bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nilotinib: Disrupting the MYC-MAX Heterocomplex
Authors: Shah Kamilla , Ansari Maham , Saeed Samina , Wali Abdul , Mushtaq Yasinzai Muhammad
Published: July 2024

MYC is a transcription factor crucial for maintaining cellular homeostasis, and its dysregulation is associated with highly aggressive cancers. Despite being considered “undruggable” due to its unstable protein structure, MYC gains stability through its interaction with its partner protein, MAX. The MYC-MAX heterodimer orchestrates the expression of numerous genes that contribute to an oncogenic phenotype. Previous efforts to develop small molecules, disrupting the MYC-MAX interaction, have shown promise in vitro but none have gained clinical approval. Our current computer-aided study utilizes an approach to explore drug repurposing as a strategy for inhibiting the c-MYC-MAX interaction. We have focused on compounds from DrugBank library, including Food and Drug Administration-approved drugs or those under investigation for other medical conditions. First, we identified a potential druggable site on flat interface of the c-MYC protein, which served as the target for virtual screening. Using both activity-based and structure-based screening, we comprehensively assessed the entire DrugBank library. Structure-based virtual screening was performed on AutoDock Vina and Glide docking tools, while activity-based screening was performed on two independent quantitative structure-activity relationship models. We focused on the top 2% of hit molecules from all screening methods. Ultimately, we selected consensus molecules from these screenings—those that exhibited both a stable interaction with c-MYC and superior inhibitory activity against c-MYC-MAX interaction. Among the evaluated molecules, we identified a protein kinase inhibitor (tyrosine kinase inhibitor [TKI]) known as nilotinib as a promising candidate targeting c-MYC-MAX dimer. Molecular dynamic simulations demonstrated a stable interaction between MYC and nilotinib. The interaction with nilotinib led to the stabilization of a region of the MYC protein that is distorted in apo-MYC and is important for MAX binding. Further analysis of differentially expressed gene revealed that nilotinib, uniquely among the tested TKIs, induced a gene expression program in which half of the genes were known to be responsive to c-MYC. Our findings provide the foundation for subsequent in vitro and in vivo investigations aimed at evaluating the efficacy of nilotinib in managing MYC oncogenic activity.
Deep cervical lymph nodes in Parkinson’s disease and atypical Parkinson’s disease: A potential ultrasound biomarker for differential diagnosis
Authors: Dong Zhaoying , Du Xinyi , Wang Ling , Zou Xiaoya , Zuo Hongzhou , Yan Yong , Chen Guojun , Cheng Oumei , Zhang Yong
Published: July 2024

Background

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a common degenerative disease caused by abnormal accumulation of α-synuclein. The glymphatic pathway is essential for removing macromolecular proteins including α-synuclein from the brain, which flows into deep cervical lymph nodes (DCLNs) through meningeal lymphatics. As a terminal station for the cerebral lymphatic system drainage, DCLNs can be easily assessed clinically.

Objectives

Although the drainage function of the cerebral lymphatic system is impaired in PD, the correlation between DCLNs and PD remains unknown.

Design

Single-center retrospective cross-sectional study.

Methods

The size of the DCLNs were measured using ultrasound. The Movement Disorder Society Sponsored Revision Unified Parkinson’s Disease Rating Scale and other scales were used to assess PD motor and non-motor symptoms.

Results

Compared with the healthy control (HC) and the atypical Parkinson’s disease (AP) groups, the size of the second and third DCLNs in the Parkinson’s disease (PD) group was significantly smaller ( P < .05). The width diameter of the third DCLN (DCLN3(y)) was significantly smaller in the PD group than in the AP group ( P = .014). DCLN3(y) combined with a variety of clinical features improved the sensitivity of AP identification (sensitivity = .813).

Conclusion

DCLNs were able to distinguish HC, PD and AP and were mainly located in Robbins ΙΙA level. PD and AP were associated with different factors that influenced the size of the DCLNs. DCLN3(y) plays an important role in differentiating PD from AP, which, combined with other clinical features, has the ability to distinguish PD from AP; in particular, the sensitivity of AP diagnosis was improved.
Treatment of Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation in Skin of Colour: A Systematic Review
Authors: Mar Kristie , Khalid Bushra , Maazi Mahan , Ahmed Rayan , Wang Ou Jia (Emilie) , Khosravi-Hafshejani Touraj
Published: July 2024

Post inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) affects all skin types with a heightened predilection for darker skin tones. Its course is chronic once developed and treatment is often difficult. This systematic review aims to summarize the treatment outcomes for PIH with a focus on skin of colour (SOC) individuals. A literature search was conducted using MEDLINE (from 1946), Embase (from 1974), PubMed, and Cochrane in adherence to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis guideline. Results from 48 studies summarized 1356 SOC individuals. The mean age was 29 years (n = 1036) and 78% were female (n = 786). The ethnic prevalence was 70% Black, 27% Asian, and 3% Latin. Overall, 20% were Fitzpatrick skin type (FST) III, 40% FST IV, 34% FST V, and 6% FST VI. Most cases were precipitated by inflammatory conditions (89%) and localized to the face (83%). The most frequently reported interventions were topical retinoids (22%) and laser therapy (17%). Partial improvement was seen in 85% and 66% of participants, respectively. Laser was the only intervention that offered complete resolution in a subgroup of patients (26%); however, there were reported cases of PIH exacerbation following treatment. Chemical peels (9%) and hydroquinone (7%) were among other treatments with less effective outcomes. PIH and its persistence is a prevalent issue, significantly affecting many affected individuals with darker skin tones. Our results show a lack of robust efficacy across all treatment modalities. There is considerable room for improvement in interventions for at-risk populations.
Biomarkers in Pemphigus Vulgaris: A Systematic Review
Authors: Geng Ryan S. Q. , Wilken Bethany , Sood Siddhartha , Sibbald Ronald G. , Sibbald Cathryn
Published: July 2024

Introduction:

Pemphigus vulgaris (PV) is a rare intraepidermal blistering disease that is potentially life-threatening due to risk of infection and failure of skin barrier function. The identification of biomarkers has the potential to provide diagnostic utility and identify new therapeutic targets. The objective of this systematic review is to identify all potentially relevant PV biomarkers, categorize them, and identify trends to determine the involvement of T-cell-mediated, B-cell-1mediated, and innate immune-mediated pathways in PV pathogenesis.

Methods/Results:

Medline and Embase databases were searched according to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses guidelines, resulting in the inclusion of 66 studies that reported on a total of 2463 patients and 146 unique biomarkers. Biomarkers were categorized into T-cell-mediated, B-cell-mediated, and innate immune system pathways. The most notable biomarkers trends include elevations in IL-4, IL-6, IL-17A, anti-Dsg1/3 autoantibodies, and a reduction in Treg cells and FOXP3.

Conclusion:

The results of this review support current theories of PV pathogenesis, with increased Th2 activity, increased Th17 activity, decreased Treg activity, and production of anti-Dsg1/3 autoantibodies being observed. Targeting of IL-4 and IL-6 may provide therapeutic benefit. However, more research is required to validate biomarkers for clinical utility and assess viability as therapeutic targets.
Relapsing meningitis and limbic encephalitis in anti-AQP4-Ab-associated neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder
Authors: Novi Giovanni , Sbragia Elvira , Benedetti Luana , Schenone Angelo , Uccelli Antonio , Magliozzi Roberta , Del Sette Massimo , Inglese Matilde , Laroni Alice
Published: July 2024

Objectives:

neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) is a rare autoimmune disease mainly affecting optic nerves and the spinal cord. Due to the potentially irreversible tissue damage, prevention of relapses is of utmost importance.

Methods:

We describe the atypical clinical course and pathology results of a patient with anti-aquaporin-4 antibody (anti-AQP4-Ab)-associated NMOSD who developed aseptic meningitis followed by limbic-encephalitis-like presentation with extensive brain lesions upon treatment with rituximab and tocilizumab.

Results:

The patient developed subacute cognitive decline with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) evidence of extensive brain white matter lesions. In the hypothesis of an opportunistic brain infection, she underwent brain biopsy of the temporal pole. Pathology results revealed typical NMOSD findings with complement activation, supporting the hypothesis of an atypical presentation of anti-AQP-Ab-associated NMOSD. Accordingly, treatment with the complement-targeting drug eculizumab was started, leading to a dramatic clinical and MRI improvement.

Discussion:

aseptic meningitis and limbic encephalitis could represent a rare phenotype of anti-AQP4-Ab-associated NMOSD.
Predictors of alignment between aid donors’ and recipients’ interests in evaluating the effectiveness of the Shelter.Ukraine initiative: Contribution analysis
Authors: Mazuryk Oleg , Shyrokova Marharyta
Published: July 2024

This article evaluates the effectiveness of the Shelter.Ukraine Initiative, a civic response to the humanitarian crisis resulting from Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine. The Initiative aims to address pressing needs through a local umbrella funding approach. Utilizing an evaluative framework that combines multiple approaches, including causal attribution techniques, contribution analysis, and regression analysis, we assess the effectiveness of the Shelter.Ukraine Initiative. We uncover influencing factors that contribute to the Initiative success. These include organizational ambidexterity, learning-by-doing, inter-organizational structure, and advanced technology for financial resource distribution. Our findings underscore the importance of reconfiguring the humanitarian aid architecture to enhance effectiveness. In addition, we suggest that the insights gained from our study can inform future evaluations of humanitarian aid initiatives. By incorporating similar evaluative frameworks and methodologies, researchers can assess the effectiveness of other initiatives and identify key factors contributing to success.
Cross-cultural validation of the Jenkins Sleep Scale in Spanish-speaking countries
Authors: Palao-Loayza Luis , Yupanqui-Lorenzo Daniel E. , Arauco-Lozada Tania , Caycho-Rodríguez Tomás , Seminario Ortiz Heber Domingo , Lobos Rivera Marlon Elías , Cardoza-Sernaqué Manuel Antonio , Pulido-Joo Luis Alexander , Pulido-Capurro Víctor , Cárcamo-Zepeda Eduardo , Mendoza-Sierra María-Isabel , Cuellar-Hernández Ma de Lourdes , Torres López Alonso , Torales Julio , Barrios Iván
Published: July 2024

The study aimed to validate the Jenkins Sleep Scale (JSS-4) in six Spanish-Speaking countries. A total of 1726 people participated and were distributed between men (32.4%) and women (67.6%). Confirmatory factor analysis confirmed the unidimensional structure and high reliability of the JSS-4 overall (α = 0.85, ω = 0.81) and within each country. The invariance analysis revealed that JSS-4 exhibited complete invariance across countries, thus establishing a robust foundation for inter-group comparisons. Interestingly, a comparative analysis revealed significant differences in the average levels of sleep difficulties, with particularly high rates in Spain and Chile. Item Response Theory (IRT) showed sufficient discrimination parameters for all items, and a correlation of 0.998 between Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) and IRT highlighted the robustness and reliability of the results obtained. In summary, JSS-4 exhibits strong evidence of validity and consistency in measurement invariance across the six countries.
The experience of living with vitiligo in Nigeria: A participatory Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis
Authors: Taylor Nick , Maduesesi Ogo , Vasiliou Vasilis S , Thompson Andrew R
Published: July 2024

Vitiligo is a visible depigmenting skin condition, particularly noticeable on Black skin. There is widespread misunderstanding of the condition. Using a participatory form of Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA), we conducted eight semi-structured interviews with Nigerians living with vitiligo. Participants described their initial attempts to understand the condition, which typically drew on both traditional illness beliefs, religious influences, and the biomedical disease model. All participants reported experiencing marked stigmatization and discrimination. Participants experienced distress associated with thoughts about the personal meaning of the disease including its impact on their appearance and from concerns about anticipated and direct discrimination. Despite the wide-ranging impact, the participants’ narratives also contained references to the development of strategies that maintained wellbeing. This study provides valuable insights into the role of faith and traditional beliefs in both the experience and management of vitiligo in Nigeria. These insights can be used to develop individual and community interventions.
Does sunlight exposure predict next-night sleep? A daily diary study among U.S. adults
Authors: Anderson Austen R , Ostermiller Lindsey , Lastrapes Mallory , Hales Lauren
Published: July 2024

Poor sleep is becoming increasingly prevalent and is associated with adverse health outcomes. Sunlight exposure may improve sleep by regulating circadian rhythms, increasing vitamin D, and influencing melatonin production. However, research on the sunlight-sleep association is limited, especially outside of cross-sectional designs. This study examined associations between daily self-reported sunlight exposure and next-night sleep quality in 103 adults for up to 70 days. The timing of sunlight exposure predicted next-night sleep quality. Specifically, morning sunlight exposure, relative to no sunlight, predicted better sleep quality based on responses to the brief Pittsburg Sleep Quality Index. Duration of sunlight exposure was generally not associated with sleep quality. Morning sunlight may regulate circadian rhythms, subsequently improving sleep. Findings have potential implications for sleep interventions and daylight savings time policies. Future research should test whether morning sunlight exposure can enhance the effectiveness of sleep interventions.
Rethinking Empowerment: Young African Migrants’ Understandings of Power and Empowerment in Ghana
Authors: Spencer Grace , Kwankye Stephen Owusu , Thompson Jill , Dankyi Ernestina
Published: July 2024

Concepts of empowerment pervade popular discourses on youth and the term is often applied uncritically as a means to leverage young people’s perspectives on matters that affect their lives. Despite such focus, little critical work exists that unpacks young people’s own meanings of the term, or indeed considers the possible unintended consequences that may emerge from these framings. Drawing on interviews and focus groups with 59 young African migrants aged 15–24 years in Ghana, we examine young people’s understandings of empowerment and consider the concept’s usefulness for supporting young lives. Findings were analysed thematically and highlighted how socioeconomic conditions shaped young people’s agency and (limited) the opportunities to effect change. Our analysis raises critical questions about the relevance of empowerment to the lives of marginalised youth who live and work in contexts of vulnerability. The paper advances the conceptual elaboration of empowerment as it relates (or not) to the lives of young African migrants and considers how best to harness these perspectives in actions that support positive youth futures.
Mainstreaming queerness in Thai boys’ love narratives: Impact on gay identity perceptions in Bangkok’s society
Authors: Michaels Ekathep , Joneurairatana Eakachat , Sirivesmas Veerawat
Published: July 2024

The intricate interplay between media representation and experiences of minority groups in Southeast Asia necessitates a comprehensive analysis of popular culture’s impact on marginalized communities. This mixed-method study investigates the portrayal of homosexual male characters in contemporary Thai Boy’s Love (BL) series and its connection to the authentic experiences of gay men in Bangkok. Through interviews with the casting team and producers of a prominent BL series, the research aims to elucidate the creative process underpinning these portrayals. The study further examines the perceptions and identity development of gay men as depicted in BL narratives, and how heterosexual women viewers interpret this representation. A questionnaire involving 330 participants of diverse orientations indicates that 78.6% of gay men consider BL narratives to be misrepresentative, while 69% of heterosexual women perceive them as accurate, raising concerns about the influence of media representations on identity formation within the gay community. Moreover, the marked disparities in beliefs regarding whether gay individuals aspire to the appearance portrayed by BL characters (with 98.3% of heterosexuals, 60% of bisexuals, and 100% of lesbians concurring, in contrast to 71.8% of gay respondents dissenting) emphasize the significance of diverse and accurate representation in shaping identities and self-perception.
Do we mean the same? Semantic native-likeness in highly proficient second language users
Authors: Kogan Boris , Agulla Lucía , Dottori Martín , Amoruso Lucía , Vivas Leticia , García Adolfo M.
Published: July 2024

Research question:

Native-likeness (similarity between non-native and native users of the same language) depends on second language proficiency (L2p). However, evidence comes mainly from phonological or syntactic tasks, prompting an underexplored question: can higher L2p also entail a more native-like organization of semantic memory?

Methodology:

We asked high and low proficiency bilinguals to describe concepts in their second (English) and first (Spanish) language. We then compared their responses with semantic structure norms from native speakers of each language, and derived measures of semantic native-likeness through a validated semantic proximity measure.

Data and analysis:

We examined whether semantic native-likeness scores discriminated between high and low L2p levels at the group level (via inferential statistics) and at the individual level (via machine learning analyses).

Findings:

We found that semantic associations in English were more native-like in high than in low L2p bilinguals. Machine learning analyses showed that this pattern was highly consistent across individual subjects. Responses in Spanish did not differ between groups.

Originality:

This is the first study assessing semantic native-likeness through concept-feature associations in high and low L2p bilinguals, both at the group- and the individual-level.

Significance:

Our findings suggest that increased L2p entails a more native-like organization of semantic memory, informing models of bilingual cognition and its links with experience-related variables.
Surveillance and self-care: Performing beauty labor in online video content
Authors: Pieters Sanne , Opree Suzanna J , Rozendaal Esther
Published: July 2024

Beauty labor, practices that are aimed at attaining, optimizing or shaping physical appearances, has been a part of ‘doing girl’ for decades. But new technologies and neoliberal sensibilities are changing the ways in which beauty is presented to girls and women. This qualitative research examines the discourse of 22 YouTube beauty videos. Using a multimodal critical discourse analysis, this project concerns the mechanisms through which influencers construct themselves as neoliberal subjects and convey this identity to their audiences, subsequently selling the idea of aesthetic entrepreneurialism through the object of the self. It is found that beauty videos contain new and intensified two-way surveilling gazes under which women perform their beauty labor. These gazes influence both the audience and the audienced, as both are subject to possible constant evaluation. YouTubers criticized or praised the looks, behavior or beauty practices of other women, but also adjusted their own behavior and beauty practices based on audience’s critiques. Ideas of beauty labor as a personal responsibility and as a tool for self-optimizing are also found within data. Videos contain notions of neoliberal sensibilities, with YouTubers emphasizing the malleability of their face, the efficiency of their practices, the pricelessness of their labor and the fun of their beauty practices.
Examination of the beam eccentricity on shear capacity of RC eccentric beam-column joints
Authors: Ma Cailong , Wang Chuancang , Ning Chao-Lie , Wang Zhenyu
Published: July 2024

The layout of the exterior retaining walls and external thermal insulation demands often introduce an eccentricity between the central axes of the beams and columns, leading to what is termed as an eccentric beam-column joint. Such the beam eccentricity is a key factor in shear failures within the joint region. This study addresses the negative impact of beam eccentricity on the shear capacity of reinforced concrete (RC) eccentric beam-column joints. Current research indicates that in the five prevailing shear capacity formulas of RC eccentric joints, adverse effects are primarily accommodated by either reducing the joint’s effective width ( bj) or implementing an eccentricity influence factor. The study challenges the validity of these approaches by dissecting the impact of singular and interactive factors, including. Eccentricity (2 e/ bc), beam-to-column width ratio ( bb/ bc), and the column’s aspect ratio ( hc/ bc). It was observed that while the influence of 2 e/ bc is generally well-accounted for, the effects of bb/ bc and hc/ bc are not adequately considered in the Chinese code and ACI-318. Leveraging the softened strut-and-tie model and insights from these examinations, a refined formula for determining the shear capacity of eccentric joints is introduced. This formula incorporates the detrimental effects of beam eccentricity through a newly conceptualized eccentric influence factor, which is a function of both 2 e/ bc and bb/ bc. Compared to existing models, this proposed formula also factors in the beam-to-column depth ratio and the longitudinal reinforcement in the middle of column section. Validation against experimental data from 26 eccentric joints demonstrates that the proposed formula yields predictions with the closest proximity to actual test results and the least variability compared to the five established formulas. This approach to considering the effects of e/ bc and bb/ bc proves to be slightly more accurate than Zhou’s model, making it a promising alternative for practical applications.
Coupled vibration of low-medium-speed maglev vehicle-guideway system on isolated bridge with lead rubber bearings
Authors: Huang Fenghua , Wang Jinxiao , Teng Nianguan , Cheng Bin
Published: July 2024

This paper investigates the dynamic response of low-medium-speed (LMS) maglev vehicle moving on the isolated bridge with lead rubber bearings (LRBs). In the vehicle-guideway bridge model, the vehicle is simulated as a 50-degree-of-freedom model consisting of a car-body and ten bogie modules. The guideway bridge with LRB is established by the finite element method, and the guideway is interacted with the vehicle by the actively controlled electromagnetic forces. The LRB is simulated by the nonlinear spring element for reflecting the hysteretic performance, and a fast nonlinear analysis (FNA) method is proposed to achieve the potential nonlinear behavior of LRB under vehicle load. Then, the dynamic response of maglev vehicle running on the isolated bridge with LRB is investigated and compared to that on the non-isolated bridge. The effect of vehicle speed and LRB isolation degree on the coupled system responses is studied. Furthermore, the driving quality of vehicle on LRB bridge is discussed, and the applicability of LRB to maglev line bridge is thoroughly evaluated. The results show that the installation of LRB exhibits relatively insignificant influence on the vertical response of vehicle-guideway system, while could enlarge the lateral response. The lateral response of coupled system is much more vulnerable to the isolation degree, and it is recommended that the isolation degree of LRB should not exceed 2.50 to guarantee the driving comfort and running safety.
Optimisation of light environment in architectural space based on multi strategy collaboration – A case study of a manual drawing classroom
Authors: Du Xiaohui , Zhao Sijia , Hu Shijing , Song Siyu
Published: July 2024

From the perspective of dynamic lighting throughout the year, reflector and louvre are proposed to add to the south-facing window. The optimal parameter is 2.0 m height and 1.0 m width reflector and a louvre angle of 75°. However, when further analysing the indoor illumination and uniformity, the classroom still had high or low illumination during certain periods solely relying on natural lighting, indicating that a single strategy alone cannot meet the overall lighting environment comfort needs of the space. The study suggests that different lighting environments should be used in different seasons, periods and areas of the classroom. The proportion of natural light, combined light and artificial light environments should be 30%, 45% and 25%, respectively. At the same time, considering the transformation and optimisation of the lamps, the improvement measures for windows facing other directions in the classroom is recommended, the lamps be symmetrically distributed in the horizontal direction, with a hanging height of 1.9 m in the vertical direction, which is 0.4 m higher than the original. The lighting power is 34 W and 26 W, and corresponding optimisation strategies for the intelligent control system are proposed.
Identity construction in digital communication for public engagement in science
Authors: Pérez-Llantada Carmen
Published: July 2024

This article explores identity construction in citizen science web texts. Keyness and concordance analyses show that these texts reflect, construct and negotiate identity construction in various ways to ultimately support citizen participation in scientific processes. Scientists primarily construct a professional identity through self-representation markers (‘we’ pronouns). They present themselves as credible professionals, aligned with the socially established values and ideologies of the scientific community. In addition, they appear to create a collective identity to promote empathy and to encourage and maintain citizen engagement in scientific processes. However, processes of indexicality and relationality – that is positioning and dialogism – reveal that the construction of a professional identity is consistently made more relevant than a collective expert-crowd identity, thus exposing overt power asymmetries. Even when dialogue between experts and nonexperts is encouraged, all the monologic and dialogic interactions established by the hypertext structure of the project sites reflect power imbalances.
The luminous flux field as a basic concept for interior lighting design
Authors: Cuttle C
Published: July 2024

It is proposed that the process of interior lighting design be defined as creating a three-dimensional luminous flux field within the volume of an enclosed indoor space. This luminous flux field can be divided into two components, an indirect flux field and a direct flux field, and making this separation presents a remarkable insight into the lighting design process. The space, its contents and its occupants are revealed by the indirect flux field; the indirect flux field is generated by the direct flux field; and the direct flux field, which may be derived from the indirect flux field by calculation, specifies the performance of the lighting installation. This enables a practitioner to describe lighting design objectives in terms of peoples’ subjective responses to their lit appearance, and, where these objectives can be specified in quantitative terms, to define aspects of the indirect flux field that would achieve them. The direct flux field that would optimally generate this indirect flux field is determined by a calculation procedure, and this provides a photometric performance specification for the lighting installation. For the sake of simplicity, this paper considers only electric lighting, but opportunities for extending the procedure to include daylight and other lighting design objectives are discussed.
The Use of Machine Learning Methods in Political Science: An In-Depth Literature Review
Authors: de Slegte Jef , Van Droogenbroeck Filip , Spruyt Bram , Verboven Sam , Ginis Vincent
Published: July 2024

In the past decade, applying machine learning methods in political science has grown in popularity. The increase in data volume and sources motivated researchers to turn to these data-driven methods as an alternative to classical statistics. Several review papers have proposed theoretical typologies for applying machine learning in social sciences. We present an overview of how and why machine learning methods are actually implemented in the field of political science. The aim of this study is to conduct an empirical analysis of the political science literature that uses machine learning as a research method. We applied the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses) framework for systematic review studies to systematically select 339 articles (1990–2022) from Web of Science and Scopus, evaluated their relevance based on a set of inclusion criteria, and created a database with the key characteristics. Overall, we observed that political scientists have embraced machine learning as empirical method based on the increased use in the past 10 years. We found that the use of machine learning is the most prevalent in political communication and conflict and peace studies, and that topic modeling, support vector machine, and random forest are the most used methods. Our results indicate that reporting on optimizing machine learning models through hyperparameter tuning could be more transparent, and researchers should conduct their own benchmarking when choosing the most suitable model.
“When That Memory Fills Me With Horror and Dread, I Do the Cringe”: Retrospective Temporality in Crazy Ex-Girlfriend and PEN15
Authors: Columpar Corinn
Published: July 2024

The television series Crazy Ex-Girlfriend and PEN15 are contemporary cringe comedies that foreground female experience. While the vast majority of cringe comedies employ documentary form and/or practice and speak insistently in the present tense, Crazy Ex-Girlfriend and PEN15 produce stories that not only unfold in the present, but also reframe the past, thereby building into their acts of narration, and by extension their cringe esthetics, a retrospective temporality. In light of themes taken up by both series—themes related to mental health and the construction of female identity and desire—this reframing has significant effects both politically and therapeutically. In this article I analyze the formal means by which a retrospective temporality of cringe is achieved in these series, including the use of musical numbers in Crazy Ex-Girlfriend and unconventional casting in PEN15, and I explore the various prosocial effects that temporality produces for the series’ characters, creators, and spectators.
Mechanical and thermal characterization of resin-infused cotton fabric/epoxy composites: Influence of woven construction parameters and surface treatments
Authors: Owen Macaulay M. , Wong Leong S. , Achukwu Emmanuel O. , Romli Ahmad Z. , Shuib Solehuddin B.
Published: July 2024

This study explores the mechanical and thermal characterization of epoxy-based composites reinforced with chemically modified woven cotton fabrics using the resin infusion technique. The woven fabrics construction parameters were varied in terms of weft yarn counts (16, 20, and 24 Tex) and pick densities as defined by pick wheel teeth (PWT) (30, 36, and 41 T). The fabrics were surface treated with 6% concentration of sodium hydroxide (NaOH) using the alkali treatment method. The obtained results revealed that mechanical strength improved with decreasing weft yarn count and increasing PWT. Notably, chemically treated composites with the highest PWT exhibited superior strength compared to untreated counterparts, attributed to more compact microstructures, reduced fabric/fiber breakages, and enhanced interfacial bonding between the reinforced plain-woven cotton fabric and epoxy matrix. Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) showed that all composites have higher thermal stability above 300°C, with untreated fabric composites exhibiting the highest resistance to degradation, whereas the treated composite quickly degraded at an onset temperature of 288.4°C due to the removal of the hemicellulose, decomposition of the cellulose, and lignin content. In conclusion, the study indicates that surface treatment and woven construction parameters such as weft yarn counts and pick wheel teeth, as well as the resin infusion technique, significantly influence the mechanical, microstructural, and thermal properties of resin-infused woven cotton reinforced composites for potential application in industrial and automotive sectors, offering lightweight, durable solutions for components such as construction and building panels, doors, and roof panels.
Trying to be Good Enough: Exploring Enculturative Intensive Motherhood Discourse
Authors: Wiant Cummins Molly
Published: July 2024

Intensive motherhood is a pervasive discourse that enables and constrains mothers’ choices. However, intensive motherhood does not only affect mothers; it teaches each of us how we should judge a mother’s goodness. In this essay, I use autoethnographic moments of my life to explore how good mothers enact intensive motherhood discourse, highlighting how difficult it will be to undo the material effects of a discourse like intensive motherhood. Still, I argue that identifying how mothers have been made facilitates how to make mothers differently, offering hope that these hurtful discourses can be altered toward something better, however slowly.
Life Satisfaction and Gender Congruence in Transgender Individuals: A Role for Occupational Therapy
Authors: Fleischman Andrea , Russell Marion , Russell Asa N. , Qi Yongyue , Jewell Vanessa
Published: July 2024

Societal restrictions impact transgender individuals’ ability to engage in occupations that match their internal gender identity preventing gender affirmation. The aim was to explore transgender individuals’ perceived levels of gender congruence and life satisfaction. A cross-sectional survey with a nonprobability sample of transgender adults was used to provide a preliminary exploration of transgender individuals’ gender congruence and life satisfaction using the Gender Congruence and Life Satisfaction and World Health Organization Quality of Life-BREF. When comparing the means of the physical, psychological, social, and environmental domains to the population norm, the respondents demonstrated statistically lower scores in all four domains of the WHOQOL-BREF. In both the WHOQOL-BREF and GCLS, the mean score in psychological health and life satisfaction were the lowest. Transgender individuals prioritize self-care activities, such as hairstyling, and body image to affirm internal gender identity. Occupational therapy can assist with supporting gender transition in several occupational contexts.
Museum Professionals’ Perceptions of Chemical and Biological Hazards and Risks in Museum Work Environments in Finland
Authors: Sinisalo Henna
Published: July 2024

Limited research has explored museum professionals’ perceptions of workplace hazards and risks, despite the presence of various health threats in museum work environments. This study aims to identify perceived chemical and biological hazards and contributing factors in Finnish museum workplaces. Utilizing data from two surveys and qualitative content analysis, it uncovers a range of perceived hazards, often linked to collection storage facilities, historical buildings, and museum collections. Mold, indoor air quality, and dust are central concerns. While recognizing chemical hazards in collections proves challenging, accident-related and ergonomic hazards receive broad recognition. Workplace hazards are perceived to be rooted in systemic and cultural factors, encompassing haphazard management, recurring themes of neglect, limited safety knowledge, and negative attitudes. Enhancing workplace safety in museums necessitates a comprehensive approach, including support and education for leaders and other professionals, improved work practices and storage facilities, and increased budgetary support.
Impact of operative approach and patient frailty on outcomes for aorto-iliac occlusive disease with critical limb threatening ischemia
Authors: Zambetti Benjamin Ross , Plant Joshua , Liang Willie , Toursavadkohi Shahab
Published: July 2024

Objectives

Multiple treatment modalities exist for the management of aorto-iliac occlusive disease (AIOD) including endovascular (endo), extra-anatomic bypass (EAB), and anatomic bypass (AB). The goal of this study was to examine the impact of revascularization strategy and patient frailty on outcomes for AIOD in patients with critical limb threatening ischemia (CLTI).

Methods

Patients undergoing revascularization for CLTI and AIOD were identified from the NSQIP database over 5 years. Demographics, procedural characteristics, and outcomes were recorded. Modified frailty index (mFI-5) was calculated for each patient. Patients were compared based on the type of procedure and frailty (mFi>0.6).

Results

From 2017 to 2021, 1777 patients underwent revascularization for CLTI from AIOD. Patients were majority male (56%) with a mean age of 68. A total of 1346 patients (76%) underwent an open operation of which 669 were EAB. When endo (431 patients) was compared with open repair, endo was associated with a higher incidence of tissue loss at presentation (42% vs 33%, p < 0.001), lower rates of bleeding (6.5% vs 15.5%, p < 0.001), fewer MI/stroke (1.6% vs 4.6%, p = 0.004), and fewer wound complications (2.6% vs 11.2%, p < 0.001). There was no difference in re-intervention, amputation, or death based on frailty. For frail patients (184 patients), type of repair did not impact re-intervention, major amputation, or mortality, though there was increased MI/stroke with EAB and increased wound complications with AB/EAB.

Conclusions

AIOD revascularization strategies for patients with CLTI have similar 30-day re-intervention, major amputation, and mortality rates. Endovascular repair has less surgical wound complications and is better suited for frail patients.
The association of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and 30-day outcomes of infrainguinal bypass surgery: A propensity-score matching study
Authors: Li Renxi , Sidawy Anton , Nguyen Bao-Ngoc
Published: July 2024

Background

Infrainguinal bypass surgery is an effective treatment for peripheral artery disease (PAD). While chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) has been linked to heightened risks of mortality and morbidity in major surgery, a thorough investigation into COPD’s impact on infrainguinal bypass outcomes remained underexplored. Thus, this study aimed to assess the 30-day outcomes for COPD patients undergoing infrainguinal bypass surgery.

Methods

COPD and non-COPD patients who underwent infrainguinal bypass were identified in American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (ACS-NSQIP) database from 2011 to 2022. Patients of age<18 were excluded. A 1:1 propensity-score matching was used to match demographics, baseline characteristics, symptomatology, procedure, conduit, and anesthesia. Thirty postoperative outcomes were compared.

Results

There were 3,183 (12.64%) and 22,004 (87.36%) patients with and without COPD, respectively, who underwent infrainguinal bypass. COPD patients had a higher comorbid burden. After propensity-score matching, COPD patients had higher sepsis (3.55% vs 2.42%, p = 0.01), wound complications (18.94% vs 16.40%, p = 0.01), and 30-day readmission (18.00% vs 14.92%, p < 0.01). However, COPD and non-COPD patients had comparable 30-day mortality (2.54% vs 2.67%, p = 0.81), and organ system complications including cardiac (3.58% vs 3.99%, p = 0.43), pulmonary (3.96% vs 3.20%, p = 0.12), and renal complications (1.70% vs 1.82%, p = 0.78). Limb-specific outcomes including major amputation (2.95% vs 2.50%, p = 0.30), untreated loss of patency (1.85% vs 1.38%, p = 0.16), and patent graft (98.24% vs 98.65%, p = 0.27) were also comparable between the cohorts.

Conclusion

While COPD might be associated with the development of PAD due to potentially shared pathophysiology, it may not be an independent risk factor for the major 30-day outcomes in infrainguinal bypass surgery.
Assessing dual use risks in AI research: necessity, challenges and mitigation strategies
Authors: Brenneis Andreas
Published: July 2024

This article argues that due to the difficulty in governing AI, it is essential to develop measures implemented early in the AI research process. The goal of dual use considerations is to create robust strategies that uphold AI’s integrity while protecting societal interests. The challenges of applying dual use frameworks to AI research are examined and dual use and dual use research of concern (DURC) are defined while highlighting the difficulties in balancing the technology’s benefits and risks. AI’s dual use potential is discussed, particularly in areas like NLP and LLMs, and the need for early consideration of dual use risks to ensure ethical and secure development is underscored. In the section on shared responsibilities in AI research and avenues for mitigation strategies the importance of early-stage risk assessments and ethical guidelines to mitigate misuse is emphasized, accentuating self-governance within scientific communities and structured measures like checklists and pre-registration to promote responsible research practices. The final section argues that research ethics committees play a crucial role in evaluating the dual use implications of AI technologies within the research pipeline. The need for tailored ethics review processes is articulated, drawing parallels with medical research ethics committees.
Anticoagulation strategy for patients presenting with ischemic strokes while using a direct oral anticoagulant: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Mota Telles João Paulo , Cenci Giulia Isadora , Marinheiro Gabriel , Nager Gabriela Borges , Rocha Rebeka Bustamante , Bomtempo Fernanda Ferreira , Figueiredo Eberval Gadelha , Sampaio Silva Gisele
Published: July 2024

Background:

While direct-acting oral anticoagulants (DOACs) have established efficacy in reducing the risk of ischemic stroke, they still leave a residual risk of stroke, which may be greater in practice (0.7–2.3%) than in controlled clinical trial settings. This meta-analysis examines four therapeutic approaches following a stroke in patients already on DOACs: continuing with the same DOAC, changing to a different DOAC, increasing the current DOAC dosage, or switching to a vitamin K antagonist (VKA), such as warfarin.

Methods:

Systematic review of literature from the MEDLINE, Embase, and Cochrane databases, was conducted in line with Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. The analysis focused on six studies with varied patient demographics, examining as outcomes as recurrent ischemic stroke, intracranial hemorrhage, other bleeding events, and mortality.

Results:

Six studies comprising 12,159 patients were included, all of them were observational. Patients who remained on their initial DOAC regimen had a lower risk of experiencing ischemic strokes (risk ratio (RR) 0.55; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.43–0.70; p < 0.001; I2 = 0%), intracranial hemorrhage (RR 0.37; 95% CI 0.25–0.55; p < 0.001; I2 = 0%), and hemorrhagic events (RR 0.44; 95% CI 0.30–0.63; p < 0.001; I2 = 6%) compared to those who were switched to warfarin, with an increase in mortality rates (hazard ratio (HR) 1.85; 95% CI 1.06–3.24; p = 0.03; I2 = 84%). In contrast, neither changing to a different DOAC nor adjusting the dose proved to be more effective than the original regimen.

Conclusion:

Post-stroke adjustments to anticoagulation therapy—whether altering the drug or its dosage—do not yield additional benefits. In addition, the results suggest that warfarin may be less effective than DOACs for preventing stroke recurrence, bleeding complications, and death in this patient population.
Analysing spectrum administration for 5G in India using a policy Delphi
Authors: Mitra Anuradha , Sridhar Varadarajan , Sarangi Gopal K.
Published: July 2024

5G technologies are introducing new capabilities and services in the telecommunications (telecom)industry, changing business models and market structures, and compelling alterations in regulatory frameworks. Telecom administrations across the world are making choices for regulation of key resources such as spectrum to meet 5G requirements. 5G is taking root in the Indian telecom market. This paper analyses expert stakeholder and practitioner opinion through a policy Delphi to examine what kind of regulatory and policy changes need to be made in India’s spectrum management policies in a 5G market and how these could be best adapted to the unique public policy and political economy environment of this country. It arrives at practical recommendations for planning, assigning, and pricing spectrum which could be of value to policy makers and regulators.
A Comparison of Transoral Versus Transcervical Surgical Approaches to Retropharyngeal Lymphadenectomy: A Scoping Review
Authors: Tzelnick Sharon , Tsai Jillian , Hosni Ali , Goldstein David P. , Almeida John R. de , Yao Christopher M. K. L.
Published: July 2024

Importance

A gap in knowledge exists concerning the functional outcomes and complications when comparing various surgical approaches for retropharyngeal lymph node (RPLN) metastases.

Objective

To explore perioperative outcomes, functional outcomes, and complications associated in the treatment of RPLN metastases

Design

The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR) protocol was used to conduct a scoping review of the PubMed and Scopus databases

Review Methods

We systematically searched 2 databases from inception to January 2023 for articles examining the treatment approaches and postoperative outcomes in the retropharyngeal space. We included English records about surgical approaches, complications, functional outcomes for patients >18 years old with retropharyngeal lymphadenopathy.

Results

One-hundred ninety-nine articles were identified, of which 17 were included in the analysis. Three studies assessed RPLN dissection in the postradiation setting. We identified limited knowledge about functional outcomes and complications following surgery for retropharyngeal lymphadenopathy. Overall, acute postoperative dysphagia was documented in 35/170 patients (20.5%). However, the assessment of dysphagia was limited, and not described in the majority of studies. The overall rate of postoperative neuropathy and hematoma were 4.1% and 4.7%, respectively. No postoperative hematomas were documented in the transcervical approach.

Conclusion

Our findings underscore the need for further research on postoperative outcomes following RPLN dissection. We recommend further studies focusing on objective swallow assessments and long-term outcomes of either surgical approaches.