bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genetic Diversity Relationship in Azakheli Buffalo Inferred from mtDNA and MC1R Sequences Comparison
Authors: Ali Sikandar , Nabi Fazul , Awais Muhammad , Fareed Syed Khurram , Hussain Johar , Adeola Adeniyi C. , Khan Rajwali , Ahmed Nazeer , Quan Guobo
Published: December 2022

Azakheli is relatively smaller riverine breed with a very peculiar characteristics kept under unique traditional husbandry practices in comparison with rest of the Pakistani buffalo breeds; however, milk production is comparable. The present study was conducted to evaluate the genetic diversity of Azakheli breed. A total of sixty‐six blood samples were collected for the amplification of mtDNA D‐loop region and MC1R gene sequencing analysis. Median‐joining network analysis of 191 mtDNA D‐loop sequences of Azakheli and eight Indian riverine buffalo breeds clustered into three clades. Ancient Azakheli Region 1 clade was the oldest with the highest mutation steps and was present close to the root of UPGMA phylogenetic tree. There was 5 mutated lines distance between Pakistan buffalo and Indian riverine buffaloes. The populations of neighboring countries did not share any haplotypes with Azakheli buffalo of Pakistan. Possibly, residing for so long in the cold atmosphere and high elevation regions caused the mutation in mtDNA D‐loop, though these conditions did not affect the overall performance of Azakheli as milch buffalo breed of Pakistan. MC1R analyses showed high mutations in Azakheli of Albino phenotype and all the black phenotype individuals of Azakheli buffalo share haplotypes with dominant Chinese and Indian black phenotypes buffaloes in MC1R median‐joining network, indicating the reason of black coat color is due to MC1R gene. The haplotype diversity and nucleotide diversity was (H. 0.923, Pi: 0.00895) in Azakheli. Current results illustrated Asian ancestry for Azakheli buffalo, and mtDNA and MC1R analyses provided further evidence. Additional genetic analyses and archeological studies may provide further insight into the domestication period and history of Azakheli buffalo breed. The further studies are required on different coat colors with different genes on Azakheli buffalo to understand the phenotype variation.
Brevilin A Inhibits VEGF-Induced Angiogenesis through ROS-Dependent Mitochondrial Dysfunction
Authors: Wei Bailing , Hao Zhen , Zheng Hao , Qin Yuanhua , Zhao Feng , Shi Lei
Published: December 2022

Brevilin A (BA), a sesquiterpene lactone isolated from Centipeda minima herb, has been identified to exhibit potent anticancer activity. However, the potential pharmacological effect and mechanism of BA in regulating endothelial cell (EC) angiogenesis, a key event in tumor growth, is poorly understood. In this study, BA was shown to significantly prevent vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) induced EC angiogenic capacities in vitro, ex vivo, and in vivo. Subsequent functional assays revealed that BA dose dependently inhibited VEGF-stimulated survival, proliferation, migration, and triggered apoptosis activity in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs), as well as suppressed the expression of antiapoptotic protein Bcl-2, increased the expression of proapoptotic protein caspase-3 and Bax, and suppressed PI3K/AKT pathway. Meanwhile, BA was also able to depolarize mitochondrial membranal permeability (MMP), accelerate mitochondrial superoxide accumulation, induce intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, and decreased intracellular glutathione (GSH) in HUVECs. Furthermore, both mitochondria-specific superoxide scavenger Mito-TEMPOL and broad-spectrum antioxidant N-acetyl-cysteine (NAC) dramatically abolished BA-induced mitochondrial dysfunction and mitochondrial ROS production, causing the reversion of PI3K/AKT pathway and repression of apoptosis, eventually correcting the impaired endothelial behavior in survival, growth, migration, and angiogenesis. Collectively, our data for the first time identified a new mechanism for antiangiogenic effect of BA in vascular EC, one that is based on the regulation of mitochondrial-dependent ROS overproduction.
Selected Spatiotemporal and Joint Angle Parameters in Normal Gait and Nordic Walking with Classical and Mechatronic Poles in Aspects of Sex Differences
Authors: Szpala Agnieszka , Kołodziej Małgorzata , Struzik Artur , Jasiński Ryszard , Bałchanowski Krzysztof J. , Pietraszewski Bogdan , Woźniewski Marek
Published: December 2022

Introduction. The aim of this study was to compare selected spatiotemporal parameters and changes in the range of motion in the joints of lower and upper limbs during normal gait and during Nordic walking performed with classical and mechatronic poles of females and males. Methods. The study involved 19 physical education students (11 males and 8 females). The MyoMotion research motion analysis system was used to collect gait kinematic variables. The subject task was to cover a 100 m distance in a straight line with three types of gait: gait without poles, gait with classical poles, and gait with mechatronic poles at preferred velocity. Parameters were measured both on the right (RT) and on the left side (LT) of the body. The data was analyzed using two‐way repeated measures ANOVA with the between‐subject factor “sex.” Friedman’s test was used when necessary. Results. The most significant differences in spatiotemporal parameters between males and females were revealed in gait with the classical and mechatronic pole (stance phase LT and RT, load response LT and RT, single support LT and RT, preswing LT and RT, swing phase LT and RT, double stance LT and RT, and step length LT), the least in gait without a pole (stance phase RT, load response LT, single support LT, preswing RT, and swing phase RT); whereas, the most significant differences in kinematic parameters were revealed in gait without poles (shoulder rotation RT, wrist radial‐ulnar LT, hip flexion‐extension LT and RT, knee flexion‐extension LT and RT, ankle inversion‐eversion LT, and ankle abduction‐adduction LT and RT), the least in gait with mechatronic poles (knee flexion‐extension LT and RT, ankle dorsiflexion‐plantarflexion LT, ankle inversion‐eversion LT, and ankle abduction‐adduction LT and RT). Conclusion. Statistical analysis revealed many differences in spatiotemporal and kinematic parameters in normal gait, as well as in gait with the classical and mechatronic poles, which allows the conclusion that the gait of females and males should be analyzed separately.
Benign Neurofibroma/Schwannoma Hybrid Peripheral Nerve Sheath Tumor of the Ulnar Nerve Harboring a Metastatic Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma Deposit: A Case Report of Tumor-to-Tumor Metastasis
Authors: Colazo Juan M. , Perez Alexander N. , Judice Anthony D. , Quirion Julia , Prieto-Granada Carlos N. , Holt Ginger E.
Published: December 2022

A 74-year-old man with a medical history significant for papillary thyroid cancer (PTC) presented with a rapidly enlarging grape-sized mass in his right medial arm with paresthesia in the ulnar nerve distribution. Imaging was suspicious for a peripheral nerve sheath tumor (PNST), but an ultrasound-guided biopsy was equivocal. The mass was excised with final histopathology demonstrating a benign neurofibroma/schwannoma hybrid nerve sheath tumor (N/S HNST) harboring a metastatic PTC deposit, ultimately mimicking the rare glandular schwannoma subtype. Next-generation sequencing (NGS) of the lesion demonstrated somatic variants in BRAF and TERT (common in PTC) and NF2 (common in PNSTs). After excision, the patient’s nerve symptoms improved. A postsurgical PET/CT scan also showed progression in the lungs/mediastinum. Due to the metastatic nature of his PTC, he was treated with 14 mg of Lenvima (lenvatinib) daily, and his PET/CT surveillance was performed at more frequent intervals. Tumor-to-tumor metastasis (TTM) is a rare occurrence. To our knowledge, this is the first case reported on PTC metastasizing into a benign (hybrid) PNST, which mimicked glandular schwannoma. Symptomatology, imaging characteristics, NGS, and histopathological characteristics that can decipher between different benign PNST subtypes (schwannoma, neurofibroma, glandular, hybrid, etc.), malignant PNSTs (MPNSTs), and TTM are described.
Hanging On by a Thread: The Case of Migrant Teachers Holding Zimbabwean Exemption Permits in South Africa
Authors:   Department of Curriculum Studies, Faculty of Education, University of Stellenbosch, Stellenbosch, Tarisayi Kudzayi Savious
Published: December 2022

This paper drew from a qualitative study on the experiences of Zimbabwean migrant teachers in South Africa. Using the interpretivist paradigm, the author interrogates the experiences of Zimbabwean migrant teachers who hold the Zimbabwe Exemption Permit. The author relies on the theory of migration by seminal scholar Everett Lee for a theoretical lens. The study was carried out within the context of respite1 for Zimbabwe Exemption Permits holders. The respite for Zimbabwe Exemption Permit holders was to terminate on 31 December 2022. Narrative interviews were carried out with ten purposively selected participants. The data were analysed using thematic analysis. The study suggested that Zimbabwean migrant teachers were struggling to transfer to mainstream visas after the non-extension of the special visas they were holding (critical skill visas, general work visas). Due to these struggles, there was a shared view among the participants that after 31 December 2022 they would become undocumented. This was expected to change the lives of previously documented migrants. The impending fate of the Zimbabwe Exemption Permit holders led to the conclusion that their lives were hanging on by a thread. The author recommends that the fate of the documentation for Zimbabwean migrant teachers in South Africa be reassessed in terms of permanent residency status.
Analiza korištenja aktivnog i pasivnog biračkog prava pripadnika nacionalnih manjina u Hrvatskoj: primjer izbora za vijeća i predstavnike nacionalnih manjina 2015. i 2019. godine
Authors:   Ministarstvo pravosuđa i uprave, Zagreb, Mašić Barbara
Published: December 2022

The basic law governing minority rights in the Republic of Croatia was adopted by The Constitutional Act on the Rights of National Minorities (CARNM) in 2002. Among other things, it provides for the election of representatives of members of national minorities in accordance with a special election act. The unified election act – Act on the Election of Councils and Representatives of National Minorities (AECRNM), which regulates the election of members of national minority councils and representatives of national minorities in local and regional self-government units, entered into force on 14 March 2019, 17 years after the adoption of the CARNM. The first elections held under the provisions of that act were the elections of representatives and members of Councils of National Minorities, held in 2019, on 5 May (first round) and 19 May (second round). The 2019 elections went unnoticed by the Croatian press, with the exception of the involvement of some local media in areas with a larger population of members of national minorities. Apart from invisibility, another problem of the 2019 elections was the low voter turnout, from 10 to 24 percent, depending on the level of the self-government unit at which the elections were held. The empirical analysis of election results and Government Reports on the implementation of the CARNM seeks to answer the questions of the extent to which national minorities were politically active in the previous election cycle (2015–2019) and whether more generous funding of political activities affects voter turnout. The evaluation of the results is also an answer to the question of whether the adoption of the new act is a step forward in promoting the political rights of national minorities in Croatia and a guide for election participants to prepare activities for the new election cycle.
Targeting Lymphoma-associated Macrophage Expansion via CSF1R/JAK Inhibition is a Therapeutic Vulnerability in Peripheral T-cell Lymphomas
Authors: Gao Xin , Kady Nermin , Wang Chenguang , Abdelrahman Suhaib , Gann Peter , Sverdlov Maria , Wolfe Ashley , Brown Noah , Reneau John , Robida Aaron M. , Murga-Zamalloa Carlos , Wilcox Ryan A.
Published: December 2022

The reciprocal relationship between malignant T cells and lymphoma-associated macrophages (LAM) within the tumor microenvironment (TME) is unique, as LAMs are well poised to provide ligands for antigen, costimulatory, and cytokine receptors that promote T-cell lymphoma growth. Conversely, malignant T cells promote the functional polarization and homeostatic survival of LAM. Therefore, we sought to determine the extent to which LAMs are a therapeutic vulnerability in these lymphomas, and to identify effective therapeutic strategies for their depletion. We utilized complementary genetically engineered mouse models and primary peripheral T-cell lymphoma (PTCL) specimens to quantify LAM expansion and proliferation. A high-throughput screen was performed to identify targeted agents that effectively deplete LAM within the context of PTCL. We observed that LAMs are dominant constituents of the TME in PTCL. Furthermore, their dominance was explained, at least in part, by their proliferation and expansion in response to PTCL-derived cytokines. Importantly, LAMs are a true dependency in these lymphomas, as their depletion significantly impaired PTCL progression. These findings were extrapolated to a large cohort of human PTCL specimens where LAM proliferation was observed. A high-throughput screen demonstrated that PTCL-derived cytokines led to relative resistance to CSF1R selective inhibitors, and culminated in the identification of dual CSF1R/JAK inhibition as a novel therapeutic strategy to deplete LAM in these aggressive lymphomas. Malignant T cells promote the expansion and proliferation of LAM, which are a bone fide dependency in these lymphomas, and are effectively depleted with a dual CSF1R/JAK inhibitor.

Significance:

LAMs are a therapeutic vulnerability, as their depletion impairs T-cell lymphoma disease progression. Pacritinib, a dual CSF1R/JAK inhibitor, effectively impaired LAM viability and expansion, prolonged survival in preclinical T-cell lymphoma models, and is currently being investigated as a novel therapeutic approach in these lymphomas.
Genotype-Phenotype Correlation of Distal 2q37 Deletions
Authors: Iwata-Otsubo Aiko , Darr Kahlen R. , Torres-Martinez Wilfredo , Hodge Jennelle C.
Published: December 2022

Brachydactyly mental retardation syndrome (BDMR) typically results from large deletions (>2–9 Mb) in distal 2q37. Haploinsufficiency of HDAC4 with incomplete penetrance has been proposed as the primary genetic cause of BDMR. To date, pure 2q37 deletions distal to HDAC4 were reported only in a limited number of individuals who share a subset of the clinical manifestations seen in cases with 2q37 deletions encompassing HDAC4. Here, we present a 4-year-old African American male who carries the smallest established 2q37.3 deletion distal to HDAC4 (827.1 kb; 16 OMIM genes). His clinical features that overlap with BDMR phenotypes include expressive-receptive language delay, behavioral issues, mild facial dysmorphism such as frontal bossing, and bilateral 5th finger brachydactyly and clinodactyly. The deletion was inherited from his mother with a history of learning difficulties and similar facial dysmorphism. This case provides important genotype-phenotype correlation information and suggests a 2q37 region distal to HDAC4 encompassing the HDLBP gene may contribute to a subset of clinical features overlapping with those seen in individuals with BDMR.
Placental Transfusion Strategies in Preterm Infants in Low- and Middle-Income Countries: A Systematic Review and Network Meta-Analysis
Authors: Ramaswamy Viraraghavan Vadakkencherry , Bandyopadhyay Tapas , Abiramalatha Thangaraj , Shaik Nasreen Banu , Pullattayil S Abdul Kareem , Jasani Bonny , Hegde Vandana , Trevisanuto Daniele , Weiner Gary M.
Published: December 2022

Introduction: Placental transfusion strategies in preterm newborns have not been evaluated in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). The objective of this systematic review was to compare placental transfusion strategies in preterm newborns in LMICs, including delayed cord clamping (DCC) for various time intervals, DCC until cord pulsations stop, umbilical cord milking, and immediate cord clamping (ICC). Methods: Medline, Embase, CINAHL, and CENTRAL were searched from inception. Observational studies and randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were included. Two authors independently extracted data for Bayesian random-effects network meta-analysis (NMA) if more than 3 interventions reported an outcome or a pairwise meta-analysis was utilized. Results: Among newborns <34 weeks of gestation, NMA of 9 RCTs could not rule out benefit or harm for survival from DCC 30–60 s compared to ICC: relative risk (RR) (95% credible interval) 0.96 (0.78–1.12), moderate certainty, or any included strategy compared to each other (low to very low certainty). Among late preterm newborns, DCC 120 s might be associated with improved survival: RR (95% confidence interval) 1.11 (1.01–1.22), very low certainty. We could not detect differences in the risk of intraventricular hemorrhage grade > II and bronchopulmonary dysplasia for any included intervention (low to very low certainty). DCC 60 s and 120 s might improve the hematocrit level among all preterm newborns (very low certainty), and DCC 45 s may decrease the risk of receipt of inotropes among newborns <34 weeks of gestation (low certainty). Conclusions: In LMICs, DCC for 60 s and 120 s might improve hematocrit level in preterm newborns, and DCC for 45 s may decrease the risk of receipt of inotropes in newborns <34 weeks, with no conclusive effect on survival.
Biochemical and Lung Function Test Accuracy for Predicting the Need for Surfactant Therapy in Preterm Infants: A Systematic Review
Authors: Lavizzari Anna , Veneroni Chiara
Published: December 2022

Introduction: We evaluate the accuracy of postnatal biochemical and lung function tests performed within 3 h from birth for predicting surfactant need in preterm infants ≤34 weeks’ gestation receiving noninvasive respiratory support for respiratory distress syndrome (RDS). Methods: We systematically searched MEDLINE, Embase, The Cochrane Library, PROSPERO, and clinicaltrials.gov databases for studies published from 2000 to November 10, 2021, cross-referencing relevant literature and contacting experts. We included diagnostic accuracy studies and systematic reviews of biochemical or lung function tests identifying the need for surfactant in preterm neonates ≤34 weeks’ with RDS not intubated at birth. The authors individually assessed the risk of bias following a tailored QUADAS-2 tool. Results: Eight studies, including 810 infants, met the inclusion criteria. Four tests were included: the click test, the stable microbubble test, the lamellar body count on gastric aspirates, and the forced oscillation technique. The reference standards were transparent criteria for distinguishing the infants according to oxygen requirement, which reflected the current criteria for surfactant therapy. The risk of bias was judged high because of the population selection and exclusion of participants from the analysis. There were no serious concerns regarding blinding and applicability. The individual study sensitivity and specificity range from 0.60 to 1 and from 0.51 to 0.91, respectively. It was not appropriate to combine the accuracy estimates in a meta-analysis because of the heterogeneity of the study characteristics. Conclusions: Current evidence is insufficient to recommend biochemical and lung function tests for tailoring surfactant therapy.
Cochlear Function in Adults Exposed to Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2
Authors: Cinar Betul Cicek , Demirtas Beyza , Can Mehmet , Yesil Ibrahim Emir , Bajin Munir Demir
Published: December 2022

Introduction: Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is a viral infection with a wide variety of symptoms, including fever, coughing, sneezing, fatigue, and a loss of taste and smell. Moreover, there are some recent studies that investigate the effects of SARS-CoV-2 on hearing and auditory performance. With this current study, we investigate the early effects of the coronavirus disease on hair cells in the cochlea. Methods: In the current study, there were 25 subjects (17 females, 8 males) who tested positive for polymerase chain reaction on nasopharyngeal swabs. They had reported normal auditory functions and no history of otology before SARS-CoV-2. To determine auditory functions, pure-tone audiometry, otoacoustic emissions (OAE) tests, and threshold equalizing noise (TEN) tests were used. Results: Although the hearing thresholds increased at higher frequencies, they were within normal limits according to four-frequency pure-tone averages. All participants had normal OAE, and there were no detected dead regions for any of the subjects. Even so, there were significant increases in hearing thresholds in TEN. Conclusion: There is no cochlear dysfunction discovered by OAE and TEN in SARS-CoV-2-affected individuals. Nonetheless, the increase in hearing thresholds at higher frequencies, other than the pure-tone average frequencies detected by TEN, and the decrease in the presence of detected OAE could be related to deterioration in the basal part of the cochlea.
Diagnostic Accuracy of the International Academy of Cytology Yokohama System versus the Modified Masood’s Scoring Index in Categorization and Diagnosis of Palpable Breast Lesions
Authors: Bhuyan Geet , Khound Rajashree , Baruah Abir Kumar , Chowdhury Somshankar
Published: December 2022

Introduction: Fine-needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) is a simple, minimally invasive, and effective tool that can be used to accurately diagnose benign and malignant lesions of the breast. The International Academy of Cytologists Yokohama system and Modified Masood’s Scoring Index (MMSI) are two important systems to categorize palpable breast lesions on FNAC. The goal of the present study was to evaluate the IAC Yokohama system and MMSI in the cytological diagnosis and classification of diverse breast lesions and to compare the diagnostic accuracy of both systems through cyto-histological correlation. Methods: A retrospective cross-sectional study was done within the 3-year period from 2019 to 2021. Seven hundred and ninety cases of FNAC breast lesions were included and were categorized following the recommendations by the International Academy of Cytologists Yokohama system and MMSI. The sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, positive predictive value (PPV), negative predictive value (NPV), and diagnostic accuracy for both systems were calculated, taking histopathology as the standard. Additionally, the risk of malignancy (ROM) of each category was calculated in the Yokohama system. Results: The IAC Yokohama system’s sensitivity, specificity, PPV, NPV, and diagnostic accuracy were 96.8, 95.8%, 96%, 96.6%, and 96.3%. The MMSI had sensitivity, specificity, PPV, NPV, and diagnostic accuracy of 95.8%, 98.4%, 98.3%, 96.1%, and 97.1%, respectively. The ROM for insufficient, benign, atypical, suspicious for malignancy, and malignant categories were 12.5%, 1.8%, 20%, 90.4%, and 97.5%, respectively. Conclusion: The categorization of breast lumps using the MMSI is more accurate and more specific in diagnosing malignant cases, and thus, the MMSI system is more precise and accurate at diagnosing malignant cases.
O pão e a pedra: uma greve no palco
Authors: Piacentini Ney
Published: December 2022

O artigo aborda o processo de pesquisa e montagem da peça O pão e a pedra, da Companhia do Latão, que aborda a greve dos metalúrgicos em 1979 do ABC paulista. Este trabalho discorre sobre a contribuição dos atores na construção da dramaturgia e da encenação. A metodologia aplicada foi estimular a maior oferta de recursos cênicos possível – por parte dos atores, de cenas, imagens e músicas – para a coordenação dramatúrgica fazer as escolhas que tomaram parte na obra final.
Determination of hospital security index for emergencies and evaluation indicators
Authors: Dizdarević Alem , Ovčina Amer , Ramić Aida
Published: December 2022

Introduction: Today, a lot is said and written about the hospital as a health institution. Various international bodies and organizations, including the World Health Organization, deal with the problem of work, functions, and organizations.Aim: This paper aims to perform a situational analysis of the organization of the hospital for emergencies; determine the availability of material and personnel resources in the hospital available in emergencies; examine the types of hazards that may have an impact on the safety of the hospital; determine the state of constructive and non-constructive safety of the hospital; examine the organization of services and support for patients and staff during emergencies.Methods: The research is descriptive and analytical. Standardized evaluation lists prescribed by the World health organization (WHO), which determines the hospital safety index, and the original survey questionnaire, according to the defined methodology of the WHO, were used as research instruments.Research results: For this work, a survey was conducted of 117 respondents, employees of the Clinical Center of the University of Sarajevo, who work in responsible positions. The majority of respondents believe that the conditions for preparing the hospital for emergencies can be improved by providing more human resources, educating staff, and ensuring important modern technologies. The situational analysis at the Clinical Center of the University of Sarajevo was carried out with an internal self-assessment of the hospital's safety index. The evaluation of the safety index for emergencies was calculated based on the defined WHO methodology.Conclusion: It is important to point out that there are many dangers (hazards) that can have an impact on the safety of hospitals and that different factors have a significant role in the preparedness of hospitals for an emergency or disaster.
Reactive Attachment Disorder (RAD) and Disinhibited Social Engagement Disorder (DSED) Symptomatology in a High-Risk Clinical Sample
Authors: Kroupina Maria G. , Ng Rowena , Dahl Claire M. , Nakitende Ann Jaqueline , Elison Kathryn C.
Published: December 2022

Attachment relationships are broadly considered foundational to child development as such attachment disorders, reactive attachment disorder (RAD) and disinhibited social engagement disorder (DSED), pose a severe threat to children’s safety and developmental trajectory. This study examined the prevalence of full diagnosis and symptoms of RAD and DSED in a high-risk sample of adopted children (n = 98; mean age: 46.26 months; range: 16.09 months-6.51 years). Consistent with existing literature, a full diagnosis of RAD and DSED was rare, 1% (n = 1) and 8.1% (n = 8), respectively. However, over half of the sample presented with at least one clinically concerning symptom of RAD or DSED. Given the nature of attachment disorders and the level of concern associated with symptoms, these findings emphasize the need for effective mental health screening, sensitivity beyond just a full diagnosis, and early interventions for adopted children.
Spatial Analysis of Access to Basic Services in Urban West Bengal: Disparities and Determinants
Authors: Chattopadhyay Soumyadip
Published: December 2022

This paper, using data from Census 2011, examines the availability of treated drinking water, latrine facility, drainage facility and electricity between villages, census towns (CTs) and statutory towns (STs) in West Bengal, India. Urban areas of socio-economically developed administrative divisions experienced higher household service coverage. Availability of drinking water and latrine facilities is distinctly better in STs over CTs and CTs over villages. Other services like latrine with sewerage facilities and closed drainage facilities recorded insignificant differences in household coverage between cities and villages. Results of multi-variable regression models reveal that type of economic activities and social characteristics of the urban areas; nature of basic services and their institutional arrangements significantly influence the service provision. So, the paper argues for stepping up investment, institutionalization of an integrated planning paradigm and strengthening urban governments to ensure equitable distribution of basic services.
Domestic Violence against Women in India: Does Empowerment Matter?
Authors: Paul Tanusree , Karmakar Suranjana
Published: December 2022

Past research on domestic violence in India recurrently highlight women’s economic empowerment as a major deterrent to domestic violence. That said, this paper tries to understand what is the nature of relationship between women’s empowerment and their experience of spousal violence? In doing so, it specifically explores how this relationship is interceded by regional specificities. Based on an analysis of the National Family Health Survey (NFHS)-5 data in India, this paper observes that the relationship between women’s empowerment and domestic violence is contentious. However, women having some education and using mobile phones are less vulnerable. Hence, this study concludes that mobile phones and Internet-based applications as well as community-based interventions could be the effective measures to end domestic violence.
Compliant mechanisms that achieve binary stiffness along multiple degrees of freedom
Authors: Shimohara Sam , Lee Ryan H , Hopkins Jonathan B
Published: December 2022

Here we introduce compliant mechanisms that can be triggered using bistable switches to achieve two different states of stiffness (i.e., high and low stiffness) along multiple degrees of freedom The compliant mechanisms leverage principles of constraint manipulation and stiffness cancelation to achieve these binary states with a stiffness difference as large as an order of magnitude. Although these principles have been used in prior works to achieve binary stiffness in compliant mechanisms that achieve a single degree of freedom (DOF) (e.g., a single translation or a single rotation), this work advances the theory to achieve binary stiffness in compliant mechanisms that achieve multiple DOFs. Specifically, two designs are introduced, fabricated, and tested to demonstrate binary stiffness in two DOFs. The first design achieves binary stiffness along two orthogonal translational DOFs and the second design achieves binary stiffness about two orthogonal rotational DOFs with intersecting axes.
Apical Papilla Regulates Dental Follicle Fate via the OGN-Hh Pathway
Authors: Lin X. , Li Q. , Hu L. , Jiang C. , Wang S. , Wu X.
Published: December 2022

Root apical complex, including Hertwig’s epithelial root sheath, apical papilla, and dental follicle (DF), is the germinal center of root development, wherein the DF constantly develops into periodontal tissue. However, whether DF development is regulated by the adjacent apical papilla remains largely unknown. In this study, we employed a transwell coculture system and found that stem cells from the apical papilla (SCAPs) inhibit the differentiation and maintain the stemness of dental follicle stem cells (DFSCs). Meanwhile, partial SCAP differentiation markers were upregulated after DFSC coculture. High-throughput RNA sequencing revealed that the Hedgehog (Hh) pathway was significantly downregulated in DFSCs cocultured with SCAPs. Upregulation or downregulation of the Hh pathway can respectively activate or inhibit the multidirectional differentiation of DFSCs. Osteoglycin (OGN) (previously known as mimecan) is highly expressed in the dental papilla, similarly to Hh pathway factors. By secreting OGN, SCAP regulated the stemness and multidirectional differentiation of DFSCs via the OGN-Hh pathway. Finally, Ogn–/– mice were established using the CRISPR/Cas9 system. We found that the root length growth rate was accelerated during root development from PN0 to PN30 in Ogn–/– mice. Moreover, the hard tissues (including dentin and cementum) of the root in Ogn–/– mice were thicker than those in wild-type mice. These phenotypes were likely due to Hh pathway activation and the increased cell proliferation and differentiation in both the apical papilla and DF. The current work elucidates the molecular regulation of early periodontal tissue development, providing a theoretical basis for future research on tooth root biology and periodontal tissue regeneration.
Did trade unions reinforce the neoliberal transformation? The Dutch case
Authors: Boumans Saskia
Published: December 2022

Union responses to the liberalization of the political economy are often portrayed as either beating the same drum for decades or retreating into the defence of an increasingly small group of core workers. This article argues otherwise. A longitudinal ideational analysis of collective bargaining documents issued between 1976 and 2021 by the Netherlands Trade Union Confederation (FNV) shows that the Federation has gradually adapted its Keynesian-inspired interests to a more market-oriented understanding of the labor market, wages, and employment, legitimized by Third Way ideology in the 1990s. During the 2010s the union returns to Keynesian thinking. The findings suggest that the ideological conversion of the trade union movement may have been more significant than currently realized in explaining the liberalization of the labor market.
Parents’ Level of COVID-19 Fear, Anxiety and Their Attitudes and Behaviors Toward Vaccination of Their Children
Authors: Baş Kazım , Gürarslan Baş Nazan
Published: December 2022

The aims of this study were to investigate parents’ COVID-19 fear and anxiety levels and determine the relationship between parents’ COVID-19 fear and anxiety levels and their attitudes and behaviors toward having themselves and their children vaccinated. This descriptive and cross-sectional type of research was conducted with 950 parents with 12–18 years old children. Having a chronic disease, being vaccinated, intention to vaccinate their children, and the children’s age and school year were found to increase parents’ COVID-19 fear and anxiety ( p < 0.005). A statistically significant correlation was found between the parents’ perceived levels of COVID-19 fear and anxiety and their intentions to vaccinate their children ( p < 0.005). According to the study’s findings, the age of the child, the parents’ vaccination, and the parents’ intentions to vaccinate their children were predictors of COVID-19 fear and anxiety.
Attitude optimization control of hypersonic flight vehicle considering partially unknown control direction
Authors: Guo Jianguo , Wang Jiaqi , Guo Zongyi , Su Yalu
Published: December 2022

In this paper, a control method based on periodic sliding mode technology and adaptive dynamic programming algorithm is proposed for the attitude dynamics of hypersonic flight vehicle. The method takes into account a case that there is unknown control direction in a single channel. First, under the premise that the disturbance observers estimate the coupling and other disturbances, the attitude dynamics are decomposed into mathematical models of pitch channel and yaw-roll channel, respectively. Then, a periodic sliding mode control law with both stability and rapidity is designed for the unknown control direction in pitch channel. In the yaw-roll channel, an optimal attitude control law satisfying cost function is designed based on adaptive dynamic programming algorithm. What’s more, the closed-loop system is proved to be stable by Lyapunov stability theorem. Finally, the simulation results show that the attitude angle can track the command stably, which proves the effectiveness of the control scheme. Compared with the backstepping control scheme, the simulation results show that the proposed scheme can effectively avoid the divergence of the system because of the control direction switch, and the system have better dynamic performance and robustness.
An adaptive power distribution scheme for hybrid energy storage system to reduce the battery energy throughput in electric vehicles
Authors: Ren Yaxing , Chen Si , Marco James
Published: December 2022

The battery/supercapacitor (SC) hybrid energy storage system (HESS) is widely applied in electric vehicles (EVs) in recent years due to the hybrid system which combines the benefits of both devices. This paper proposes an adaptive power distribution scheme for battery/SC HESS to maximise the usage of SC according to its stored energy and load current. In the approach, the low-pass filter is developed with adaptive algorithm to calculate the suitable cut-off frequency to allocate the power demand between the battery and SC. The approach can adjust the cut-off frequency but not change the structure of the control system, and thus its original property of simple implementation and stability is not affected. The comprehensive simulation study verifies the effectiveness of the proposed adaptive power distribution scheme in a battery/SC HESS and its stability is further validated using Lyapunov method. The result shows that the adaptive method performs better than a traditional control system with 20%–40% less battery energy throughput during operation and can adjust the dynamic response of the HESS according to the energy capacity of SC to further improve system efficiency. The proposed adaptive power distribution scheme is verified able to extend the service life of the HESS system in EV applications.
Constrained integral fuzzy sliding mode control for an electric vehicle: An LMI-based approach
Authors: Amiri Saeed , Seyed Moosavi Seyed Mohsen , Forouzanfar Mehdi , Aghajari Ebrahim
Published: December 2022

This study investigates the issue of stability analysis and controller synthesis for an electric vehicle based on the Takagi–Sugeno fuzzy control approach. The proposed adaptive fuzzy integral sliding mode controller ensures that the electric vehicle system performs satisfactorily in the presence of uncertainties and exogenous disturbances, comprising low computational load, small control input amplitude, and reduced energy consumption. For efficient performance of the electric vehicle, the battery voltage (control input) and the vehicle’s speed (system output) are considered restricted. Simulations of an electric vehicle powered by a brushed direct current motor are utilized to evaluate the efficacy of the proposed controller. Ultimately, the design procedure validates the robust performance and fast stabilization of the electric vehicle speed in the presence of exogenous disturbances and parametric uncertainties.
Work-Life Flexibility Policies From a Boundary Control and Implementation Perspective: A Review and Research Framework
Authors: Kossek Ellen Ernst , Perrigino Matthew B. , Lautsch Brenda A.
Published: December 2022

Although management research on work-life flexibility policies has occurred for over 40 years, it is underdeveloped with inconsistent results. We argue that this is due to theorizing that—but not measuring whether—policy use increases boundary control; a fragmented literature examining a range of policies (either individually or bundled) without comprehensive integration; and an under-examination of policy implementation effectiveness. Drawing on boundary theory, we inductively review 338 studies to organize the work–life flexibility policy literature around a boundary control and implementation framework. Our framework derives a taxonomy of types of boundary control, identifies implementation stages, considers the importance of policy bundling, and incorporates multi-level (individual, group, organizational, societal) and multi-domain (family, work) dynamics. Our review shows that the current literature often assesses the availability of single policies and individual outcomes; but under-assesses boundary control, extent of use, bundling, implementation, and multi-level outcomes. Our results provide a springboard for future research and practice by offering new insights for understanding work–life flexibility policies, encouraging scholars to: (1) recognize the crucial role of different types of employee boundary control (spatial, size, temporal, permeability, continuity) as an inherent element of policy experiences that must be measured rather than merely assumed; (2) examine how work–life flexibility policy implementation involves four implementation stages—availability, access experiences (including enablers and barriers), use, and outcomes—with multiple stakeholders (e.g., individual employees, supervisors, coworkers, family) and contextual factors (i.e., societal forces); and (3) innovate ways to examine emergent policy issues such as equality, home implementation, and hybrid forms.
Searching for the fourfold in critical discourse analysis
Authors: Hansen Ejvind
Published: December 2022

This article argues that late Heidegger’s analyses of the Fourfold can be used as a methodological starting point for discourse analyses. It argues that the Fourfold points out elements or foundations of discursive structures that orient us to differing, and to some extent opposing, directions that are at the same time mutually interdependent. A discursive analysis of how the Fourfold is at play in prevailing discursive exchanges and structures will thus be a matter of situating ourselves in a conceptual space beyond existing practices and structures, from which we get a picture of their inadequacies. As such, the article contributes to a critical understanding of discourse analysis. It will be argued that through understanding the Fourfold, we can better understand the problems with various aspects of ‘measuring’, which are founded upon the (concealed) instability of elements of the Fourfold – which shapes practical discursive engagements. By foregrounding this structural instability we can approach it critically. I demonstrate how this approach might be used in an analysis of a debate between Greta Thunberg and Bjørn Lomborg.
Psychosocial Determinants of Recommended Lifestyle Behaviors among Hypertensive Patients: An Integrative Literature Review
Authors: Suriyawong Wachira , Kao Tsui-Sui Annie , Robbins Lorraine B. , Ling Jiying , Malete Leapetswe
Published: December 2022

Healthy lifestyle levels are low among adults with hypertension (HTN). Unfortunately, psychosocial factors contributing to patients’ inability to meet healthy lifestyle recommendations are not well-understood. This integrative review examined the relationships of three psychosocial factors (self-efficacy, outcome expectancy, and social support) with dietary adherence (DA) and physical activity (PA) among adults with HTN. In total, 24 peer-reviewed studies were assessed. Results showed self-efficacy had small-to-large relationships with PA ( r = 0.02–0.46) and DA ( r = 0.06–0.79), with the strength of the associations varying by the assessed domain and country of origin. However, few studies reported a small relationship between the remaining factors (outcome expectancy and social support) and PA and DA. Thus, more efforts are needed to delineate the contributions of social support and outcome expectancies on DA or PA. When designing an intervention that focuses on improving PA or DA among adults with HTN, these psychosocial factors should be targeted.
Effects of modafinil and caffeine on night-time vigilance of air force crewmembers: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Wingelaar-Jagt Yara Q. , Bottenheft Charelle , Riedel Wim J. , Ramaekers Johannes G.
Published: December 2022

Background:

Fatigue remains an important factor in major aviation accidents. Stimulants may counteract fatigue’s adverse effects, with modafinil as a promising alternative to caffeine. However, the effect of a single dose of modafinil after a limited period of sleep deprivation remains unknown.

Aims:

This study aims to determine the effect of 200 mg modafinil on vigilance during a limited period of sleep deprivation compared to 300 mg caffeine and placebo.

Methods:

Thirty-two volunteers of the Royal Netherlands Air Force (RNLAF) were double-blindly administered modafinil, caffeine, and placebo on three non-consecutive trial days after being awake for median 17 h. Afterwards, subjects completed six series of the Vigilance and Tracking test (VigTrack), psychomotor vigilance task (PVT), and Stanford Sleepiness Scale (SSS), yielding six primary endpoints.

Results:

This study revealed statistically significant effects of caffeine and modafinil compared with placebo on all endpoints, except for VigTrack mean tracking error. PVT results were less impaired 2 h after administration, followed by VigTrack parameters and SSS scores 2 h thereafter. Compared with caffeine, modafinil significantly improved PVT and SSS scores at 8 h after administration.

Conclusions:

The present study demonstrates that 200 mg modafinil and 300 mg caffeine significantly decrease the effects of a limited period of sleep deprivation on vigilance compared with placebo. Although PVT parameters already improved 2 h after administration, the most notable effects occurred 2–4 h later. Modafinil seems to be effective longer than caffeine, which is consistent with its longer half-life.
A comprehensive review on the advances in renewable wind power technology
Authors: Parimala Patri Venkata Sesha Sudha Arundathi , Sharma Dhruv , Mathew Ribu
Published: December 2022

In recent years, renewable energy generation, storage, and transmission has been the focus of research. Extraction of power from renewable energy sources is increasing rapidly. Progressively more wind farms are being fastened to the power grid. Large-scale merging of wind farms into electrical power grid presents a few challenges like voltage stability, system operation and control, and power quality due to usage of power electronic converters presenting a major bottleneck. This paper elucidates various types of wind power plant technologies, consequences of power electronic converters and reviews various types of system strength determination methods.
Motivation and Quality of Work Life of In-Home Paid Caregivers of Older Adults
Authors: Tangchitnusorn Kanokwan , Prachuabmoh Vipan
Published: December 2022

Hiring in-home paid caregivers (IPCs) to tend to older adults at home has been one of the popular long-term care strategies in several urban aging societies. Relevant studies in the Global South that provide empirical findings have been lacking. This study contributes to the literature on home care by conducting a qualitative analysis of work motivation and the quality of work life of female IPCs in Thailand. We found that work motivation involved the desire for personal economic improvement and the search for an emotional anchor. Analysis of quality of work life pointed to three major themes: great contribution but low recognition and support; interdependence as an ultimate career goal; and effective training as a key to opportunity and success. We proposed a theoretical extension to the existing care theories and suggested necessary policy interventions to sustain the supply of IPCs.
Characterisation of driver longitudinal behaviour using an Unscented Kalman Filter
Authors: Mladenov Emanuil , Best Matthew C
Published: December 2022

This paper presents a real-time driver characterisation algorithm that models the driver based on 10 parameters governing their control of vehicle longitudinal speed and acceleration. It utilises an open-loop longitudinal model in conjunction with an Unscented Kalman Filter (UKF). The algorithm can operate in real-time using velocity and acceleration measurements, in addition to a-priori knowledge of the path curvature and road features such as speed limit locations. The UKF also enables a system identification process to estimate average response of each driver. These identified parameters are subsequently fitted to independent measures of fuel economy and safety to demonstrate possible uses for the characterisations. In addition to the comprehensive characterisation of the drivers’ behaviour the work is also novel in its unique approach to identifying time-based parameters within a time-varying dynamic system (UKF). Possible applications include insurance black box assessments of driver aggressiveness and safety, and in autonomous driving algorithms by providing a model to closely replicate the specific driving styles of various users.