bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Supplementary Table 2 from p53R245W Mutation Fuels Cancer Initiation and Metastases in NASH-driven Liver Tumorigenesis
Authors: Dibra Denada , Gagea Mihai , Qi Yuan , Chau Gilda P. , Su Xiaoping , Lozano Guillermina
Published: December 2023

141 genes that had a descending slope >1 and determination correlation coefficient R2 value >0.6
Supplementary Figure 1 from p53R245W Mutation Fuels Cancer Initiation and Metastases in NASH-driven Liver Tumorigenesis
Authors: Dibra Denada , Gagea Mihai , Qi Yuan , Chau Gilda P. , Su Xiaoping , Lozano Guillermina
Published: December 2023

Transcriptome analyses of the liver under metabolic challenges
FIGURE 2 from p53R245W Mutation Fuels Cancer Initiation and Metastases in NASH-driven Liver Tumorigenesis
Authors: Dibra Denada , Gagea Mihai , Qi Yuan , Chau Gilda P. , Su Xiaoping , Lozano Guillermina
Published: December 2023

p53R245W suppresses transcriptional activity of WT p53 in the liver in vivo under metabolic challenges. A, Schematic of liver samples submitted for bulk RNA-seq (LP+/+, N = 3; LPfl/+, N = 2; and LP245/+, N = 3). B, GSEA pathway analysis from dataset Hallmark (ranked by NES, k/K) enriched in livers from LP+/+ or LP245/+ genotypes. NES, normalized enrichment score. C and D, GSEA enrichment plots indicating that p53R245W inhibits the G2–M checkpoint and p53 pathway. NES, normalized enrichment score; FDR, false discovery rate q-value. E, Expression levels of inhibitory (IE) genes based on negative slope and R2. Genes with R2 > than 0.6, (141) are marked in red. F, Normalized read counts for the top two genes based on R2, Cdkn1a and Aen, from the inhibitory analysis. G, GSEA pathway analysis performed on inhibitory genes identified in analysis in B. H, p53 motif and proportion of IE genes with p53 response element regulated by p53 using MEME MAST (motif alignment and search tool). Figure panel A was created in BioRender.com.
FIGURE 1 from p53R245W Mutation Fuels Cancer Initiation and Metastases in NASH-driven Liver Tumorigenesis
Authors: Dibra Denada , Gagea Mihai , Qi Yuan , Chau Gilda P. , Su Xiaoping , Lozano Guillermina
Published: December 2023

p53R245W induces fatty liver and compensatory proliferation in hepatocytes in vivo under metabolic challenges. A, Schematic of liver samples used. B, Expression of p53 target genes in the liver of animals fed regular chow (N = 5) or HFCD diet (N = 3) for 3 months. Each dot represents an individual animal. C, Schematic of animals with various genotypes fed a HFCD diet for 7.5 months. D, Representative H&E, Red Oil O stain, Picrosirius red, Ki67, and CC3 in liver of animals from LP+/+ (N = 3), LPfl/+ (N = 3), and LP245/+ (N = 3). Yellow scale, 20 µm. E, Quantification of Ki67-, and CC3-positive cells in livers of mice with the indicated genotypes fed for 7.5 months on a HFCD diet. Each dot represents an individual animal. *, P < 0.05; **, P < 0.002; ns, non-significant. Figure panels A, C were created in BioRender.com.
Causal Effects of Basal Metabolic Rate on Cardiovascular Disease: A Bidirectional Mendelian Randomization Study
Authors: Zhao Peng , Han Feiyuan , Liang Xinyu , Meng Li , Yu Bo , Liu Xinxin , Tian Jinwei
Published: December 2023

Background

Despite the health effects of basal metabolic rate (BMR), the causal effect of BMR on cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) remains undetermined. To elucidate the causal nature, Mendelian randomization (MR) analyses were performed.

Methods and Results

Summary genome‐wide association statistics regarding BMR and 5 CVDs were obtained from European databases. A 2‐sample bidirectional MR was performed to assess the causal association between BMR and CVDs. The causal effects were estimated using inverse variance weighting. Simultaneously, multiple sensitivity analyses were performed to validate the robustness and reliability of the results. Our results indicated that genetically predicted BMR was significantly positively associated with the risk of heart failure (odds ratio, 1.53 [95% CI, 1.39–1.67];
P
<0.001), atrial fibrillation and flutter (odds ratio, 2.12 [95% CI, 1.87–2.40];
P
<0.001), and aortic aneurysm (odds ratio, 1.64 [95% CI, 1.41–1.92];
P
<0.001). Genetically predicted BMR may not be causally associated with coronary artery disease and ischemic stroke risk. Furthermore, a significant causal effect of CVDs on BMR was not found in the reverse MR analysis. Multivariable MR was applied to further assess the direct effect of BMR on CVDs. Multivariable MR indicated that a high level of BMR still increased the risk of heart failure and atrial fibrillation and flutter after adjustment independent of possible confounders. However, the
P
value of aortic aneurysm was not significant.

Conclusions

The present study provides robust evidence that genetically predicted BMR is independently causally associated with heart failure and atrial fibrillation and flutter but not vice versa. These findings have implications for the prevention and treatment of CVDs in clinical practice.
Protecting the Defendant’s Rights in Negotiated Justice Mechanisms – A Comparative Perspective
Authors: Czerwińska Dorota
Published: December 2023

The article analyses the level of procedural protection of a defendant who engages in a discussion regarding the application of negotiated justice solutions in five countries: USA, Germany, France, Italy and Poland. In each of the analysed countries a form of negotiated justice exists, whether it is a classic version of plea bargaining in the USA or a mechanism inspired by plea bargaining but adjusted to continental or inquisitorial setting. These institutions have to provide certain level of protection of the defendant from the risk of making a misinformed or even coerced decision to enter an agreement, in order to assert true voluntariness of the defendant’s waiver of procedural rights. The aim of the paper is to review the procedural safeguards implemented for this purpose and critically assess their effectiveness.
From Grey to Great?
Authors: Vandersmissen Robbe
Published: December 2023

In recent years, the possibilities for aspiring writers who wish to invest in publishing their work without the involvement of an established and external publishing house have grown tremendously. The aim of this article is to look into the global trend of ‘hybrid publishing services’ that operate in the grey zone between traditional publishing and self- publishing. Particular attention is given to the case of Hoi Publishing in Sweden. On the basis of empirical findings on the company’s legal and financial status, company turnover, and symbolic capital, the article examines the status and position of Hoi in relation to similar-sized royalty publishers in order to analyse how its business model fits into the contemporary Swedish literary publishing field. The findings of the case study are supplemented with survey data from 715 authors, publishing professionals, and literary critics, gathered in 2020.
A Typological and Diachronic Analysis of Replication: Body-Part Reflexives in Romance-Lexifier Pidgins and Creoles
Authors: Salaberri Iker , Wolfsgruber Anne C.
Published: December 2023

The fact that body-part reflexives (bpr s) are widespread in Romance-lexifier pidgin, creole and mixed (pcm) languages of the Atlantic area has usually been accounted for in terms of substratum influence from West African languages, in which such reflexives are common. However, this approach does not explain why bpr s are also frequently found in Romance-lexifier pcm languages like Zamboanga Chavacano and Malacca Creole, which lack a demonstrable African substrate, are spoken outside the Atlantic area and are in contact with languages that lack bpr s. Drawing on cross-linguistic as well as historical corpus data, this paper argues that the source of bpr s in these languages should be traced back to the late-medieval and early-Renaissance lexifiers. More specifically, it is proposed that speakers of Romance-lexifier pcm languages identified, recapitulated and replicated reflexive-like uses of words such as ‘body’ and ‘head’ in the lexifiers. A number of bridging contexts is argued to have fostered these processes.
A new species of Burmalestes Tomaszewska & Ślipiński from mid-Cretaceous Kachin amber (Coleoptera: Endomychidae)
Authors: LI YAN-DA , HUANG DI-YING , CAI CHEN-YANG
Published: December 2023

The second species of the extinct genus Burmalestes Tomaszewska & Ślipiński, B. jingruoyaae Li & Cai sp. nov., is reported from mid-Cretaceous Kachin amber of northern Myanmar. The new species shares characters with both Burmalestes (antennomere 5 elongate and procoxae subcontiguous) and Cretaparamecus Tomaszewska et al. (protibiae toothed and pronotum without basolateral sulci), providing valuable information on the morphological variability of this group.
The first species of Thaumatomeropidae (Insecta: Mecoptera) from the Middle Triassic of China
Authors: LIAN XIN-NENG , CAI CHEN-YANG , FENG ZHUO , HUANG DI-YING
Published: December 2023

Thaumatomeropidae is an enigmatic mecopteran family previously known exclusively from the Triassic Madygen entomofauna of Kyrgyzstan. Thaumatomeropids display mosaic venation, closely resembling those of Meropeidae and Eomeropidae, yet distinguished by some more “primitive” characters. Here we describe and illustrate a new thaumatomeropid species, Thaumatomerope sinensis Lian & Huang, sp. nov., from the late Middle Triassic Tongchuan entomofauna of the Chang 7 Member of the Yanchang Formation near the Hejiafang Village, Tongchuan City, NW China. This new species is characterized by reduced Rs branches, and some unique forking patterns, including the single posterior last branch of Rs and multi-branched anterior first branch of M. It represents the first thaumatomeropid species reported outside Kyrgyzstan, indicating a broader geographical distribution of the family. Moreover, this discovery enhances the resemblance of mecopteran components between the Tongchuan and the Madygen entomofaunas.
Silica-Coated Superparamagnetic Iron Oxide Nanoparticles Ameliorate Leukoaraiosis-Triggered Oxidative Stress via Targeting of Nrf2 to Activate IRS-1/Akt Signals
Authors: Wang Jian , Zheng Bo , Yang Shu , Guo Fuqiang , Li Binghu , Wang Jianhong , Wang Duozi
Published: December 2023

This study mainly explored the amelioratory effect of silica-coated superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SiO4@SPIONs) on leukoaraiosis-associated cognitive dysfunction via targeting of Nrf2 and their potential mechanism. PC12 cell line was given in vitro hypoxia-reoxygenation
treatment (OGD/R) and divided into normal group, model group and SiO4@SPIONs treatment group. The cell survival rate, apoptosis rate, levels of ROS (reactive oxygen species), MDA (Malondialdehyde; malonic dialdehyde; Propanedial) and anti-oxidases were monitored. Western-blotting
measured the level of Akt and Nrf2. The Akt-targeting antagonist LY294002 was applied for verifying the regulatory effect of SiO4@SPIONs. In comparison with normal cells, model cells exhibited significantly reduced viability, along with significantly elevated apoptosis rate. Meanwhile,
model cells also displayed elevated levels of intracellular ROS and MDA, with diminished levels of SOD (Superoxide Dismutase), GSH (glutathione), CAT (Computerized Axial Tomography) and GSH-Px (glutathione peroxidase) which were accompanied by significantly weakened phosphorylation level of
Akt. Lastly, model cells also exhibited moderate enhancement of Nrf2 and HO-1 expressions. Moreover, cells in SiO4@SPIONs treatment group exhibited significantly increased viability, along with reduced apoptosis rate. Meanwhile, the cells in the SiO4@SPIONs treatment
group also displayed decreased levels of intracellular ROS and MDA, while showing increased levels of SOD, GSH, CAT and GSH-Px, which were accompanied by significantly increased Akt phosphorylation and Nrf2 and HO-1 expressions. The SiO4@SPIONS can ameliorate the leukoaraiosis-triggered
oxidative stress via targeting of Nrf2 to activate the IRS-1/Akt signals.
Effects of Flavonoid and Saponins on Protecting HaCaT Cells and Ameliorating Ultraviolet Radiation B/Ultraviolet Radiation A-Induced Skin Photoaging
Authors: Hu Xiaohuan , Jiao Shicheng , Niu Mu , Yang Jie
Published: December 2023

The skin serves as a natural barrier in the human body, protecting against pathogenic microorganisms and ultraviolet radiation (UV). Skin photoaging is a physiological stress reaction characterized by skin relaxation, dryness, abnormal pigmentation, and increased wrinkles due to prolonged
exposure to ultraviolet radiation. The search and development of natural products that can effectively prevent skin photoaging have gained significant attention. We established the photoaging model by subjecting HaCaT cells and ICR mice to UVB+UBA irradiation. We employed CCK8 to assess the
impact of Totol Flavonoid of Lichi Seed (TFLS) and Lychee Seed Saponins (LSS) on cell viability. We evaluated the effects of TFLS and LSS on apoptosis using flow cytometry. We utilized SIRT-IN-1 inhibitor to suppress the activity of SIRT1 and examined the mechanism by which TFLS and LSS alleviate
UV-induced photoaging damage in cells and mice. We assessed skin inflammation in photoaging ICR mice through HE staining. We evaluated changes in collagen fibers and glia in the skin of photoaging ICR mice using Masson staining. We employed TUNEL staining to evaluate the apoptosis of skin
cells in photoaging ICR mice. We extracted nucleic acid using nano-magnetic beads and detected the expression of SIRT1, TGF-β1, and Smad3 in HaCaT cells and mouse skin tissues using qPCR and WB. The study results demonstrate the protective effect of TFLS and LSS against UV-induced
photoaging in HaCaT cells and ICR mouse skin, mitigating the damage caused by UV exposure. The mechanism underlying the attenuation of UV-induced photoaging by TFLS and LSS may involve activation of the SIRT1-TGF-β1/Smad3 signaling pathway.
miR-29c Carried by Lipid Nanoparticles Mediates TGF-β Signaling Pathway in Renal Fibrosis
Authors: Gong Yuting , Liang Yumei , Chen Yinyin , Chen Ying , Zeng Qinghua , Qian Shuyi
Published: December 2023

miR-29c is related to renal fibrosis. Lipid nanoparticles can inhibit cell growth. This study mainly explores whether miR-29c carried by lipid nanoparticles may regulate the expression of TGF-β signaling and then involves in renal fibrosis. Kidney fibrosis cells HK-2 were
intervened with 20 μmol/L miR-29c carried by lipid nanoparticles followed by analysis of the proliferation number and cell cycle changes of HK-2 cells, expression of TGF-β pathway protein, and relationship between TGF-β and miR-29c. Mice were infused with
Ang II (1000 ng/kg/min) for 4 weeks to establish a mouse model of renal fibrosis. After treatment with miR-29c carried by lipid nanoparticles and PBS, the changes of renal fibrosis and the expression of TGF-β were measured. The higher the concentration of miR-29c carried by lipid
nanoparticles, the more significant the decrease in cell proliferation, and cells in S phase began to decline significantly (P <0.05). Cell number in lipid nanoparticle+PBS group was the lowest and cells in PBS group and lipid nanoparticle+TGF-β inhibitor group were higher.
TGF-β is a target gene of miR-29c. When the concentration of miR-29c in lipid nanoemulsion was 20 μmol/L, the expression of TGF-β protein decreased. miR-29c-carried lipid nanoparticles significantly attenuated Ang II-induced kidney injury. TGF-β
was highly expressed in renal fibrosis compared with control mice and the expression of TGF-β was decreased after lipid nanoparticle treatment. miR-29c carried by lipid nanoparticles can inhibit the proliferation of renal fibrosis cells, regulate the TGF-β pathway,
and ultimately control abnormal cell proliferation.
Knockdown of Small Nucleolar RNA Host Gene 14 Alleviates Sepsis-Induced Acute Kidney Injury by Targeting miR-145-5p In Vitro and In Vivo
Authors: Chen Gang , Wang Wenjing , Zhu Min , Cheng Chuji
Published: December 2023

Acute kidney injury (AKI) manly occurred after sepsis and led to severe damage of the kidney. The present study was designed to explore the underlying mechanism of long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) SNHG14 in sepsis-induced AKI in In Vitro and In Vivo. The cecal ligation and
puncture (CLP) rats was used as sepsis-induced AKI model for In Vivo studies and HK-2 cells with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) administration were used as cell model for In Vitro studies. Kidney tissues were stained by Hematoxylin and Eosin (H&E) for histological examination.
The relative levels of SNHG14 and miR-145-5p was detected using qRT-PCR. The levels of serum cytokines, inflammatory factors, oxidative stress factors, apoptosis-related proteins were evaluated by ELISA and western blot. Apoptosis was detected using terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated
dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) staining. Compared with the sham group, the rats in the CLP group showed injured pathological morphology of kidney, high levels of serum Scr, and BUN, elevated contents of TNF-α, IL-6 and IL-1β, malondialdehyde (MDA) and apoptosis, but
low SOD level in kidney tissues. However, all these changes were reversed by shRNA-SNHG14 administration or transfection In Vivo and In Vitro. SNHG14 level was upregulated, while miR-145-5p significantly decreased in kidney tissues of CLP rats and LPS-induced HK-2 cells. The
target gene of miR-145-5p was SNHG14, verifying through luciferase reporter analysis. Further, miR-145-5p knockdown transfection significantly reversed the inhibition of SNHG14 interference on the secretion of inflammatory cytokines and apoptosis in LPS-induced HK-2 cells. SNHG14 silence can
alleviate AKI in sepsis by upregulating the miR-145-5p expression. SNHG14 might be used as a potential therapeutic target for sepsis-induced AKI.
Dimensional Accuracy of 3D-Printed, Digital and Conventional Stone Dental Cast of Dentate Patients Using Arch and Teeth Measurements
Authors: Al-Aali Khulud A. , Alshehri Abeer R. , Talic Hiba R. , Magan Ayaan A. , Alhomody Felwa K.
Published: December 2023

Aim: This study aimed to compare the conventional, digital, and three-dimensional (3D)-printed casts in terms of their accuracy in quantifying arch and teeth measurements. Materials and Methods: The conventional casts were prepared using polyether dental impressions. Digital
impressions of the typodont reference casts were accomplished using an intra-oral scanner. The digital casts were first converted to stereolithography (STL) files which were then edited, and printed using an SLA printer and photo-polymer resin material. The measurements of the first two groups
were completed using a digital caliper, while an imaging software was used to measure digital casts. The occlusocervial (OC) height and mesiodistal (MD) width of canines, second premolars (PMs), and molars of each jaw were measured. Additionally, intercanine width (ICW) and intermolar width
(IMW) were also measured. Results: Overall, the lowest OC measurement errors were observed for 3D-printed casts for the upper canine, lower canine, and lower molar (0.003±0.01 mm). Similarly, the lowest MD measurement errors were observed for 3D-printed casts for upper canine,
upper PM, and lower PM (0.002±0.01 mm). The ICW and IMW measurement errors for the 3D-printed casts were significantly lower (p < 0.01) for the upper ICW (0.011±0.01 mm) and lower IMW (0.017±0.01 mm) than the other two groups. Compared to the conventional and
digital casts, the lower ICW (0.013±0.01 mm) and upper IMW (0.017±0.01 mm) measurement errors observed for the 3D-printed casts were also lower, but non-significantly (p > 0.01). Conclusions: 3D-printed casts presented the lowest OC, MD, ICW, and IMW measurement
errors, than the conventional and digital casts. The highest measurement errors were associated with the digital casts.
Er, Cr: YSGG, Nd: YVO4, and Ti: Sapphire Lasers for Surface Treatment of Hybrid Ceramics on Bond Durability, Surface Texture, and Debonding to Resin Cement: A Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) Analysis
Authors: Alrabiah Mohammed , Alsunbul Hanan , Almutairi Basil , Aljanakh Mohammad , Alzahrani Khaled M. , Abduljabbar Tariq
Published: December 2023

Aims: To assess composite ceramics treated with Er, Cr: YSGG (ECL), Nd: YVO4, and Ti: Sapphire lasers to samples treated with hydrofluoric acid (HF) and silane (S) for shear bond strength (SBS) and surface roughness (Ra). Material and Methods: 60 disc-shaped HRC specimens.
Surface conditioning techniques divided HRC-prepared discs into four groups. Samples in Group 1: HRC pretreated with normal 9.5% HF, Group 2: ECL, Group 3: Ti-Sapphire, Group 4: Nd: YVO4. The profilometer measured all ceramic discs’ average surface Ra. Universal testing machines tested
the resin-ceramic interface SBS. Surface topography was assessed using SEM. Shear bond scores and Ra were compared using a one-way ANOVA. A Tukey’s post hoc test assessed several group comparisons. Results: Group 2 (Ti Sapphire Laser+S) samples scored highest in Ra and SBS. Group
4 Nd: YVO4+S had the lowest Ra and SBS values. HF 20 sec+S, (Ti Sapphire Laser+S), (ECL+S), and (Nd: YVO4+S) had comparable SBS and Ra values (p>0.05). Conclusion: Laser-conditioned hybrid ceramics Er, Cr: YSGG, Nd: YVO4, and Ti-Sapphire lasers have shear bond strength and
surface roughness comparable to 9.6% hydrofluoric acid.
Numerical Simulation of the Kuroshio Flowing over the Hirase Seamount in the Tokara Strait in Autumn: Tidal Vortex Shedding in a Baroclinic Jet
Authors: Inoue Ryuichiro , Tsutsumi Eisuke , Nakamura Hirohiko
Published: December 2023

Idealized numerical simulations of the Kuroshio western boundary current flowing over the Hirase seamount were conducted to examine the mechanisms of phenomena observed by shipboard and mooring measurements. Along the Kuroshio, enhanced mixing [vertical diffusivity, Kρ = O(10−2) m2 s−1] was observed in a low-stratification layer between high-shear layers around low tide, and a V-shaped band of the negative vertical component of relative vorticity (ζz) was also observed. Those features were reproduced in simulations of the Kuroshio that included the D2 tide. In the simulation, a streak of negative ζz detached from the Hirase turned into vertically tilted 10-km-scale vortices. The buoyancy frequency squared (N2) budget at the mooring position showed that the low stratification was caused by vertical and horizontal advection and horizontal tilting. The Kρ tended to increase when the Ertel potential vorticity (PV) < 0, as expected given the inertial instability. However, the magnitude of Kρ also depended on the tidal phase near Hirase, and Kρ was increased in the high vertical shear zones at the periphery of vortices where a strain motion is large. These results indicate that not only inertial instability but also tidal and vertical shear effects are important for driving turbulent mixing.

Significance Statement

A basin-scale distribution of wind stress drives a strong surface-intensified current in the western part of each ocean basin, such as the Gulf Stream and the Kuroshio. This western boundary current is regarded as a place where the kinetic energy and vorticity generated by winds are dissipated, allowing the basin-scale circulation to keep a steady state, but its dissipation mechanisms are not well understood. To understand the mechanisms, we conducted idealized numerical simulations that isolate the interactions between a seamount and the current as well as tidal currents, and compared results with observations. Our findings provide insights into how the current transfers kinetic energy to smaller scales when it flows over a seamount.
Verification of the Global Forecast System, North American Mesoscale Forecast System, and High-Resolution Rapid Refresh Model Near-Surface Forecasts by Use of the New York State Mesonet
Authors: Gaudet Lauriana C. , Sulia Kara J. , Torn Ryan D. , Bassill Nick P.
Published: December 2023

Global Forecast System (GFS), North American Mesoscale Forecast System (NAM), and High-Resolution Rapid Refresh (HRRR) 2-m temperature, 10-m wind speed, and precipitation accumulation forecasts initialized at 1200 UTC are verified against New York State Mesonet (NYSM) observations from 1 January 2018 through 31 December 2021. NYSM observations at 126 site locations are used to calculate standard error statistics (e.g., forecast error, root-mean-square error) for temperature and wind speed and contingency table statistics for precipitation across forecast hours, meteorological seasons, and regions. The majority of the focus is placed on the first 18 forecast hours to allow for comparison among all three models. A daily NYSM station-mean temperature error analysis identified a slight cold bias at temperatures below 25°C in the GFS, a cool-to-warm bias as forecast temperatures warm in the HRRR, and a warm bias at temperatures above 30°C in each model. Differences arise when considering temperature biases with respect to lead times and seasons. Wind speeds are overforecast at all ranges in each season, and forecast wind speeds ≥ 18 m s−1 are rarely observed. Performance diagrams indicate overall good forecast performance at precipitation thresholds of 0.1–1.5 mm, but with a high frequency bias in the GFS and NAM. This paper provides an overview of deterministic forecast performance across New York State, with the aim of sharing common biases associated with temperature, wind speed, and precipitation with operational forecasters and is the first step in developing a real-time model forecast uncertainty prediction tool.
Self-Regulated Strategy Development: Connecting Persuasive Writing to Self-Determination for Youth in Juvenile Justice Facilities
Authors: Pitzel Allyson , Sanders Sara , Jolivette Kristine , J. Hackney Aimee , Virgin Ashley S.
Published: December 2023

Youth with and at risk for disabilities served in alternative education settings frequently struggle with the writing process, which impedes their ability to communicate ideas and opinions with others. Providing explicit teaching of a writing strategy is necessary for this population of youth. This study examined the effects of self-regulated strategy development (SRSD) with self-determination skills on self-advocacy-focused writing probes (e.g., persuasive) for adolescent female youth in a juvenile justice setting. Emphasis was placed on teaching youth how to use persuasive writing as a tool to self-advocate for things they want or need. The SRSD instructional approach was investigated using a multiple-probe-across-participants design to evaluate the effects. Visual analyses indicated a functional relation between SRSD with self-determination instruction and youth’s writing skills. All youth demonstrated an increase in organizational quality and self-advocacy in writing from baseline to independent practice. Limitations to the current study and future directions are discussed.
Surfacing Principals’ Beliefs About Instruction for Students With Disabilities: A Qualitative Analysis
Authors: Mathews Hannah Morris , Stark Kristabel , Jones Nathan D. , Bell Courtney
Published: December 2023

As instructional leaders, principals establish a vision of effective instruction in their schools and support that vision through evaluation and development efforts. Thus, their beliefs about instruction in special education may have direct consequences for special educators and their students. Though research suggests principals lack experience and knowledge regarding special education, few studies explore these beliefs in action. Informed by Kennedy's theory of working knowledge, we used two distinct interview methods to tap into principals’ expressed beliefs and beliefs in use when evaluating special education teachers. Findings crack open the “black box” of principals’ working knowledge to highlight how underlying beliefs regarding the purpose of special education and students, teaching, and learning drove principals’ visions of instructional quality more than specific practices did. We end by highlighting implications regarding how to best support school leaders in fostering effective teaching for students with disabilities and next steps for research.
Examining the Effects of Key Workplace Variables on Job Burnout of Southern Prison Staff
Authors: Leone Matthew C. , Lambert Eric G. , Keena Linda D. , Hayes Stacy H. , May David
Published: December 2023

Burnout is a phenomenon commonly found in the workplace. When burnout is job-related, it is considered job burnout. Historically, job burnout has been most common among those who work in human services fields and who deal with stressful situations on a regular basis. Job burnout consists of three components: emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and feelings of work ineffectiveness. While job burnout may be common, not all workers in stressful fields experience it, which indicates that there must be organizational or individual factors that limit the likelihood of job burnout for some workers. This study examined the impact of four job-related factors (job stress, job involvement, job satisfaction, and organizational commitment) on the three components of job burnout for correctional workers in a large, maximum-security prison in the Southern United States. The findings indicated that the four job-related factors were related strongly and in the predicted direction to two or three of the measures of job burnout.
Problematic Smartphone Use and Mental Health Problems: A Network Analysis of Romanian Adolescents
Authors: Poetar Costina-Ruxandra , Dobrean Anca , Florean Ionuț Stelian
Published: December 2023

The aim of this study was to assess the pattern of mutual relations within the Problematic Smartphone Use (PSU) (first network) and between adolescent mental health problems and PSU (second network). The invariance of both networks was investigated across age, gender, and severity of symptoms. The participants were 708 Romanian adolescents ( Mage = 16). Analyses were performed in RStudio. The results indicated that the most central node in the PSU network was a preoccupation symptom. The strongest bridge path laid between a reckless symptom and PSU. The networks were invariant with respect to the gender of the adolescents but were different—both in structure and strength—between the adolescents with low vs. high total difficulties. Furthermore, the networks were significantly different in terms of structure between middle and late adolescents. These findings are further discussed.
Representation Matters: Measuring Black Travelers’ Legitimacy Judgments of DMOs
Authors: Tucker Charis N. , Gard McGehee Nancy , Xiang Zheng , Bradford Berkita
Published: December 2023

Legitimacy is a critical piece of the social contract organizations have with consumers; enabling them to operate within a given environment. Legitimacy is granted from a wide range of evaluators, but only a small number of studies explore factors that influence the judgments of consumers. This study recognizes the importance of individual judgments by developing a valid and reliable scale which measures how Black travelers evaluate the legitimacy of destination marketing organizations (DMOs). A three-factor solution including relational, cognitive, and pragmatic dimensions of legitimacy was established. The findings extend legitimacy theory by measuring relational legitimacy which considers how organizations affirm one’s identity. Results demonstrate the value of representation in marketing, employees, and tourism products/services. Recommendations from the Black Traveler DMO Legitimacy Scale suggests tourism offices can increase legitimacy by building partnerships with Black owned businesses, ensuring authenticity in marketing, and revisiting strategic plans related to employee recruitment and retention.
Post reversible encephalopathy syndrome attributed to mycophenolate mofetil used in the treatment of SLE: A case report and review of literature
Authors: Dai Yiping , Liu Weihua , Hong Fuyuan
Published: December 2023

Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES) is a rare clinical disease, which has been seen in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Its main manifestations are seizure, headache and other neurological symptoms. While the condition is reversible, if not treated in time, there can be risks of cerebral haemorrhage. We report here the case of a young patient with SLE who developed PRES after receiving the immunosuppressant, mycophenolate mofetil. Neurological symptoms, signs, or changes in a patient’s condition that cannot be explained by lupus, should alert physicians to the possibility of the drug causing PRES, and prompt discontinuation should ensue.
The Rapid Access Memory Program for Addressing Concerns of Incipient Dementia in Academic Primary Care Settings
Authors: Turner Travis H. , Scott Emmi P. , Barlis Katherine , Rodriguez-Porcel Federico , Sartori Andrea C. , Joseph Jane
Published: December 2023

Background

Expedient diagnosis of incipient dementia is often hindered by time constraints in primary care visits, shortage of dementia specialists, and extended waitlists for comprehensive neuropsychological evaluations.

Methods

We developed the Rapid Access Memory Program (RAMP) to improve access of neuropsychological services for older adults presenting to our institutional primary care clinics with concerns of cognitive decline. RAMP provides abbreviated neurocognitive assessment, same-day patient feedback, expedited reporting to referring providers, and is financially self-supported. Here, we describe development of RAMP and clinical outcomes from the first 3 years.

Results

Of 160 patients seen, dementia was diagnosed in 30% and Mild Cognitive Impairment in 50%; Alzheimer’s disease was the most common suspected etiology. New psychiatric diagnosis was made in about one-third (n = 54). Most frequent recommendations involved medication adjustments (initiating cholinesterase inhibitors, deprescribing anticholinergics), safety (driving, decision-making), and specialist referrals. Additionally, 27 (17%) subsequently enrolled in local research.

Conclusions

Results support feasibility and utility of RAMP for connecting older adults in primary care with neuropsychological services.
Matching and optimization to minimize fuel consumption and NOx emission for a marine diesel engine with turbo-assisted exhaust gas recirculation
Authors: Zhang Yong , Zhang Fengli , Leng Ling , Ren Zhengmin , Shi Lei , Deng Kangyao
Published: December 2023

Exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) and two-stage turbocharging technology are widely used in marine diesel engines due to their advantages of reducing nitrogen oxides (NOx) emission and improving fuel economy respectively. The matching of EGR, two-stage turbocharging and diesel engine is significant to realize both advantages simultaneously. Turbo-assisted EGR (TA EGR) can achieve high EGR rate and lower fuel consumption due to a turbocharger driving EGR. In this study, a 1D model of the diesel engine with TA EGR coupling two-stage turbocharging system was established by GT-Power. A theoretical matching method was proposed based on the requirements of excess air coefficient and EGR rate. The matching laws of the coupling system were studied, and the preliminary matching results achieved good effects. A fully connected neural network was used as the optimization agent model of the 1D model, and the NSGA II algorithm was used to carry out the multi-parameter and multi-objective optimizing matching. Considering constrained and unconstrained conditions, independent optimizing matching was carried out under each single load, and the weighted brake specific fuel consumption (BSFC) and weighted NOx under all loads were taken as the target to carry out comprehensive optimizing matching. The results showed that the optimization performance is worse under constrained conditions, while TA EGR coupling adjustable two-stage turbocharging system can achieve comprehensive optimal BSFC and NOx, with weighted BSFC decreasing by 3.57% and weighted NOx decreasing by 75.28% compared with experimental results of the original engine.
Machine learning (ML) techniques as effective methods for evaluating hair and skin assessments: A systematic review
Authors: Shakeel Choudhary Sobhan , Khan Saad Jawaid
Published: December 2023

Machine Learning (ML) techniques provide the ability to effectively evaluate and analyze human skin and hair assessments. The aim of this study is to systematically review the effectiveness of applying Machine Learning (ML) methods and Artificial Intelligence (AI) techniques in order to evaluate hair and skin assessments. PubMed, Web of Science, IEEE Xplore, and Science Direct were searched in order to retrieve research publications between 1 January 2010 and 31 March 2020 using appropriate keywords such as “hair and skin analysis.” Following accurate screening, 20 peer-reviewed publications were selected for inclusion in this systematic review. The analysis demonstrated that prevalent Machine Learning (ML) methods comprised of Support Vector Machine (SVM), k-nearest Neighbor, and Artificial Neural Networks (ANN). ANN’s were observed to yield the highest accuracy of 95% followed by SVM generating 90%. These techniques were most commonly applied for drafting framework assessments such as that of Melanoma. Values of parameters such as Sensitivity, Specificity, and Area under the Curve (AUC) were extracted from the studies and with the help of comparisons, relevant inferences were also made. ANN’s were observed to yield the highest sensitivity of 82.30% as well as a 96.90% specificity. Hence, with this systematic review, a summarization of the studies was drafted that encapsulated how Machine Learning (ML) techniques have been employed for the analysis and evaluation of hair and skin assessments.
Assessing intra- and inter-method agreement of functional data
Authors: Yue Ye , Jang Jeong Hoon , Manatunga Amita K.
Published: December 2023

Modern medical devices are increasingly producing complex data that could offer deeper insights into physiological mechanisms of underlying diseases. One type of complex data that arises frequently in medical imaging studies is functional data, whose sampling unit is a smooth continuous function. In this work, with the goal of establishing the scientific validity of experiments involving modern medical imaging devices, we focus on the problem of evaluating reliability and reproducibility of multiple functional data that are measured on the same subjects by different methods (i.e. different technologies or raters). Specifically, we develop a series of intraclass correlation coefficient and concordance correlation coefficient indices that can assess intra-method, inter-method, and total (intra + inter) agreement based on multivariate multilevel functional data consisting of replicated functional data measurements produced by each of the different methods. For efficient estimation, the proposed indices are expressed using variance components of a multivariate multilevel functional mixed effect model, which can be smoothly estimated by functional principal component analysis. Extensive simulation studies are performed to assess the finite-sample properties of the estimators. The proposed method is applied to evaluate the reliability and reproducibility of renogram curves produced by a high-tech radionuclide image scan used to non-invasively detect kidney obstruction.
The regularity of informality: Reframing the formal–informal relationship with the help of informal housing in London
Authors: Kelling Emily
Published: December 2023

The article suggests distinguishing between illegality as a practical phenomenon and informal regulations as a structuring feature of everyday life. This allows rethinking the role of the law and regulation in contexts of urban informality, showing that the law, and formality more generally, is connected to the informal in that the formal only receives its meaning and relevance through the informal. The concepts are illustrated by case material from informal housing and what is known as ‘beds in sheds’ in London.
Dynamics of a non-ideally driven oscillating system under frictional slip
Authors: Chakraborty Pratyaya , Chakraborty Goutam , Bhattacharyya Ranjan
Published: December 2023

The Sommerfeld Effect pertains to the non-linear jump phenomenon near the resonance frequency of an excited structure powered by a non-ideal drive that is incapable to supply the required power to the oscillating sub-system. Often this situation is dealt with by increasing the viscous damping present in the system at the expense of considerable power loss. However, the use of non-viscous damping for the attenuation of the Sommerfeld Effect is considered in very few articles. In this paper, the dynamics of a non-ideal DC motor-driven vibrating system with frictional slip as the dissipation element is presented. Use of the method of multiple time scales is employed to find the response of the system semi-analytically. The non-linear dynamical characteristics of the response as the motor speed crosses the resonance condition is analyzed using the linear stability analysis and subsequently, the obtained response is verified using numerical results. The transition of the operating condition between stable and unstable zones and the post-resonance dynamic behavior of such systems indicated that under proper parametric condition, it is possible to achieve a smooth variation of operating speed via a combination of stick and slip motion. Furthermore, the rate of voltage increment is also found to play a pivotal role in surpassing the critical speed of the system.
“We Need Them, They Need Us”: Perceived Indispensability and Intergroup Relations
Authors: Verkuyten Maykel
Published: December 2023

The aim of this paper is to advance psychological theory and research on attitudes and behavior towards low status minority groups by discussing group-level indispensability as an important yet largely unexplored factor in intergroup dynamics. Drawing on theory and international research from psychology and the social sciences, the distinction between functional indispensability and identity indispensability is first discussed. Subsequently various positive intergroup implications of perceived indispensability are considered, and for giving a balanced account possible negative outcomes are also discussed. Then, the minority perspective is considered and the question of when positive or negative intergroup implications of perceived indispensability are less or more likely. The paper concludes with future directions for theoretical and empirical development of the notion of group-level indispensability and its intergroup consequences in a range of settings and contexts.
Principles and methods to advance value for money
Authors: Gargani John , King Julian
Published: December 2023

Value for money poses the question, “What is good resource use?” It is often answered with a narrow economic analysis that does not adequately address what diverse people value. We suggest new principles and methods that may help evaluators answer the question better. First, we define value for money, which sits at the intersection of evaluation and economics. Next, we make the case for a holistic assessment of value for money that evaluators can conduct with tools they already have, like rubrics. We introduce three principles that further align value for money with evaluation: value depends on the credibility of estimates; things do not have value, people place value on things; and people value the same things differently. Together, they suggest evaluators should arrive at multiple, possibly conflicting conclusions that represent diverse value perspectives. We demonstrate how this may be done using a value-for-money rubric to improve resource allocation for impact.
Quality of Life after Venous Stenting for Post-thrombotic Syndrome and the Effect of Inflow Disease
Authors: Bakas Jay M. , van Montfrans Catherine , Moelker Adriaan , Bos Renate R. van den , Malskat Wendy S. J. , Verhagen Hence J. M. , van Rijn Marie Josee E.
Published: December 2023

Objective

Patients with PTS experience an impaired quality of life (QoL). We aimed to study QoL in patients stented for post thrombotic syndrome (PTS) and analyze the influence of different parameters.

Methods

Patients stented for PTS after iliofemoral deep vein thrombosis were asked to complete the Chronic Venous Disease Quality of Life Questionnaire (CIVIQ-20) and the Short Form Health Survey (SF-36) in this cross-sectional study. All other data were collected retrospectively. Primary endpoints were median CIVIQ-20 and physical (PCS) and mental (MCS) component summary SF-36 scores. The influence of age, sex, and years between the procedure and completion of questionnaire were investigated using a multivariate linear regression model. Wilcoxon signed rank test compared the PCS and MCS with the normative. Effects of inflow from the deep femoral vein (DFV) and/or the femoral vein (FV) on QoL was analyzed in patients with patent stents.

Results

The response rate was 70.3% (n = 45/64). Time period (median) from stenting to questionnaire completion was 6.6 years (IQR: 8.0). Most stents were placed unilateral left-sided (73.3%). For patients with patent stents (n = 42) median CIVIQ-20 was 35.5 (IQR: 17.3), higher than the minimum of 20.0 ( P < .001). Median PCS of 44.7 (IQR: 14.2) was lower ( P < .001), and MCS of 55.9 (IQR: 7.1) higher ( P = .001) than the normative (50.0). Time since stenting and sex were not associated with QoL. Age was a significant predictor [standardized coefficient ß = .36, P = .04] for QoL using the CIVIQ-20, but not for the SF-36. Inflow disease did not impact QoL, but patients with occluded stents (n = 3) had poor functioning levels.

Conclusion

Quality of life is impaired after venous stenting for PTS, particularly physical functioning, among patients with an open stent, but was similar between patients with good and impaired inflow. Patients with a permanent stent occlusion had the lowest QoL.
Migrants, transcultural memory and World War I commemoration in post-conflict Northern Ireland
Authors: McDermott Philip
Published: December 2023

This article explores a community memory project on World War I led by first-generation migrants living in Northern Ireland. As a location recovering from 30 years of political violence, debates on commemoration are frequently reduced to the bi-partisan lens of Irish nationalism or British unionism. World War I is one episode often interpreted through this exclusivist framework. Recent immigration, however, raises questions as to how those who are neither nationalist nor unionist can partake in public memory debates. Drawing on the project’s experiences, I argue that incorporating migrants’ worldviews on the past can elucidate important transcultural analysis and positively aid in reframing simplistic ethno-national interpretations. Transcultural methods can illuminate cross-cultural themes and explicate differences and similarities across multiple groups rather than just two historically divided communities. Thus, transcultural approaches offer a novel means of generating holistic dialogue on memory which has transformative potential for a society transitioning from conflict to peace.