (NT) EBVSTs and CD30.CAR EBVSTs generated from three healthy donors exhibited a narrower, more focused TCR repertoire by diversity indices, compared to resting T cells and CD30.CAR-transduced activated T cells (ATCs) from the same donors. EBVSTs harboured a lower frequency of unique TCR clonotypes and a higher proportion of expanded clones, indicating a tendency toward clonal dominance. Narrower TCR repertoires corresponded to greater IFNγ and TNFα secretion in response to stimulation with EBV peptides, with no cross-reactivity toward other common viruses, and were associated with lower allogeneic reactivity in mixed lymphocyte reactions.

To investigate whether the EBVST nature of the product might contribute to better CAR activity, we concurrently performed single cell transcriptomic sequencing on NT EBVSTs, CD30.CAR EBVSTs, and CD30.CAR ATCs. Transcriptomic signatures revealed that each sample type contained two major, distinct populations of CD4+ T cells: proliferative and activated. While the proliferative subsets appeared to be closely related, the activated populations had distinct transcriptional profiles. In particular, CD30.CAR EBVSTs appeared to be more polyfunctional and metabolically poised than CD30.CAR ATCs. The restricted TCR repertoire and apparent functional superiority of CD30.CAR EBVSTs may underlie their safety and efficacy observed in early-stage clinical trials and preclinical models, with the larger implication that these qualities extend to CAR EBVSTs targeting antigens beyond CD30.

Citation Format: Lindsay Kua, Ting Wei Lim, Fiona Wong, Pei Yun Teo, Lionel Low, Ivan Horak, Jinmiao Chen, Kar Wai Tan. Single Cell Profiling Reveals Unique TCR Repertoire and Transcriptomic Signatures of Epstein-Barr Virus-Specific T cells (EBVSTs) Armoured with Chimeric Antigen Receptors (CARs) [abstract]. In: Proceedings of Frontiers in Cancer Science; 2023 Nov 6-8; Singapore. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2024;84(8_Suppl):Abstract nr P65.
Clinical Axillary Staging in Breast Cancer Patients Using Ultrasound Imaging
Authors: Moreth Maximilian , Herröder Nicole , Hödl Petra , Bufe Alexa , Bretschneider Christiane , Möbus Volker , Rom Joachim , Müller-Schimpfle Markus
Published: April 2024

Introduction: The presence of axillary lymph node involvement is an important prognostic factor and has a major impact on treatment decisions in early breast cancer patients. This study aimed to determine the role of cortical thickness in axillary ultrasound (AUS) as an indicator of lymph node metastasis. Methods: 766 patients with primary breast cancer who received AUS during clinical work-up were selected for this retrospective study. Lymph nodes were defined as suspicious if they showed a cortical thickness of >3.0 mm at 11–15 MHz harmonic imaging ultrasound. Lymph node involvement was assessed by core needle biopsy (n = 150), sentinel node dissection or axillary dissection. Extensive axillary spread (EAS) was diagnosed if more than two lymph nodes showed metastatic disease in histology. Results: AUS for detecting all lymph node metastases had a sensitivity of 62.27%, a specificity of 93.15% and a negative predictive value of 81.74%. However, the resulting negative predictive value for transcapsular growth was 93.97%, and for EAS 97.52%. Conclusion: EAS – in contrast to non-palpable involvement of 1 or 2 lymph nodes – contributes relevantly to the individualization of breast cancer treatment. In combination with SNB, AUS using cortical thickness as the main distinctive parameter seems to be an easily available, robust tool of diagnosing extensive axillary metastases. If AUS proves negative, it helps to reduce the number of classic axillary dissections.
Inhibition of the mPTP and Lipid Peroxidation Is Additively Protective Against I/R Injury
Authors: Mendoza Arielys , Patel Pooja , Robichaux Dexter , Ramirez Daniel , Karch Jason
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND:

During myocardial ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury, high levels of matrix Ca
2+
and reactive oxygen species (ROS) induce the opening of the mitochondrial permeability transition pore (mPTP), which causes mitochondrial dysfunction and ultimately necrotic death. However, the mechanisms of how these triggers individually or cooperatively open the pore have yet to be determined.

METHODS:

Here, we use a combination of isolated mitochondrial assays and in vivo I/R surgery in mice. We challenged isolated liver and heart mitochondria with Ca
2+
, ROS, and Fe
2+
to induce mitochondrial swelling. Using inhibitors of the mPTP (cyclosporine A or ADP) lipid peroxidation (ferrostatin-1, MitoQ), we determined how the triggers elicit mitochondrial damage. Additionally, we used the combination of inhibitors during I/R injury in mice to determine if dual inhibition of these pathways is additivity protective.

RESULTS:

In the absence of Ca
2+
, we determined that ROS fails to trigger mPTP opening. Instead, high levels of ROS induce mitochondrial dysfunction and rupture independently of the mPTP through lipid peroxidation. As expected, Ca
2+
in the absence of ROS induces mPTP-dependent mitochondrial swelling. Subtoxic levels of ROS and Ca
2+
synergize to induce mPTP opening. Furthermore, this synergistic form of Ca
2+
- and ROS-induced mPTP opening persists in the absence of CypD (cyclophilin D), suggesting the existence of a CypD-independent mechanism for ROS sensitization of the mPTP. These ex vivo findings suggest that mitochondrial dysfunction may be achieved by multiple means during I/R injury. We determined that dual inhibition of the mPTP and lipid peroxidation is significantly more protective against I/R injury than individually targeting either pathway alone.

CONCLUSIONS:

In the present study, we have investigated the relationship between Ca
2+
and ROS, and how they individually or synergistically induce mitochondrial swelling. Our findings suggest that Ca
2+
mediates mitochondrial damage through the opening of the mPTP, although ROS mediates its damaging effects through lipid peroxidation. However, subtoxic levels both Ca
2+
and ROS can induce mPTP-mediated mitochondrial damage. Targeting both of these triggers to preserve mitochondria viability unveils a highly effective therapeutic approach for mitigating I/R injury.
Effects of the spatial resolution of the Virtual Epileptic Patient on the identification of epileptogenic networks
Authors: Lemaréchal Jean-Didier , Triebkorn Paul , Vattikonda Anirudh Nihalani , Hashemi Meysam , Woodman Marmaduke , Guye Maxime , Bartolomei Fabrice , Wang Huifang E. , Jirsa Viktor
Published: April 2024

Digital twins play an increasing role in clinical decision making. This study evaluates a digital brain twin approach in presurgical evaluation, the Virtual Epileptic Patient (VEP), which estimates the epileptogenic zone in patients with drug-resistant epilepsy. We built the personalized digital brain twins of 14 patients and a series of synthetic dataset by considering different spatial configurations of the epileptogenic and/or propagation zone networks (EZN and PZN, respectively). Brain source signals were simulated with a high spatial resolution neural field model (NFM) composed of 81942 nodes, embedding both long-range (between brain regions) and short-range (within brain regions) coupling. Brain signals were then projected to stereotactic electroencephalographic (SEEG) contacts with an accurate forward solution. An inversion procedure based on a low spatial resolution neural mass model (NMM) composed of 162 nodes was applied to estimate the excitability of each region in each simulation. The ensuing estimated EZN/PZN was compared to the simulated ground truth by means of classification metrics. Overall, we observed correct but degraded performance when using an NMM to estimate the EZN from data simulated with an NFM, which was significant for the simplest spatial configurations. We quantified the reduced performance and demonstrated that the oversimplification of the forward problem is its principal cause. We showed that the absence of local coupling in the NMM affects the inversion process by an overestimation of the excitability, representing a significant clinical impact when using this procedure in the context of presurgical planning. In conclusion, this study highlighted the importance to shift from an NMM towards a full NFM modeling approach for the estimation of EZN, with a particularly relevant need when considering the most complex clinical cases.
Removing scanner effects with a multivariate latent approach: A RELIEF for the ABCD imaging data?
Authors: Kraft Dominik , Bon Gloria Matte , Breton Édith , Seidel Philipp , Kaufmann Tobias
Published: April 2024

Scan site harmonization is a crucial part of any neuroimaging analysis when data have been pooled across different study sites. Zhang and colleagues recently introduced the multivariate harmonization method RELIEF (REmoval of Latent Inter-scanner Effects through Factorization), aiming to remove explicit and latent scan site effects. Their initial validation in an adult sample showed superior performance compared to established methods. We here sought to investigate utility of RELIEF in harmonizing data from the Adolescent Brain and Cognitive Development (ABCD) study, a widely used resource for developmental brain imaging. We benchmarked RELIEF against unharmonized, ComBat, and CovBat harmonized data and investigated the impact of manufacturer type, sample size, and a narrow sample age range on harmonization performance. We found that in cases where sites with sufficiently large samples were harmonized, RELIEF outperformed other techniques, yet in cases where sites with very small samples were included there was substantial performance variation unique to RELIEF. Our results therefore highlight the need for careful quality control when harmonizing data sets with imbalanced samples like the ABCD cohort. Our comment alongside shared scripts may provide guidance for other scholars wanting to integrate best practices in their ABCD related work.
Civil and Ethnic Identity of Russians: the Role of Values in their Development
Authors: Fedotova Vera A.
Published: April 2024

Background. Person's civil and ethnic identity, which are components of social identity, develop during socialization under the influence of a number of factors. J. Berry identifies cultural, political, economic and historical factors as the basis for identity formation. The scientific novelty of the work lies in the study of the role of the cultural factor, namely the structure of values, in the formation of a positive civic and ethnic identity of Russians. Objectives. The purpose of this work is to study the structure of the ethnic and civic identity of Russians as well as the influence of individual values on their formation. Study Participants. The study was conducted with the participation of 1014 respondents, ethnic Russians, aged from 19 to 83 years (Mage = 41 years; SD = 13.04; 527 women and 487 men). Methods. J. Finney's MEIM-R methods were used to measure ethnic identity. S. Schwartz's PVQ-R value structure questionnaire was also applied. Civic identity was measured using the methodology from the International Social Survey Program, adapted into Russian by L.K. Grigoryan. Results. It was found that the civic identity of Russians as the individual’s awareness of belonging to the citizens of the country is more pronounced than ethnic identity. Nationalism is expressed more than the ideology of patriotism. The affective component of ethnic identity is more pronounced than the cognitive one. Among the surveyed respondents, the values of independence, security, reputation and benevolence prevail. The values of security, benevolence and universalism increase the level of civic identity in Russians. The key positive regressor in relation to both civic and ethnic identity is the value “Tradition”. Conclusions. Socially oriented values (preservation and self-overcoming) have a positive impact on the formation of positive civic and ethnic identity of Russians. The values of personal orientation (openness to change and self-affirmation) have a negative impact on their formation.
Gynoxys revolutifolia (Senecioneae, Asteraceae): A new species from southern Ecuador
Authors: ARIAS RUTH , ESPINOSA-ORTEGA NELSON , REVILLA ITALO , ANSALONI RAFFAELLA , TOMASELLO SALVATORE
Published: April 2024

Gynoxys is a very diverse genus of Asteraceae with an Andean distribution from Venezuela to northern Argentina. It comprises about 130 species, 34 of which are recorded in Ecuador. In the present study, we describe Gynoxys revolutifolia, a new species occurring in Ecuador between Loja and Zamora-Chinchipe provinces. The new species is a shrub or treelet characterized by coriaceous leaves with a strongly revolute margin. After an accurate revision of the main Ecuadorian herbaria and field surveys, we provide a comprehensive comparison of G. revolutifolia with the species it was previously misidentified as. We also provide information concerning the chemical composition, distribution range and conservation status of the new species.
On the recognition and taxonomic position of Quercus mongolicoides (Fagaceae)
Authors: HIROKI SHŌZŌ
Published: April 2024

In Japan, a new clade of Quercus Linnaeus (1753: 994) has been recently recognized, and its taxonomic position is under discussion. The present paper briefly reviews the history of the change of its scientific name and discusses its taxonomic position.
The taxonomy of Heteropanope indica De Man, 1887 from the Indian Ocean, with a note on Pilumnopeus pearsei (Rathbun, 1932) (Crustacea: Decapoda: Brachyura: Pilumnidae)
Authors: PATEL KRUPAL , TRIVEDI JIGNESHKUMAR , MITRA SANTANU , NG PETER K. L.
Published: April 2024

Benthopanope indica (De Man, 1887) was originally described from the Mergui Archipelago and has subsequently been reported from many Indo-West Pacific localities. The identity of this species is herein clarified. The re-examination of the type female, fresh specimens collected from Chilika Lake, Odisha State, India, as well as material from other locations, revealed that B. indica is not a Benthopanope species but should be assigned to Pilumnopeus instead. Pilumnopeus indicus comb. nov. is now restricted to the Indian Ocean and is reported from the western coast of Peninsular Malaysia for the first time. Heteropanope pearsei Rathbun, 1932, described from East Asia, previously synonymised under P. indicus by Sakai (1965), is here shown to be valid species of Pilumnopeus, and all previous records of “B. indica” from Japan, China, Taiwan, and Korea must be referred to this species. The two species can be differentiated by characters of the carapace, epistome, chelipeds and gonopods. Lectotypes are also designated for both species.
Mosquitoes in crabholes: A hidden realm of culicid diversity in India
Authors: NATARAJAN R. , GOPALAKRISHNAN S. , SHRIRAM A.N. , KUMAR ASHWANI
Published: April 2024

This is the first listing of mosquitoes inhabiting crabholes across the diverse landscapes of India. Drawing from an extensive review of existing literature on mosquito diversity in various ecological regions of the country, the adults or immature stages of 68 mosquito species have been found in crabholes. This entomological assessment revealed that 24 species occur in crabholes in mangroves, characterized by brackish water, while an additional 44 species are found in freshwater crabholes in forested areas. The majority of the species appear to have been collected as resting adults, a pattern consistent with earlier observations. The implications of this finding highlight the complex relationship between mosquitoes and their association with crabholes. This new knowledge opens up avenues to future studies that explore the diversity and biology of mosquitoes in these unique habitats.
New data on Turkish Pyraloidea: a new species of Hyperlais Marion, 1959 (Lepidoptera: Pyraloidea: Crambidae: Glaphyriinae) and the first report of the little-known Polyochodes albidiscella (Amsel, 1954)
Authors: AKIN KESRAN , SEVEN ERDEM
Published: April 2024

In this study, Hyperlais cakiri sp. nov. is described and illustrated from the east of Türkiye. The new species is compared with the closely related species H. nemausalis (Duponchel, [1834]) and H. elbursalis (Amsel, 1961). Moreover, Polyochodes albidiscella (Amsel, 1954), previously known only from the type locality in Iran, is recorded as new to the Turkish fauna. Male adult and genital pictures of P. albidiscella as well as those of P. farsella (Amsel, 1951) are presented.
Larval description of Setodes acutus Navás 1936, (Trichoptera: Leptoceridae) from Algeria, including a discriminatory matrix to the known Setodes larvae from the Maghreb region
Authors: DAMBRI BESMA M , BEMMOUSSAT-DEKKAK SOUMYA , IBRAHIMI HALIL , SARTORI MICHEL , KARAOUZAS IOANNIS
Published: April 2024

The hitherto unknown larva of Setodes acutus Navás 1936 from the Aures region, Algeria, is described. The diagnostic features of the species are explained and illustrated, and morphological comparisons are made with Setodes argentipunctellus McLachlan 1877, recently recorded from the region. In addition, a discriminatory matrix to the known Setodes larvae from the Maghreb region is provided. Lastly, information on the ecology of the two species and their distribution to Northwest and Northeast Algeria is included.
Recovering Quasi-Biennial Oscillations from Chaos
Authors: Chartrand Xavier , Nadeau Louis-Philippe , Venaille Antoine
Published: April 2024

The quasi-biennial oscillation (QBO) is understood to result from wave–mean-flow interactions, but the reasons for its relative stability remain a subject of ongoing debate. In addition, consensus has yet to be reached regarding the respective roles of different equatorial wave types in shaping the QBO’s characteristics. Here, we employ Holton–Lindzen–Plumb’s quasilinear model to shed light on the robustness of periodic behavior in the presence of multiple wave forcings. A comprehensive examination of the various dynamical regimes in this model reveals that increased vertical wave propagation at higher altitudes favors periodicity. In the case of single standing wave forcing, enhanced vertical propagation is controlled by the wave attenuation length scale. The occurrence of nonperiodic states at high forcing amplitudes is explained by the excitation of high vertical unstable modes. Increasing the attenuation length scale prevents the emergence of such modes. When multiple wave forcing is considered, the mean flow generated by a dominant primary wave facilitates greater vertical propagation of a perturbation wave. Raising the altitude where most of the wave damping occurs favors periodicity by preventing the development of secondary jets responsible for the aperiodic behavior. This mechanism underscores the potential role of internal gravity waves in supporting the periodicity of a QBO primarily driven by planetary waves.
Physical Compatibility Between Intravenous Magnesium Sulfate and Potassium or Sodium Phosphate in a Pediatric Intensive Care Unit
Authors: Clemente Bautista Susana , Jiménez Lozano Inés , Castellote Belles Laura , Parramón-Teixidó Carlos Javier , Garcia Esquerda Carme , Puertas Sanjuan Adrian , Daina Noves Carla , Segura Encinas Vanessa , Cabañas Poy Maria Josep
Published: April 2024

Objective:To evaluate the physical compatibility between intravenous magnesium sulfate and potassium and sodium phosphate, a common electrolyte intravenous supplementation in pediatric intensive care units. Study design: Magnesium sulfate was mixed separately with potassium phosphate and sodium phosphate at ratios of 1:1, 1:4, and 4:1. Binary mixtures were prepared, in triplicate and under sterile conditions, by permuting the order of addition. The undiluted pure drugs were used as controls for possible sequence effects. Visual changes, turbidity, and pH were assessed immediately after mixing (baseline) and at 4 and 24 hours. Two observers performed visual changes by naked-eye visual inspection in order to search visible haze, particulate matter, gas formation, or color change. Turbidity was measured by nephelometry and incompatibility was defined as an increase of ≥0.5 nephelometric turbidity units (NTU) from baseline. pH was measured using a portable pH meter and incompatibility was defined as a variation of >1 pH unit during the observation period. Results: None of the admixtures exhibited visual changes or significant variations in turbidity (increases of ≥0.5 in nephelometric turbidity units) or pH (changes of >1 unit) during the observation period and neither compared with baseline. Conclusion: In this study, no visual changes were observed, and turbidity and pH evaluated by instrumental methods remained within acceptable limits and showed no significant variations from baseline, therefore no physical incompatibility between magnesium sulfate and potassium or sodium phosphate was found.
Effect of Phenobarbital-Based Alcohol Withdrawal Protocol on Provider Practice and Patient Outcomes—A Quality Improvement Study
Authors: Centanni Nicolette , Mezoian Taylor , Gilboy John , Evans Jessica , Hudak Nicole , Craig Wendy , Gordon Lesley
Published: April 2024

Introduction: Alcohol is the most common substance use disorder in the United States. Despite this prevalence, there remains significant heterogeneity in medical management of alcohol withdrawal syndrome (AWS). While the 2020 American Society of Addition Medicine continues to recommend the use of benzodiazepines as first-line therapy for AWS, there is increasing use of phenobarbital in patients at high risk of severe AWS. Despite phenobarbital’s favorable pharmacologic profile, historically, clinical utilization on general medicine services has been low and often restricted. In this project, we have examined practice patterns and associated clinical outcomes in adult patients experiencing AWS on the general medicine service pre and post implementation of a phenobarbital-based protocol for the treatment of severe AWS at our institution. Methods: This quality improvement study evaluated changes in management of AWS on general medicine units associated with implementation of a phenobarbital-based protocol and order set in the electronic medical record (EMR). Our primary outcome measures were receipt of a phenobarbital loading dose, concomitant benzodiazepine administration, and total benzodiazepine dose. Safety outcomes were also explored to assess clinical impacts of this protocol implementation. The project was determined “not research” by our Institutional Review Board. Results: Phenobarbital-protocol implementation was associated with increased frequency of receiving a phenobarbital loading dose (49.5% vs 9.4%; P < .001), decreased use of concomitant benzodiazepine/phenobarbital (4.3% vs 28.9%; P < .001), and decreased total benzodiazepine dose (7.8 vs 15.5 mg; P < .001). Regarding safety, there was no significant pre/post difference in the rate of ICU transfer, but among those transferred there was a trend toward decreased mechanical ventilation rate (100% vs 28.6%; P = .051), and a significantly reduced ICU length of stay (median 11 vs 3 days; P = .04). There were no pre/post differences in seizures, delirium or use of adjunct medications. Conclusions: This quality improvement study demonstrates a marked change in provider prescribing practices for treating AWS after implementation of an institutional phenobarbital-based protocol. We observed no difference in overall clinical outcomes after protocol implementation, although a larger follow-up study is needed to confirm this and to further explore the shorter ICU length of stay for patients with AWS postimplementation.
Novel combined Shewhart-CUmulative EWMA-SUM mean charts without- and with measurement error
Authors: Munir Tahir , Alqahtani Fahad M. , Alrashidi Afaf , Rahman Abdu R , Cheema Salman Arif , Li Yi
Published: April 2024

The precision of process monitoring often encounters challenges in determining the exact shift size. Therefore, combined control charts have gained considerable attention because of their excellent speed to detect simultaneously small-to-moderate and large-size shifts. The effectiveness of the applied quality control methods strongly depends on the performance of the measurement system. Measurement error presence contributes significantly negatively toward the performance of the usual control charting schemes. This article proposes novel two-sided combined Shewhart-Cumulative EWMA-sum (Shewhart-CUESUM) control charts designed to efficiently monitor the mean of normally distributed processes. In addition, to address measurement errors, the M-Shewhart-CUESUM chart is proposed, incorporating an additive measurement error model. Evaluation of the charts through Monte-Carlo simulations, considering metrics such as average run length (ARL), extra quadratic loss, relative ARL, and performance comparison index. It is found that the combined Shewhart-CUESUM outperforms than CUESUM chart. The results show that the presence of measurement errors can significantly diminish the charts’ performance, which can be mitigated by utilizing a multiple measurements scheme. Among the different well-established combined charts examined, the M-Shewhart-CUESUM chart shows considerably more sensitive to detecting simultaneously detect small and large size shifts. To employ simulated datasets to illustrate the impact of measurement errors and demonstrate the implications of the proposed charts on process mean shifts.
Determination of sugar in tangerines by fluorescence with an Improved partial least squares (PLS) algorithm
Authors: Liu Lei , Li Chunzhong , Bian Haiyi , Abdalla Ahmed N , Yao Hua , Li Wen
Published: April 2024

The accurate determination of sugar content in tangerines plays a pivotal role in assessing their quality, nutritional value, and marketability. Traditional methods for sugar quantification often involve time-consuming and resource-intensive processes. In this paper, we introduce a novel approach for sugar determination in tangerines utilizing fluorescence spectroscopy in conjunction with an improved Partial Least Squares (iPLS) algorithm. A robust testing model was developed, incorporating a diverse dataset of tangerine samples with known sugar concentrations. Fluorescence spectra were acquired for 80 samples, of which 37 were used to build the iPLS model and were considered as the training dataset. The remaining 43 samples served as the validation dataset and were used to show the model’s efficacy. The training dataset was evaluated using cross-validation, and F-values were computed to determine how many main components should be utilized to build the model. The result approved validation dataset’s R-square and root-mean-square error were 0.9777 and 0.002992, respectively. These findings open the door to broader applications in the citrus industry and beyond, with the potential for automating the analysis process and improving overall quality control.
High-resolution acoustic imaging method based on equivalent source method and reweighted l1 minimization
Authors: Liu Yuan , Liu Wenqiang , Li Yongchang , Hu Dingyu , Jing Wenqian
Published: April 2024

Sparse regularization has been successfully applied to equivalent source method (ESM) in order to improve the acoustic imaging resolution. However, the application is not always feasible, especially at low frequencies. To overcome the problem, this paper proposes a high-resolution acoustic imaging method. In this method, reweighted l1 minimization is introduced to ESM to deal with the ill-posed inverse problems. Then the obtained equivalent source strengths are used to locate the sound sources. Compared to the sparse regularization-based ESM, the proposed method can provide a low side lobe and higher spatial resolution of acoustic imaging. Meanwhile, by arranging equivalent sources in three-dimensional space, the proposed method can also realize the acoustic imaging in three-dimensional sound field with high resolution. The results of the simulation and experiment demonstrate the validations.
Psychosocial dimensions of being a child in women’s shelters: A phenomenological study on the experiences of battered women – A case study from Türkiye’s Northern Region
Authors: Uzun Sevda , Emirza Elif Güzide
Published: April 2024

Background:

Violence against women has numerous devastating effects. Exposure to violence not only impacts women but also affects their children both physically and psychosocially.

Aims:

The study aimed to evaluate the psychosocial problems of children living with their mothers in women’s shelters from the mothers’ perspective with a phenomenological approach.

Methods:

Utilizing the phenomenological research method, semi-structured in-depth interviews were conducted with 14 individuals in a women’s shelter in a province in northern Türkiye. The criterion sampling method, a purposive sampling technique, was employed to select participants. Interviews continued until data saturation was achieved. All interviews were audio recorded and then transcribed, and thematic analysis was applied to analyze the data. The study adhered to the COREQ checklist for reporting.

Results:

The data analysis revealed four main categories (effects of violence on the mother, actions taken to protect children from violence, effects of violence and staying in a shelter on the child, and psychosocial needs for the protection of the child’s mental health in the shelter) and 10 sub-themes (psychological effects, physical effects, social effects, domestic actions, organizational actions, psychological effects, physical effects, social effects, support system, and coping).

Conclusion:

The study concluded that violence significantly impacted the mental, physical, and social well-being of both women and children, posing challenges to their ability to cope with the aftermath. Women exerted considerable effort in protecting their children from violence, and they needed psychosocial support to ensure the well-being of their children’s mental health during their stay in shelters.
Land-Use Land-Cover Dynamics of Peri-Urban Areas of National Capital Region (NCR) of Delhi
Authors: Sunil  , Bhaduri Sanjukkta
Published: April 2024

This paper attempts to analyse the Land-Use Land-Cover (LULC) changes during the years from 1999 to 2020 in the peri-urban areas of Delhi (Capital of India). These areas have been undergoing tremendous transformation, especially spatial transformation due to their proximity to urban areas and availability of cheaper land. Peri-urban areas of Delhi have observed a significantly higher growth of built-up area in these two decades compared to other LULC changes such as vegetation, waterbodies, wasteland and agriculture. In this concern, a statistical relationship of built-up expansion with transport infrastructure is established to address the land use dynamics.
Network analysis of international cooperation in space 1958–2023: Evidence of space blocs
Authors: Ben-Itzhak Svetla
Published: April 2024

The future of international cooperation in outer space was questioned when, in January 2022, Russia announced that it intended to leave the International Space Station (ISS) in 2024. A symbol of post-Cold War reconciliation, the station has linked Washington and Moscow even when relations on the ground frayed. The ISS has become a bedrock of international cooperation, having welcomed 276 individuals from 22 countries since it was first put in orbit in 1998. Russia’s announced departure from the ISS alarmed proponents of international cooperation in space. Its actions, however, do not signal an end but a new phase in international cooperative dynamics in space. This article examines international cooperation in outer space from 1958 until 2023. Using network analysis, it quantifies cooperative relations between states on space matters to examine the current state of international cooperation in space and its evolving dynamics. It finds that international cooperation in space has become increasingly defined by the emergence of distinct clusters of states, termed ‘space blocs’. Recent patterns of international cooperation in space markedly deviate from past dynamics in three key aspects. First, since 2008, distinct, bound space blocs can be clearly detected. Second, the internal composition of recent space blocs has become increasingly reflective of geopolitical affinities and strategic considerations on the ground. Third, although highly bound and distinct, the more recent space blocs are not entirely isolated and have not instituted any exclusionary practices, which is promising for the future of international space cooperation.
Sudden death due to spontaneous rupture of the right atrium in the setting of chronic lung disease: A case report and review
Authors: Tomar Jitendra S , Singh Bajrang K , Prakash Surya , Thakur Pramendra S
Published: April 2024

Sudden death from haemopericardium as a result of a right atrial rupture is uncommon, most particularly when this occurs spontaneously without any prior trauma or evidence of atrial wall pathology. The deceased was a 32-year-old man. At lunchtime his symptoms of unease, giddiness and unconsciousness began and within 45 minutes he arrived at the hospital. His vitals could not be recorded in the emergency department, and after CPR, he was pronounced dead. At autopsy, an isolated right atrial rupture, without any disease of the heart wall, was discovered. The right atrium has the weakest wall and is frequently the site of spontaneous rupture brought on by increased intraluminal pressure. Both liquid blood and clotted blood were found in the pericardial cavity. Low atrial pressure encourages clot formation because it causes considerably slower blood entry into the pericardium at the time of atrial rupture compared with entry at the time of ventricular rupture. Evidence of chronic lung disease was found which explains the raised intraluminal pressure of the heart chambers. Even with no history of trauma or myocardial infarction, the Beck triad – an engorged neck vein, a muffled heart sound, and low blood pressure – should alert the emergency room staff to the possibility of cardiac tamponade because, in a very unlikely scenario, spontaneous cardial wall rupture might occur.
Modeler in a box: how can large language models aid in the simulation modeling process?
Authors: Frydenlund Erika , Martínez Joseph , Padilla Jose J , Palacio Katherine , Shuttleworth David
Published: April 2024

We examine the potential of prompting a large language model-based chatbot, ChatGPT, to generate functional simulation model code from a prose-based narrative. The simple narrative describes how the mode of transportation for elementary school students changed due to the COVID-19 pandemic and related factors, including a lack of available bus drivers, lack of mask enforcement on buses, and inclement weather. We document the process of providing this narrative to ChatGPT and further prompting the chatbot to generate model code to represent the narrative and to make it executable. We test ChatGPT’s ability to use prose descriptions of a phenomenon to generate simulation models using three paradigms: discrete event system, system dynamics, and agent-based modeling. Our findings reveal that ChatGPT could not produce concise or executable models, facing higher difficulty when asked to do so in programming languages it was less familiar with. This analysis underscores the strengths and limitations of the current state of this technology for modeling and simulation. Furthermore, we propose how future advancements in Large Language Models may aid the simulation modeling process, increasing transparency and participation in multidisciplinary team efforts.
Mariculture Policies and Ocean Grabbing in Brazil
Authors: Silva Hugo Juliano Hermógenes da , Pierri Naína
Published: April 2024

Aquaculture (the breeding of freshwater and marine organisms) is commonly cited as a solution to the crisis that has plagued global fisheries in recent years. Since the 2000s, the Brazilian government has encouraged aquaculture production through government funding, sectoral planning, and environmental regulations. This government-driven mariculture has been responsible for the appearance of ocean grabbing mechanisms. Document analysis of government policies and environmental regulations and semistructured interviews with important members of the federal government show that the promulgation of the new Brazilian Forest Code stimulated shrimp farming in formerly protected areas and the federal government created a system for the auctioning and of areas in public waters. These mechanisms promoted the privatization and commodification of public sea, land, and other natural resources and negatively affected communities whose livelihoods depend on coastal and marine spaces. There is an ongoing campaign to dismantle the socioenvironmental legal framework responsible for regulating and protecting Brazil’s coastal and marine environments while mariculture is encouraged through sectoral policies based on a neoliberal economic model.

La acuicultura (cultivo de organismos de agua dulce y marinos) se menciona comúnmente como una solución a la crisis que ha colapsado las pesquerías mundiales en los últimos años. Desde comienzos de los años 2000, el gobierno brasileño incentivó la producción acuícola a través de fondos gubernamentales, planificación sectorial y regulaciones ambientales. La maricultura promovida por el gobierno es responsable por la aparición de mecanismos de usurpación de espacios y recursos naturales de las comunidades marino-costeras (“ocean grabbing”). Análisis de documentos de políticas gubernamentales y regulaciones ambientales sobre maricultura y entrevistas semiestructuradas a informantes clave del gobierno federal muestran que la promulgación del nuevo Código Forestal Brasileño (2012) estimuló el cultivo de camarón en áreas anteriormente protegidas y el gobierno federal creó un sistema de subasta y venta de áreas de aguas públicas para cultivos. Tales mecanismos promueven la privatización y mercantilización del mar, la tierra y otros recursos naturales públicos y afecta negativamente a las comunidades cuyos medios de vida dependen de los espacios costeros y marinos. Hay una campaña en curso para desmantelar el marco legal socioambiental responsable de regular y proteger los ambientes costeros y marinos de Brasil, al mismo tiempo que se incentiva la maricultura a través de políticas sectoriales basadas en un modelo económico neoliberal.
Customers, Markets, and Five Archetypical Value Creation Logics: A Review of Demand-Side Research in Strategic Management
Authors: Schmidt Jens , Priem Richard , Zanella Paola
Published: April 2024

Scholars have examined the role of customer preferences, and demand-side characteristics more generally, in varied core strategy areas like market entry and timing, diversification, positioning, resource reallocation, and firm adaptation, among many others. We review this diverse demand-side literature and develop an empirical classification that identifies five archetypical customer value-creation logics seen in the literature to date. To apply each of these logics, a firm must look downstream with the intent of matching, leveraging, adapting, learning, or shaping customer preferences or market characteristics to create value for customers. For each value-creation logic, we detail the logic itself, how the demand side is characterized, how specific strategic decisions allow for value creation following the logic, literature gaps in the logic, and opportunities for future research. Opportunities include extending the work on existing logics, examining the combined effects of multiple logics, identifying understudied demand-side characteristics, and studying strategy applications for which demand-side attributes have received comparatively little attention to date. These include business models, corporate social responsibility (CSR), corporate governance, and demand-side shocks. Finally, we address implications for managerial practice.
A Values-Complementarity Model of Social Movement Influence on Entrepreneurship
Authors: Gish J. Jeffrey , Lanahan Lauren , Beck Joshua T.
Published: April 2024

Social movements have long held noteworthy effects on organizations and industries by deliberately seeking to alter firms’ actions to align with the movements’ values. In the present research, we examine the possibility of nondeliberative effects of social movements on entrepreneurial activities. We posit that social movements elevate values that enhance market conditions and encourage entrepreneurship in unexpected ways. We examine this values-complementarity process in the context of the 2011 Occupy Wall Street movement. Although the movement intended to delegitimize large corporations, we find evidence that it also had the complementary effect of increasing small-scale, people-centered, and community-oriented values. As such, this enhanced congruent forms of entrepreneurship. We find consistent effects of Occupy on startup growth across a range of industries. Moreover, using brewing as an illustrative setting, we identify distinctive emergent themes confirming the shift and alignment of microbreweries toward stronger community values after Occupy protests. We discuss implications for the social movement and organization literatures.
Gendered crisis approach: Exploring the gendered impact of Iranian sanctions on nascent entrepreneurship outcomes
Authors: Oghazi Pejvak , Patel Pankaj C , Hajighasemi Ali
Published: April 2024

Using a gendered crisis approach, this study investigates the impact of sanctions on Iranian women’s nascent entrepreneurial behaviours. Using data from the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor’s individual-level data and sanctions intensity data on 10,781 individuals, aged 18–65 from 2008 to 2018, the findings indicate that sanctions lower the perceived opportunities to start a business for women more so than for men. Although sanctions did not influence perceived start-up skills, suggesting resilience among women amid the challenges, sanctions did reduce the fear of failure for women more so than for men. Policymakers, both in the Collective West and in Iran, can use these insights to develop gender-inclusive measures and support women’s entrepreneurship in sanction-affected contexts.
Influence of second phase precipitates on the microstructure and mechanical properties of WE43-0.5Ca alloy during hot deformation process
Authors: Xia Mengyuan , Zhu Huiwen , Yu Baoyi , Zheng Li , Lv Shunning , Li Lei , Huang Tao
Published: April 2024

The WE43-0.5Ca alloy was processed by the combination of extrusion, ageing treatment and rolling in the present study. The results showed that the strength of the alloy is better at an extrusion temperature of 470 °C. The alloy was then subjected to ageing treatment. The alloy aged for 14 h had the highest strength. However, there was still a high amount of the second phase enriched at the shear bands. The as-extruded state alloy was rolled. The strength of the alloy in the rolled state was significantly increased. Broken into fine second-phase particles during rolling, these second-phase particles are diffusely distributed in the matrix, resulting in second-phase strengthening that enhances the strength of the alloy.
Evaluating the Delivery and Oversight of State-Funded Local Bridge Projects
Authors: He Zhaoxiang , Tabatabai Habib , Qin Xiao
Published: April 2024

State-funded local bridge projects face several challenges including but not limited to constrained budgets, increasing burden from state departments of transportation (DOT) staff, and the lack of expertise of some local personnel. By streamlining the delivery and oversight of state-funded projects through delegation, a collaborative and proactive approach can be achieved, ensuring the successful maintenance and development of local low-risk bridges, which are not on the National Highway System and have minimal to no environmental, right of way, utility, or railroad impacts. This paper offers a practical approach to evaluating programs focused on progressing project delivery by delegating specific tasks and responsibilities to local governments. Taken as a study case, Wisconsin Department of Transportation’s low-risk bridge pilot program was evaluated using both a quantitative methodology: data analysis using a data-driven statistical approach involving analysis of pilot and control group data, and an evaluation of the performance metrics developed by the state DOT; and a qualitative approach: a survey of local sponsors and stakeholders about the pilot project. The survey corroborated the findings derived from the data analysis: improved performance in project cost and schedule for pilot projects, highlighting consistency and reliability in the evaluation process. The integration of both methodologies resulted in valuable insights and experiences, providing valuable guidance to other states conducting similar program evaluations.