bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
From implementation to reflection: exploring faculty experiences in a curriculum-focused FOLC through multi-case analysis
Authors: More Tamar , Goldberg Fred , Basir Mo , Maier Steven , Price Edward
Published: February 2024

Faculty development and support play an important role in improving undergraduate STEM education. Learning communities, including Faculty Online Learning Communities (FOLCs), can be a valuable resource for faculty seeking professional growth. This multi-case study examined how faculty gained value through participation in a curriculum-focused FOLC. Adopting a community of practice perspective, the value creation framework developed by Wenger, et al., was used to examine cycles of value creation for the five case study participants and identify key ways in which participation in the FOLC supported value creation.

All five case study participants shared comprehensive stories about how they gained value through participation in FOLC activities over multiple years. All initiated their value creation stories by describing pedagogical approaches they were unhappy about. As their stories unfolded, they described how they implemented new and innovative strategies to address their concerns, leading to outcomes consistent with the original pedagogical goals of the learning community. Two faculty described how the community helped them see new leadership roles for themselves within their departments, outcomes that were not anticipated at the initiation of the FOLC. Other participants spoke of a decreased feeling of professional isolation. Several features of the FOLC emerged as crucial factors in value creation, including structural elements such as regular meetings, a shared curricular focus, and leadership and networking opportunities. Importantly, study participants identified extended participation in the community and continuing feedback from multiple perspectives as drivers of reflection and growth.

These findings suggest that while short term participation in a FOLC or other faculty community may help achieve more prescribed outcomes, longer term participation supports a more emergent approach to faculty development. This research offers insights for faculty, curriculum developers, administrators, and others interested in promoting faculty development.
A structural equation modeling approach to understand users' perceptions of app-based CNG auto-rickshaw services in Dhaka City
Authors: Salehin Md Sakibus , Jubailee Tahia , Sourav Md. Mohaimenul Islam , Afnanin Sayma , Muniruzzaman Shah Md
Published: February 2024

The use of CNG auto-rickshaws is increasing in Dhaka, the capital of Bangladesh. CNG auto rickshaws are a crucial component of the transportation system of Dhaka City. These offer the dwellers a quick and affordable way to navigate the city’s congested streets. This study aims to determine how commuters in Dhaka City perceive the quality of app-based CNG auto rickshaw service. A structured questionnaire is developed based on the users’ reported attitudes and perceived risks. In order to comprehend how users feel about an app-based CNG auto rickshaw service, collected data were used to create a Structural Equation (SE) model. The responses are also evaluated using the Relative Importance Index (RII) method, which validates the SE model. The study shows that women’s safety and better safety experience are the most significant parameters while accepting app-based CNG auto rickshaw services. The results of this study will help the service providers involved in this operation better understand the best course of action to be taken in order to provide better service to commuters.
Machine Learning Predicts Oxaliplatin Benefit in Early Colon Cancer
Authors: Chen Lujia , Wang Ying , Cai Chunhui , Ding Ying , Kim Rim S. , Lipchik Corey , Gavin Patrick G. , Yothers Greg , Allegra Carmen J. , Petrelli Nicholas J. , Suga Jennifer Marie , Hopkins Judith O. , Saito Naoyuki G. , Evans Terry , Jujjavarapu Srinivas , Wolmark Norman , Lucas Peter C. , Paik Soonmyung , Sun Min , Pogue-Geile Katherine L. , Lu Xinghua
Published: February 2024

PURPOSE

A combination of fluorouracil, leucovorin, and oxaliplatin (FOLFOX) is the standard for adjuvant therapy of resected early-stage colon cancer (CC). Oxaliplatin leads to lasting and disabling neurotoxicity. Reserving the regimen for patients who benefit from oxaliplatin would maximize efficacy and minimize unnecessary adverse side effects.

METHODS

We trained a new machine learning model, referred to as the colon oxaliplatin signature (COLOXIS) model, for predicting response to oxaliplatin-containing regimens. We examined whether COLOXIS was predictive of oxaliplatin benefits in the CC adjuvant setting among 1,065 patients treated with 5-fluorouracil plus leucovorin (FULV; n = 421) or FULV + oxaliplatin (FOLFOX; n = 644) from NSABP C-07 and C-08 phase III trials. The COLOXIS model dichotomizes patients into COLOXIS+ (oxaliplatin responder) and COLOXIS– (nonresponder) groups. Eight-year recurrence-free survival was used to evaluate oxaliplatin benefits within each of the groups, and the predictive value of the COLOXIS model was assessed using the P value associated with the interaction term (int P) between the model prediction and the treatment effect.

RESULTS

Among 1,065 patients, 526 were predicted as COLOXIS+ and 539 as COLOXIS–. The COLOXIS+ prediction was associated with prognosis for FULV-treated patients (hazard ratio [HR], 1.52 [95% CI, 1.07 to 2.15]; P = .017). The model was predictive of oxaliplatin benefits: COLOXIS+ patients benefited from oxaliplatin (HR, 0.65 [95% CI, 0.48 to 0.89]; P = .0065; int P = .03), but COLOXIS– patients did not (COLOXIS– HR, 1.08 [95% CI, 0.77 to 1.52]; P = .65).

CONCLUSION

The COLOXIS model is predictive of oxaliplatin benefits in the CC adjuvant setting. The results provide evidence supporting a change in CC adjuvant therapy: reserve oxaliplatin only for COLOXIS+ patients, but further investigation is warranted.
Improved Clinical Staging System for Localized Pancreatic Cancer Using the ABC Factors: A TAPS Consortium Study
Authors: Dekker Esther N. , van Dam Jacob L. , Janssen Quisette P. , Besselink Marc G. , DeSilva Annissa , Doppenberg Deesje , van Eijck Casper H.J. , Nasar Naaz , O'Reilly Eileen M. , Paniccia Alessandro , Prakash Laura R. , Tzeng Ching-Wei D. , Verkolf Eva M.M. , Wei Alice C. , Zureikat Amer H. , Katz Matthew H.G. , Groot Koerkamp Bas ,   for the Trans-Atlantic Pancreatic Surgery (TAPS) Consortium, Asmar Rudy el , Haviland Dana , Ilagan Crisanta , McIntyre Caitlin , McIntyre Sarah , Stoop Thomas F. , Theijse Rutger T.
Published: February 2024

PURPOSE

Previous studies suggest that besides anatomy (A: resectable, borderline resectable [BR], or locally advanced [LA]) also biologic (B: carbohydrate antigen 19-9 [CA 19-9]) and conditional (C: performance status) factors should be considered when staging patients with localized pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). The prognostic value of the combined ABC factors has not been quantitatively validated.

METHODS

In this retrospective cohort study, we evaluated patients with localized PDAC treated with initial (modified) fluorouracil with leucovorin, irinotecan, and oxaliplatin ([m]FOLFIRINOX) at five high-volume pancreatic cancer centers in the United States and the Netherlands (2012-2019). Multivariable Cox proportional hazards analysis was used to investigate the impact of the ABC factors for overall survival (OS).

RESULTS

Overall, 1,835 patients with localized PDAC were included. Tumor stage at diagnosis was potentially resectable in 346 (18.9%), BR in 531 (28.9%), and LA in 958 (52.2%) patients. The baseline CA 19-9 was >500 U/mL in 559 patients (32.5%). Performance status was ≥1 in 1,110 patients (60.7%). Independent poor prognostic factors for OS were BR disease (hazard ratio [HR], 1.26 [95% CI, 1.06 to 1.50]), LA disease (HR, 1.71 [95% CI, 1.45 to 2.02]), CA 19-9 >500 U/mL (HR, 1.36 [95% CI, 1.21 to 1.52]), and WHO performance status ≥1 (HR, 1.31 [95% CI, 1.16 to 1.47]). Patients were assigned 1 point for each poor ABC factor and 2 points for LA disease. The median OS for patients with score 0-4 was 49.7, 29.9, 22.0, 19.1, and 14.9 months with corresponding 5-year OS rates of 47.0%, 28.9%, 19.2%, 9.3%, and 4.8%, respectively.

CONCLUSION

The ABC factors of tumor anatomy, CA 19-9, and performance status at diagnosis were independent prognostic factors for OS in patients with localized PDAC treated with initial (m)FOLFIRINOX. Staging of patients with localized PDAC at diagnosis should be based on anatomy, CA 19-9, and performance status.
Recommendations for Method Development and Validation of qPCR and dPCR Assays in Support of Cell and Gene Therapy Drug Development
Authors: Hays Amanda , Wissel Mark , Colletti Kelly , Soon Russell , Azadeh Mitra , Smith Justin , Doddareddy Rajitha , Chalfant Melanie , Adamowicz Wendy , Ramaswamy Swarna Suba , Dholakiya Sanjay L. , Guelman Sebastian , Gullick Bryan , Durham Jennifer , Rennier Keith , Nagilla Pruthvi , Muruganandham Anamica , Diaz Manisha , Tierney Cassandra , John Kaarthik , Valentine Jenny , Lockman Timothy , Liu Hsing-Yin , Moritz Benjamin , Ouedraogo Jean Paul , Piche Marie-Soleil , Smet Muriel , Murphy Jacqueline , Koenig Kaylyn , Zybura Agnes , Vyhlidal Carrie , Mercier Jonathan , Jani Niketa , Kubista Mikael , Birch Donald , Morse Karlin , Johansson Oskar
Published: February 2024

The emerging use of qPCR and dPCR in regulated bioanalysis and absence of regulatory guidance on assay validations for these platforms has resulted in discussions on lack of harmonization on assay design and appropriate acceptance criteria for these assays. Both qPCR and dPCR are extensively used to answer bioanalytical questions for novel modalities such as cell and gene therapies. Following cross-industry conversations on the lack of information and guidelines for these assays, an American Association of Pharmaceutical Scientists working group was formed to address these gaps by bringing together 37 industry experts from 24 organizations to discuss best practices to gain a better understanding in the industry and facilitate filings to health authorities. Herein, this team provides considerations on assay design, development, and validation testing for PCR assays that are used in cell and gene therapies including (1) biodistribution; (2) transgene expression; (3) viral shedding; (4) and persistence or cellular kinetics of cell therapies.

Graphical Abstract
Preclinical Rodent Models for Human Bone Disease, Including a Focus on Cortical Bone
Authors: Koh Natalie Y Y , Miszkiewicz Justyna J , Fac Mary Louise , Wee Natalie K Y , Sims Natalie A
Published: February 2024

Preclinical models (typically ovariectomized rats and genetically altered mice) have underpinned much of what we know about skeletal biology. They have been pivotal for developing therapies for osteoporosis and monogenic skeletal conditions, including osteogenesis imperfecta, achondroplasia, hypophosphatasia, and craniodysplasias. Further therapeutic advances, particularly to improve cortical strength, require improved understanding and more rigorous use and reporting.

We describe here how trabecular and cortical bone structure develop, are maintained, and degenerate with aging in mice, rats, and humans, and how cortical bone structure is changed in some preclinical models of endocrine conditions (eg, postmenopausal osteoporosis, chronic kidney disease, hyperparathyroidism, diabetes). We provide examples of preclinical models used to identify and test current therapies for osteoporosis, and discuss common concerns raised when comparing rodent preclinical models to the human skeleton. We focus especially on cortical bone, because it differs between small and larger mammals in its organizational structure. We discuss mechanisms common to mouse and human controlling cortical bone strength and structure, including recent examples revealing genetic contributors to cortical porosity and osteocyte network configurations during growth, maturity, and aging. We conclude with guidelines for clear reporting on mouse models with a goal for better consistency in the use and interpretation of these models.
Evolution of Deep Brain Stimulation Techniques for Complication Mitigation
Authors: Mayer Ryan , Desai Kishan , Aguiar Rodrigo Salmeron de Toledo , McClure Jesse J. , Kato Nicholas , Kalman Cheyenne , Pilitsis Julie G.
Published: February 2024

Complication mitigation in deep brain stimulation has been a topic matter of much discussion in the literature. In this article, we examine how neurosurgeons as individuals and as a field generated and adapted techniques to prevent infection, lead fracture/lead migration, and suboptimal outcomes in both the acute period and longitudinally. The authors performed a MEDLINE search inclusive of articles from 1987 to June 2023 including human studies written in English. Using the Rayyan platform, two reviewers (J.P. and R.M.) performed a title screen. Of the 776 articles, 252 were selected by title screen and 172 from abstract review for full-text evaluation. Ultimately, 124 publications were evaluated. We describe the initial complications and inefficiencies at the advent of deep brain stimulation and detail changes instituted by surgeons that reduced them. Furthermore, we discuss the trend in both undesired short-term and long-term outcomes with emphasis on how surgeons recognized and modified their practice to provide safer and better procedures. This scoping review adds to the literature as a guide to both new neurosurgeons and seasoned neurosurgeons alike to understand better what innovations have been trialed over time as we embark on novel targets and neuromodulatory technologies.
Πανεπιστήμιο και αγορά εργασίας
Authors: Γαλάνης Ιωάννης
Published: February 2024

Η έννοια επαγγελματικές διαδρομές αναφέρεται στις διαφορετικές πορείες που ακολουθούν τα άτομα στον επαγγελματικό τους βίο. Περιλαμβάνει τα διαφορετικά στάδια, τις εμπειρίες, τις εκπαιδεύσεις που δύναται κάποιος να βιώσει κατά τη πορεία της καριέρας του και που συντελούν στην ανάπτυξη και εξέλιξη του. Οι επαγγελματικές διαδρομές διαφοροποιούνται ανάλογα με τους στόχους, τις προτεραιότητες, τις δεξιότητες και τα ενδιαφέροντα κάθε ατόμου. Η εργασιακή ικανοποίηση αντιπροσωπεύει το επίπεδο ικανοποίησης και ευχαρίστησης που αισθάνεται ένα άτομο από την εργασία του. Περιλαμβάνει στοιχεία όπως η αίσθηση ευχαρίστησης, εκτίμησης και ικανοποίησης που προκύπτει από τα καθήκοντα, το περιβάλλον εργασίας, τις σχέσεις με συναδέλφους καθώς και την αναγνώριση της προσφοράς του στον εργασιακό χώρο. Η εργασιακή ικανοποίηση είναι σημαντική για την ψυχολογική και σωματική ευεξία του ατόμου, για την απόδοση του στην εργασία, την πρόθεση παραμονής στον ίδιο εργασιακό χώρο και τη γενικότερη ευημερία του. Η Διδακτορική Διατριβή διερευνά τις εργασιακές διαδρομές και την εργασιακή ικανοποίηση των αποφοίτων Οικονομικών επιστημών και της Διοίκησης επιχειρήσεων ενός περιφερειακού ιδρύματος, του Πανεπιστημίου Πατρών, και δύο Αθηναϊκών, του ΕΚΠΑ και του ΟΠΑ, μετά τη λήψη του πτυχίου, από το 2012 έως το 2022. Ως μέθοδος της έρευνας, επιλέχτηκε η ποσοτική πρωτογενής συγχρονική έρευνα συσχέτισης και πρόβλεψης μεταβλητών, με χρήση ερωτήσεων τύπου Likert. Το βασικό συμπέρασμα που εξάχθηκε ήταν ότι οι απόφοιτοι οικονομικών σχολών παρουσίασαν μέτρια επίπεδα επίτευξης επαγγελματικής αποκατάστασης και μέσω των μαθημάτων τους είχαν μία μέτρια βάση για την επαγγελματική τους αποκατάσταση. Σε αυτήν δεν φαίνεται να συνέβαλλε αποφασιστικά το Πανεπιστήμιο με τους θεσμούς τους. Στις εξαιρέσεις η πρακτική άσκηση, η οποία συνέβαλε στην εύρεση εργασίας αλλά όχι για πλήρη επαγγελματική αποκατάσταση.
Η αρχιτεκτονική τυπολογία της κοινωνικής κατοικίας ως πεδίο πολιτικού διαλόγου στην Ευρώπη του μεσοπολέμου
Authors: Πετρίδης Παντελής
Published: February 2024

Η παρούσα διατριβή έχει ως αντικείμενο έρευνας την αρχιτεκτονική τυπολογία της κοινωνικής κατοικίας στην Ευρώπη κατά τη διάρκεια των δεκαετιών 1920 και 1930 από τη σκοπιά της ιστορίας της αρχιτεκτονικής. Η τυπολογία εξετάζεται ως προς το εννοιολογικό περιεχόμενο που απέκτησε μεταξύ των εμπλεκόμενων στο σχεδιασμό και την υλοποίηση της κοινωνικής κατοικίας (αρχιτέκτονες, κρατική διοίκηση, φορείς) και ιδιαίτερα σε σχέση με την πολιτική διάσταση που της αποδόθηκε, καθιστώντας την ένα πεδίο πολιτικού διαλόγου ή ιδεολογικής αντιπαράθεσης. Υπό αυτό το πρίσμα, διερευνώνται οι διαφορετικοί τρόποι με τους οποίους η ιδέα της τυποποίησης του αρχιτεκτονικού σχεδιασμού και της οικοδομικής παραγωγής της οικονομικής κατοικίας, στο πλαίσιο της ανάπτυξης του βιομηχανικού καπιταλισμού των αρχών του 20ου αιώνα, εισάγεται από τους αρχιτέκτονες του μοντέρνου κινήματος στην οργάνωση του οικιακού χώρου, οδηγώντας στη διαμόρφωση νέων κτιριακών τυπολογιών και νέων προτύπων κατοίκησης. Το ζήτημα της ελληνικής προσφυγικής πολυκατοικίας του μεσοπολέμου, ως μια νέα κτιριακή τυπολογία που διέρχεται μέσα από τους παραπάνω θεωρητικούς προβληματισμούς, εξετάζεται ως μια ειδική περίπτωση του γενικότερου θέματος, αποτελώντας βασικό αντικείμενο έρευνας. Η προσέγγιση που επιχειρείται είναι εννοιολογική, εστιάζοντας στην έννοια του τύπου και στη σημασία που απέκτησε στο πλαίσιο του μεσοπολεμικού αρχιτεκτονικού διαλόγου και βασίζεται στην κειμενική ανάλυση του λόγου για την αρχιτεκτονική μέσα από πρωτογενείς και αρχειακές πηγές. Για την περίπτωση της Ελλάδας, παράλληλα με την ανάλυση των γραπτών πηγών, επιχειρείται η τυπολογική ταξινόμηση των προσφυγικών συνοικισμών που υλοποιήθηκαν βάσει του κτιριακού τύπου της προσφυγικής πολυκατοικίας κατά τη δεκαετία του 1930, μέσα από την ανάλυση σχεδίων και διαγραμμάτων, δίνοντας έμφαση στη σχέση της πολιτικής διάστασης του σχεδιασμού και της πολεοδομικής συγκρότησης.
Isolation, morphological characterization, and screening virulence of Beauveria bassiana and Metarhizium robertsii fungal isolates in Galleria mellonella
Authors: Geremew Dereje , Shiberu Tadale , Leta Ararsa
Published: February 2024

Background Entomopathogenic fungi exists naturally in plants as an asymptote and have the potential to reduce the population of insect pests through indirect interactions. This study was conducted to detect and characterize the endophytic fungi Beauveria bassiana and Metarhizium robertsii from the rhizosphere soil of tomato plants and their virulence effect on Galleria melonella. Methods From the rhizosphere soil of 40 tomato fields, three Beauveria bassiana and seven Metarhizium robertsii isolates were isolated using the galleria bait method. All fungi isolate were morphologically characterized by their colony color, shape, and surface texture. Isolates with the highest percentages of germination, conidial yield, and radial growth were selected, and their virulence was evaluated on second instar larvae of Galleria melonella under laboratory conditions. Results In this study, Beauveria bassiana showed white colony color and aseptate hyphae, whereas Metarhizium robertsii showed dark green to light green colony color and septate hyphal structures. Maximum spore production and conidial length were obtained by Beauveria bassiana isolate APPRC-27 with 2.67x107 spores ml-1 and 3.24 µm, respectively. Colony radial growth rates ranged from 1.73 to 3.24 mm day-1. The results revealed that the highest mortality rate of Galleria melonella (100%) was obtained by Metarhizium robertsii isolates K-61 and K-102 at a concentration of 1x108 conidial ml-1 at 7 days post-inoculation. The lowest mortality rate was registered by Metarhizium robertsii isolate RST-11. Conclusions In the present study, isolates that produced the most spores and had the highest germination rates were the most virulent to Galleria mellonella second instar larvae. Therefore, virulent entomopathogenic fungi, Beauveria bassiana and Metarhizium robertsii, are promising bioagents for the control of insect pests.
Evaluation and comparison of the effectiveness of kaleidoscope and virtual reality goggles to reduce dental anxiety in young children undergoing administration of local anesthesia.
Authors: Parakh Himani , Thosar Nilima
Published: February 2024

Administration of local anesthesia via injection is the main reason for inducing anxiety in children and if not intervened it aggravates the anxiety in subsequent appointments. There are many approaches, including pharmacological and non-pharmacological methods that can be used to reduce children’s perception of pain and anxiety. A frequently used non-pharmacological behaviour management method to reduce anxiety and procedure pain is distraction. The rationale of distraction is to shift the attention to avert the brain from receiving unwanted stimulus which induce anxiousness. Many approaches including music, television, portable video games, virtual reality (VR) helmet, and virtual reality audio-visual eyewear, have been implemented so far. Kaleidoscope and virtual reality goggles may help as distraction techniques in reducing the levels of anxiety caused during administration of local anesthesia. By the aid of which the operator may be able to make the dental experience child friendly and ultimately provide quality dental care to anxious children. Non pharmacological measures of reducing pain are cost effective and best means that can be used while performing dental procedures. This is a research protocol for a study aimed to evaluate and compare the effectiveness of kaleidoscope and virtual reality goggles to reduce dental anxiety in young children.
Carbon footprint of Nepalese healthcare system: A study of Dhulikhel Hospital
Authors: Adhikari Bikash , Dangal Ambika , Pandey Sushila , Thapa Bijay , Joshi Ashim , Baral Bivek
Published: February 2024

Background Though direct greenhouse gas emissions cannot be observed in health care sectors, there can exist indirect emissions contributing to global climate change. This study addresses the concept of the carbon footprint and its significance in understanding the environmental impact of human activities, with a specific emphasis on the healthcare sector through gate-to-gate (GtoG) life cycle assessment. Transportation, energy consumption, and solid waste generated by hospitals are the primary sources of carbon emissions. Methods Different standards, guidelines and parameters were used to estimate emissions from both the primary and secondary data. All steps and sub-steps involved in GtoG were accessed and analyzed within the standard ISO 14040:44 guideline. An extensive review of existing literature was carried out for the evaluation and verification of secondary data. Results The total carbon footprint of generators, electricity consumption, transportation activities, LPG cylinders, PV systems was found to be 58,780 kg-CO2-eq/yr, 519,794 kg-CO2-eq/yr, 272,375 kg-CO2-eq/yr, 44,494 kg-CO2-eq/yr, 35,283 kg-CO2-eq/yr respectively and the emissions from non-biodegradable solid waste was found to be 489,835 kg-CO2/yr. Local air pollutants such as PM10, CO, SO2, NOX, and VOCs generated by generators and transportation were also estimated. The CH4 emissions from liquid waste were 1177.344 kg CH4/BOD yr, and those from biodegradables were 3821.6954 kg CH4/yr. Conclusions Healthcare professionals and policymakers can take action to reduce the sector's carbon footprint by implementing best practices and encouraging sustainable behavior. This study can be taken as foundation for further exploration of indirect emissions from healthcare sectors not only in Nepal but also in south Asian scenario.
Case Report: Glans penile necrosis in a patient with SARS-CoV-2 and leprosy infection
Authors: Ismy Jufriady , Khalilullah Said Alfin , Bahagianto Aditya Fajar
Published: February 2024

Background Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection was firstly identified in China and has been declared a global pandemic. Several serious extrapulmonary manifestations due to SARS-CoV-2 infection have also been reported and associated with hypercoagulability thrombotic vasculopathy. In addition, cases of Mycobacterium-leprae infection have also been known associated with blood coagulation abnormality. Methods Here, we report a 56-year-old male with coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19) with concomitant leprosy infection with manifestation of glans penile necrosis, presented to the emergency department with acute penile pain. This case is unique because no occlusion blood flow to the penile was observed in the radiographic imaging. We described the potential pathophysiology in this case through a literature review. Results The patient received treatment according to the COVID-19 protocol and was given low molecular weight heparin (LMWH) therapy for 4 days. During the follow up, the clinical and functional condition of the penis showed significant improvement. Conclusions Microthrombus involvement, platelet abnormalities and impaired hemostasis due to SARS-CoV-2 and leprosy co-infection are the hypothesis in this case report.
A REVIEW OF BLOCKCHAIN APPLICATION IN LOGISTICS AND LAST-MILE DELIVERY
Authors: Cekerevac Zoran , Bogavac Milanka , Prigoda Lyudmila
Published: February 2024

Due to the ongoing arrival of individuals, large urban areas are expanding while the daily life within them becomes increasingly demanding. These cities' authorities confronted many challenges in providing necessities for their citizens, such as water and food supply, energy, public transportation, road infrastructure, healthcare services, waste management, recycling, and storage facilities. Cities embrace novel technologies and innovative approaches to cope with these evolving circumstances. Cyber-physical systems, digitization, networking, cloud computing, the Internet of Things, and blockchains are valuable tools that enable the efficient functioning of smart cities. The subject matter of this article is very complex and covers several disciplines, such as management, transport, and information technologies. Few have mastered the necessary knowledge in all these areas. The authors wish that this multi-dimensional presentation of the current situation will be helpful to those who deal with the organization of life in cities, logistics, or the application of information technologies in business organizations, but also ordinary citizens who are not yet familiar with these problems. The article should allow the reader to see the complexity of last-mile delivery and encourage it to use its potential to get involved in solving this problem.
OPINION OF GENERATION Y - HAS NORTH MACEDONIA SUCCESSFULLY DEALT WITH THE TOURISM CRISIS 2020-2022?
Authors: Postolov Kiril , Postolov Boris
Published: February 2024

Crisis events represent a costly threat to businesses in the tourism sector. Tourism companies have long recognized the importance of crisis management and realized that their passive attitude toward possible crises can negatively affect their work. Despite this knowledge, many of them are not prepared for a quick response and do not have mechanisms that can indicate that danger early. For those reasons, the need to write this paper arose, intending to provide tourism enterprises with an appropriate tool for successfully fighting against crises. This paper's main goal was to determine the opinion of Generation Y about "Were we able to deal with the crisis in the tourism sector in the Republic of North Macedonia in the period 2020-2022?". For this purpose, the authors did narrative research using secondary sources of information and empirical research about the problem. After processing the data and their visualization through tables and graphs, based on the results of the empirical research, the authors presented their conclusions and recommendations for appropriate actions in dealing with the crises encountered by the enterprises that belong to the tourism sector.
Alzheimer's Disease - A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Woźniak Kinga , Gardian-Baj Monika , Jung Magdalena , Hedesz Patryk , Jung Maximilian , Żuk-Łapan Aleksandra , Doryń Aleksandra , Jędral Krystian , Włodarczyk Aleksandra , Szczerbiak Alicja , Popczyńska Justyna
Published: February 2024

Introduction: Alzheimer's disease (AD) remains a pervasive and challenging neurodegenerative disorder with profound implications for individuals, families, and societies. As the most prevalent cause of dementia globally, AD's prevalence is set to rise significantly in the context of an aging population. This introductory section emphasizes the urgent need for a comprehensive understanding of the disease, encompassing both its molecular intricacies and the socio-economic burden. With age being the primary risk factor, recent research has delved into the complex interplay of genetic predisposition and environmental influences, reshaping our understanding of AD from a multifactorial perspective.

Current State of Knowledge: Advancements in Alzheimer's research have led to a nuanced understanding of its pathology. Traditionally characterized by amyloid-beta plaques and tau tangles, recent insights from neuroimaging and biomarker studies have revealed the intricate nature of these pathologies and their roles in disease progression. Genetic studies, including genome-wide association analyses, have identified susceptibility loci, notably the APOE gene. Simultaneously, environmental factors, such as air pollution and lifestyle choices, are recognized contributors to AD risk. The therapeutic landscape has evolved, with ongoing investigations into anti-amyloid and anti-tau therapies, lifestyle interventions, and precision medicine approaches. The synthesis of these diverse findings highlights the dynamic nature of Alzheimer's research and its potential to shape future treatment modalities.

Summary: In summary, this article provides a comprehensive overview of the current state of knowledge regarding Alzheimer's disease. From understanding its evolving pathology to exploring the interplay of genetic and environmental factors, the multifactorial nature of AD is underscored. The therapeutic landscape is actively advancing, presenting a hopeful outlook for future treatments.
Intermittent fasting and its influence on health and sports results
Authors: Kowalczuk Maria , Lipińska Justyna , Lipiński Łukasz , Kopeć Izabela
Published: February 2024

Introduction
           Intermittent fasting (IF) is most simply defined as periods of eating alternating with periods of not eating. It has become one of the most popular weight-loss diets in recent years. One reason for the rapid growth in popularity of intermittent fasting may be its simplicity, as this dietary regimen does not require a change in a person's current eating patterns, nor a change in foods.
Aim of the study
This review aims to present the current state of knowledge about intermittent fasting and answer the question of what effect this form of diet has on the human body and sports results and its benefits to health.
Materials and methods
           The paper was created based on the Pubmed database. The literature was reviewed using the keywords: ”intermittent fasting”, ”16/8 fasting” and ”diet standards”.
The current state of knowledge
           It has been shown that intermittent fasting can be helpful in controlling body weight and reducing metabolic diseases as a result of better glucose regulation and reduced inflammation. Weight reduction can also result in improved athletic performance. In addition, IF has positive effects on the cardiovascular system, specifically improving blood pressure, lowering heart rate, and regulating the body's lipid metabolism indicators.
Summary
           Although there is evidence of the beneficial effects of intermittent fasting, more research needs to be conducted to evaluate the mechanisms, efficacy in humans, target populations, and safety of intermittent fasting. Undoubtedly, a certain group of people may benefit greatly from this type of diet, as it does not require a change in current eating habits due to the simplicity of this diet.
Sleep Microbiome: Insights into Probiotics and Sleep Health
Authors: Martyka Anna , Kubicka-Figiel Martyna , Taborska Nina , Ujma Przemysław
Published: February 2024

Introduction

The World Health Organization (WHO) defines probiotics as "live microorganisms that, when administered in adequate amounts, confer health benefits to the host." A number of scientific reports show that their effects extend beyond the immune and gastrointestinal systems, and that poor sleep quality and insomnia are an increasingly important social problem. Studies indicate that 30-50% of adults experience sleep problems. Sleep deficiencies are associated with higher rates of obesity, hypertension, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, mental health disorders and increased risk of death. One promising way to help treat sleep problems is through the use of probiotics. Interaction through the gut-brain axis suggests that altering the gut microbiota may become a useful tool for improving sleep quality.

Aim of the study

The purpose of this study was to investigate the potential effectiveness of probiotics in improving sleep quality and treating insomnia.

Materials and Methodology

PubMed and Google Scholar databases were analyzed. Articles were searched in English using the following keywords: probiotics; sleep quality.

Results

Probiotics resulted in a favorable cumulative effect on sleep quality as measured by the PSQI global questionnaire and a statistically significant positive effect on at least one of the components characterizing sleep quality (i.e., sleep latency, sleep length, sleep disturbance, daytime sleepiness). They allow to maintain a high percentage of slow-wave sleep, despite stressors, and indirectly affect sleep quality in athletes by reducing muscle soreness.

Conclusion

The results of studies to date indicate that probiotics are an effective, safe and clinically sound adjunctive method for improving sleep quality and treating insomnia. However, these studies are at an early stage and require further efforts using larger research groups.
Are Political and Charitable Giving Substitutes? Evidence from the United States
Authors: Yildirim Pinar , Simonov Andrei , Petrova Maria , Perez-Truglia Ricardo
Published: February 2024

Using microdata from the American Red Cross (ARC) and the Federal Election Commission (FEC) in two natural experiments, we provide evidence that political giving and charitable giving are substitutes. In the first natural experiment, we estimate the effects of a positive shock to charitable donations to the ARC: foreign natural disaster events. We find that although charitable donations to ARC increase by 34.9% in the six weeks following a disaster, political donations decline by 18.8% in the same period. Put differently, each 1% increase in the charitable giving to ARC is accompanied by a 0.53% drop in political donations. At the average county-week–level donations, the implied effect of a $1 increase in charitable giving is a $0.42 decline in political donations. In the second natural experiment, we estimate the effects of a positive shock to political giving: advertisements for political campaigns. Exploiting geographic discontinuities in advertising markets, we find that political advertisements increase political giving, whereas they decrease charitable donations to ARC. Our estimates imply that each 1% increase in the political giving is accompanied by a 0.59% drop in charitable donations to ARC. At the average county-week–level donations, the implied effect of a $1 increase in political giving is a $0.33 decline in charitable donations. The crowding-out elasticities suggest that political giving and charitable giving are relatively close substitutes. We provide a number of robustness checks, and we discuss potential causal mechanisms.

This paper was accepted by Eric Anderson, marketing.

Funding: P. Yildirim thanks the Dean’s Research Fund and the Mack Institute at the Wharton School as well as the Wharton Behavioral Laboratory for their financial support. M. Petrova thanks financial support from the Severo Ochoa Programme for Centres of Excellence in R&D (Barcelona School of Economics CEX2019-000915-S), funded by MCIN/AEI/10.13039/501100011033.

Supplemental Material: The online appendix and data files are available at https://doi.org/10.1287/mnsc.2021.00845 .
Global Financial Cycle, Household Credit, and Macroprudential Policies
Authors: Epure Mircea , Mihai Irina , Minoiu Camelia , Peydró José-Luis
Published: February 2024

We show that macroprudential policies dampen the impact of global financial conditions on local bank credit cycles. For identification, we exploit variation in the U.S. volatility index (VIX) and household and business credit registers in an emerging market economy in which banks depend on foreign funding and macroprudential measures vary over the full cycle. Our results suggest that when the VIX is low, tighter macroprudential policies reduce household lending, notably for riskier (foreign currency (FX) and high debt-service-to-income) loans and by banks dependent on foreign funding. Moreover, they increase (less regulated) local currency lending to real estate firms. Such periods are associated with less subsequent total lending to households and firms and with a lower share of FX loans at the local level. Consistently, when the VIX is low, tighter macroprudential policies dampen house prices and economic activity.

This paper was accepted by Victoria Ivashina, finance.

Funding: M. Epure acknowledges support from the Serra Húnter program. This project received funding from the European Research Council under the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation program [Grant 648398], from the Agencia Estatal de Investigacion [Grants PID2020-115660GB-I00 and PGC2018-102133-B-I00], and the Severo Ochoa Program for Centers of Excellence in Research and Development [Grant CEX2019-000915-S].

Supplemental Material: The online appendix and data files are available at https://doi.org/10.1287/mnsc.2024.4981 .
Heart Diseases in Patients with Organic Acidemia
Authors: ÖZBEY Sümeyra Zeynep , GÜNDÜZ Mehmet , ÇETİN İbrahim İlker , CEYLAN Ahmet Cevdet , KILIÇ Esra , ÜNAL Özlem , KUCUKCONGAR Aynur , KIREKER KÖYLÜ Oya , YÜREK Burak , CİVELEK ÜREY Burcu , BİLGİNER GÜRBÜZ Berrak , KASAPKARA Çiğdem Seher
Published: February 2024

Objective: Organic acidemias are intoxication-type inborn errors of the metabolism with multiple organ involvement.
Patients with organic acidemia usually present in the neonatal or infantile period with high anion gap metabolic acidosis
and hyperammonemia. The present study investigates the presence of congenital heart defects and secondary heart
diseases in patients with organic acidemia.

Material and Methods: Included in the study were 31 patients of whom 14 were diagnosed with methylmalonic
acidemia (MMA), 11 with propionic acidemia and six with isovaleric acidemia. The cardiac findings of all patients
included in the study were evaluated.

Results: Of the sample, 63.64% were identified with accompanying congenital heart disease, with the most common
diagnosis being propionic acidemia and the most common heart defects being atrial septal defects and mitral
regurgitation.

Conclusion: The accumulation of toxic intermediate metabolites due to enzyme deficiency is thought to be the main
mechanism behind the cardiac involvement noted in organic acidemias. In the presence of unexplained deterioration, the
potential for organic acidemia to accompany congenital heart disease should be kept in mind, and so it is important to
screen patients with organic acidemias by echocardiography.
A INVALIDAÇÃO DE CORPOS FEMININOS NEGROS EM EU SEI PORQUE O PÁSSARO CANTA NA GAIOLA (1969), DE MAYA ANGELOU E O OLHO MAIS AZUL (1970), DE TONI MORRISON
Authors: Fernandes Alves Elis Regina , Braz Ana  Beatriz Santos
Published: February 2024

São analisados os romances Eu sei porque o pássaro canta na gaiola (1969), de Maya Angelou e O olho mais azul (1970), de Toni Morrison, sob a perspectiva do feminismo negro. Objetivou-se verificar como os corpos femininos negros são invalidados, inferiorizados diante da criação de corpos padrão, sempre brancos. A pesquisa contou com o apoio teórico de autoras do feminismo negro como Angela Davis (2016), bell hooks (2014; 2019), Djamila Ribeiro (2018), Grada Kilomba (2019), além do apoio teórico de autoras dos movimentos feministas, como Simone de Beauvoir (2009) e Naomi Wolf (1992). A pesquisa revela que os movimentos feministas inicias universalizaram o conceito de mulher, sem levar em consideração a situação ainda mais problemática das mulheres negras. Nos romances, evidencia-se que as protagonistas femininas negras, Maya e Pecola, bem como outras personagens, tem seus corpos invalidados por uma sociedade racista, sexista e classista. Maya quer ser uma menina “branca e fofa” para ser bem vista; Pecola quer ter olhos azuis para ter a vida que meninas brancas possuem, ser aceita. Ambas se constituem o outro do outro, o verdadeiro outro absoluto, inferiorizadas por serem negras, mulheres e pobres.
“SOU INVISÍVEL – COMPREENDE?”: AFROFUTURISMO E IDENTIDADE NEGRA EM HOMEM INVISÍVEL, OBRA DE RALPH ELLISON
Authors: Marks de Marques Eduardo , Brum de Freitas Anderson Luis
Published: February 2024

O presente artigo analisa a obra Homem Invisível, escrita por Ralph Ellison, publicado em 1952 e considerado um dos principais romances da ficção negra norte-americana. Inicialmente, apresenta um debate histórico sobre a ficção científica como um gênero receptivo à questões da realidade negra. A partir disso, o artigo apresenta a conceituação do afrofuturismo através das discussões de diferentes autores e de uma perspectiva histórica com a presença da Harlem Renaissance. Na sequência, o artigo debate a obra Homem Invisível e a construção da identidade negra como invisível no romance. Por fim, artigo analisa os aspectos que fazem com que ela (não) seja um marco zero para o movimento afrofuturista.
REPRESENTATIVIDADE FEMININA NEGRA NO ROMANCE EPISTOLAR CARTAS PARA MINHA MÃE, DE TERESA CÁRDENAS, E NO POEMA-CANÇÃO ME GRITARON NEGRA, DE VICTORIA SANTA CRUZ
Authors: Dias Denise , Dourado Monia Franciele de Souza , Macedo Ondina Maria da Silva , Corsi Solange da Silva
Published: February 2024

Neste artigo, analisam-se dois textos literários, sob a ótica do protagonismo negro feminino, presentes em Cartas para minha mãe, romance epistolar da autora cubana Teresa Cárdenas, de 1997, e no poema-canção Me gritaron negra, de 1960, da poeta e ativista peruana Victoria Santa Cruz. As obras são protagonizadas por mulheres negras, que passaram por diversas transformações ao longo da história, enfrentando violências, agressões e preconceitos. O presente estudo investiga, assim, a relevância dessas produções literárias, como forma de denúncia e combate à discriminação racial e de gênero, que tenta calar a voz e a atitude das mulheres negras. Trata-se, portanto, de uma pesquisa bibliográfica, em que os relatos feitos pela escritora, em suas obras, são analisados sob a luz da teoria dos escritos de Evaristo (2005), Hall (2011),  Nascimento (2015), Santiago (2012), Benatti e Candido (2020), Ribeiro (2017), entre outros estudiosos. Os resultados dessa pesquisa apontam para uma visão mais reflexiva sobre o papel da mulher negra na sociedade contemporânea. Além disso, mostra-se a importância da voz feminina negra, por meio da literatura, e como esta pode contribuir para o fortalecimento diário da luta por igualdade de raça e de gênero.
ATITUDE DECOLONIAL E GIRO ESTÉTICO DECOLONIAL EM O MUNDO SE DESPEDAÇA, DE CHINUA ACHEBE
Authors: R. V. Braga Cláudio , Dourado dos Santos Lucas
Published: February 2024

Este artigo propõe uma “análise conversacional” com o romance O mundo se despedaça (2009), de Chinua Achebe (1930-2013), escritor e ativista político nigeriano. Discute-se alguns aspectos histórico-culturais, literários e políticos, selecionados a partir da representação literária achebiana, com ênfase no processo de violência colonial sofrido pela etnia Ibo, na África Ocidental. Para tanto, utiliza-se o ferramental teórico, político e epistemológico do pensamento decolonial, no sentido de fazer coro à crítica da “modernidade/colonialidade” (QUIJANO, 1992, 2005, 2009; MIGNOLO, 2017; BALLESTRIN, 2013, 2017), a essa “violência” (CÉSAIRE, 1978; FANON, 2008; 2010) que vem sendo praticada contra os “Outros” durante os últimos 500 anos (DUSSEL, 2012). Propõe-se a leitura de O mundo se despedaça (ACHEBE, 2009) como uma “atitude decolonial” que performa um “giro estético decolonial” (MALDONADO-TORRES, 2020), como forma de resistência ao “perigo de uma história única” (ADICHIE, 2019). Conclui-se que a potência da visão artístico-literária achebiana, capaz de registrar com efetividade as violências que o colonialismo impôs às populações colonizadas, permanece relevante e ganha novos contornos quando discutida a partir da perspectiva decolonial.
IMAGENS, LUGARES SIMBÓLICOS E IDENTIDADE: A CRIAÇÃO E A RESSIGNIFICAÇÃO DA PAISAGEM URBANA EM SÃO LUÍS, MARANHÃO.
Authors: Dos Santos Luiz Eduardo Neves
Published: February 2024

Propõe-se abordar como determinadas imagens sobre a cidade de São Luís, inseridas em uma lógica específica, materializada através de lugares simbólicos, são socialmente construídas no tempo, criando identidades, memórias e ressignificando paisagens urbanas que, por sua vez, refletem os valores e os ideais do pensamento dominante, qual seja os ligados às elites políticas e econômicas locais. Por outro lado, embora de forma incipiente, também aponta possibilidades destes mesmos lugares se constituírem como lócus de ações comunicativas, de coexistências e de uma nova práxis produtora de consciência através do lugar. Para concretizar a proposta levantada, recorreu-se a uma abordagem de pesquisa exploratória e explicativa, de caráter histórico que contou com o auxílio de uma gama de referências bibliográficas, documentais e uma iconografia diversificada que tem a ver com a temática apresentada no trabalho.
ANÁLISE DA INFLUÊNCIA DE RESTRIÇÕES E DECRETOS MUNICIPAIS NA EVOLUÇÃO ESPAÇO-TEMPORAL DA COVID-19 EM RIO GRANDE (RS)
Authors: Cadaval Suelen de Souza , Ribeiro Júlia Nyland do Amaral , Claro Carolina Larrosa de Oliveira , Meneses Michele Neves
Published: February 2024

A pandemia causada pela doença COVID-19 registrou seu primeiro caso em 2019 na China, desde então, como resposta a evolução da transmissão em todo território mundial, ações de controle a essa crise sanitária foram implementadas. A partir disso, a presente pesquisa busca analisar o impacto espaço-temporal das ações municipais na contenção da distribuição espacial da COVID-19 em Rio Grande (RS), através de técnicas do Geoprocessamento e Estatística Descritiva. Os dados utilizados para a pesquisa advêm de publicações no site da Prefeitura Municipal do Rio Grande, bem como da sua parceria de Programas de Extensão do Instituto Federal de Educação Ciência e Tecnologia – Campus Rio Grande. O recorte temporal da pesquisa data de Março de 2020 a Abril de 2021 em que foram elaborados mapas coropléticos e de densidade Kernel baseados nesse período através do software QGIS 3.22. Com os resultados foi possível concluir que houve influência dos decretos municipais na disseminação da COVID-19 no território, além de ser possível constatar que haviam algumas localidades que apresentavam um padrão de alta contaminação ao longo de todo período. Aliada a discussão principal do trabalho existe também a valorização das contribuições do Geoprocessamento na gestão municipal e vigilância em saúde.
DIGITALIZAÇÃO DO TERRITÓRIO: MATERIALIDADES E SENTIDOS DA AÇÃO
Authors: Ribeiro Luis Henrique Leandro
Published: February 2024

A digitalização do território envolve, hoje, todas as esferas da vida e a totalidade dos lugares. Pode ser compreendida como a digitalização dos sistemas de ações e objetos, acirrando a contradição entre a possibilidade de maior unificação / cooperação (desejada ou não; consciente ou não) da produção de valor por todos e o aumento da extração e concentração desse valor por poucos, sorrateiros e competitivos agentes ou instituições. A digitalização do território aprofunda o padrão sistêmico da geração e apropriação de riquezas, ao mesmo tempo em que promove resistências ou permanências de outros usos a partir da solidariedade do espaço banal, envolvendo todas as pessoas, classes, sujeitos, grupos, empresas e instituições. Esse ensaio busca refletir sobre como a digitalização do território tem se expressado enquanto conjunto de materialidades e ações portador de diversos sentidos de exploração, cooperação ou resistência. Problematiza-se ainda se, a partir daí, é possível vislumbrar a transição para um novo período histórico, um período popular da história.