bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
HBP/O-GlcNAcylation Metabolic Axis Regulates Bone Resorption Outcome
Authors: Taira T.M. , Ramos-Junior E.S. , Melo P.H. , Costa-Silva C.C. , Alteen M.G. , Vocadlo D.J. , Dias W.B. , Cunha F.Q. , Alves-Filho J.C. , Søe K. , Fukada S.Y.
Published: February 2023

Osteoclasts play a key role in the regulation of bone mass and are highly active metabolically. Here we show that a metabolic reprogramming toward the hexosamine biosynthetic pathway (HBP) is required not only for osteoclast differentiation but also to determine the bone resorption mode during physiological and pathological bone remodeling. We found that pharmacological inhibition of O-GlcNAc transferase (OGT) significantly reduced protein O-GlcNAcylation and osteoclast differentiation. Accordingly, genetic deletion of OGT also inhibited osteoclast formation and downregulated critical markers related to osteoclasts differentiation and function (NFATc1, αvintegrin, cathepsin K). Indeed, cells treated with OSMI-1, an OGT inhibitor, also reduced nuclear translocation of NFATc1. Furthermore, the addition of exogenous N-acetylglucosamine (GlcNAc) strongly increased osteoclast formation and demineralization ability. Strikingly, our data show for the first time that O-GlcNAcylation facilitates an aggressive trench resorption mode in human cells. The incubation of osteoclasts with exogenous GlcNAc increases the percentage of erosion by trench while having no effect on pit resorption mode. Through time-lapse recording, we documented that osteoclasts making trenches moving across the bone surface are sensitive to GlcNAcylation. Finally, osteoclast-specific Ogt-deficient mice show increased bone density and reduced inflammation-induced bone loss during apical periodontitis model. We show that osteoclast-specific Ogt-deficient mice are less susceptible to develop bacterial-induced periapical lesion. Consistent with this, Ogt-deleted mice showed a decreased number of tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase-positive cells lining the apical periodontitis site. In summary, here we describe a hitherto undiscovered role of the HBP/O-GlcNAcylation axis tuning resorption mode and dictating bone resorption outcome.
When less is more: Experimental Bishop–Koop technique for reduction in the use of laboratory animals for intestinal pathophysiological studies
Authors: Abate Juan Cruz , Lausada Natalia , Vecchio Dezillio Leandro , Moreira Jeremías , Marinoff Ivana Ivanoff , Ferreyra Compagnucci Maria Malena , Andrés Moreno Ane Miren , Largo Carlota , Rumbo Martín , Hernández Oliveros Francisco , Romanin David , Stringa Pablo
Published: February 2023

The use of animals to gain knowledge and understanding of diseases needs to be reduced and refined. In the field of intestinal research, because of the complexity of the gut immune system, living models testing is mandatory. Based on the 3Rs (replacement, reduction and refinement) principles, we aimed to developed and apply the derived-intestinal surgical procedure described by Bishop and Koop (BK) in rats to refine experimental gastrointestinal procedures and reduce the number of animals used for research employing two models of intestinal inflammation: intestinal ischemia-reperfusion injury and chemical-induced colitis. Our results show the feasibility of the application of the BK technique in rodents, with good success after surgical procedure in both small and large intestine (100% survival, clinical recovery and weight regain). A considerable reduction in the use of the number of rats in both intestinal inflammation models (80% in case of intestinal ischemia-reperfusion damage and 66.6% in chemical-induced colitis in our experimental design) was achieved. Compared with conventional experimental models described by various research groups, we report excellent reproducibility of intestinal damage and functionality, survival rate and clinical status of the animals when BK is applied.
Anxiety, Depression and Burnout Levels of Nurses Working in COVID-19 Intensive Care Units
Authors: Karadağ Songul , Çiçek Bahar
Published: February 2023

This descriptive and correlation-seeking study was planned to determine the depression, anxiety, and burnout levels experienced by nurses working in COVID intensive care units. The survey consisted of three instruments: Nurse Identification Form, Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), and Burnout Measure Short Form (BMS). It was determined that the mean anxiety score of the nurses was 11.31 ± 4.41, the mean depression score was 10.03 ± 3.54, and the mean of burnout was 3.92 ± 1.75. In addition, it was determined that 53.3% of the nurses experienced burnout and 27.0% were so exhausted that they needed professional help. Also, it was determined that there was a moderately significant positive relationship between anxiety and burnout and depression and burnout ( p < 0.001). Protecting the mental health of nurses is very important in terms of both improving the quality of care and increasing the productivity of nurses.
Cluster Analysis of Sleep Time and Adolescent Health Risk Behaviors
Authors: Yu Junjie , Liu Yang , Liao Liping , Yan Jie , Wang Hong
Published: February 2023

Adolescents are prone to multiple health risk behaviors. These might lead to insufficient sleep, which is inconducive to adolescent growth. Therefore, this study explored the impact of a cluster of adolescent health risk behaviors on sleep time, providing a reference for designing relevant intervention measures. From November to December 2019, a stratified cluster sampling method was used to sample middle and high schools in 4 functional districts of Chongqing, China. A total of 8546 participants were selected for a questionnaire survey. Two-step clustering helped identify the health risk behavior clusters. Multivariate logistic regression models helped examine the association between the different clusters and sleep time. The rate of insufficient sleep was 65.8%. Three types of clusters were identified, namely (1) high-risk (poor) cluster (17.3%), (2) low physical activity (medium) cluster (55.1%), and (3) low-risk (good) cluster (27.6%). The high-risk and low physical activity clusters showed that the adjusted OR values of 1.471 (1.266-1.710) and 1.174 (1.052-1.310) were significantly associated with insufficient sleep ( P < .001). Adolescent health risk behaviors were clustered, and different clusters had different sleep time. Schools authorities and healthcare practitioners should formulate effective intervention measures according to the characteristics of different clusters to promote healthy growth among adolescents.
Fatigue and Cognitive Decline Associated With Depressive Symptoms Among Community-Dwelling Adults
Authors: Almegbas Noura R. , Almutairi Gamar R. , Alosaimi Rawan M. , Alqahtani Maha A. , Batook Saleh G. , Alfageh Ibrahim A. , Alhowimel Ahmed S. , Alqahtani Bader A. , Alshehri Mohammed M. , Alenazi Aqeel M.
Published: February 2023

To investigate the prevalence of depressive symptoms in community-dwelling Saudi adults aged ≥50 years and the associated risk factors. Patient Health Questionnaire 9 (PHQ-9) was dichotomized as depressive symptoms when the participants scored ≥10. Risk factors included age, sex, body mass index, education, employment, marital status, number of chronic diseases and medications, fatigue severity scale (FSS), and Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA). Among the 206 participants, the prevalence of depressive symptoms was 17.48%. The number of chronic diseases, medications, and fatigue symptoms were significantly higher in those with depressive symptoms, whereas cognitive functions were significantly lower. Fatigue symptoms and cognitive functions were significantly associated with depressive symptoms. The cut-off scores for risk factors were ≥42 (FSS) and ≤23 (MoCA scale). Fatigue and cognitive impairments were the only risk factors that distinguished participants with and without depressive symptoms.
Stolen Valor: The Legal Story Behind Impersonating Military Personnel
Authors: Weisz E. R.
Published: February 2023

Military impersonation, or stolen valor, is an understudied topic. Military impersonation can be committed by civilians and service members alike. Military service misrepresentation is adjudicated under civilian federal law (for civilians and veterans) or the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ; for service members). In the legal field, the main literature concerns the constitutionality of the Stolen Valor Act (SVA) of 2005. However, since the SVA of 2005, many developments have occurred. The same applies to the UCMJ, which underwent a large revision that went into effect in 2019. The scarcity of research has led to this legal study covering the federal statutes and state statutes that apply to military impersonation. Not only are financial motives found, mitigation of sentences in court cases is also a motive. Both demonstrate a need for military history verification.
Predicting changes in classroom aggression status norms: The role of teachers’ normative beliefs and students’ perceived support
Authors: Velásquez Ana M. , Saldarriaga Lina M. , Bukowski William M.
Published: February 2023

This study examined variations in the development of classroom aggression popularity norms, as well as the role of homeroom teachers’ aggression beliefs and students’ perceptions of teachers’ support as predictors of such variations. To achieve this goal, a sample of 63 classrooms were assessed at four time points during a school year, in nine Colombian schools. Results indicated that, overall, classroom aggression popularity norms have a nonlinear trajectory with an increase that peaks at the end of the school year. Also, we found that teachers’ aggression beliefs were concurrently associated with aggression popularity norms across time, and that teachers’ support prevented the increase in these norms. These findings are discussed considering their practical implications for preventing aggression in the school context.
Refusing post-truth with Butler and Honig
Authors: Woodford Clare
Published: February 2023

This article argues that although post-truth is understood to pose a particular misogynistic threat to feminism, we cannot assume that feminists should simply oppose post-truth. The way the post-truth debate is constructed is problematic for feminism in three ways: it misconceives the relationship between democracy and truth; utilizes a questionable binary between reason and emotion; and propagates elitist assumptions about protecting democracy from the people. Recognizing the insufficiency of our understanding of post-truth, feminists have called for greater understanding of the roles of language, affect and truth in the post-truth debate. In response, I suggest that the theories of Judith Butler and Bonnie Honig can help. However, I seek to emphasise that if feminists are to intervene meaningfully in the inequalities and intensified affective flows that structure the post-truth paradigm they would benefit from a deintensifying, confrontational but nonaggressive, approach.
Truth queens and gallows humor
Authors: Honig Bonnie
Published: February 2023

How can truth be used to fight disinformation without reproducing the “reveal”—oriented or secret-constituting epistemology of the closet, as Eve Sedgwick described it in the Epistemology of the Closet (1990)? and how does her reading of the Book of Esther in that text help illuminate aspects of today’s Trumpism?
Fact versus feeling: What post-truth scholarship can learn from the feminist phenomenology of affect
Authors: Harris Erica
Published: February 2023

Although it is a relatively new phenomenon, the most popular descriptions of post-truth operate within the boundaries of the classical dichotomy between emotion and reason that dates back to Plato’s Phaedrus: both, to some extent, view emotions as impediments to knowledge and our ability to live morally upstanding lives (248a-b). Post-truth, which is seen as a threat to reason, social cohesion, and fact-based knowledge claims, is either viewed as the outcome of the failure of our cognitive apparatus, or a consequence of our unchecked thirst for stories that provoke dramatic feelings. From a feminist point of view, this should give us pause, since the arguments used to dismiss post-truth resemble those that dismissed women’s experiences and emotions as idiosyncratic or irrational. Have post-truth scholars been too hasty in their judgment of emotion-based knowledge claims? In this essay, I explore the transcendental role of emotion in its relationship to epistemic knowledge claims and argue that emotion should be given a more primordial status in the analysis of post-factuality. I do this by exploring the psychoanalytic and phenomenological analysis of affect, especially Sara Ahmed’s feminist phenomenology of embodiment.
The politics of the invisible: Post-truth’s instrumental use of transparency and Arendt’s ‘nobody’
Authors: Yazıcıoğlu Sanem
Published: February 2023

One of the most significant difficulties that we encounter today in the post-truth era is in constructing a reality in the gap between deceptive pre-given facts and how we experience them in our lives. This gap is mostly caused by our incapacity to see reality beyond the given frames and this very characteristic of post-truth enforces us to examine the meaning of seeing more extensively. Two particular reasons make seeing things and people even more difficult: first, the claim of transparency in politics is essentially deceptive; it suggests us a way of seeing, but what it does, is rather to determine what or whom to see and from which aspect we are allowed to see them. As a result, for politics, transparency turns into a means to a desired end. Second, instrumentalization in politics works effectively only when its administrators and its subjects become invisible ‘nobodies’ who can only act and see in the pregiven limits of reality. For an alternative political approach, this article turns to a phenomenological understanding of reality which emphasizes that reality can only be constituted in the plurality of aspects. For a reconstitution of reality and politics, first, this study offers an analysis of the strong need for such a plurality that requires the inclusion of the invisibles at all levels; second, in order to develop a genuine sense of embodied plurality, it proposes a new political category, here termed ‘the politics of the invisible’.
The shadow of the eco: Denial and climate change
Authors: Marder Elissa
Published: February 2023

This article argues that climate change puts excessive demands on the psyche. The omnipresent specter of climate change and global warming cannot be processed by individual psyches because there is little – if anything – that individual people can do to stop the devastation that hovers on the horizon. Unlike other disasters and calamities that have affected humans (war, genocide, nuclear destruction, pandemics, despotism) climate change presents unique challenges to the human psyche as it engages traumatic temporality on a global scale. The inexorably real threat of climate change threatens the psyche’s ability to establish a rational relation to reality. The scale and speed of the catastrophic destruction underway calls for a reconsideration of the force and quality of the denial that accompanies it. Some of the most ‘wellmeaning’ forms of denial may turn out to be the most insidious as they attempt to rationalize, humanize and normalize actions and events that ought to force us to reckon with what we cannot bear to know.
Feminist takes on post-truth
Authors: Koekoek Catherine , Zakin Emily
Published: February 2023

This volume argues that feminist theory can provide distinctive and potent resources to confront and take on post-truth. By ‘post-truth’, we refer to a variety of discourses and practices that subvert the sense that we share a common world. Because post-truth undermines the norms and conditions that make possible shared political practices and institutions, post-truth politics is fundamentally anti-democratic. The most common response to post-truth has, however, come from those who call for reinstating truth and rationality, with special emphasis on returning to the facts and fact-checking. From a feminist perspective, this approach is worrisome as it risks idealizing the connection between democracy and truth, disowning the tensions within and between them, and suppressing contestation tout court. Diagnosing the post-truth moment we face two challenges: on the one hand, there is too much contestation (of the post-truth variety); on the other hand, there is too much depoliticization (of the technocratic or rationalist variety). This binary effectively limits the space within which critiques of post-truth can meaningfully intervene. Feminist takes on post-truth must take seriously this dual challenge at the crossroads of depoliticization and hyper-politicization, acknowledging the anti-democratic dangers of post-truth while keeping open the possibility and necessity of contestation. Our gambit is that effective rejoinders to post-truth can be found in practices that affirm rather than repudiate a plural world. Rather than simply condemning or dismissing post-truth as mad or irrational, the feminist theorists in this volume move closer to what we’re up against in order to see how encounters with reality provide opportunities to radicalize and politicize our relation to it in ways that do not undermine the conditions for others to do the same. This volume is an attempt to open new, and emphasize existing, feminist modes of response that might break the deadlock in the post-truth discourse.
Understanding and evaluating populist strategy
Authors: Jenkins David
Published: February 2023

Populism describes those strategies which actors endorsing populist ideas must use in order to be considered populist. Typical populist strategies include the hijacking of state institutions; the development of clientelistic relationships with constituencies labelled the people, or employing certain rhetorical moves in which enmity between the people and a corrupt elite looms large. In this paper, I argue against tendencies to define populism according to a specific set of tactics that are supposed to flow directly from populist ideas. Instead, populism should be understood in terms of a particular orientation, which grounds and justifies a range of strategies, all of which – nefarious or otherwise – should be considered populist. This orientation posits that enmity between ‘the people’ and an elite is a defining feature of political life, in part because it is responsible for serious failures in a country’s ostensibly democratic institutions. These failures create a degree of ambivalence with respect to these institutions’ claims to authority and obedience, and generate the perception that political actors thereby enjoy an expanded set of moral permissions. Finally, populists argue that elites prosecute revanchist projects aimed at resisting populist pathways to power and undermining them once in office. Populist strategies then are simply whatever range of tactics political actors use who accept the validity of that above orientation.
Determinants of Cohabitation in Taiwan: A Panel Data Analysis
Authors: Wang Ying-Ting , Yang Wen-Shan
Published: February 2023

Cohabitation has become more common in communities that have experienced demographic transitions, including in Taiwan, and hence it has become a research interest. However, our understanding of cohabitation in Taiwan has been limited to indirect estimations and cross-sectional analysis due to the lack of appropriate data. These analyses can provide a quick overview of the prevalence of cohabitation at specific periods, but they cannot portray the risk of cohabitation over the life course. Using recent panel data from the Taiwan Youth Project, we estimate cohabitation risk among young adults in their mid-20s to early-30s. We also examine the determinants of cohabitation. Results show that being a woman, not employed, living in emerging regions, not having varying residential locations, ever having sex (especially at an earlier age), and being more open to premarital intimacy were associated with higher odds of cohabitation.
Becoming Independent and Responsible Adults: Does Parental Financial Help Interfere?
Authors: Johnson Monica Kirkpatrick , Ridgeway Sadie
Published: February 2023

The extension of parental financial support into young adulthood has fueled concerns in the U.S. about young people’s development of independence and responsibility—financial and otherwise. This study draws on data from the Transition to Adulthood Supplement to the Panel Study of Income Dynamics to examine young people’s self-assessments of these qualities as well as their financial concerns. The findings indicate that receiving financial support from families was negatively associated with young adults’ assessments of their independence and how much financial responsibility they have for themselves. It was also associated with more frequent worrying about money. Panel models offered no support for the argument that such associations result from financial assistance undermining these accomplishments, instead indicating that financial assistance is in some cases beneficial. In contrast, earlier assessments of these qualities and concerns predicted later receipt of financial support, supporting more of a selection argument.
Smart Assistants for Smart Living: Ideology and Mythology in AI-Powered Smart Speaker Advertising
Authors: Mishra Suman , Kern-Stone Rebecca
Published: February 2023

This study examines advertising of top-selling voice-activated smart speakers in the United States to understand how advertisers are promoting these devices to consumers. The study identifies four representations of technology in smart speaker advertising. This includes technology as human, technology as self-expression and happiness, technology as progress, and technology as productivity. Engaging in semiotic analysis of select advertising, the study reveals deeper meaning, ideology, and myths in smart speaker advertising. Implications for culture and consumption are discussed.
Developing scientific, transformational, eloquent, artistic, mathematical, mechanical, emotional, relational, and social talents through problem solving: A conceptual, practical, evidence-based analysis
Authors: Maker C June , Pease Randy , Zimmerman Robert H
Published: February 2023

Building on the definition of steamers (a tasty hot milk-infused drink), we defined STEAMMERS as “a blend of diverse talents, going beyond domain-specific to domain-integrated abilities. Like steamers, they have a rich and colorful ‘flavor’!” They are passionate about solving problems they and others face by honoring and blending diverse perspectives and disciplines. Gifted children and young people have the potential to become STEAMMERS, making outstanding contributions to themselves, their communities, and their world. The underlying principle is to design learning experiences beyond traditional conceptions of STEM, STEAM, and other similar combinations of disciplines in ways that uncover, ignite, cultivate, and extend these potentials. Using Real Engagement in Active Problem Solving (REAPS), an evidence-based teaching model, enables educators to recognize, cultivate, and extend the talents of the STEAMMERS we need for our future. Here, we present our new concept, describe practices, and give evidence showing how it accomplishes these purposes.
Perfusionist removal of intra-aortic balloon pump catheters improves efficiency without an increase in complication rates
Authors: Saczkowski Richard , Spada Saverio , Hromadnik Kris
Published: February 2023

Introduction

The intra-aortic balloon pump (IABP) is one of the most utilized cardiac assist devices. Patients receiving IABP therapy are typically managed in high acuity clinical care areas with limited bed space and high demand. Our center instituted a certified clinical perfusionist (CCP) led initiative to remove IABP catheters in order to reduce IABP therapy time, hasten removal and improve efficiency.

Methods

The purpose of the study is to compare outcomes for IABP removal by a certified clinical perfusionist to a physician. The primary outcome measures were site hematoma score and limb related complications. A survey was submitted to bedside nurses, managers/patient care coordinators, CCP’s and physicians. The IABP quality assurance database was interrogated for the study.

Results

There were 350 patients eligible for inclusion. The cohort was well balanced between CCP ( n = 284) and physician ( n = 66) groups for patient demographics, indication, insertion specifics and type of medical intervention. The majority of patients had no bruise or hematoma with perfusionist ( n = 246, 87%) or physician ( n = 58, 88%) ( p = 0.78) removal. The physician group demonstrated a higher rate of grade 3 hematomas ( p = 0.03). There was no statistically significant difference between CCP and physician groups for limb complications and mortality. Survey results showed an improved efficiency in bed space allocation, physician workload and a decreased IABP support time.

Conclusion

There is no difference in limb complications between perfusionist and physician removal of IABP catheters. The survey demonstrate an improvement in resource allocation and efficiency. A perfusionist led IABP removal program can be done safely and may help improve program efficiency.
Ultrasound-guided percutaneous core needle biopsy of abdominal subcutaneous fat for diagnosing amyloidosis: comparison with bone marrow biopsy
Authors: Lee Hyo Jeong , Kim Jin Sil , Mun Yeung-Chul , Lee Jeong Kyong
Published: February 2023

Background

Patients with underlying hematologic malignancy have a higher risk of developing systemic amyloidosis, which worsens their prognosis. Histopathologic detection of amyloid deposits in tissue biopsy specimens is the only diagnostic method for amyloidosis.

Purpose

To compare the efficacy of ultrasound-guided percutaneous core needle biopsy (USPCB) of abdominal subcutaneous fat with that of bone marrow biopsy (BMB) for diagnosing amyloidosis.

Material and Methods

A total of 90 consecutive patients with underlying hematologic disorders who underwent both USPCB of abdominal subcutaneous fat and BMB for suspicion of amyloid deposition during a 10-year period were included in this retrospective study.

Results

The sensitivity and specificity of detecting amyloid deposition were 85.7% and 100%, respectively, with USPCB as opposed to 4.8% and 100%, respectively, with BMB, and the sensitivity was significantly higher with USPCB ( P < 0.001). The mean number of times USPCB was performed was 3.3. There were no major complications associated with USPCB. The sensitivity of detecting amyloidosis was not different between the 18-G needle group and the 14-G group (100% vs. 80%; P = 0.623). Logistic regression analysis revealed that acquiring more cores from USPCB and thinner fat tissues were statistically significant factors that affected the diagnostic accuracy of USPCB for amyloid detection.

Conclusion

The sensitivity of amyloid deposition was significantly higher with USPCB of abdominal subcutaneous fat than BMB. Acquiring more cores by multiple biopsies instead of using a larger bore needle and thin subcutaneous fat pad may be a favorable factor for the diagnostic accuracy of USPCB.
Revised Swedish guidelines on intravenous iodine contrast medium-induced acute kidney injury 2022: A summary
Authors: Nyman Ulf , Brismar Torkel , Carlqvist Jeanette , Hellström Mikael , Lindblom Maria , Lidén Mats , Liss Per , Sterner Gunnar , Wikner Franciska , Leander Peter
Published: February 2023

The Swedish Society of Uroradiology has revised their computed tomography (CT) guidelines regarding iodine contrast media-induced acute kidney injury (CI-AKI). They are more cautious compared to the European Society of Urogenital Radiology and the American College of Radiology since the actual risk of CI-AKI remains uncertain in patients with moderate to severe kidney damage due to a lack of prospective controlled studies and mainly based on retrospective propensity score-matched studies with low-grade evidence. Another source of uncertainty is the imprecision of glomerular filtration rate (GFR) estimating equations. However, randomized hydration studies indictae an upper limit risk of CI-AKI of about 5% for outpatients with a GFR in the range of 30–44 or 45–59 mL/min/1.73m2 combined with multiple risk factors. Apart from GFR limits, the guideline also includes limits for systemic contrast medium exposure expressed in gram-iodine/GFR ratio.
Lidocaine inhibits osteogenic differentiation of human dental pulp stem cells in vitro
Authors: Kim Eun-Jung , Yoon Ji-Uk , Kim Cheul-Hong , Yoon Ji-Young , Kim Joo-Young , Kim Hyang-Sook , Choi Eun-Ji
Published: February 2023

Objective

Lidocaine is an amide local anaesthetic commonly used for pain control, however, few studies have investigated the effect of lidocaine on the osteogenic differentiation of human dental pulp stem cells (HDPSCs). The present study aimed to determine the effect of lidocaine on HDPSC viability and osteogenic differentiation.

Methods

HDPSCs were incubated with 0, 0.05, 0.2, 0.5, and 1 mM lidocaine for 24, 48 and 72 h, after which, MTT assays were performed. HDPSCs cultured with the above lidocaine concentrations and osteogenic differentiation medium for 7 and 14 days were stained for alkaline phosphatase (ALP). Protein and mRNA levels of relevant osteogenic factors (bone morphogenetic protein-2 [BMP-2] and runt-related transcription factor 2 [RUNX2]) were examined using western blotting and real-time reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction, respectively.

Results

Lidocaine did not affect the viability of HDPSCs, however, lidocaine reduced ALP activity in HDPSCs. Levels of ALP, BMP-2, and RUNX2 mRNA were reduced with lidocaine, and levels of BMP-2 and RUNX2 proteins were decreased, versus controls.

Conclusions

Lidocaine inhibits osteogenic differentiation markers in HDPSCs in vitro, even at low concentrations, without cytotoxicity. This study suggests that lidocaine may inhibit osteogenic differentiation in HDPSC-mediated regenerative medicine, including pulp regeneration and repair.
Clinical significance of galectin-3 expression in urinary bladder carcinoma
Authors: Al-Maghrabi Jaudah Ahmed , Khabaz Mohamad Nidal
Published: February 2023

Objective

To uncover the clinical significance of galectin-3 in the evolution of urinary bladder cancer by defining galectin-3 expression and examining the relationship between its expression in a group of urothelial carcinomas versus normal tissues along with clinicopathological factors.

Methods

This retrospective study included histopathological reports and archival blocks and slides of all patients with urinary bladder cancer treated at King Abdulaziz University Hospital (Jeddah, Saudi Arabia). An anti-galectin-3 monoclonal antibody was used for immunohistochemical staining of tissue microarray slides comprising 128 cases of urothelium carcinoma and 24 specimens of normal bladder mucosa.

Results

Galectin-3 was downregulated during transformation, with positive expression found in 50 (39%) urinary bladder neoplasms, of which 33 (66%) showed weak immunostaining. All positively-stained malignant tumor and normal bladder mucosa samples showed cytoplasmic staining; a few samples also showed nuclear staining. No correlation was noted between galectin-3 and histotype, grade, stage, muscularis propria invasion, lymph node invasion, vascular invasion, or metastasis. A Cox proportional hazards model and Kaplan–Meier survival curves did not show differences in survival on the basis of galectin-3 expression.

Conclusion

Galectin-3 is down-regulated in bladder cancer but is not a helpful marker for the diagnosis or prognosis of urinary bladder cancer.
Evaluating Policies to Decrease the Risk of Introducing SARS-CoV-2 Infections to Nursing Home Facilities
Authors: Adams Joëlla W. , Jones Kasey , Preiss Sandy , Hadley Emily , Segelman Micah
Published: February 2023

We used an individual-based microsimulation model of North Carolina to determine what facility-level policies would result in the greatest reduction in the number of individuals with SARS-CoV-2 entering the nursing home environment from 12/15/2021 to 1/3/2022 (e.g., Omicron variant surge). On average, there were 14,287 (Credible Interval [CI]: 13,477–15,147) daily visitors and 17,168 (CI: 16,571–17,768) HCW coming from the community into 426 nursing home facilities. Policies requiring a negative rapid test or vaccinated status for visitors resulted in the greatest reduction in the number of individuals with SARS-CoV-2 infection entering the nursing home environment with a 29.6% (26.9%–32.0%) and 24.0% (CI: 22.2%–25.5%) reduction, respectively. Policies halving visits (21.2% [20.0%–28.2%]), requiring all vaccinated HCW to receive a booster (7.8% [CI: 7.4%–8.7%]), and limiting visitation to a primary visitor (6.5% [CI: 3.5%–9.7%]) reduced infectious contacts to a lesser degree.
Validation of the Student-Rated Parental School Involvement Questionnaire: Factorial Validity and Invariance Across Time and Sociodemographic Characteristics
Authors: Goulet Julie , Archambault Isabelle , Morizot Julien , Olivier Elizabeth , Tardif-Grenier Kristel
Published: February 2023

Studies highlighting the importance of parental involvement in schooling have multiplied over the past years. However, well-validated tools assessing the different dimensions of parental involvement are lacking, especially when addressing young students’ perception of their parents’ involvement. This study offers a preliminary validation of the Student-Rated Parental School Involvement Questionnaire (SR-PSIQ); factor structure, measurement invariance, and predictive validity were assessed. Data collected on four measurement occasions from 923 French-Canadian primary school students was used. Results favored a four-factor model (parental expectations, parent–child communication, homework supervision, and school-based involvement). The SR-PSIQ was invariant across time, student gender, parental immigration status, and socioeconomic status. Regarding predictive validity, all dimensions of parental involvement were associated with later student engagement. Overall, the SR-PSIQ is a brief, valid, and reliable instrument that can easily be used by researchers or partitioners who want to understand how parents are involved in their child’s schooling.
Curriculum Reform for Christian Education (Part 2): Designing and Implementing an Inquiry Design Method (IDMCE)
Authors: Wilkerson Lindsey
Published: February 2023

This is part 2 in a two-part article series. This article seeks to expand upon the Inquiry Design Method for Christian Education, IDMCE, by explaining how to implement IDMCE in the Christian education setting. The article also demonstrates how to utilize IDMCE as a template for creating research-based unit designs for curriculum in Christian education by providing an example of a complete unit. In this example, all seven steps of IDMCE are thoroughly explained.
Double-Edged Network Effects on Disclosing Traumatic Experiences Among Korean “Comfort Women”
Authors: Kim Eunjae , Shin Eun Kyong
Published: February 2023

This study examines the effects of social networks on the disclosure of stigmatizing and traumatic sexual assault experiences. We analyzed publicly archived oral histories of Korean “comfort women” from World War II, employing an innovative method combining word embedding analysis, word frequency comparison, and grounded theory. By extracting their significant social relationships from narrated survivor stories, we parsed two distinctive disclosure patterns according to timing of disclosure: early disclosers and late disclosers. The latter were more socially embedded than the former, indicating the constraining aspect of social networks, in which the size of social networks was positively associated with delayed disclosure. Qualitative findings further elaborated that social networks have double-edged effects. Survivors’ familial networks functioned as both social constraints and social support for public disclosure. Yet, the late disclosers tend to exploit it more as constraints for the fear of transgenerational transmission of social scorn and stigma. The findings contribute to enhancing a culturally relevant understanding of trauma and the repercussions of human trafficking.
Motives of Tobacco Use Among Young Adults in the United States Air Force
Authors: Pebley Kinsey , Pilehvari Asal , Krukowski Rebecca A. , Morris James D. , Little Melissa A.
Published: February 2023

Purpose

Research has focused on cigarette use motives and have not included military personnel. The current study assessed tobacco use motives for different products, and differences within males and females and those with different racial identities given historical disparities in tobacco use.

Design

A cross-sectional survey about tobacco use was administered from October 2019 to February 2022.

Setting

Four Technical Training bases in the US.

Sample

Air Force Airmen who used tobacco (N = 3243).

Measures

Questions were about sociodemographic characteristics, tobacco use, and the Tobacco Motives Inventory (representing affect regulation, boredom, enhancement, and social motives).

Analysis

Linear regressions assessed associations between overall tobacco use and motives. Stratified analyses assessed associations between tobacco use and motives among males and females, and individuals from different racial backgrounds. Logistic regressions assessed differences in motives and use of different tobacco products between “some day” and “everyday” users.

Results

Overall, boredom ( B = .09, SE = .01) and affect regulation ( B = .05, SE = .00) motives were associated with higher tobacco use. Males and females and individuals from different racial backgrounds endorsed different motives, but all endorsed boredom as a motive for higher tobacco use. Individuals who used cigarettes, e-cigarettes, or smokeless tobacco “some days” endorsed higher social motives than everyday users, but everyday users endorsed different motives across products.

Conclusion

There are motives differentiating between “some day” and “everyday” users of tobacco products, which may need to be differentially targeted in intervention programs. Additionally, there are some overlapping motives (affect regulation, boredom) that may be beneficial to address with all tobacco users.
Evaluation and outcomes of a 5-year assisted peritoneal dialysis program
Authors: Wong Shannon N , Turnbull Linda , Saunders Sushila , Er Lee , Bevilacqua Micheli U , Levin Adeera , Singh Rajinder S
Published: February 2023

Background:

In 2016, Peritoneal Dialysis Assist (PDA) was implemented in British Columbia, Canada, as a pilot program to allow patients with physical, cognitive and social impairments to access an independent dialysis modality. This is a presentation of the usage and 5-year clinical outcomes of our provincial assisted peritoneal dialysis (PD) program.

Methods:

Patients who utilised long-term or respite PDA services in British Columbia, Canada, from 2016 to 2021 were included in this program evaluation. Incident and prevalent patient numbers were characterised annually as well as indications for PDA and patient demographics both annually and over time. Outcomes of interest included death, transfer to haemodialysis, transplantation and cessation of the PDA program but retention on PD.

Results:

Three hundred twenty-two total patients received services through the PDA program. The percentage of PD patients supported by long-term PDA service has grown to 11.2% in the most recent year. Patients spend a median of 13.6 (95% CI: 11.0, 16.1) months on long-term PDA, prolonging overall patient duration on PD by a little over a year. Of the patients who exited the long-term PDA program, 73 (37.4%) were able to utilise the service until they died.

Conclusion:

PDA is an accessible, patient-centric service with clear and standardised referral criteria. Through the implementation of a local PDA program, patients have accessed PD and may have extended their PD life span, through avoidance of in-centre haemodialysis, by over 13 months during this 5-year study period. A significant proportion of patients on long-term PDA were able to use their preferred kidney replacement modality at home until they reached end of life.
Unfree Wage Labour
Authors: Breznik Maja
Published: February 2023

The article develops the concept of ‘unfree wage labour’ that refers to a situation in which a worker must (temporarily and conditionally) give away possession of his labour power to a third party who then sells it to the buyers of labour power. From the perspective of contract freedom and legal equality, it seems irrelevant whether a worker sells his or her labour power to an employer or to an intermediary. However, there is no doubt that labour intermediation increases the economic dependence and social subordination of workers. First, given that the intermediary negotiates with the employer, the worker has a lower ability to influence the terms of employment. Second, given that he or she is a contract worker, they have a lower ability to engage in collective action in the company. Undoubtedly, this worker has significantly lower control over her or his working and living conditions. The question arises whether his or her contract freedom lessened to the extent that we can speak of unfree wage labour.
Effect of different molding pressures on the properties of glass fiber / molybdenum disulfide / Polytetrafluoroethylene composites
Authors: Yang Guanghui , Ji Xin
Published: February 2023

Both glass fiber (GF) and molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) can enhance the comprehensive properties of PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene)-based composites, however the properties of the composites are significantly influenced by the molding pressure utilized. In this study, GF/MoS2/PTFE composites were produced under varied molding pressures (50–70 MPa), and the composites’ mechanical and tribological properties were evaluated. The results showed that the tribological parameters (such as friction coefficient and volumetric wear rate) and mechanical parameters (such as density, hardness, tensile strength, and elongation at break) varied depending on the molding pressure. When the molding pressure was 50 MPa, the GF/MoS2/PTFE composites displayed their finest mechanical properties. The composite had the best wear resistance with the lowest wear rate of only of 2.135 × 10−6 mm3/Nm at a molding pressure of 60 MPa and the lowest friction coefficient of 0.166 at a molding pressure of 70 MPa. The increased molding pressure that was employed to make the samples, as predicted by SEM analysis, would lead to greater residual stresses inside the specimens, which would ultimately result in cracking and peeling. In the friction test, specimens with a lower forming pressure are more likely to have surface furrows that are deeper and wider, as well as to shed their filler. Due to the increased molding pressure, the depth of furrows and filler shedding on the composite surface are also more apparent.
Design and analysis of an adjustable Stephenson-III closed-chain leg mechanism and its application in multi-legged robot
Authors: Zhou Hai-Bo , Yue Xu , Deng Yu-Xin , Qin Zhi-Chang
Published: February 2023

To improve the insufficient adaptability of single degree-of-freedom (DOF) closed-chain legs to unknown surroundings, this paper studies a novel adjustable closed-chain leg mechanism. Based on the traditional six-bar Stephenson-III leg mechanism, we add one degree-of-freedom to realize the adjustment of frame rod position, by which different shapes of foot trajectory curves are obtained. The height of the foot trajectory can be adjusted longitudinally to enhance the obstacle-surmounting ability, and the length of the walking stride can be changed in the transverse direction to achieve the landing point placement of the swing leg. The structure optimization, gait analysis and obstacle-surmounting simulation in different scenarios are carried out. The test results of walking ability and obstacle surmounting performance in specific surrounding show that the designed closed-chain leg mechanism can increase the maximum obstacle-crossing height and walking stability, which proves the promising characteristics of the proposed leg mechanism in the application of multi-legged robots.
Quantitative and qualitative prediction of sulfur content in diesel by near infrared spectroscopy
Authors: Zheng Quan , Huang Hua , Zhu ShiPing , Qi BaoHua , Tang Xin
Published: February 2023

This study explored the application of near infrared spectroscopy for quantitative and qualitative prediction of sulfur content in diesel fuel in the range of 10.3–1038.0 mg kg−1. The original spectra were preprocessed through various methods such as decentralization, normalization, multivariate scattering correction, and a smoothing (15-point window with second order polynomial fit). The performances of models based on partial least squares (PLS) regression, the bootstrapping soft shrinkage (BOSS), competitive adaptive reweighted sampling and Monte Carlo uninformative variable elimination algorithms in quantitative analysis of diesel samples were compared. The model for quantitative prediction of sulfur content in diesel samples using the BOSS-PLS algorithm had the highest performance and accuracy with a RMSEP of 36.20 mg kg−1 and r2 of 0.98 using a Savitzky-Golay second derivative. Diesel fuel samples were classified into five groups according to the sulfur content for qualitative analysis. The interval PLS method was then used to determine the characteristic spectra of the diesel samples. The experimental results indicated that the discriminant partial least squares qualitative analysis model had the highest performance with the characteristic spectrum from 12,493 to 10,892 cm−1, with 92.04% accuracy.
Acacia Honey-derived Bioactive Compounds Exhibit Induction of p53-dependent Apoptosis in the MCF-7 Human Breast Cancer Cell Line
Authors: Hamadou Walid Sabri , Bouali Nouha , Alhejaili Elham Bader , Soua Zohra , Patel Mitesh , Adnan Mohd , Siddiqui Arif Jamal , Abdel-Gadir Abdel-Muhsin , Sulieman Abdel Moneim Elhadi , Snoussi Mejdi , Badraoui Riadh
Published: February 2023

Background

Research studies have focused on discovering new anti-proliferative and pro-apoptotic agents derived from natural products from which honey constitutes a prominent candidate. The Acacia honey (AH) is known to display anticancer activity, but the mechanisms of action are still not well defined.

Objectives

Using in vitro and computational approaches, we aimed to assess the interaction among selected bioactive compounds derived from AH, with the apoptotic protein p53, which could trigger apoptosis.

Materials and Methods

The phytocompounds of AH were investigated via gas chromatography–mass spectrophotometry analysis. The cytotoxic effect and induced apoptosis on the MCF-7 breast cancer cell line were assessed by 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazolyl-2)-2,5 diphenyltetrazolium bromide and acridine orange-ethidium bromide staining approaches. The molecular docking analysis between AH compounds and p53 was carried out.

Results

The drug-likeness prediction revealed that most of the identified compounds meet Lipinski’s rules. We demonstrate that AH exerts an interesting cytotoxic effect in a dose-dependent manner against the MCF-7 cell line with IC50 5.053µg/mL. Significant cell alterations and notable induced apoptosis were detected when cells were treated with AH. The molecular docking analysis revealed that melezitose is among the most important potential bioactive compounds that interact with p53 leading to apoptosis. The binding affinity was −8.1 kcal/mol, and the closest molecular interactions in the active site included 10 residues, which could explain the potential biological activity.

Conclusion

This work sheds light on AH as a significant source of bioactive chemicals with potential for promoting apoptosis that may be exploited as an alternative therapy for breast cancer.