bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Safety, walking ability, and satisfaction outcomes of the NEURO TRONIC stance-control knee-ankle-foot orthosis (SCKAFO): A comparative evaluation to the E-MAG active SCKAFO
Authors: Raijmakers Bart , Brehm Merel Anne , Nollet Frans , Koopman Fieke Sophia 
Published: November 2023

Background:
Stance control knee-ankle-foot orthoses (SCKAFOs) ensure knee stability by locking during stance while allowing knee flexion during swing. Differences in function of the knee joints and building principles between devices may affect their effectiveness.

Objective:
To investigate the preliminary effectiveness of a NEURO TRONIC on safety outcomes, net energy cost (EC), and user experiences in individuals already using an E-MAG Active SCKAFO.

Study design:
Prospective uncontrolled intervention study.

Methods:
A convenience sample of 10 subjects with flaccid lower extremity muscle weakness, including the quadriceps, due to neuromuscular disorders already using an E-MAG Active SCKAFO were provided with a newly fabricated NEURO TRONIC SCKAFO. Outcomes included knee joint locking failures and unlocking failures (ULFs) (i.e., percentage of steps the knee joint failed to lock/unlock) when walking under challenging conditions on an instrumented treadmill while wearing a safety harness; net EC (J/kg per meter) assessed with a 6-min walk test at comfortable speed; 3D gait kinematics and kinetics; and patient-reported outcomes.

Results:
No differences between devices were found for knee joint locking failures (both devices 0%) and ULFs (9.9% for the NEURO TRONIC vs. 13.9% for the E-MAG Active SCKAFO). The mean (standard deviation) net EC with the NEURO TRONIC SCKAFO was 8.2% (from 3.68 [0.81] to 3.38 [0.75] J/kg per meter, p = 0.123) lower, although not significantly, compared with that with the E-MAG Active SCKAFO. Significant improvements with the NEURO TRONIC SCKAFO were found for ankle power (p = 0.003), perceived walking effort (p = 0.014), and reported falls (p = 0.034).

Conclusion:
Both the NEURO TRONIC SCKAFO and the E-MAG Active SCKAFO were safe in terms of knee joint locking, while ULFs were frequent with both devices. The net EC with the NEURO TRONIC SCKAFO decreased, although not significantly, by 8.2%, likely due to insufficient power. Perceived walking effort was in favor of the NEURO TRONIC SCKAFO.
Epiregulon: Inference of single-cell transcription factor activity to predict drug response and drivers of cell state
Authors: Włodarczyk Tomasz , Lun Aaron , Wu Diana , Shi Minyi , Ye Xiaofen , Menon Shreya , Toneyan Shushan , Seidel Kerstin , Wang Liang , Tan Jenille , Chen Shang-Yang , Keyes Timothy , Chlebowski Aleksander , Waddell Adrian , Zhou Wei , Wang Yangmeng , Yuan Qiuyue , Guo Yu , Chen Liang-Fu , Daniel Bence , Hafner Antonina , He Meng , Chibly Alejandro , Liang Yuxin , Duren Zhana , Metcalfe Ciara , Hafner Marc , Siebel Christian W. , Corces M. Ryan , Yauch Robert , Xie Shiqi , Yao Xiaosai 
Published: November 2023

AbstractTranscription factors (TFs) and transcriptional coregulators represent an emerging class of therapeutic targets in oncology. Gene regulatory networks (GRNs) can be used to evaluate pharmacological agents targeting these factors and to identify drivers of disease and drug resistance. However, GRN methods that rely solely on gene expression often fail to account for post-transcriptional modulation of TF function. We present Epiregulon, a method that constructs GRNs from single-cell ATAC-seq and RNA-seq data for accurate prediction of TF activity. This is achieved by considering the co-occurrence of TF expression and chromatin accessibility at TF binding sites in each cell. We leverage ChIP-seq data to extend inference to transcriptional coregulators lacking defined motifs or TF harboring neomorphic mutations. Epiregulon accurately predicted the effects of AR inhibition across various drug modalities including an AR antagonist and an AR degrader, delineated the mechanisms of a SMARCA4 degrader by identifying context-dependent interaction partners and prioritized known and novel drivers of lineage reprogramming and tumorigenesis. By mapping gene regulation across various cellular contexts, Epiregulon can accelerate the discovery of therapeutics targeting transcriptional regulators.
Cost-Effectiveness of Screening Asymptomatic Carotid Stenosis by Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Risk
Authors: Zhu Jinyi , Jhang Janice , Yu Hanxuan , Mushlin Alvin I , Kamel Hooman , Alemayehu Nathaniel , Giardina John C , Gupta Ajay , Pandya Ankur 
Published: November 2023

AbstractImportanceExtracranial internal carotid artery stenosis (50-99% arterial narrowing) is an important risk factor for ischemic stroke. Yet, the benefits and harms of targeted screening for asymptomatic carotid artery stenosis (ACAS) have not been assessed in population-based studies.ObjectiveTo estimate the cost-effectiveness of one-time, targeted ACAS screening stratified by atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) risk using the American Heart Association’s Pooled Cohort Equations.Design, Setting, and ParticipantsWe developed a lifetime microsimulation model of ACAS and stroke for a hypothetical cohort representative of US adults aged 50–80 years without stroke history. We used the Cardiovascular Health Study to estimate the probability and severity of ACAS based on individual characteristics (e.g., age, sex, smoking status, blood pressure, and cholesterol). Stroke risks were functions of these characteristics and ACAS severity. In the model, individuals testing positive for >70% stenosis with Duplex ultrasound and a confirmatory diagnostic test undergo revascularization, which may reduce the risk of stroke but also introduces complication risks. Diagnostic performance parameters, revascularization benefits and risks, utility weights, and costs were estimated from published sources. Cost-effectiveness was assessed from the health care sector perspective using a $100,000/quality-adjusted life year (QALY) threshold.Main Outcomes and MeasuresEstimated stroke events prevented, lifetime costs, QALYs, and incremental cost-effectiveness ratios (ICERs) associated with ACAS screening. Costs (2023 USD) and QALYs were discounted at 3% annually.ResultsWe found that screening individuals with a 10-year ASCVD risk >30% was the most cost-effective strategy, with an ICER of $89,000/QALY. This strategy would make approximately 11.9% of the population eligible for screening, averting an estimated 24,084 strokes. Results were sensitive to variations in the efficacy and complication risk of revascularization. In probabilistic sensitivity analysis, screening those in lower ASCVD risk groups (0–20%) only had a 0.6% chance of being cost-effective.Conclusion and RelevanceA one-time screening may only be cost-effective for adults at a relatively high ASCVD risk. Our findings provide a framework that can be adapted as future clinical trial data continue to improve our understanding of the role of revascularization and intensive medical therapy in contemporary stroke prevention secondary to carotid disease.
Liquid-liquid phase separation within dense-core vesicles in sympathetic adrenal chromaffin cells
Authors: Zhang Quanfeng , Lin Zhaohan , Zhou Zhuan 
Published: November 2023

AbstractThe neural communication process heavily relies on vesicular release of neurotransmitters and/or neuromodulators primarily from synaptic vesicles (SVs) or dense-core vesicles (DCVs), within neurons and neuroendocrine cells. SVs (∼40 nm) are responsible for releasing classical neurotransmitters, while DCVs (100-500 nm in diameter) release both classic neurotransmitters and neuropeptides. DCVs contain a variety of neuropeptides, hormones, and neurotransmitters, playing crucial roles in diverse physiological processes, such as brain development, neurogenesis, and synaptic plasticity. However, the biogenesis of DCVs and the sorting mechanism of different neuropeptides into DCVs remained largely unknown. Recent studies have revealed that liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS) of matrix protein-chromogranins plays pivotal roles in the formation of DCVs and the sorting process of neurotransmitters/neuromodulators in endocrine cells. Here we highlight recent advancements in mechanisms of LLPS’s regulation of DCVs[1, 2], which selectively affect release of some co-transmitters (catecholamines) but not others (i.e. ATP)[3]. We term this phenomenon “1-2-2”: 1 vesicle, 2 transmitters (catecholamine and ATP), 2 release modes (quanta and sub-quanta).
Bolstering employee relations in a public sector undertaking: validation of CODE and PLE model
Authors: Sahoo Rojalin , Sahoo Chandan Kumar 
Published: November 2023

Purpose
The purpose of this research is to examine the relationship between employer and employees in a public power sector undertaking through the validation of CODE (compensation, organizational justice, dispute resolution and employee empowerment) and PLE (workforce productivity, employee loyalty and employee engagement) model.

Design/methodology/approach
A hypothesized research model was developed and validated by using structural equation modeling (AMOS 20). In total, 303 responses were accumulated by administering a structured questionnaire among the employees of a state-owned power sector.

Findings
The results revealed that a harmonious climate of employee relations is prevailing in the public power utility. Additionally, the findings suggest that the CODE and PLE model of employee relations are found to be positive and significant by investigating the impact of compensation, organizational justice, dispute resolution and employee empowerment as the predictors; and workforce productivity, employee loyalty and employee engagement as the critical outcomes of employee relations.

Practical implications
The study recommends some plausible insights for practitioners, decision-makers and policy formulators to develop strategies and policies for nurturing congenial employee relations and also to cultivate a facilitative work environment for generating contented and competent manpower.

Originality/value
Validation of CODE and PLE model of employee relations in the new perspective of power sector undertaking is an epoch-making and novel contribution that offers significant empirical evidence to the extant literature. Moreover, the exploration of employer–employee relations in this context is a unique and innovative effort toward existing research.
A critical analysis of commercial forensic interviewing techniques applicable in a South African context
Authors: Van Graan Constant , Roos Vera , Katjene Matthews 
Published: November 2023

Purpose
A significant increase in financial crime globally emphasises the importance of forensic interviewing to obtain useful and reliable information as part of a commercial forensic investigation. Previous research has identified two interviewing strategies that are aligned with the legal framework in South Africa: the PEACE model (P = preparation and planning; E = engage and explain; A = account, clarify and challenge; C = closure; E = evaluation) and the person-centred approach (PCA). The purpose of this paper is to explore the theoretical underpinnings and application of the PEACE model and the PCA as commercial investigative strategies aligned with the legal context in South Africa.

Design/methodology/approach
A scoping review was undertaken to identify literature relevant to the theoretical assumptions and application of the PEACE model and the PCA.

Findings
Literature for the most part reports on the PEACE model but offers very little information about the PCA. A critical analysis revealed that the PEACE model incorporates a clear guiding structure for eliciting information but lacks content needed to create an optimal interpersonal context. To promote this, the PCA proposes that interviewers demonstrate three relational variables: empathy, congruence and unconditional positive regard. The PCA suggests a basic structure for interviewing (beginning, middle and end), while providing very little guidance on how to structure the forensic interview and what information is to be elicited in each phase.

Originality/value
Combining the PEACE model and PCA presents an integrated interviewing technique best suited for obtaining useful and reliable information admissible in a South African court of law. The PEACE model has a clear structure, and the PCA assists in creating an optimal interpersonal context to obtain information in an interview.
Microplastic pollution in Africa: an overview of abundance in aquatic organisms, freshwater and marine water environments and analytical methods for reporting
Authors: Asori Moses , Dogbey Emmanuel , Ampofo Solomon Twum , Odei Julius 
Published: November 2023

PurposeCurrent evidence indicates that humans and animals are at increased risk of multiple health challenges due to microplastic (MP) profusion. However, mitigation is constrained by inadequate scientific data, further aggravated by the lack of evidence in many African countries. This review therefore synthesized evidence on the current extent of MP pollution in Africa and the analytical techniques for reporting.Design/methodology/approachA literature search was undertaken in research databases. Medical subject headings (MeSH) terms and keywords were used in the literature search. The authors found 38 studies from 10 countries that met the inclusion criteria.FindingsMarine organisms had MPs prevalence ranging from 19% to 100%, whereas sediments and water samples had between 77 and 100%. The most common and dominant polymers included polypropylene and polyethylene.Practical implicationsThis review shows that most studies still use methods that are prone to human errors. Therefore, the concentration of MPs is likely underestimated, even though the authors’ prevalence evaluations show MPs are still largely pervasive across multiple environmental matrices. Also, the study reveals significant spatial disparity in MP research across the African continent, showing the need for further research in other African countries.Originality/valueEven though some reviews have assessed MPs pollution in Africa, they have not evaluated sample prevalence, which is necessary to understand not only concentration but pervasiveness across the continent. Secondly, this study delves deeper into various methods of sampling, extraction and analysis of MPs, as well as limitations and relevant recommendations.
Empirical analysis of ESG-driven green innovation: the moderating role of innovation orientation
Authors: Mukhtar Bilal , Shad Muhammad Kashif , Lai Fong-Woon , Waqas Ahmad 
Published: November 2023

PurposeThe purpose of this study is to examine the influence of ESG practices on green innovation with the moderating effect of innovation orientation in Malaysian manufacturing listed companies.Design/methodology/approachThis study employed a quantitative research approach by using a well-structured questionnaire for data collection. The questionnaire was distributed to 204 Malaysian manufacturing listed companies in consumer products and services sector. Finally, partial least square-structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) was utilized to examine the relationship between constructs.FindingsBased on stakeholder theory, results indicated that environmental, social and governance (ESG) practices significantly improve green innovation. The insignificant moderating effect of innovation orientation was identified between the relationship of environmental and social practices and green innovation. Interestingly, results affirmed the negative moderating effect between the relationship of governance practices and green innovation.Research limitations/implicationsThis study is limited to Malaysian manufacturing companies of consumer products and services sector in Bursa Malaysia. Hence, the findings of this study cannot be generalized to manufacturing companies of other geographical contexts.Practical implicationsThis work provides constructive implications to management and policymakers of Malaysian manufacturing companies in strategic planning toward enhancing green innovation and developing business competitiveness to achieve sustainable business performance.Originality/valueThis research magnifies valuable insights into the literature through a comprehensive model that simultaneously investigates the relationships between ESG practices, innovation orientation and green innovation. In addition, this is the first attempt to investigate the influence of ESG practices on green innovation with a moderating effect of innovation orientation, which indeed strengthens the originality of this study.
Thoracic cavity of the Shirazi cats: New insights using computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: Ibrahim Alaa , Rashwan Ahmed , El Sharaby Ashraf , Abumandour Mohamed , Nomir Ahmed 
Published: November 2023

AbstractOur study provided a comprehensive characterization of the thorax of Shirazi cats by comparing the relevant soft and bone windows of computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) with cross, sagittal and coronal sectional anatomy. We outlined the mediastinum and its anatomic relationships with the trachea, oesophagus, lungs, heart, cranial and caudal vena cavae, and other thoracic structures using the data series gathered from adult normal Shirazi cats. The cranial mediastinum extended from the thoracic inlet to the 4th intercostal space, the middle mediastinum extended from the 5th and 7th intercostal spaces and was occupied by the heart and large blood vessels and the caudal mediastinum extended as a short and narrow portion from the 8th intercostal space to the diaphragm. The contents of the mediastinum and its relationship with the lungs and diaphragm were clearly presented in coronal‐sectional anatomy and CT slices. The diaphragm was clearly observed in the lung windows of the ventral thorax. Sagittal‐sectional anatomy and CT clarified the thorax's architecture and its contents, with higher density in the soft windows. The distribution of thoracic vessels on cross‐ and coronal‐contrast CT scans was clearly visible. In addition, MRI scans provided an excellent anatomic reference of the thorax with the help of cross, coronal and sagittal scans, especially in the heart and blood vessels. Our study provides a valuable atlas for the diagnosis of malformations of the thoracic structures and offers better assessments for helping veterinary radiologists and clinicians in diagnostic processes.
The Ethics of Self‐Care: Risk, Responsibility, and Reproduction in Chile
Authors: Yopo Díaz Martina 
Published: November 2023

AbstractThe meanings of self‐care are complex, ranging from radical political warfare to structural biopolitical governmentality. This paper explores lived tensions of self‐care by analysing women's experiences negotiating pregnancy in Santiago de Chile. Drawing on 40 life story interviews, the findings show that although sexual education, contraception, and abortion remain constrained and structured according to class inequalities, women are expected to care for themselves by managing the risk of pregnancy and assuming responsibility for their reproductive outcomes. I argue that politics of reproduction in Santiago de Chile are shaped by a neoliberal ethics of self‐care that outlines women as autonomous, rational, and self‐regulating agents while neglecting structural constraints that affect whether and when to have children. This neoliberal ethics of self‐care reinforces the overburdening of the self, the feminisation of reproduction, the privatisation of care, and the institutionalisation of carelessness, undermining the subversive and emancipatory potential involved in caring for oneself.
Facies analysis and sequence stratigraphy of shallow marine, coarse‐grained siliciclastic deposits in the southern Utsira High: The Late Jurassic intra‐Draupne Formation sandstones in the Johan Sverdrup Field (Norwegian North Sea)
Authors: Puig López Josep M. , Poyatos‐Moré Miquel , Howell John 
Published: November 2023

AbstractThin, condensed coarse‐grained shallow marine successions can be difficult to describe and interpret, especially in the subsurface since the recognition of finer‐grained intervals, typically associated with sequence stratigraphic surfaces, is challenging. This lack of mudstones and siltstones means that they also typically make excellent reservoir intervals. The Oxfordian to Volgian intra‐Draupne Formation sandstones in the Johan Sverdrup Field, southern Utsira High, represent such a system. This study presents a new sequence stratigraphic model for the Johan Sverdrup Field that unravels the detailed depositional history of the succession and places its formation within a regional Late Jurassic tectonostratigraphic framework. The intra‐Draupne Formation sandstones comprise four parasequences deposited following a regional Kimmeridgian marine flooding event. Sediments were mainly supplied through West‐derived fan deltas from the Haugaland High and NW‐SE‐directed tidal currents reworking the Augvald Graben and the Avaldsnes High at the East. The oldest parasequence shows a distinctive suite of facies consisting of fine‐grained and mud‐rich bioturbated sandstones deposited in a semi‐restricted lagoon. Subsequent parasequences lack fine‐grained sediments and are dominated by bidirectional cross‐stratified, very coarse‐to coarse‐grained sandstones and gravels deposited in a tidal strait. A progressive reduction of fault‐related subsidence in the Middle Volgian along with Late Volgian‐Ryazanian sea‐level rise and inversion of pre‐existing structures promoted backstepping of the feeder systems, sediment starvation and the progressive deposition of the black and green‐red shales of the Draupne and Asgard formations. The results of this study account for features previously unidentified in the Johan Sverdrup Field and which have implications for understanding the deposition of coarse‐grained shallow marine successions around the Utsira High and other transgressed basement highs.