bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Data from Durvalumab ± Tremelimumab + Platinum-Etoposide in Extensive-Stage Small Cell Lung Cancer (CASPIAN): Outcomes by PD-L1 Expression and Tissue Tumor Mutational Burden
Authors: Paz-Ares Luis , Garassino Marina Chiara , Chen Yuanbin , Reinmuth Niels , Hotta Katsuyuki , Poltoratskiy Artem , Trukhin Dmytro , Hochmair Maximilian J. , Özgüroğlu Mustafa , Ji Jun Ho , Statsenko Galina , Conev Nikolay , Bondarenko Igor , Havel Libor , Losonczy György , Xie Mingchao , Lai Zhongwu , Godin-Heymann Nadia , Mann Helen , Jiang Haiyi , Shrestha Yashaswi , Goldman Jonathan W.
Published: February 2024

AbstractPurpose:
In the CASPIAN trial, first-line durvalumab plus platinum-etoposide (EP) significantly improved overall survival (OS) versus EP alone in extensive-stage small cell lung cancer (ES-SCLC). We report exploratory analyses of CASPIAN outcomes by programmed cell death ligand-1 (PD-L1) expression and tissue tumor mutational burden (tTMB).
Experimental Design:
Patients were randomized (1:1:1) to durvalumab (1,500 mg) plus EP, durvalumab plus tremelimumab (75 mg) plus EP, or EP alone. Treatment effects in PD-L1 and tTMB subgroups were estimated using an unstratified Cox proportional hazards model.
Results:
The PD-L1 and tTMB biomarker-evaluable populations (BEP) comprised 54.4% (438/805) and 35.2% (283/805) of the intention-to-treat population, respectively. PD-L1 prevalence was low: 5.7%, 25.8%, and 28.3% had PD-L1 expression on ≥1% tumor cells (TC), ≥1% immune cells (IC), and ≥1% TCs or ICs, respectively. OS benefit with durvalumab plus EP versus EP was similar across PD-L1 subgroups, with HRs all falling within the 95% confidence interval (CI) for the PD-L1 BEP (0.47‒0.79). OS benefit with durvalumab plus tremelimumab plus EP versus EP was greater in PD-L1 ≥1% versus <1% subgroups, although CIs overlapped. There was no evidence of an interaction between tTMB and treatment effect on OS (durvalumab plus EP vs. EP, P = 0.916; durvalumab plus tremelimumab plus EP vs. EP, P = 0.672).
Conclusions:
OS benefit with first-line durvalumab plus EP in patients with ES-SCLC was observed regardless of PD-L1 or tTMB status. PD-L1 expression may prove to be a useful biomarker for combined treatment with PD-(L)1 and CTLA-4 inhibition, although this requires confirmation with an independent dataset.

See related commentary by Rolfo and Russo, p. 652
Clinical Activity of TGF-β Inhibitor Vactosertib in Combination with Imatinib in Desmoid Tumors: A Multicenter Phase Ib/II Study
Authors: Ahn Jin-Hee , Lee Jeeyun , Park Changhee , Beom Seung-Hoon , Kim Seung Hyun , Lee Young Han , Yun Kum-Hee , Kim Jeung Eun , Baek Wooyeol , Han Yoon Dae , Kim Sang Kyum , Ryu Hyang Joo , Jung Inkyung , Lee JooHee , Yoon Hong In , Kim Hyo Song
Published: February 2024

Purpose:

The study was to determine the activity and safety of the TGF-β inhibitor vactosertib in combination with imatinib in patients with desmoid tumors.

Patients and Methods:

In this investigator-initiated, open-label, multicenter, phase Ib/II trial, patients with desmoid tumors not amenable to locoregional therapies (surgery and/or radiotherapy) or with disease progression following at least one treatment were enrolled. Participants were administered 400 mg imatinib daily in combination with vactosertib (5 days on and 2 days off, twice a day) every 28 days. In phase Ib, the vactosertib dose was set at 100 mg (level −1) and 200 mg (level 1) to determine the recommended phase II dose (RP2D). Phase II assessed the efficacy, with the primary endpoint being progression-free rate (PFR) at 16 weeks.

Results:

No dose-limiting toxicities were observed during phase Ib; therefore RP2D was defined at doses of 400 mg imatinib daily in combination with 200 mg vactosertib. Of the 27 patients evaluated, 7 (25.9%) achieved a confirmed partial response and 19 (70.4%) were stable. The PFR at 16 weeks and 1 year were 96.3% and 81.0%, respectively. Most toxicities were mild to moderate myalgia (n = 10, 37%), anemia (n = 10, 37%), and nausea (n = 9, 33.3%). Common grade 3 to 4 toxicities included neutropenia (n = 6, 22.2%) and anemia (n = 5, 18.5%).

Conclusions:

The vactosertib and imatinib combination was well tolerated, with promising clinical activity in patients with progressive, locally advanced desmoid tumors. This is the first study investigating a novel target agent, a TGF-β inhibitor, in this rare and difficult-to-treat desmoid tumor.
PPARα Agonism Enhances Immune Response to Radiotherapy While Dietary Oleic Acid Results in Counteraction
Authors: Ross Richard Blake , Gadwa Jacob , Yu Justin , Darragh Laurel B. , Knitz Michael W. , Nguyen Diemmy , Olimpo Nicholas A. , Abdelazeem Khalid N.M. , Nguyen Alexander , Corbo Sophia , Van Court Benjamin , Beynor Jessica , Neupert Brooke , Saviola Anthony J. , D'Alessandro Angelo , Karam Sana D.
Published: February 2024

Purpose:

Head and neck cancer (HNC) improvements are stagnant, even with advances in immunotherapy. Our previous clinical trial data show that altered fatty acid (FA) metabolism correlates with outcome. We hypothesized that pharmacologic and dietary modulation of FA catabolism will affect therapeutic efficacy.

Experimental Design:

We performed in vivo and in vitro experiments using PPARα agonism with fenofibrate (FF) or high oleic acid diets (OAD) with radiotherapy, generating metabolomic, proteomic, stable isotope tracing, extracellular flux analysis, and flow-cytometric data to investigate these alterations.

Results:

FF improved antitumor efficacy of high dose per fraction radiotherapy in HNC murine models, whereas the OAD reversed this effect. FF-treated mice on the control diet had evidence of increased FA catabolism. Stable isotope tracing showed less glycolytic utilization by ex vivo CD8+ T cells. Improved efficacy correlated with intratumoral alterations in eicosanoid metabolism and downregulated mTOR and CD36.

Conclusions:

Metabolic intervention with increased FA catabolism improves the efficacy of HNC therapy and enhances antitumoral immune response.
FIGURE 3 from Pim Kinase Inhibitors Increase Gilteritinib Cytotoxicity in FLT3-ITD Acute Myeloid Leukemia Through GSK-3β Activation and c-Myc and Mcl-1 Proteasomal Degradation
Authors: Lee Jonelle K. , Chatterjee Aditi , Scarpa Mario , Bailey Christopher M. , Niyongere Sandrine , Singh Prerna , Mustafa Ali Moaath K. , Kapoor Shivani , Wang Yin , Silvestri Giovannino , Baer Maria R.
Published: February 2024

Concurrent Pim and FLT3 inhibition downregulates c-Myc prior to Mcl-1 protein expression. A, Ba/F3-ITD, MV4-11 and MOLM-14 cells and blasts from a patient with FLT3-ITD AML plated at 1 × 105 cells/mL were treated with gilteritinib (15 nmol/L for Ba/F3-ITD and patient blasts and 10 nmol/L for MV4-11 and MOLM-14) and/or 1 µmol/L AZD1208, or DMSO control. B, Ba/F3-ITD, MV4-11, and MOLM-14 cells were also treated with gilteritinib and/or 1 µmol/L TP-3654, or DMSO control. c-Myc, Mcl-1, and vinculin loading control protein levels were measured by immunoblotting in samples collected at serial timepoints. Data in A and B are shown graphically in C and D, respectively.
Statins Prevent the Deleterious Consequences of Placental Chemerin Upregulation in Preeclampsia
Authors: Tan Lunbo , Kluivers Ans C.M. , Cruz-López Edwyn O. , Broekhuizen Michelle , Chen Zhongli , Neuman Rugina I. , Schoenmakers Sam , Ruijgrok Liesbeth , van de Velde Daan , de Winter Brenda C.M. , van den Bogaerdt Antoon J. , Lu Xifeng , Danser A.H. Jan , Verdonk Koen
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND:

Chemerin, an inflammatory adipokine, is upregulated in preeclampsia, and its placental overexpression results in preeclampsia-like symptoms in mice. Statins may lower chemerin.

METHODS:

Chemerin was determined in a prospective cohort study in women suspected of preeclampsia and evaluated as a predictor versus the sFlt-1 (soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase-1)/PlGF (placental growth factor) ratio. Chemerin release was studied in perfused placentas and placental explants with or without the statins pravastatin and fluvastatin. We also addressed statin placental passage and the effects of chemerin in chorionic plate arteries.

RESULTS:

Serum chemerin was elevated in women with preeclampsia, and its addition to a predictive model yielded significant effects on top of the sFlt-1/PlGF ratio to predict preeclampsia and its fetal complications. Perfused placentas and explants of preeclamptic women released more chemerin and sFlt-1 and less PlGF than those of healthy pregnant women. Statins reversed this. Both statins entered the fetal compartment, and the fetal/maternal concentration ratio of pravastatin was twice that of fluvastatin. Chemerin constricted plate arteries, and this was blocked by a chemerin receptor antagonist and pravastatin. Chemerin did not potentiate endothelin-1 in chorionic plate arteries. In explants, statins upregulated low-density lipoprotein receptor expression, which relies on the same transcription factor as chemerin, and NO release.

CONCLUSIONS:

Chemerin is a biomarker for preeclampsia, and statins both prevent its placental upregulation and effects, in an NO and low-density lipoprotein receptor–dependent manner. Combined with their capacity to improve the sFlt-1/PlGF ratio, this offers an attractive mechanism by which statins may prevent or treat preeclampsia.
Assessment of Price Variation in Coronary Artery Bypass Surgery at US Hospitals
Authors: Wei Chen , Paranjpe Ishan , Sharma Pranav , Milligan Michael , Lam Miranda , Heidenreich Paul A. , Kalwani Neil , Schulman Kevin , Sandhu Alexander
Published: February 2024

Background

Little is known about hospital pricing for coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). Using new price transparency data, we assessed variation in CABG prices across US hospitals and the association between higher prices and hospital characteristics, including quality of care.

Methods and Results

Prices for diagnosis related group code 236 were obtained from the Turquoise database and linked by Medicare Facility ID to publicly available hospital characteristics. Univariate and multivariable analyses were performed to assess factors predictive of higher prices. Across 544 hospitals, median commercial and self‐pay rates were 2.01 and 2.64 times the Medicare rate ($57 240 and $75 047, respectively, versus $28 398). Within hospitals, the 90th percentile insurer‐negotiated price was 1.83 times the 10th percentile price. Across hospitals, the 90th percentile commercial rate was 2.91 times the 10th percentile hospital rate. Regional median hospital prices ranged from $35 624 in the East South Central to $84 080 in the Pacific. In univariate analysis, higher inpatient revenue, greater annual discharges, and major teaching status were significantly associated with higher prices. In multivariable analysis, major teaching and investor‐owned status were associated with significantly higher prices (+$8653 and +$12 200, respectively). CABG prices were not related to death, readmissions, patient ratings, or overall Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services hospital rating.

Conclusions

There is significant variation in CABG pricing, with certain characteristics associated with higher rates, including major teaching status and investor ownership. Notably, higher CABG prices were not associated with better‐quality care, suggesting a need for further investigation into drivers of pricing variation and the implications for health care spending and access.
Cortical Spreading Depolarization in Moyamoya Vasculopathy: A Case Series
Authors: Dömer Patrick , Helgers Simeon O.A. , Meinert Franziska , Sánchez-Porras Renán , Mathys Christian , Witt Karsten , Vajkoczy Peter , Hecht Nils , Woitzik Johannes
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND:

Spreading depolarization describes a near-complete electrical discharge with altered local cerebral blood flow. It is described in association with acute and chronic diseases like hemorrhagic stroke or migraine. Moyamoya vasculopathy is a chronic, progressive cerebrovascular disorder leading to cerebral hypoperfusion, hemodynamically insufficient basal collateralization, and increased cortical microvascularization.

METHODS:

In a prospective case series, we monitored for spontaneous spreading depolarization activity by using intraoperative laser speckle imaging for real-time visualization and measurement of cortical perfusion and cerebrovascular reserve capacity during cerebral revascularization in 4 consecutive patients with moyamoya.

RESULTS:

Spontaneous spreading depolarization occurrence was documented in a patient with moyamoya before bypass grafting. Interestingly, this patient also exhibited a marked preoperative increase in angiographic collateral vessel formation.

CONCLUSIONS:

The spontaneous occurrence of SDs in moyamoya vasculopathy could potentially provide an explanation for localized cortical infarction and increased cortical microvascular density in these patients.
Evaluation of Large Ischemic Cores to Predict Outcomes of Thrombectomy: A Proposal of a Novel Treatment Phase
Authors: Umemura Takeru , Tanaka Yuko , Kurokawa Toru , Miyaoka Ryo , Idei Masaru , Ohta Hirotsugu , Yamamoto Junkoh
Published: February 2024

Background

Endovascular treatment of large ischemic cores is challenging. The severity of ischemic stress is assessed using the apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC). We aimed to evaluate the ADC in patients with a low Alberta Stroke Program Early CT [Computed Tomography] Score using diffusion‐weighted imaging and whether it correlates with clinical outcomes.

Methods

This study included consecutive patients with acute large ischemic stroke (Alberta Stroke Program Early CT Score‐diffusion‐weighted imaging ≤5) who underwent endovascular treatment with successful recanalization between April 2014 and March 2023. The most frequent ADC (peak ADC) and diffusion‐weighted imaging lesion volumes were assessed. The primary outcome was the 3‐month modified Rankin Scale (mRS) score. Good (mRS score, 0–3) and poor clinical outcomes (mRS score, 4–6) were compared to confirm whether ADC was associated with clinical outcomes.

Results

In total, 78 patients were enrolled in this study; 30 had an mRS score of 0 to 3 at 3 months. The peak ADC in these patients was significantly higher than that in patients with mRS scores of 4 to 6 (
P
= 0.0002). In multivariate analysis, peak ADC was strongly associated with good clinical outcomes (odds ratio, 1.231;
P
= 0.0135) rather than onset‐to‐recanalization time and ischemic core volume. The optimal peak ADC threshold for discriminating between the mRS groups was 520×10
−6
mm
2
/s with a sensitivity of 75% and a specificity of 73%. Good clinical outcomes were more frequently observed in patients with peak ADC ≥520×10
−6
mm
2
/s (
P
<0.0001).

Conclusion

In large ischemic cores, diffusion‐weighted imaging lesions with peak ADCs ≥520×10
−6
mm
2
/s are associated with favorable outcomes. Evaluation of the ischemic core is necessary to confirm endovascular treatment.
Exploring Sexual Homicide by Overarching Groups of Victims
Authors: Dayan Hava
Published: February 2024

This study followed recent studies venturing into a victimological path of sexual homicide research. In doing so, it aimed to identify possible distinct overarching groups of victims. A latent class analysis based on statistically significant differences in a census of 107 cases in Israel during 71 years (1948–2019) involving four identified groups of victims suggested a typology of two overarching groups of victims: nonmarginalized victims composed of children and women and socially marginalized or stigmatized victims composed of sex workers and gay men. These two overarching groups of victims display distinct patterns regarding victims, offenders, and modus operandi. Future research and policy recommendations are proposed in line with this study’s observations.
Effect of Periodontitis and Periodontal Therapy on Oral and Gut Microbiota
Authors: Baima G. , Ferrocino I. , Del Lupo V. , Colonna E. , Thumbigere-Math V. , Caviglia G.P. , Franciosa I. , Mariani G.M. , Romandini M. , Ribaldone D.G. , Romano F. , Aimetti M.
Published: February 2024

Mounting evidence indicates that periodontitis-related oral bacteria may contribute to gut microbial dysbiosis. This clinical study aimed to explore the oral–gut microbial signatures associated with periodontitis and to longitudinally evaluate the effect of periodontal treatment on the oral and gut microbial composition. Stool and saliva samples from generalized stage III/IV periodontitis patients ( n = 47) were collected and analyzed by 16S ribosomal RNA gene amplicon sequencing, before and 3 mo after steps I to II of periodontal therapy. Periodontally healthy matched subjects ( n = 47) were used as controls. Principal component analysis was carried out to identify oral–gut microbial profiles between periodontitis patients at baseline and healthy subjects; periodontitis samples were longitudinally compared before and after treatment. β-Diversity of gut microbial profiles of periodontitis patients before treatment significantly differed from healthy controls ( P < 0.001). Periodontal therapy was associated with a significant change in gut microbiota ( P < 0.001), with post-treatment microbial profiles similar to healthy volunteers. A higher abundance of Bacteroides, Faecalibacterium, Fusobacterium, and Lachnospiraceae was noted in fecal samples of periodontitis patients at baseline compared to healthy controls. In contrast, Lactobacillus was the only genus more abundant in the latter. Additionally, periodontal therapy led to a parallel reduction in the salivary carriage of periodontal pathobionts, as well as gut Bacteroides, Lachnoclostridium, Lachnospiraceae, Oscillospiraceae, and Ruminococcaceae, to levels similar to healthy controls. Collectively, discriminating oral–gut microbial signatures of periodontitis were found. Periodontal treatment both mitigated oral dysbiosis and altered gut microbial composition, signifying potential broader implications for gastrointestinal health and disease.
Entanglements of race and migration in the (open) city: Analytical and normative tensions of the sociological imagination
Authors: Keith Michael , Cramer-Greenbaum Susannah , Murji Karim , Pile Steve , Solomos John , Yazici Eda , Wang Ying
Published: February 2024

This article considers the interface of taxonomies of race and migration crystallised through the materialities of the contemporary city in the shadow of the 7th anniversary of the Grenfell Tower fire. It draws on multi-method empirical research that interrogates the notion of the open city. The article proposes that ‘entanglement’ and ‘contaminations’ of material and cultural formations confound some claims made in the name of the good city, recognising what Marilyn Strathern might describe as the recursive ‘contamination’ of normative and empirical evidence. The article argues that it is imperative to excavate the normative domain of the empirical, and curate the empirical realisation of the normative, in rethinking a truly global sociological imagination. It concludes by suggesting that one way of approaching this is through a more forensic understanding of what is taken as ‘evidence’ in social sciences that should inform an interdisciplinary urban studies.
Effect of Age-Friendly Communities Action Plan on Trajectories of Older Canadians’ Depressive Symptoms Between 2018 and 2020: Multilevel Results From the Canadian Longitudinal Study on Aging
Authors: Levasseur Mélanie , Naud Daniel , Menec Verena , Dubois Marie-France , Wolfson Christina , Griffith Lauren E. , Trottier Lise , McMillan Jacqueline , Généreux Mélissa , Roy Mathieu , Couturier Yves , Raina Parminder
Published: February 2024

As the COVID-19 pandemic impacted mental health, this longitudinal study examined the effect of age-friendly communities (AFC) action plan on older adults’ depressive symptoms. Using the CLSA, the CLSA COVID-19 Questionnaire study, survey of Canadian municipalities, and the census, the depressive symptoms trajectories were modeled with multilevel multinomial regressions. Most respondents (66.1%) had non-depressed trajectories, 28.1% experienced a moderate increase in depressive symptoms, and 5.8% had a depressed trajectory. AFC action plans did not have a protective effect on these trajectories. Being a female, greater loneliness, lower income, ≥2 chronic conditions, inferior social participation, weaker sense of belonging, COVID-19 infection, and pandemic stressors predicted a depressed trajectory. Neighborhood’s deprivation had a weak protective effect on the declining trajectory. Although AFC action plans provided no benefits during the pandemic, volunteers facilitating resource access and social interactions could limit any increase in depressive symptoms.
Bridging Theory and Practice: An Examination of How Event-Tourism Research Aligns With UN Sustainable Development Goals
Authors: Jung Shinyong , Draper Jason , Malek Kristin , Padron Thomas C. , Olson Eric
Published: February 2024

This paper provides an overview of the current state of academic research in event-tourism and its impact on the achievement of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDGs). Through a systematic review and bibliometric analysis of 159 articles, this study reveals a moderate alignment between the literature on sustainable event tourism and the UN SDGs. However, certain SDGs, such as No Poverty, Zero Hunger, and Gender Equality, have limited research attention in this context. This study also sheds light on under-researched stakeholders including sponsors, associations, and academic institutions. Drawing on the theory of change proposed by the UN Development Group and stakeholder analysis, the findings presented in this study serve as a bridge between theoretical frameworks and real-world applications. This study provides tangible solutions and strategies for aligning event-tourism practices with the principles and targets outlined in the UN SDGs.
Using Latent Class Analysis to Produce a Typology of Korean Stalking Based on Court Judgments
Authors: Bae Minkyung , Kang Bojeong , Lee Soo-Jung
Published: February 2024

This study was carried out to develop guidelines for more appropriate interventions for people who stalk following the enforcement of the Stalking Crime Punishment Act. By content analysis, 407 cases of the first trial judgment data from the start of the stalking punishment law application were collected and substituted with categorical data. Three types of stalking persons—Aggressors, Indirect Contactors, and Approachers—were created by latent class analysis. Notable distinctions emerged among these types, encompassing criminal history, mental health, online sexual crimes, and the frequency of contact. For instance, Aggressors were individuals who displayed aggressive behaviors most frequently; Indirect Contactors engaged in online sexual harassment against victims; and Approachers approached victims without mutual agreement. Therefore, considering these findings would hold great significance when approaching individuals who engage in stalking with a more comprehensive understanding. This approach aims to provide insights to enhance criminal responses and practices in South Korea.
The comparative effectiveness of combined hydrodilatation/corticosteroid procedure with two different quantities for adhesive capsulitis
Authors: Lin Chien-Lin , Chuang Tien-Yow , Lin Pei-Hsin , Wang Kevin A , Chuang Eric , Wang Jia-Chi
Published: February 2024

Objective

To assess the efficacy of injecting various amounts of fluid into the shoulder joints for capsule distension in patients with adhesive capsulitis.

Design

A randomized controlled trial.

Setting

Outpatient clinic of a tertiary care centre.

Participants

Eighty-four patients with adhesive capsulitis underwent a baseline (time0), 6 weeks (time1), and 12 weeks (time2) follow-up after hydrodilitation.

Intervention

Group 1 (n  =  42) received 20 ml of lidocaine, steroid, and saline hydrodilatation via posterior glenohumeral recess, while Group 2 (n  =  42) received 10 ml of lidocaine, steroid, and saline hydrodilitation.

Main measures

The primary outcome was the visual analogue scale for pain. The secondary outcomes were shoulder pain and disability index (SPADI) and ROM of the shoulder.

Results

There was a significant reduce in VAS scores for pain, SPADI scores, and increased shoulder ROM in both groups over time; however, the group-by-time interactions for any of the outcomes between groups were not significant except VAS pain in motion. Post-hoc pairwise analysis of the marginal effect of time and group showed that the significant difference of VAS in motion is due to time effect: time1 vs time0 (95% CI −4.09 to −2.68), time2 vs time0 (−4.21 to −2.77), and time2 vs time1 (−0.83 to 0.63), without between-group difference: group 1 vs group 2 (−0.38 to 0.59).

Conclusion

Our study suggests hydrodilatation achieved an optimal effect at time1 for patients with adhesive capsulitis in both groups, and adding more saline offers additional benefits in flexion and external roatation until time2.
Global exponential convergence and synchronization for exponential numerical competitive neural networks with different time scales and fuzzy logic
Authors: Yang Yali , Liu Yuntao
Published: February 2024

For nonlocal fuzzy delayed competitive neural networks, a novel difference model is first developed in this article using the Mittag-Leffler Euler difference method. Secondly, the existence of a sole globally bounded solution and globally exponential stability to the discrete-time networks are addressed based on Banach contractive mapping principle and the constant variation formula for sequences. Besides, exponential synchronization of the discrete-time networks is investigated and a feedback controller is designed from the viewpoint of the theory of controls. It is the first time to consider nonlocal fuzzy delayed competitive neural networks by using Mittag-Leffler Euler differences. In contrast to nonlocal discrete approaches, such difference competitive neural networks could preferably figure the features of continuous networks. The difference method in this paper extends and improves the traditional difference approaches, for example, Adams-Bashforth Euler differences. Moreover, this article explores some avenue for the research of discrete-time fractional-order systems and develops a set of theories and methodologies for the future investigations.
Effects of non-uniformity in thickness and volume fraction of agglomerated CNTs on the dynamics of a spinning CNT-reinforced nanocomposite truncated conical shell
Authors: Amirabadi Hossein , Afshari Hassan , Sarafraz Mirsalman , Rahmani Saeed
Published: February 2024

In the presented work, the free vibration analysis of a rotating truncated conical shell whose thickness varies in the meridional direction is examined. The material that the shell is made of is a polymeric matrix (epoxy) enriched with carbon nanotubes (CNTs) whose volume fraction varies in the meridional direction. CNTs agglomeration is considered and the density and elastic constants of such a two-phase nanocomposite are calculated sequentially based on the Eshelby–Mori–Tanaka approach alongside the rule of mixture. The conical shell is modeled using the first-order shear deformation theory (FSDT) including the relative acceleration, Coriolis acceleration, and centrifugal acceleration along with the initial hoop tension, and the governing equations are obtained utilizing Hamilton’s principle. The solution of governing equations is performed via the combination of an analytical solution in the circumferential direction and a numerical one in the meridional direction via the differential quadrature method (DQM). The impacts of several parameters on the forward and backward natural frequencies of such a rotating shell are studied such as chirality, mass fraction and dispersion pattern of the CNTs, thickness variation parameters, and boundary conditions. It is observed that higher natural frequencies and critical rotational speeds can be achieved for CNT-reinforced conical shells when the volume fraction of the CNTs and the thickness of the shell increase from its small radius to the large one.
Carbon finance and low-carbon technological change: Evidence from China
Authors: Zhang Wenqi , Wang Zuogong
Published: February 2024

Promoting carbon finance is considered a solution for supporting climate change mitigation. This article investigates the impact of carbon finance development on low-carbon technological change, exploiting textual analysis technology to measure the low-carbon innovation quality of 2953 CO2 emission allowance enterprises and evaluating the carbon finance index of eight pilots. Our panel regression results from 2014 to 2021 show that carbon finance encourages enterprises with CO2 emission allowances to upgrade their low-carbon innovation quality. The findings remain robust after using a variety of tests, including the instrumental variable (IV) approach, alternative innovation quality measure, replacement patent application with grant, etc. Our heterogeneity results indicate that the effect of carbon finance on low-carbon technological change is only statistically significant in non-state-owned enterprises, resulting from administrative government intervention in China's carbon market. Additionally, enterprises with stronger technology intensity show a statistically significant impact of carbon finance on the quality of low-carbon innovation. Furthermore, the mechanism shows that the effect of carbon finance on low-carbon technological change can be attributed to strengthened R&D intensity and mitigated financial constraints. This study sheds light on the positive significance of carbon finance and has a certain guiding role for the promotion path of China's national carbon market to support low-carbon transformation.
Complexity appreciated: How the communication of complexity impacts topic-specific intellectual humility and epistemic trustworthiness
Authors: Vaupotič Nina , Kienhues Dorothe , Jucks Regina
Published: February 2024

In the context of science communication, complexity is often reduced. This study employs a 2 × 2 experimental design ( N = 432) to investigate how two factors, namely the communication of complexity (reduced vs not reduced) and the provision of suggestions for concrete action (suggested vs not suggested), influence individuals’ productive engagement with the socio-scientific topic of sustainable energy. Measured variables include topic-specific intellectual humility, judgements of source trustworthiness, willingness to act, anxiety, and hope. As expected, communication of complexity led to higher topic-specific intellectual humility, higher epistemic trustworthiness and higher anxiety. When a concrete action was communicated, participants reported lower topic-specific intellectual humility. Participants’ willingness to act was not significantly affected by the experimental manipulation. The results of the study imply that the communication of complexity does not hinder people’s productive engagement with science.
Essential or excluded? Union pressures and state responses to platform work in three liberal market economies
Authors: Duggan James , O’Sullivan Michelle , O’Sullivan Maeve
Published: February 2024

The COVID-19 pandemic led to renewed discussion of decent work for people at the margins of the labour market. This article explores public policy on platform workers across three liberal market economies, namely the United Kingdom, Canada and Ireland, taking the pandemic as a focal point. Liberal market economies are generally difficult environments for unions, and we examine the nature of union political pressure on the state to enhance protections for platform workers and the extent to which policy has changed in each state. We find uneven levels of such union pressure, with the most limited attention afforded by Irish unions. In the United Kingdom, the unions did exert some influence through strategic litigation, creating a policy problem for the government. More progressive policies are evident in Canada, where the government recognises that platform workers’ precarious position has undesirable consequences for the state.
Hepatic and renal lesions in sheep intoxicated with Urochloa hybrid Mulato II in Argentina
Authors: Marin Raúl E. , Gimeno Eduardo J. , Riet-Correa Franklin , Uzal Francisco A.
Published: February 2024

A flock of 48 sheep in Argentina grazing on a pasture of hybrid Urochloa (formerly Brachiaria) Mulato II ( Urochloa ruziziensis ×  Urochloa decumbens ×  Urochloa brizantha) developed facial dermatitis, severe jaundice, and weakness after brief physical activity. Blood biochemistry of 3 animals revealed azotemia, elevated aspartate aminotransferase activity, and increased direct, indirect, and total bilirubin concentrations. The urine was markedly turbid and contained large concentrations of bile pigments and protein. At autopsy of 2 animals, there was severe jaundice and subcutaneous submandibular edema. The livers were enlarged, intensely yellow, and had a marked acinar pattern. Gallbladders were distended, and the kidneys were diffusely dark in one animal and yellow-green in the other. Microscopically, there was lymphoplasmacytic and histiocytic cholangiohepatitis with abundant crystals in the lumen of bile ducts and in the cytoplasm of macrophages. The proximal and distal convoluted renal tubules had protein casts in their lumens, and crystals were observed in the lumen and epithelial cells. Lectin histochemistry showed strong affinity for Arachis hypogaea agglutinin in hepatic macrophages. In the one sheep that was tested for heavy metals, copper concentrations in the liver and kidney were within the RIs. Despite the immediate change of pasture, morbidity and mortality were 100% within 3 mo. The association between the consumption of this pasture, and the clinical, biochemical, pathology, and lectin histochemistry findings confirmed intoxication with Urochloa hybrid Mulato II. To our knowledge, intoxication by this hybrid of Urochloa has not been reported previously.
Contribution of Social Bonds to the Development of Scientific Research Identity in Adolescent Participants of a Science Enrichment Program
Authors: Deemer Eric D. , Ogas Joseph P. , Barr Amy C.
Published: February 2024

An abundance of research on self-determination theory has shown that satisfaction of basic needs for autonomy, competence, and relatedness among adolescents promotes the experience of optimal career-related outcomes such as academic motivation and engagement. However, few studies have explored how satisfaction of these needs promotes identification with particular careers, and less attention has been paid to the role of relatedness satisfaction in these developmental processes compared to autonomy and competence. We addressed these issues in the current study by examining the relationship between relatedness and identification as a research scientist. Five latent classes of scientific research identity development were identified using growth mixture modeling: (a) strong positive growth, (b) moderate positive growth, (c) weak positive growth, (d) no growth, and (e) strong negative growth. Results of logistic regression analyses indicated that need for relatedness was a significant positive predictor of membership in the strong positive growth class relative to the no growth class. Implications for identity development as a research scientist and the social and motivational influences undergirding this process are discussed.
Ayahuasca and Dimethyltryptamine Adverse Events and Toxicity Analysis: A Systematic Thematic Review
Authors: White Eleanor , Kennedy Tom , Ruffell Simon , Perkins Daniel , Sarris Jerome
Published: February 2024

The objective of this paper is to conduct a systematic thematic review of adverse events, safety, and toxicity of traditional ayahuasca plant preparations and its main psychoactive alkaloids (dimethyltryptamine [DMT], harmine, harmaline, and tetrahydroharmine), including discussing clinical considerations (within clinical trials or approved settings). A systematic literature search of preclinical, clinical, epidemiological, and pharmacovigilance data (as well as pertinent reviews and case studies) was conducted for articles using the electronic databases of PubMed and Web of Science (to 6 July 2023) and PsycINFO, ClinicalTrials.gov , and Embase (to 21 September 2022) and included articles in English in peer-reviewed journals. Additionally, reference lists were searched. Due to the breadth of the area covered, we presented the relevant data in a thematic format. Our searches revealed 78 relevant articles. Data showed that ayahuasca or DMT is generally safe; however, some adverse human events have been reported. Animal models using higher doses of ayahuasca have shown abortifacient and teratogenic effects. Isolated harmala alkaloid studies have also revealed evidence of potential toxicity at higher doses, which may increase with co-administration with certain medications. Harmaline revealed the most issues in preclinical models. Nevertheless, animal models involving higher-dose synthetic isolates may not necessarily be able to be extrapolated to human use of therapeutic doses of plant-based extracts. Serious adverse effects are rarely reported within healthy populations, indicating an acceptable safety profile for the traditional use of ayahuasca and DMT in controlled settings. Further randomized, controlled trials with judicious blinding, larger samples, and longer duration are needed.
Working-Class Masculinity and Status Maneuvering: Relational Construction of Migrants’ Masculinity
Authors: Sabur Md Abdus
Published: February 2024

This study focuses on the relational construction of masculinity, specifically on intra-group interactions, relational resources, and interactional accountability among co-ethnic migrant men with shared class backgrounds. Through participant observation and interviews with 72 migrant men, the research uncovers how these men engage in status maneuvering. This process involves the strategic adaption of diverse and fluid forms of masculinity supported by co-ethnic relationships established in various settings like workplaces, dormitories, and social gatherings. Status maneuvering aims to optimize earnings while navigating hypermasculine and feminized low-status workplaces, all while preserving men’s respectability outside of work. This reconceptualization of status maneuvering enriches our comprehension of gender interactional accountability, focusing attention on the sharing of co-ethnic knowledge. It also highlights the role of men with similar class backgrounds holding each other accountable for strategically performing fluid and dynamic masculinities through interactional resources such as humor, sarcasm, and humiliation.
Unveiling the impact of consumer animosity and risk perception on tourists’ decision-making
Authors: Choe Yeongbae
Published: February 2024

This study examines the impact of diplomatic tensions between South Korea and Japan on tourist decision-making, with a focus on consumer animosity and risk perception. The results indicate that both factors significantly influence attitudes toward visiting Japan, with consumer animosity and avoidance having a direct negative and positive effect, respectively. Consistent with previous research, this study emphasizes the critical role of consumer animosity within the theory of planned behavior framework, highlighting the influential roles of travel attitudes and perceived behavioral control. Specifically, it stresses the importance of considering both cognitive and affective risk perceptions in the context of consumer boycotts and the political instability of destinations. Furthermore, it highlights the key role of tourists’ attitudes toward traveling to Japan, suggesting the need for Japan to prioritize risk management amid the ongoing boycott movement. The study reveals the nuanced role of perceived behavioral control, which has a stronger effect on avoidance intentions than on visit intentions due to anti-purchase movements and negative sentiments at the destination in scenarios of hedonic consumption with high risk and uncertainty.
Young People Experiencing Multiple Mobilities: In Search of an Oasis of Youth Across Europe
Authors: Krzaklewska Ewa , Cuzzocrea Valentina
Published: February 2024

In this study, we look at those young Europeans who have undertaken more than one Erasmus stay abroad during their higher education to reflect on spaces for youth development. On the basis of 18 qualitative interviews with such Erasmus students, we propose the concept of an ‘oasis of youth’ to highlight the potential for the exploration of the self that occurs through participation in mobilities. We revisit and reassess J.J. Arnett’s concept of emerging adulthood to reflect on spaces for exploration for young people in Europe. As the analysis suggests, this ‘oasis of youth’ may symbolise a niche in which young people live out a youthful lifestyle ( being), while getting prepared for the transitions to adulthood ( becoming). Beyond this particular case, the concept of an oasis of youth may serve to describe the diverse social spaces that express the social value of youth allowing them to live youth momentum while in education, despite growing uncertainty and harshened structural conditions.
History, sociology and the study of empires: Reflections of a historical sociologist
Authors: Kumar Krishan
Published: February 2024

Despite the urging of classical sociologists such as Emile Durkheim and Max Weber, history and sociology have largely followed different professional and institutional tracks. The result has been detrimental to both disciplines. The loss is especially apparent in the study of empires. Historians have made great contributions to the study of individual empires but have been reluctant to theorize and generalize about them. Sociologists for their part have followed their founders in largely ignoring empires, though there has been a new interest more recently. A rapprochement, or perhaps a synthesis, between history and sociology is urgently needed if the study of empires is to progress. Especially important is the need for a comparative approach, which sociologists are particularly well placed to offer.
‘Typical container’ of Chinese civilisation: ‘Yellow-Canal-Yangtze’ watershed community
Authors: Wang Fang , Xue Pengcheng , Xu Haoyi , Liu Yong
Published: February 2024

The watershed is the earliest geographical unit of human activity and the tensest area in terms of human–land relations. Focussing solely on individual watershed spaces makes it difficult to comprehensively reflect and address complex human–land issues. For the complex processes of the origin, dissemination, communication and integration of civilisations, a more macroscopic scale is also needed for systematic understanding and analysis. The exchange and mutual learning amongst the Yellow River Basin, Yangtze River Basin and Grand Canal region promote the diversity and innovation of culture, making them the ‘typical containers’ of Chinese civilisation. Based on the uniqueness and correlation of regions such as the Yellow River Basin, Yangtze River Basin and Grand Canal, this study constructs the concept of a ‘Yellow-Canal-Yangtze’ watershed community, combining existing disciplinary advances and summarizing its spatial, temporal and elemental characteristics. This research is conducive to promoting the creative transformation and innovative development of excellent traditional culture, assisting in the protection of watershed cultural heritage systems and the governance of watershed ecosystems, and promoting regional coordinated and interconnected development.
Describing the Lived Experience and Resource Needs of Individuals With Long COVID
Authors: Von Nordheim David , Johnson Mikayla , Caburnay Charlene , Alleman Sarah , Kreuter Matthew , McQueen Amy
Published: February 2024

Individuals with long COVID report diverse symptoms lasting weeks or months after initial infection, causing significant psychosocial distress. Navigating health care interactions are often difficult for these individuals due to the diffuse nature of their symptoms, a lack of effective treatment options, and skepticism from some providers. To better understand these challenges, this study sought to further describe the lived experience of individuals with long COVID. A survey was conducted with individuals evaluated for long COVID at a specialty clinic (n = 200), which included questions about prior conditions, symptoms, use of medical and support services, and information and resource needs. Participants reported a mean of 10.75 persistent symptoms, the most common being fatigue and difficulty concentrating, with broad effects on daily functioning. Participants saw a mean of 5.92 providers for treatment of their symptoms, and 88.5% identified health care providers as a trusted source of information. Interest in research findings (60.5%) and opportunities for participation (47.5%) were moderate and varied by COVID vaccination status. Unvaccinated individuals (n = 27) also reported less trust in government sources of information, less college education, lower household income, and greater likelihood of having public insurance. Our findings suggest that individuals with long COVID experience many ongoing and complex symptoms with diverse effects on daily living; that health care providers are an important source for public health messaging about long COVID; and that unvaccinated individuals are likely to have differing needs and receptiveness to information than vaccinated individuals with long COVID.
Prevention of Bladder Cancer Recurrence With the Botanical Formula LCS103: A Case Series Study
Authors: Maimon Yair , Amiel Gilad , Cohen Zoya , Hoffman Azik , Samuels Noah
Published: February 2024

Despite effective chemotherapy and other available oncology treatments, recurrence rates for non-muscle invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC) remain high, with as many as 60% of patients requiring repeat intravesical treatments with BCG or other agents within a 24-month period. The botanical formula LCS103 has displayed anti-cancer activity on bladder cancer cells, though its clinical efficacy remains to be proven. A consecutive series of 30 patients with bladder cancer was examined retrospectively, of which a cohort of 20 patients (18 with NMIBC, 2 with metastatic disease) was treated with LCS103 for between 14 months and 16 years, in addition to their conventional oncology care. Only 3 patients (15%) had a single tumor recurrence after initiation of the botanical treatment, as opposed to pre-treatment recurrence reported among 11 patients (55%; range, 1-5). The majority of LCS103-treated patients reported reduced severity for urological symptoms (pain, frequency, and urgency on urination; and nocturia), as well as for weakness and fatigue, and for general wellbeing. No adverse events were associated with use of the botanical formula. Further prospective randomized trials are needed to confirm and better understand these initial findings.