bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Carotid Plaque Score for Stroke and Cardiovascular Risk Prediction in a Middle‐Aged Cohort From the General Population
Authors: Ihle‐Hansen Håkon , Vigen Thea , Berge Trygve , Walle‐Hansen Marte M. , Hagberg Guri , Ihle‐Hansen Hege , Thommessen Bente , Ariansen Inger , Røsjø Helge , Rønning Ole Morten , Tveit Arnljot , Lyngbakken Magnus
Published: August 2023

Background

We aimed to explore the predictive value of the carotid plaque score, compared with the Systematic Coronary Risk Evaluation 2 (SCORE2) risk prediction algorithm, on incident ischemic stroke and major adverse cardiovascular events and establish a prognostic cutoff of the carotid plaque score.

Methods and Results

In the prospective ACE 1950 (Akershus Cardiac Examination 1950 study), carotid plaque score was calculated with ultrasonography at inclusion in 2012 to 2015. The largest plaque diameter in each extracranial segment of the carotid artery on both sides was scored from 0 to 3 points. The sum of points in all segments provided the carotid plaque score. The cohort was followed up by linkage to national registries for incident ischemic stroke and major adverse cardiovascular events (nonfatal ischemic stroke, nonfatal myocardial infarction, and cardiovascular death) throughout 2020. Carotid plaque score was available in 3650 (98.5%) participants, with mean±SD age of 63.9±0.64 years at inclusion. Only 462 (12.7%) participants were free of plaque, and and 970 (26.6%) had a carotid plaque score of >3. Carotid plaque score predicted ischemic stroke (hazard ratio [HR], 1.25 [95% CI, 1.15–1.36]) and major adverse cardiovascular events (HR, 1.21 [95% CI, 1.14–1.27]) after adjustment for SCORE2 and provided strong incremental prognostic information to SCORE2. The best cutoff value of carotid plaque score for ischemic stroke was >3, with positive predictive value of 2.5% and negative predictive value of 99.3%.

Conclusions

The carotid plaque score is a strong predictor of ischemic stroke and major adverse cardiovascular events, and it provides incremental prognostic information to SCORE2 for risk prediction. A cutoff score of >3 seems to be suitable to discriminate high‐risk subjects.

Registration Information

clinicaltrials.gov. Identifier: NCT01555411.
Spreading Depolarizations Suppress Hematoma Growth in Hyperacute Intracerebral Hemorrhage in Mice
Authors: Fischer Paul , Tamim Isra , Sugimoto Kazutaka , Morais Andreia , Imai Takahiko , Takizawa Tsubasa , Qin Tao , Schlunk Frieder , Endres Matthias , Yaseen Mohammad A. , Chung David Y. , Sakadzic Sava , Ayata Cenk
Published: August 2023

BACKGROUND:

Spreading depolarizations (SDs) occur in all types of brain injury and may be associated with detrimental effects in ischemic stroke and subarachnoid hemorrhage. While rapid hematoma growth during intracerebral hemorrhage triggers SDs, their role in intracerebral hemorrhage is unknown.

METHODS:

We used intrinsic optical signal and laser speckle imaging, combined with electrocorticography, to investigate the effects of SD on hematoma growth during the hyperacute phase (0–4 hours) after intracortical collagenase injection in mice. Hematoma expansion, SDs, and cerebral blood flow were simultaneously monitored under normotensive and hypertensive conditions.

RESULTS:

Spontaneous SDs erupted from the vicinity of the hematoma during rapid hematoma growth. We found that hematoma growth slowed down by >60% immediately after an SD. This effect was even stronger in hypertensive animals with faster hematoma growth. To establish causation, we exogenously induced SDs (every 30 minutes) at a remote site by topical potassium chloride application and found reduced hematoma growth rate and final hemorrhage volume (18.2±5.8 versus 10.7±4.1 mm
3
). Analysis of cerebral blood flow using laser speckle flowmetry revealed that suppression of hematoma growth by spontaneous or induced SDs coincided and correlated with the characteristic oligemia in the wake of SD, implicating the vasoconstrictive effect of SD as one potential mechanism of action.

CONCLUSIONS:

Our findings reveal that SDs limit hematoma growth during the early hours of intracerebral hemorrhage and decrease final hematoma volume.
Thalictrum minutiflorum (Ranunculaceae), described from Guizhou province, China, is merged with T. ramosum
Authors: ZENG YOU-PAI , YUAN QIONG , YANG QIN-ER
Published: August 2023

Based on critical observations on herbarium specimens (including type material) and living plants in the wild, we demonstrate that Thalictrum minutiflorum, described from Dejiang county in Guizhou province, China, is conspecific with T. ramosum, a species widely distributed in China’s Chongqing, northwestern Guangxi, Guizhou, western Hubei, western Hunan, central and southwestern Sichuan and northeastern Yunnan. We therefore reduce T. minutiflorum to the synonymy of T. ramosum herein. The description of hairiness is added for T. ramosum, which has been previously described as glabrous throughout. Mistakes in the documentation of collection information including collection localities and collection number of T. ramosum are corrected. Previous misidentifications of specimens of T. ramosum and the resultant wrong records of geographical distribution of this species are also corrected.
Richness and endemism in Chusquea subg. Swallenochloa (Poaceae), a Neotropical subgenus adapted to temperate conditions
Authors: RUIZ-SANCHEZ EDUARDO , MUNGUÍA-LINO GUADALUPE , PIANISSOLA EVANDRO MACHADO , ELY FRANCISCA , CLARK LYNN G.
Published: August 2023

Chusquea subg. Swallenochloa comprises 52 species distributed in five biogeographical areas (Mexican Transition Zone, Brazilian subregion, South American Transition Zone, Chacoan subregion, and Andean region). Species of the subgenus grow from almost sea level in the Andean region to almost 4000 m in the northern South American Transition Zone (SATZ) and are often common or dominant elements of the vegetation. In this study, three questions related to species richness, endemism, and risk category of Chusquea subg. Swallenochloa were addressed. Analyses were based on the geo-referenced occurrence data of these 52 species, using different methods and software programs. Results indicate that the Chacoan subregion and SATZ had the highest richness with 16 and 15 species, respectively. The area of highest endemism was found in the Brazilian subregion. The AOO and EOO methods provided strongly differing estimations of conservation status.
2. Theories and Models: Understanding and Predicting Societal Collapse
Authors: Roman Sabin
Published: August 2023

Why do societies collapse? This chapter offers approaches to understanding which quantitative and qualitative models of societal dynamics can predict societal collapse and which exogenous and endogenous factors contribute to it.
4. Beyond ‘Error and Terror’: Global Justice and Global Catastrophic Risk
Authors: Jones Natalie
Published: August 2023

How can thinking about justice improve the lens through which we consider global existential risks? This chapter considers global injustice and inequality in the study of risk, and analyses the roles of individuals and institutions in causing or dealing with catastrophes. It also proposes a case study for this new perspective, using the example of climate change.
5. We Have to Include Everyone: Enabling Humanity to Reduce Existential Risk
Authors: Wells-Jensen Sheri , Beard SJ
Published: August 2023

Disabled and marginalised people are often excluded from the debate around existential risk. However, they have much to contribute: this chapter argues that diversity and inclusion are powerful tools to implement solutions to global threats and vital sources of creativity and resilience for the field of Existential Risk Studies.
7. Ecological Breakdown and Human Extinction
Authors: Kemp Luke
Published: August 2023

Could climate change and ecological breakdown lead to human extinction or global societal collapse? This chapter explores these questions by providing a stock take of the relevant research, as well as exploring sources of hope, and who is responsible for the global ecological crisis.
8. Biosecurity, Biosafety, and Dual Use: Will Humanity Minimise Potential Harms in the Age of Biotechnology?
Authors: Lane Warmbrod Kelsey , Leins Kobi , Connell Nancy
Published: August 2023

How have biosecurity and biosafety developed during the twenty-first century – the “Century of Biosecurity” – and how can oversight and governance of this field be improved? This chapter describes rapid advances in biology and how they can lead to misapplication, from the anthrax biohazard, to the availability of DNA studies on a large scale, to AI’s use of big data today.
10. Military Artificial Intelligence as a Contributor to Global Catastrophic Risk
Authors: Maas Matthijs , Lucero-Matteucci Kayla , Cooke Di
Published: August 2023

Military conflicts could cause global catastrophes today due to the intersection of AI and nuclear weapons development. Security actions against these risks still need to be established, and this chapter emphasises the urgency of such responses by analysing six hypothetical scenarios in which the use of AI systems could increase the likelihood of nuclear catastrophe.
miR-146b Nanoparticles Alleviate Aortic Dissection via Targeting of Phosphoinositide-3-Kinase–Protein Kinase B (PI3K/Akt) Signaling Pathway
Authors: Wei Zongqiang , Wang Zhaowei , Xue Zhijun
Published: August 2023

Aortic dissection (AD) has a rapid onset and a high mortality. This study explored mechanism of miR-146b and PI3k/Akt on aortic dissection. Human aortic vascular smooth muscle cells (T/GHA-VSMC) were assigned into blank group, empty vector group, miR-146b group and miR-146b group with
nanoparticles as carrier (vector+miR-146b group), followed by analysis of cell proliferation, apoptosis and migration. Results showed that, expressions of PI3k/Akt, miR-146b and cell proliferation in the empty vector, miR-146b, and vector+miR-146b groups were lower than in the blank group
(P <0.05), with lowest expression level in the empty vector group (P <0.05). Moreover, cell apoptosis was increased (P <0.05) and migration ability was decreased (P <0.05) after transfection, and miR-146b was found to target the PI3k/Akt. Nanoparticle-mediated
miR-146b can inhibit the proliferation and migration of T/GHA-VSMC in AD patients, which is related to PI3k/Akt signaling. miR-146b may become a potential molecular target for AD, which can alleviate the occurrence and development of AD.
Plumbagin Nanoliposomes Suppress HepG2 Cell Proliferation, Migration, and Invasion by Accelerating miR-16-5p Expression and Inhibiting the VEGFA/EMT Pathway
Authors: Tang Kun , Wang Na , Lv Jianlin , Luo Yinbing , Zhang Rongzhen , Long Fuli , Mao Dewen , Zeng Xiaoyun
Published: August 2023

It has been reported that plumbagin (PL) can inhibit tumor cell growth and induce apoptosis, but the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. In this study, plumbagin nanoliposomes were prepared, and Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) and 5-ethynyl-2′-deoxyuridine (EdU) assays were performed
to determine the effects of PL on HepG2 cell proliferation. Transwell and wound healing assays were also used to investigate the effects of PL on HepG2 cell motility. Additionally, quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT–PCR) was carried out to confirm the expression of
microRNAs (miRNAs) under PL treatment, in which miR-16-5p showed the most substantially elevated profile among all miRNAs. After transfection with mimics or inhibitors of miR-16-5p or treatment with PL alone, the efficiency of up- and downregulation of miR-16-5p was determined by qRT–PCR
in HepG2 cells. Furthermore, EdU, Transwell, and wound healing assays were used to explore the effects of up- and downregulation of miR-16-5p in HepG2 cells. Next, bioinformatic analysis was used to predict the potential target genes of miR-16-5p, along with further validation by dual luciferase
reporter assays, qRT–PCR, and western blotting. To investigate the roles of PL and miR-16-5p in vivo, HepG2 cells were infected with lentivirus of miR-16-5p mimics or inhibitor, or the negative control (NC), and stable expression tumor cell lines were established. Then, a tumor
mouse model was constructed and PL nanoliposomes were administered to evaluate their therapeutic effect. The volume and weight of tumor were recorded and analyzed and immunohistochemical assays were applied to determine the tumor growth and motility changes. The results showed that PL nanoliposomes
suppressed HepG2 cell proliferation and migration in a dose-dependent manner. Mechanistically, PL enhanced miR-16-5p expression and inhibited HepG2 cell growth and migration by targeting the VEGFA/EMT pathway both in vitro and in vivo. Our study demonstrated that PL can inhibit
the malignant functions of HepG2 cells by enhancing miR-16-5p expression, which functions as a tumor suppressor gene through targeting the VEGFA/EMT pathway.
Liposomal Encapsulation of Chemotherapeutics Agents Combined with the Use of Ultrasound in Cancer Treatment
Authors: Almajed Zeyad , Al Sawaftah Nour M. , Sulieman Hana , Husseini Ghaleb A.
Published: August 2023

Ultrasound (US) has numerous uses in the medical field, including imaging, tumor ablation, and lithotripsy; another interesting application of US in cancer therapy is as an external trigger in targeted drug delivery. Cancer-targeted drug delivery involves delivering chemotherapeutic
drugs to tumor sites with a high degree of precision, which would minimize the adverse side effects experienced by patients. Several nanocarriers have been studied as possible nanocarriers; however, liposomes stood out from the rest because of their non-immunogenicity, amphiphilic nature,
ease of functionalization, and stimuli-responsiveness. This review addresses the role of US in the synthesis of liposomes, its ability to induce localized and controlled drug release from liposomes, as well as the integration of US-induced release and US-imaging using liposomes as contrast
agents utilizing thermal and/or mechanical effects.
Performance Enhancement of Perovskite Solar Cell Using SrTiO3 as Electron Transport Layer
Authors: Gupta Ananya , Srivastava Vaibhava , Yadav Shivangi , Lohia Pooja , Dwivedi D. K. , Umar Ahmad , Mahmoud Mohamed H.
Published: August 2023

Now a days there is growing demand to generate renewable energy having environment friendly materials with widely used methods exhibiting highly productive conversion of photons into electrical power. In this article, an inorganic lead-free perovskite CsSn0.5Ge0.5I3
material is utilized as an absorber layer, PTAA as hole transport layer (HTL) and SrTiO3 as electron transport layer (ETL). Parameters such as thickness of absorber layer and operating temperature of device is varied to obtain an optimized photovoltaic performance parameter. The
optimized simulated result at 250 nm thickness of absorber layer for n-i-p planar structure with performances of short circuit current density of 27.7592 mA/cm2 open circuit voltage of 0.9834 V, Fill factor of 78.01% and power conversion efficiency of 21.30% are obtained, which
is considerably better than the previously reported work. The proposed configuration is studied using SCAPS-1D. The proposed device confirms better performance and it could be a promising candidate for cheaper and efficient PSCs.
Preparation of Three-Dimensional NiO Gas Sensor for Monitoring the Indoor Air of Car Cabs
Authors: Sun Hang , Hua Yiding , Li Zhijun
Published: August 2023

A novel three-dimensional NiO was synthesized by a simple hydrothermal reaction. Characterization and gas-sensing performance of NiO with flower like spheres were tested. Owing to its three-dimensional structure, the NiO obtained large specific surface area and abundant active sites.
Furthermore, the gas sensors showed the enhanced formaldehyde sensing performance obtained a gas response of 26.3 to 200 ppm formaldehyde at 350 °C, short response/recovery time as 6 and 11 s, and excellent stability. These results indicate that the three-dimensional NiO flower-like spheres
play an important role on the VOCs sensing performance for practical detectors.
Design of High-Precision Infrared Photoelectric Sensor and Its Adoption in Soft Package Counting Management in Workshop
Authors: Zhao Xin , Wei Peng , Yan Ping
Published: August 2023

As an imperative part of information technology, photoelectric information technology is widely applied in smart phones, mobile computers, portable electronic products, medical care, and industrial technology. In this research, a high-precision infrared photoelectric sensor is designed,
which utilizes XDU3093 chip as a built-in photoelectric sensor. The chip has the characteristics of high-power supply rejection ratio and temperature compensation. Then, the focus is on the design of infrared driving module and infrared detection module. Among them, the pulse current of the
infrared drive module is more than 100 mA, and the output current is in the form of square wave. To control noise, an isolation circuit between the infrared drive and other modules is set. Infrared detection involves photoelectric sensor. The nwell diode in CMOS process is utilized as photosensitive
diode, and at the same time, the surface of the diode is coated to ensure that only infrared light can generate photocurrent through coating. In the experiment, the infrared driver is simulated, and the results show that the driver module can effectively amplify the collected infrared signals,
and the detection accuracy reaches 0.2 V. The simulation of infrared detection suggests that there is a linear relationship between photocurrent and background infrared illumination, and the photocurrent decreases with the increase of distance. The designed infrared photoelectric sensor is
applied in the soft package counting link of workshop management. The infrared photoelectric acquisition signal is converted into an analog voltage signal, which is processed by the voltage conversion circuit and then transferred to the single chip microcomputer and software module. After
the data is uploaded to the upper computer through the serial port, it shows that the number of soft packages can be accurately identified in the workshop soft package counting link based on the designed infrared photoelectric sensor.
Land Surface Influence on Convective Available Potential Energy (CAPE) Change during Interstorms
Authors: Zhang Lily N. , Short Gianotti Daniel J. , Entekhabi Dara
Published: August 2023

Changes in surface water and energy balance can influence weather through interactions between the land and lower atmosphere. In convecting atmospheres, increases in convective available potential energy (CAPE) at the base of the column are driven by surface turbulent fluxes and can lead to precipitation. Using two global satellite datasets, we analyze the impact of surface energy balance partitioning on convective development by tracking CAPE over soil moisture drydowns (interstorms) during the summer, when land–atmosphere coupling is strongest. Our results show that the sign and magnitude of CAPE development during summertime drydowns depends on regional hydroclimate and initial soil moisture content. On average, CAPE increases between precipitation events over humid regions (e.g., the eastern United States) and decreases slightly over arid regions (e.g., the western United States). The soil moisture content at the start of a drydown was found to only impact CAPE evolution over arid regions, leading to greater decreases in CAPE when initial soil moisture content was high. The effect of these factors on CAPE can be explained by their influence principally on surface evaporation, demonstrating the importance of evaporative controls on CAPE and providing a basis for understanding the soil moisture–precipitation relationship, as well as land–atmosphere interaction as a whole.

Significance Statement

Land–atmosphere coupling is a long-standing topic with growing interest within the climate and modeling communities. Understanding and characterizing the feedbacks between the land surface and lower atmosphere has important implications for weather and climate prediction. One component of land–atmosphere coupling not yet fully understood is the soil moisture–precipitation relationship. Our work quantifies the land influence on one pathway for precipitation, convection, by tracking the evolution of atmospheric convective energy as soils dry between storms. Using global satellite observations, we find clear spatial and temporal trends that link summertime convective development to soil moisture content and evaporation. Our observational results provide a benchmark for evaluating how well weather and climate models capture the complex coupling between land and atmosphere.
Current Operative Approaches to the Diseased Gallbladder. Diagnosis and Management Updates for General Surgeons
Authors: Jacoby Harel , Rayman Shlomi , Oliphant Uretz , Nelson Daniel , Ross Sharona , Rosemurgy Alexander , Sucandy Iswanto
Published: August 2023

Cholecystitis is a common diagnosis which requires management by general surgeons. Morbidity from cholecystitis is often life-threatening, especially in patients with underlying liver cirrhosis or other medical comorbidities. Diagnosis and management of this disease can vary among providers and hospitals. The decision to utilize a radiological or endoscopic temporizing maneuver in severe acute cholecystitis and the timing of later definitive cholecystectomy are relevant points of discussion within general surgery societies. In the last 5 years, the use of intraoperative ductal imaging by conventional vs fluorescence cholangiography had gained significant interest due to the widespread availability of indocyanine green. Finally, the operative strategies and how to manage intra-/postoperative complications are very important to optimizing patient outcomes. In this review paper, we discuss all treatment aspects of cholecystitis and provide updates in its management.
Metastatic and Malignant Phyllodes Tumors of the Breast: An Update for Current Management
Authors: Goodwin Brandon , Oyinlola Adejumoke Fisayo , Palhang Meejan , Lehman Danielle , Platoff Rebecca , Atabek Umur , Spitz Francis , Hong Young
Published: August 2023

Metastatic, malignant phyllodes tumor (PT) of the breast is a rare and aggressive neoplasm. Currently, there is no agreed upon consensus as to best management practices. A systematic review of literature was conducted investigating surgical, chemotherapeutic, and radiotherapeutic management for metastatic PT. Databases employed to identify articles included Embase, PubMed, and SAGE Journals. Diagnosis of metastatic PT has been of significant difficulty to radiologists as it is often confused with fibroadenomas. Surgically, metastatectomy has been correlated with increased overall survival (of 25.9 versus 9.9 months; P = .01). Radiotherapy has often been associated with palliation and pain control in metastatic, malignant neoplasia. However, one study showed that in malignant PT, radiation was associated with significantly lower rates of local recurrence (OR: 0.048 versus 0.209). Anthracycline containing chemotherapy regimens has been associated with improved overall survival (22.4 months versus 13.2 months; P = .040). Further research must be conducted into this rare malignancy to elucidate accurate diagnosis and care for patients with advanced metastatic or malignant phyllodes tumors.
Indications and Short-Term Outcomes for In-Office Therapeutic Superior Laryngeal Nerve Block
Authors: Gray Alan J. , Hoffman Matthew R. , Yang Zao M. , Vandiver Beau , Purvis Joshua , Morgan Jake P. , Hapner Edie R. , Dominguez Laura , Tibbetts Kathleen , Simpson C. Blake
Published: August 2023

Objective:

Superior laryngeal nerve (SLN) block consists of injection of steroid and anesthetic at the internal branch of the SLN entry site. Prior case series have demonstrated beneficial effects on neurogenic cough. SLN blocks have also recently shown benefit for paralaryngeal pain. We describe short-term outcomes for multiple symptoms of irritable larynx syndrome (ILS) including neurogenic cough, dysphonia related to laryngeal hypersensitivity, inducible laryngeal obstruction (ILO), paralaryngeal pain, and isolated globus.

Methods:

Retrospective review from 2 institutions of patients undergoing a single SLN block for the indications listed. Variables include age, sex, indication(s), known vagus neuropathy, and patient-reported outcomes at short-term follow-up.

Results:

A total of 209 patients were included (59 males, 150 females; age: 58 ± 13 years). Twenty-six patients (12%) had a history of a vagus nerve injury. Indications included neurogenic cough (n = 149), dysphonia related to laryngeal hypersensitivity (n = 66), paralaryngeal pain (n = 50), ILO (n = 23), and isolated globus (n = 3). Some patients had multiple indications. Significant improvements in patient-reported measures occurred after a single SLN block within 2 to 4 weeks for neurogenic cough (cough severity index; 25.2 ± 11.2 to 19.0 ± 12.8; P < .001), dysphonia (voice handicap index-10; 22.1 ± 12.2-18.0 ± 13.3; P = .005), and ILO (dyspnea index; 21.0 ± 14.9-14.7 ± 15.7; P = .017). Subjective pain improved in 23 of 39 patients with paralaryngeal pain. There was no observed improvement for isolated globus. Presence of known vagal neuropathy or therapy around the time of SLN block did not affect outcome.

Conclusion:

SLN block can be an effective component of treatment for a variety of ILS symptoms. Patients may experience some improvement after 1 injection.

Lay Summary:

Symptoms of irritable larynx syndrome, such as neurogenic cough, paralaryngeal pain, inducible laryngeal obstruction, and dysphonia related to laryngeal hypersensitivity can be challenging to manage. In-office Superior Laryngeal Nerve blocks can serve as a quick, well tolerated, adjunctive treatment with positive short-term outcomes.

Level of evidence:

4
Gender Differences in Quality of Life of Adolescent Patients With Chronic Rhinosinusitis
Authors: Dundervill Caroline , Al-Asadi Zayd , Behnke John , Tumlin Parker , Chaiban Rafka , Ramadan Hassan H. , Makary Chadi A.
Published: August 2023

Objectives:

To identify the differences in the impact of chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) between female and male adolescent patients at presentation.

Study Design:

Cross sectional study.

Methods:

Adolescent patients, age 12 to 18 years old, presenting to our Otolaryngology clinic between August 2020 and April 2023 for CRS were asked to fill both the SNOT-22 and the SN5 forms. Female and male cohorts were compared regarding their demographics, comorbidities, subjective and objective disease measurements, and choice of treatment.

Results:

Sixty-six patients were included, 30 female and 36 male patients. There were no differences in age, allergic rhinitis, asthma, obstructive sleep apnea, presence of nasal septal deviation, and objective disease severity ( P > .05 for all). At presentation, mean overall SNOT-22, ear/facial, sleep, and psychological domains were all higher in female patients (43vs 30.9, P = .02; 9.1vs 6, P = .03; 11.8vs 8.3, P = .07; 14.1vs 8.8, P = .02 respectively). SN5 scores and overall QoL visual analog scale were similar in females and males.

Conclusion:

Female patients with CRS show higher subjective disease burden. Incorporating data on gender-specific differences may be important to personalize treatment decision making.
Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs: A Framework for Understanding China’s SOEs, SMEs and Decentralisation
Authors: Lee Brice Tseen Fu , Sims Juan Pablo
Published: August 2023

This study delves into the intricate interplay between state-owned enterprises (SOEs), disposable income and economic decentralisation within China’s economic landscape, all underpinned by the principles of Maslow’s hierarchy of needs. It highlights the unique roles of SOEs and small and medium enterprises (SMEs), while assessing disposable income’s effect in bolstering support for decentralisation. Emphasis is placed on whether a higher disposable income often a product of SOEs’ control over vital industries and utility prices can catalyse public enthusiasm for decentralisation. Utilising a spectrum of analytical techniques on secondary data, the study uncovers vital patterns that suggest a symbiotic relationship between SOEs and SMEs in advancing economic growth and decentralisation. The findings offer valuable insights for policy development and further understanding of the nexus between SOEs, disposable income and decentralisation, as contextualised within Maslow’s hierarchy of needs.
Tragedy does not die: Creativity, emotions, and metaphor of revolution in the context of Chinese Revolutionary Drama
Authors: Jingting Zhang , Chao Jia
Published: August 2023

The decline of tragedy is one of the greatest tragedies of modernity. While many scholars exclaim that tragedy has been dead, Raymond Williams points out that it is not an eternal metaphysical event, but is plural and dynamic, a series of experiences, a tradition. Williams’ rethinking of tragedy provides a historical perspective on the cultural meanings. What matters are the traditions, emotions, and experiences of the time in which the tragedy is set, and the superimposed series of accidents and imbalances that create this type of tragic experience. That is, tragedy is not a static narrative of grief, but a textual creativity. This article will examine this argument in the context of Chinese Revolutionary Drama. The White-Haired Girl (Bai Mao Nv) is a famous tragedy born a hundred years ago in China that depicts the tragic fate of the poor. During the Communist Revolution, it was adapted by the propaganda department of the Communist Party as a tragedy of class oppression and extended to the whole country as a symbol of emotional mobilization. After 1978, the tragedy was forgotten as an outdated revolutionary legacy. However, the experience and texts of the The White-Haired Girl are still active in Chinese social networks today. This complex process is not only historical but also emotional. The aims of this article are the following: (1) to reveal the constructive relationship between creativity, revolution, and emotion; (2) to present the process of interconstruction between tragedy as context and tragedy as metaphor for revolution; and (3) to place creativity in the context of specific cultural and historical changes and observe its dynamic significance.
Food insecurity and social capital during COVID-19: A cross-national qualitative study of communities from South Africa and the United States
Authors: Barney Robert J , Chagunda Chance
Published: August 2023

This study investigates the evolving ways in which social workers helped provide food assistance during the first months of the COVID-19 pandemic in communities in South Africa and the United States. A cross-national qualitative methodology was used to collect data about the nutritional services social workers delivered, the types of social capital used to assist in these efforts, and the challenges they experienced. This study not only highlights differences in the approaches of these two countries but also how these different communities might be able to learn from one another in delivering food relief during times of emergency.
Over-the-Counter Drug Consumption: How Consumers Deviate from Label Instructions
Authors: Tian Min , Kaufman David W. , Shiffman Saul , Arora Neeraj
Published: August 2023

Product consumption is an important yet understudied aspect of marketing. Over-the-counter medicines present a unique consumption context because consumers are expected to follow product label instructions. For acetaminophen, a widely consumed over-the-counter drug, the authors study which consumers tend to deviate from the label instructions, why they do so, and the interventions that are most promising to mitigate such deviations. They develop a dynamic structural model of consumption that enables them to investigate the probability of different types of label deviations (e.g., >4 g per day) and drivers of such behaviors. Label deviations are infrequent “tail area” behaviors, and the model uncovers them well. The analysis is based on a unique online consumption diary in which consumers select from two classes of acetaminophen products (single ingredient or a combination of ingredients) to treat their pain or non-pain-related symptoms . Consumers have a higher probability of taking >4 g of acetaminophen when they have multiple symptoms, and a variety of observable factors explain the individual propensity to deviate from the label. The authors propose two interventions—a new label instruction and consumer education—to mitigate the observed label deviations and assess the expected impact of each.
Phylogenetic analysis and morphology of Ganoderma multipileum, a Ganoderma species associated with dieback of the metropolitan woody plant Delonix regia (Boj. ex Hook.) Raf. in Vietnam
Authors: Nguyen Trang Thi Thu , Nguyen Hoang Duc , Bui Anh Tu , Pham Khanh Huyen Thi , Van Kim Thuong Pham , Tran Linh Thuoc , Tran Manh Hung
Published: August 2023

Ganoderma multipileum, a wood decay mushroom, was initially discovered and classified in Taiwan through the analysis of its morphology and the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region of nuclear ribosomal DNA. In this study, we identified a mushroom associated with the dieback of Delonix regia (Boj. ex Hook.) Raf., a woody ornamental street tree in Vietnam, as Ganoderma multipileum. This classification was based on phylogenetic analysis of ITS, RPB2, and TEF1 sequences, as well as morphology assessment and scanning electron microscope observation of basidiospores. The phylogenetic analysis revealed that the specimens collected in Vietnam formed a monophyletic group of Ganoderma multipileum with a high bootstrap value and posterior probability (100%/1.00). Furthermore, the morphological features consistent with laccate Ganoderma, including a thin pileipellis composed of enlarged and bulbous hyphae, and the basidiomes exhibited two different phenotypes. Notably, scanning electron microscopy of the basidiospores revealed ovoid spores with numerous echinules, providing the first documented evidence of this characteristic for Ganoderma multipileum. This research represents the first recorded instance of Ganoderma multipileum in Vietnam associated with the dieback of Delonix regia.
Pioneers of Gentrification: Women Entrepreneurs Prospecting in a Post-Soviet Industrial City
Authors: Redkina Irina
Published: August 2023

After the introduction of market reforms in the post-socialist coal-mining city of Mezhdurechensk (Russia), the original urban planning rooted in Soviet industrial modernity adapted to the logic of globalization and gentrification. One way this played out is the conversion of streets into sites of consumption, with the appearance of numerous ground-floor shops that gave underemployed women an opportunity to facilitate early gentrification. This dynamic ended in the mid-2010s, when more prominent market players began to dominate the city space with franchise shops. This article is an ethnographic exploration of how working-class women, drawing on their gendered and class-based skills, demarcate a place for themselves in post-Soviet industrial settings and become the pioneers of gentrification. I also explore the limits of women’s self-employment activities and the narrative of individual responsibility for entrepreneurial failure, namely the eventual closure of their businesses twenty-five years later.
Effects of a Synchronous Online Fraction Intervention Using Virtual Manipulatives for Students With Learning Disabilities
Authors: Park Jiyeon , Bryant Diane P. , Shin Mikyung
Published: August 2023

This study investigates the effects of a synchronous online intervention that explicitly taught equivalent fractions using virtual manipulatives to fifth-grade students with learning disabilities. Employing a multiple probe across participants single-case design, this study provided 15 fraction lessons via video conferencing programs to three fifth-grade students with learning disabilities. During these online interventions, participants received one-on-one explicit instruction, practiced key concepts using virtual manipulatives, and solved fraction problems using interactive boards. Researcher-developed probes measured the participants’ percentages of correct answers across baseline, intervention, and maintenance phases via an online assessment tool. In overall, students’ performance improved as the intervention was introduced; however, the extent and maintenance of improvement varied according to the students’ participation and perspectives regarding online instruction.
Quantifying scientists’ research ability by taking institutions’ scientific impact as priori information
Authors: Huang Shengzhi , Lu Wei , Huang Yong , Luo Zhuoran
Published: August 2023

Scholar performance evaluation is extremely important in research assessment decisions, such as funding allocation, academic rankings, and academic promotion. In this article, we propose the institution Q model (IQ) and its two variants (IQ-2 and IQ-3), which aim to evaluate the individual-level research ability to publish high-quality scientific papers. Specifically, our models integrate scientists’ institutions, countries and collaborators as valuable prior information and jointly evaluate the research ability of scientists from different institutions. To estimate model parameters and hidden variables defined in our models, we propose a generic BBVI-EM algorithm. To test the effectiveness of our models, we examine their performance on the synthetic data and the empirical data (17,750/26,992 scientists in the computer science/physics field). We find that our models can more accurately quantify the research ability of scientists and institutions and more effectively predict scientists’ scientific impact (the h-index and total citations) than the Q model and common machine learning models. In conclusion, our models are effective evaluation and prediction tools for quantifying research ability and predicting the scientific impact, and the BBVI-EM algorithm is an effective variational inference algorithm. This study makes a theoretical contribution to broaden the idea of incorporating the academic environment into scientific evaluation.
Scaling up and hunkering down: The evolution of Beothuk houses and households
Authors: Holly Donald H , Erwin John C , Wolff Christopher B , Hull Stephen H , Samuels Amanda , Brake Jamie
Published: August 2023

We examine two concurrent trends in the later history of the Beothuk: changes to domestic architecture and household composition, and the narrowing of sharing obligations. The former is evident in the emergence and growth of pithouses and households, and the latter, in the partitioning of resources and the elaboration of food storage strategies. Both occur as European settlement and hostilities intensify and the Beothuk are denied access to coastal resources. These shifts may be reflective of social strategies aimed at incorporating extended family members and others from shattered homes, as well as cultural adjustments to increased sedentism and structural changes in the subsistence economy. These developments illustrate how hunter-gatherer domestic architecture can track with changes to the social environment.
Book review: K. M. Shrimali, The Religious Enterprise: Studies in Early Indian Religions
Authors: Ghosh Suchandra
Published: August 2023

K. M. Shrimali, The Religious Enterprise: Studies in Early Indian Religions (2 Vols.; Delhi: Aakar, 2022), pp. XVI +684, ₹3,500, (Hard binding). ISBN-978-93-5002-769.
Acceptance and utilisation of lean principles as a business improvement initiative at an academic library in South Africa
Authors: Abrahams Rafiekah , Ngulube Patrick
Published: August 2023

This study used a case study approach to explore how librarians understood lean principles and the extent to which they used these principles to improve their practices. Lean principles have the potential of improving the process in the operation of organisations. The application of lean principles in many organisations, including academic libraries, seems to be limited. Although there is much scholarly communication on the successful implementation of lean principles, no research could be found on the implementation of lean principles in the processes and workflows of creating access to e-resources in academic libraries. An exploratory qualitative case study design within an interpretive paradigm informed this study. A purposive sample of 12 participants was interviewed and the data were analysed, using the reflexive thematic analysis supported by ATLAS.ti 22. The participants were not familiar with lean principles. However, they could articulate their responsibilities of the processes and workflows in creating and managing access to e-resources in their workspaces. The empirical data from the lean waste exercises affirmed that should lean principles be implemented in the processes, and workflows to streamline access to e-resources at the academic library it will enhance the delivery of an excellent customer service. The findings of this study can inform policymakers and librarians on how the implementation of lean principles to the processes and workflows can enhance and streamline access to e-resources.
A grounded theory study exploring palliative care healthcare professionals’ experiences of managing digital legacy as part of advance care planning for people receiving palliative care
Authors: Stanley Sarah , Higginbotham Karen , Finucane Anne , Nwosu Amara Callistus
Published: August 2023

Background:

Digital legacy refers to the online content available about someone following their death. This may include social media profiles, photos, blogs or gaming profiles. Some patients may find it comforting that their digital content remains online, and those bereaved may view it as a way to continue bonds with the deceased person. Despite its growing relevance, there is limited evidence worldwide around the experiences of palliative care professionals in supporting patients to manage their digital legacy.

Aim:

To identify palliative care healthcare professionals’ experiences of supporting patients receiving palliative care in managing digital legacy as part of advance care planning discussions.

Design:

A constructivist grounded theory approach was used to understand healthcare professionals’ experiences of managing digital legacy. Semi-structured interviews were carried out.

Setting and participants:

Participants were 10 palliative care healthcare professionals from across the multidisciplinary team working in a hospice in the North-West of England.

Results:

Four theoretical categories were found to revolve around an emergent theory ‘understanding the impact of digital legacy’ which describe the experiences of palliative care healthcare professionals managing digital legacy as part of advance care planning. These were ‘ accessing digital legacy’; ‘ becoming part of advance care planning’; ‘ impacting grief and bereavement’; and ‘ raising awareness of digital legacy’.

Conclusions:

The emerging theory ‘ understanding the impact of digital legacy’ offers insight into the knowledge and experiences of healthcare professionals working in a palliative care setting. Digital assets were viewed as being equally as important as physical assets and should be considered as part of advance care planning conversations.
Internal versus external biliary drainage in malignant biliary obstructions: is there a difference in the rate of infection?
Authors: Ongen Gokhan , Nas Omer Fatih , Hacikurt Kadir , Dundar Halit Ziya , Ozkaya Guven , Kaya Ekrem , Hakyemez Bahattin
Published: August 2023

Background

Percutaneous biliary drainage is a frequently used method to provide biliary decompression in patients with biliary obstruction.

Purpose

To investigate the between drainage type and infection risk in patients treated with internal-external and external biliary drainage catheterization for malignant biliary obstruction.

Material and Methods

A total of 410 patients with malignant biliary obstruction who underwent internal-external or external biliary drainage catheterization between January 2012 and October 2016 were retrospectively evaluated. We investigated the correlation between percutaneous biliary drainage technique and infection frequency by evaluating patients with clinical findings, bile and blood cultures, complete blood counts, and blood biochemistry.

Results

There was no statistically significant difference between the selected patient groups (internal-external or external biliary drainage catheter placed) in terms of age, sex, primary diagnosis, receiving chemotherapy, catheter sizes, and outpatient-patient status. After catheterization, catheter-related infection was observed in 49 of 216 (22.7%) patients with internal-external and 18 of 127 (14.2%) patients with external biliary drainage catheters, according to the defined criteria. There was no difference in infection rate after the biliary drainage in the two groups ( P > 0.05). There was also no difference concerning frequently proliferating microorganisms in bile cultures.

Conclusion

Internal-external biliary drainage catheter placement does not bring an additional infection risk for uninfected cholestatic patients whose obstruction could be passed easily in the initial drainage.
Causal Effect of New Bus Rapid Transit on Non-Work-Related Activities
Authors: Song Yang , Zhong Sinan , Lee Chanam , Xu Minjie
Published: August 2023

Bus rapid transit (BRT) has emerged as a promising solution to support sustainable urban development. Using smartphone mobility data, this quasi-experiment in El Paso, Texas explored the impacts of BRT on visits to non-work-related business destinations and socioeconomic disparities in these impacts. Fixed effect models were used to compare visit frequencies between treatment (within 0.5 mile of BRT stations) and control areas. Results showed that BRT increased business destination visits, especially among low-income and older populations. Further efforts are needed to investigate the full range of BRT benefits and strategies to promote transit-oriented development around BRT.
A Comparison of Decision Rule Accuracy From Curriculum-Based Measurement of Reading and Nonsense Word Fluency
Authors: Van Norman Ethan R. , Klingbeil David A. , Truman Kirsten , Nelson Peter M. , Parker David C.
Published: August 2023

The transition from sounding out unfamiliar words to effortlessly reading connected text does not occur all at once or at the same rate for students. The purpose of this study was to explore the accuracy of three decision rules (data point, median, and trend line) applied to progress monitoring outcomes of alphabetic principle (nonsense word fluency [NWF]) and oral reading rate (curriculum-based measurement of reading [CBM-R]). Outcomes from a sample of U.S. students receiving Tier-2 supports in oral reading and decoding were analyzed to generate model parameters. Scores were simulated for NWF and CBM-R, and decision rules were applied to schedules where one observation was collected per week. The trend-line rule was viable with NWF after 7 weeks and 9 to 10 weeks with CBM-R. Differences in base rates of non-proficiency between measures call into question the utility of NWF to capture student improvement in alphabetic principle as they encounter increasingly complex word types.
What About Beauty in Planning Theory and Practice?
Authors: Elbaz Asher , Alfasi Nurit
Published: August 2023

Beauty has been an important, central concept since ancient times. Over the centuries, its status deteriorated until it became improper for academic discussion. In the last two decades, there has been a call to revisit beauty and aesthetic judgment in some disciplines. However, despite interest in urban design, the integration of beauty in planning theory and practice remains slow and partial. This paper presents the changing relevance of beauty in general academic discourse in four milestones before analyzing literature on planning and follows the changing attitude toward aesthetics. The conclusion points to a possible resurgence of beauty in planning literature.