bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impacts of the exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) combined with the regeneration mode in a compression ignition diesel engine operating at cold conditions
Authors: Galindo José , Dolz Vicente , Monsalve-Serrano Javier , Bernal Miguel Angel , Odillard Laurent
Published: April 2021

Internal combustion engines working at cold conditions lead to the production of excessive pollutant emissions levels. The use of the exhaust gas recirculation could be necessary to reduce the nitrogen oxides emissions, even at these conditions. This paper evaluates the impact of using the high-pressure exhaust gas recirculation strategy while the diesel particulate filter is under active regeneration mode on a Euro 6 turbocharged diesel engine running at low ambient temperature (−7°C). This strategy is evaluated under 40 h of operation, 20 of them using the two systems in combination. The results show that the activation of the high-pressure exhaust gas recirculation during the particulate filter regeneration process leads to a 50% nitrogen oxides emissions reduction with respect to a reference case without exhaust gas recirculation. Moreover, the modification of some engine parameters compared to the base calibration, as the exhaust gas recirculation rate, the main fuel injection timing and the post injection quantity, allows to optimize this strategy by reducing the carbon monoxide emissions up to 60%. Regarding the hydrocarbons emissions and fuel consumption, a small advantage could be observed using this strategy. However, the activation of the high-pressure exhaust gas recirculation at low temperatures can produce fouling deposits and condensation on the engine components (valve, cooler, intake manifold, etc.) and can contribute to reach saturation conditions on the particulate filter. For these reasons, the regeneration efficiency is followed during the experiments through the filter status, concluding that the use of low high-pressure exhaust gas recirculation rates in combination with the regeneration mode also allows to clean the soot particles of the particulate filter. These soot depositions are visualized and presented at the end of this work with a brief analysis of the soot characteristics and a quantitative estimation of the total soot volume produced during the experimental campaign.
A state-centred conception of nationhood? Norwegian bureaucrats on the nation
Authors: Erdal Marta Bivand , Fangen Katrine
Published: April 2021

This article engages critically with the idea of state-centred nationhood, including its promises and limitations, as a foundation for state strategies of forging unity in (migration-related) diversity within nations. As states across Europe grapple with the management of migration-related diversity, in contexts of increasing polarization of public debate on nationhood, which conceptions of nationhood do they draw on? We build on data from Norway, including policy documents and parliamentary debates, and draw on ten interviews with eleven bureaucrats in senior positions. Our interviewees were tasked with different aspects of the state’s nation building work, such as immigration control, national minorities (including Sami populations), religious and life-stance communities, and the 200-year anniversary of the Constitution. When asking which conceptions of nationhood bureaucrats draw on, we acknowledge that someone is doing the state’s nation building work. We find that the bureaucrats draw on a range of conceptions of nationhood, where ethnic and civic, more open and more closed dimensions, are mobilized. However, we did not find a cohesive conception of a state-centred nationhood being promulgated. Instead, our interviewees expressed uncertainty about how and to what extent nationhood could or should be mobilized to forge unity among Norwegian citizens. We argue that future research should move beyond dichotomies such as ethnic/civic or elite/everyday nationhood to theorize the composite articulations of nationhood which emerge empirically. Who bureaucrats effectively see as the imagined community, we argue, remains central to understanding states nation-building efforts.
Tensions in support for family caregivers of people with dementia in Singapore: A qualitative study
Authors: Basnyat Iccha , Chang Leanne
Published: April 2021

Background

Family members as informal caregivers are considered the first line of support for people with dementia across the world. In Singapore, caregiving expectations revolve around the cultural expectations of providing care in the home environment. However, studies in Singapore have identified a lack of family support for primary caregivers. Family support has been discussed in the literature as the provision of care for people with dementia, and rarely as a resource for family caregivers.

Method

To understand family support among primary caregivers in Singapore, 24 semi-structured interviews were conducted. Thematic analysis found four themes: excuses for lack of physical support for the caregiver, tensions between cultural expectations of caregiving and the provision of support, unmet emotional support, and lack of awareness of dementia and caregiving needs.

Findings

Caregivers rationalized and forgave the absence of physical support but were frustrated when the lack of support impacted people with dementia. This was seen as a lack of fulfilling cultural obligations of caring for elderly parents. The caregivers also felt frustrated with the lack of emotional support provided to them, but these were unspoken between the caregiver and the family members. Insufficient and unhelpful support giving was exacerbated with the perception of family members’ limited understanding of the demands of caregiving.

Conclusion

The findings offer four practical suggestions to address unmet support needs. First, public education is needed to enhance general knowledge about the symptoms and progression of dementia. Second, help is needed to address miscommunication about support within the family. Third, the development of guidebooks is needed to help family caregivers communicate with family members about their various support needs. Fourth, the relationship between cultural expectation and caregiving must be understood within the context of modernity and urbanism.
Strategic issue diagnosis by top management teams: A multiple-agent model
Authors: Miller Kent D , Lin Shu-Jou
Published: April 2021

This study proposes an explanation for the accuracy of top management teams’ diagnoses of strategic issues. Key determinants are the number of members on the management team, as well as the span of managers’ attention and its allocation to the environment and to other managers. Depending on the nature of the issues faced, managers who reason analogically from past experience to draw inferences about current strategic issues may arrive at accurate or inaccurate diagnoses. We specify and analyze a multiple-agent model that encompasses individual, top management team, and context characteristics relevant to classifying strategic issues as opportunities or threats based on learning from experience. Results from our model indicate that attending to the environment improves the accuracy of strategic issue diagnoses, whereas attending to other managers’ inferences proves detrimental. Adding members can enhance issue diagnosis accuracy for a team that makes decisions according to majority-rule voting, despite leaving the accuracy of individual managers’ diagnoses unchanged.
Growth factors in the fetus and pre-adolescent offspring of hyperglycemic rats
Authors: Fordjour Lawrence , Cai Charles , Bronshtein Vadim , Bronshtein Mayan , Aranda Jacob V , Beharry Kay D
Published: April 2021

Background:

Maternal hyperglycemia influences childhood metabolic syndrome, including obesity and hyperglycemia. We tested the hypothesis that the maternal hyperglycemia influences growth factors in the fetal and pre-adolescent offspring.

Methods:

Hyperglycemia was induced in pregnant rats on embryonic day (E)16 using streptozocin followed by implantation with insulin or placebo pellets at embryonic day 18 (E18). Fetuses at E20 and pre-adolescent pups at postnatal day 14 (P14) were studied: (1) normal untreated controls (CTL) at E20; (2) hyperglycemic placebo-treated (HPT) at E20; (3) hyperglycemic insulin-treated (HIT) at E20; (4) CTL at P14; and (5) HIT at P14. Fetal and pre-adolescent growth factors were determined.

Results:

Biomarkers of hypoxia were elevated in the HPT group at E20. This group did not survive to term. Maternal insulin improved fetal survival despite lower fetal body weight at E20, however, at normal birth (postnatal day 0 (P0)) and at P14, body weights and blood glucose were higher than CTL. These high levels correlated with aberrant growth factors. Maternal hyperglycemia influenced glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase, glucagon, insulin, interleukin-10, and leptin genes.

Conclusions:

The impact of maternal hyperglycemia on pre-adolescent glucose and body weight was not a consequence of maternal overnutrition. This suggests an independent link which may affect offspring metabolic health in later life.
Impact and Efficiency Ranking of Football Managers in the Italian Serie A: Sport and Financial Performance
Authors: Buzzacchi Luigi , Caviggioli Federico , Milone Francesco Luigi , Scotti Davide
Published: April 2021

The contribution of managers to the performance of football teams in the Italian Serie A is investigated. Previous results are extended by analyzing two measures of performance: the awarded points from winning matches (sport performance) and the growth of the market value of players (financial performance). Several empirical methods are employed: OLS regressions, Shorrocks-Shapley decompositions of R-squared and Data Envelopment Analysis. Our findings suggest that managers exert a significant influence on both sport and financial performances with differences between top and worst coaches. However, most of the observable characteristics in a manager’s curriculum are not significantly related to team performance.
Development and Validation of a RNA Binding Protein-Associated Prognostic Model for Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Wang Ming , Jiang Feng , Wei Ke , Wang Jimei , Zhou Guoping , Wu Chuyan , Yin Guoyong
Published: April 2021

Background:

Dysregulation of RNA binding proteins (RBPs) has been identified in multiple malignant tumors correlated with tumor progression and occurrence. However, the function of RBPs is not well understood in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).

Methods:

The RNA sequence data of HCC was extracted out of the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database and different RBPs were calculated between regular and cancerous tissue. The study explored the expression and predictive value of the RBPs systemically with a series of bioinformatic analyzes.

Results:

A total of 330 RBPs, including 208 up-regulated and 122 down-regulated RBPs, were classified differently. Four RBPs (MRPL54, EZH2, PPARGC1A, EIF2AK4) were defined as the forecast related hub gene and used to construct a model for prediction. Further study showed that the high-risk subgroup is poor survived (OS) compared to the model-based low-risk subgroup. The area of the prognostic model under the time-dependent receiver operator characteristic (ROC) curve is 0.814 in TCGA training group and 0.729 in validation group, indicating a strong prognostic model. We also created a predictive nomogram and a web-based calculator ( https://dxyjiang.shinyapps.io/RBPpredict/ ) based on the 4 RBPs and internal validation in the TCGA cohort, which displayed a beneficial predictive ability for HCC.

Conclusions:

Our results provide new insights into HCC pathogenesis. The 4-RBP gene signature showed a reliable HCC prediction ability with possible applications in therapeutic decision making and personalized therapy.
Dosimetric Evaluation of the QFix kVueTM Calypso Couch Top
Authors: Hou Lingtong , Zhang Huiqin , Sun Xiaomei , Liu Qianqian , Chen Tingfeng , Liu Yong , Jiang Xiaodong , Yao Shengyu
Published: April 2021

Purpose:

To evaluate the dosimetric accuracy of the default couch model of the QFix kVueTM Calypso couch top in the treatment planning system.

Methods:

With the gantry 180°, field size 20 × 20 cm, 6 MV, we measured the depth dose, off-axis dose, and dose plane of different depths in the phantom with the couch rails in and out, respectively. Isocenter doses at different angles were also obtained. The results were compared to the doses calculated using the default couch top model and the real scanned couch top model. Then we revised the default model according to the measured results.

Results:

With “Rails In,” the depth dose, off-axis dose, and dose plane of the default couch top model had a big difference with the dose of the real scanned couch top model and the measured result. The dose of the real scanned couch top model was much closer to the measured result, but in the region of the rail edge, the difference was still significant. With “Rails Out,” there was a minor difference between the measured result, the dose of the default couch top model and the real scanned couch top model. The difference between the measurement and the default couch top model became very small after being revised.

Conclusions:

It is better to avoid the beam angle passing through the couch rails in treatment plans, or you should revise the parameter of the QFix kVueTM Calypso couch top model based on the measured results, and verify the treatment plan before clinical practice.
Using the Newcastle Model to Understand and Manage Behaviors That Challenge in Dementia: A Case Study
Authors: Rickardsson Nils , Crooks Suzanne
Published: April 2021

Behaviors that challenge (BC) are common in dementia and can have a significant impact on the wellbeing of the person with dementia, their family and staff in care homes. The Newcastle model is a biopsychosocial, person-centerd, approach that aims to support care staff and family members in order to manage BC within care homes by identifying and fulfilling unmet needs of the person with dementia. After outlining its theoretical basis and practical utility, we describe a case study where the Newcastle model has been implemented to manage sexualised behaviors and verbal aggression. The patient described is a lady with dementia residing in a care home where the staff felt unable to manage increasing incidence of these BC. Information from multiple sources was collated to conceptualise the behaviors and understand them in terms of unmet needs, which was followed by a process to develop corresponding practical strategies together with care staff and family. Following successful implementation of the Newcastle model, the care staff reported a reduction in BC on standardised instruments (Cohen-Mansfield Agitation Inventory, and the Neuropsychiatric Inventory). The staff group also described increasing confidence in managing sexualised vocalisations as they had a better understanding with regards to premorbid history and personality, and an increased awareness of the impact of dementia on behavior. Complicating factors relating to staff stress and physical health conditions in older adults are discussed, and adaptations to the model are suggested in order to maintain treatment gains in the long-term.
An Agentic Approach to Food Access and Acquisition: The Case of Mixed Neighborhoods in the Paris Metropolis
Authors: Ferrant Coline
Published: April 2021

How do urban residents access and acquire food? Building on the food desert scholarship, I propose an agentic framework and fieldwork in two mixed neighborhoods (one gentrifying, one working-class suburban) in the Paris metropolis. First- and second-generation immigrants perceive the metropolis as a rich and diverse food environment, whereas natives perceive their neighborhood of residence as a food-deficient environment. First- and second-generation immigrants endow mobility with self-efficacy, whereas natives construct proximity as a moral value. First- and second-generation immigrants’ acquisition practices consider price and types of foods and span the metropolis. Those of natives consider types of foods and center on their neighborhood of residence. These findings complicate neighborhood-centric, spatially deterministic approaches to food access and acquisition, by highlighting structural (access to transportation and disposable time and income) and cultural dimensions (judgments and practices). Theoretically, they suggest two distinct ways in which urban residents find meaning in performing mundane activities: believing in self-efficacy and constructing moral values. Additional implications regard social life in gentrifying neighborhoods, space and place in European urban societies, and everyday life and public transportation in the Paris metropolis.
Localizing the Seizure Onset Site Through Metabolic Imaging of GABA
Authors: Eid Tore
Published: April 2021

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MRI Assessment of Sacroiliitis With High-Resolution Protocol
Authors: Berkowitz Jennifer L. , Mandl Lisa A. , Burge Alissa J. , Roberts John A. , Lin Bin , Schwartzman Sergio , Carrino John A.
Published: April 2021

Background: Sacroiliac (SI) joint subchondral resorption on high-resolution magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may be an early sign of the development of sacroiliitis. At our institution, high-resolution intermediate-weighted (proton density) MRI sequences are used in the workup of suspected spondyloarthritis (SpA). Questions/Purpose: We sought to test the hypothesis that SI joint subchondral resorption might be a useful MRI feature in the diagnosis of sacroiliitis. Methods: We retrospectively reviewed the records of patients with suspected SpA from a single rheumatologist’s practice from January 1, 2010, to December 31, 2017. Patients had an MRI of the SI joints, using our institution’s specialized protocol, and underwent standard physical examination and laboratory evaluation. The sensitivity and specificity of SI joint subchondral resorption in the identification of sacroiliitis were estimated using the clinical diagnosis as the reference standard and from a Bayesian latent class model with conditional dependence. Results: SI joint subchondral resorption on SI joint MRI was highly correlated with a positive diagnosis in patients worked up for axial SpA. It demonstrated superior sensitivity when compared with other MRI features used in the MRI diagnosis of sacroiliitis, such as bone marrow edema pattern, erosion, and ankylosis. Interobserver reliability was high for subchondral resorption. Conclusion: This retrospective study found that subchondral resorption on MRI evaluation of the SI joints appeared to be a sensitive indicator of SpA, potentially of early disease. This imaging feature warrants evaluation in other cohorts of patients suspected of having axial SpA to validate diagnostic performance in diverse populations.
Older Adults’ Experiences and Perceptions of Immersive Virtual Reality: A Protocol for a Systematic Review and Thematic Synthesis
Authors: Healy David , Flynn Aisling , Conlan Owen , McSharry Jenny , Walsh Jane
Published: April 2021

Background:

In the current digital age, new opportunities arise to support healthy ageing in older adults as frailty and immobility become more prominent. Immersive virtual reality, which can be defined as a fully computer-generated environment that is displayed through a headmounted display, is one of these technologies. Recently, there has been an increase in the number of qualitative studies exploring the potential for immersive virtual reality in assisting older adults—providing opportunities in health promotion and tackling social isolation and loneliness. With this in mind, the current review aims to explore the following research questions: (1) What are older adults’ experiences and perceptions of immersive virtual reality? (2) What are the specific barriers and facilitators to older adults’ use of immersive virtual reality? (3) Do older adults find immersive virtual reality acceptable? The objective of the current study is to systematically review and synthesize qualitative data exploring older adults’ experiences and perceptions of immersive virtual reality.

Methods:

A systematic review and thematic synthesis will be conducted. Two reviewers will complete title and abstract screening, full-text screening and, data extraction and quality appraisal. A thematic synthesis will be conducted by the lead author, after which the research team and other key stakeholders will discuss the findings and make any necessary changes. Thematic synthesis is derived from the qualitative method, thematic analysis. It involves three key steps: initial coding and grouping of these codes, the formation of descriptive themes from these codes and finally, going beyond the data to form novel insights and theories known as analytical themes. The following protocol has been written following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic review and Meta-Analysis Protocols (PRISMA-P) guidelines.
Effects of an integrative neuromuscular training protocol vs. FIFA 11+ on sprint, change of direction performance and inter-limb asymmetries in young soccer players
Authors: Arede Jorge , Fernandes John , Moran Jason , Leite Nuno , Romero-Rodriguez Daniel , Madruga-Parera Marc
Published: April 2021

This study compared the effects of integrative neuromuscular training (INT) versus FIFA 11+ protocols on sprint, change of direction performance and inter-limb asymmetries. Thirty young (U-11) male soccer players (age: 11.2 ± 0.7 years; height: 145.6 ± 6.8 cm; body mass: 72.5 ± 3.0 kg) were randomly assigned to each training group, which consisted of two sessions/week for a period of 6-weeks. The INT consisted of play-based tasks designed according to structured training principles, whereas the FIFA 11+ followed standard procedures. Before and after the intervention, 0-20 sprint time and double 180° change of direction test were measured from which change of direction deficit and inter-limb asymmetries were also computed. Significant improvements were found in double 180° change of direction test and deficit for both legs in both groups (all p < 0.01). A significant decrease was observed in 0-20 sprint time ( p < 0.05), and inter-limb asymmetries for FIFA 11+ group. A significant group-by-time effect, which favored the FIFA 11+ group, was observed on double 180° change of direction in right leg (F = 15.08, p < 0.01, η 2 p = 0.35), but also in change of direction deficit in right (F = 214.19, p < 0.01, η 2 p = 0.88), and left legs (F = 126.79, p < 0.01, η 2 p = 0.82). These findings suggest youth soccer practitioners should select the FIFA 11+ program to improve inter-limb asymmetries and 0-20 sprint time, and that both training methods are suitable to improve 180° change of direction performance.
Reciprocal and non-reciprocal employee–organization relationship: The mediating roles of felt obligation and workplace familism among collegiate coaches
Authors: Won Doyeon , Bravo Gonzalo A , Chiu Weisheng
Published: April 2021

This study examined coaches’ perceived organizational support (POS) on their affective commitment and turnover intention and the role played by felt obligation (a reciprocal exchange) and workplace familism (a non-reciprocal exchange) on these work-related outcomes. Based on the stratified random sampling, a total of 333 full-time head coaches employed in athletic departments affiliated with the NCAA responded to a web-based survey. Results indicated that POS was positively associated with workplace familism and felt obligation, but it did not directly predict affective commitment. POS, felt obligation, and workplace familism collectively predicted 78.1% of the variances in affective commitment. Workplace familism and affective commitment were negatively associated with turnover intention, while felt obligation was not directly associated with turnover intention. The mediated effect of felt obligation and workplace familism reveals that both types of reciprocal and non-reciprocal exchanges matter for coaches. Although, when compared, the influence of workplace familism was stronger than felt obligation. The findings of this study provide a better understanding of how POS affects positive work-related outcomes in the context of collegiate athletics and offer practical implications for athletic programs to develop the senses of felt-obligation and work familism, which lead to better employee-organization relationship.
TLR4 and TLR9 polymorphism: Probable role in susceptibility among the population of Bihar for Indian visceral leishmaniasis
Authors: Mandal Abhishek , Kumar Manish , Kumar Ashish , Sen Abhik , Das Pradeep , Das Sushmita
Published: April 2021

Genetic variations in the host TLRs genes play an important role in susceptibility and/or resistance to visceral leishmaniasis by altering the host-pathogen interaction. In this study, we investigated the association between polymorphisms of TLR4 (Asp299Gly, Thr399Ile) and TLR-9 (T-1237C), with susceptibility to visceral leishmaniasis. A bi-directional PCR amplification of specific alleles technique was used to characterize the distribution of TLR4 (Asp299Gly and Thr399Ile) and TLR9 (T-1237C) polymorphisms. A total of 60 samples were randomly selected from confirmed visceral leishmaniasis patients and 24 endemic healthy volunteers. The samples were genotyped and allele frequencies were determined. We observed that TLR4 Asp299Gly and Thr399Ile genotypes were more frequent in visceral leishmaniasis patients (10% and 15% respectively) compared to controls (4.2% and 8.3% respectively). However, the differences were not significant in TLR4 Asp299Gly and Thr399Ile alleles and genotypes. In the case of TLR9, we observed the frequency of T1237C genotype was higher in visceral leishmaniasis patients (43.3%) than in healthy controls (33.3%). Statistically significant differences were observed in TLR9 T1237C alleles and genotypes. We concluded that TLR9 T1237C, but not TLR4, gene polymorphisms can be regarded as contributors to visceral leishmaniasis susceptibility among the Indian population of Bihar state.
Unexpected tumor reduction in metastatic colorectal cancer patients during SARS-Cov-2 infection
Authors: Ottaiano Alessandro , Scala Stefania , D’Alterio Crescenzo , Trotta Annamaria , Bello Annamaria , Rea Giuseppina , Picone Carmine , Santorsola Mariachiara , Petrillo Antonella , Nasti Guglielmo
Published: April 2021

Herein, we describe three patients affected by metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) experiencing infection by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-Cov-2) and reduction of disease burden during coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) course. Insights into tumor-associated angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE)-2 expression and lymphocyte function suggest a correlation between host/SARS-Cov-2 infection and tumor burden reduction. This may shed new light into (a) the infection mechanism of SARS-CoV-2 virus and (b) the multiple aspects of a composite antiviral immune response with potential paradoxical and unexpected applications.
Which access to which assets for an effective liberalization of the railway sector?
Authors: Bougette Patrice , Gautier Axel , Marty Frédéric
Published: April 2021

In the European rail industry, to enable competition in the market, entrants should be granted access to a large set of complementary services, beyond access to the tracks. For an efficient and effective entry, temporary access to quasi-essential complementary assets like rolling stock, mechanical maintenance workshops, data, schedules, etc. is required. In the liberalized rail sector, several observed anticompetitive practices involve distorted access to these quasiessential facilities. Therefore, competition agencies must deal with litigation between the incumbent and new entrants. Most cases have been settled, resulting in commitments from the incumbent. We argue that such transitory and case-by-case remedies fail to produce favorable conditions for a secure and efficient entry. Thus, we propose to systematize such remedies through asymmetric and enduring ex-ante regulation.
Music and movement teacher professional development: An interview study with Hong Kong kindergarten teachers
Authors: Bautista Alfredo , Ho Yan Lam
Published: April 2021

Despite the urgent need to provide kindergarten teachers with professional development (PD) in music and movement, little is known about their needs, motivations, and preferences in this area. This interview study explores Hong Kong kindergarten teachers’ prior music and movement educational experiences and their self-perceived usefulness of such experiences, their needs and motivations to participate in further music and movement PD, and their preferences regarding PD facilitators, times, and learning activities. Evidence reveals that participants felt unprepared to enact the local music and movement curriculum guidelines, perceiving their prior educational experiences to be of low quality. Teachers showed high levels of need and motivation to participate in music and movement PD, showing preferences for initiatives facilitated by expert kindergarten teachers and musicians/performers, conducted during working hours or online, and involving classroom-based and content-focused activities. Findings raise awareness about the importance of providing kindergarten teachers with responsive music and movement PD.
In Vitro Validation of Network Pharmacology Predictions: Ginsenoside Rg3 Inhibits Hepatocellular Carcinoma Cell Proliferation via SIRT2
Authors: Zheng Qiyu , Qiu Zhidong , Sun Zhiyuan , Cao Lingling , Li Fuqiang , Liu Da , Wu Donglu
Published: April 2021

To elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying the therapeutic activity of ginsenoside Rg3 (Gs-Rg3) in the context of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Methods Relevant databases were searched to identify protein targets that were both dysregulated and implicated in HCC, as well as targeted by Gs-Rg3. Generation of a protein-protein interaction network facilitated the selection of connected nodes for the construction of a shared disease- and drug-target interaction network model, and topological analysis identified the most highly connected nodes. Targets were annotated with their associated Gene Ontology terms, followed by Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes biological pathway enrichment analysis. In vitro experiments using 2 hours CC cell lines (Bel-7402 and HCCLM3) were performed to investigate the impact of Gs-Rg3 on cell proliferation, viability, cell cycle, cyclin D1 and sirtuin 2 (SIRT2) levels, and global cellular histone acetylation (specifically H3K18ac and H4K16ac). Results Network pharmacology suggested that Gs-Rg3 synergistically targets multiple proteins and pathways relevant to HCC pathogenesis, including those involved in cell cycle and proliferation. In vitro experiments confirmed that Gs-Rg3 dose-dependently inhibits cell proliferation and viability; induces G1 phase cell cycle arrest; decreases cyclin D1, cyclin-dependent kinase 2 (CDK2), and SIRT2 levels; and enhances global H3K18ac and H4K16ac. Conclusions Hypotheses derived from the network analysis were confirmed in vitro. Gs-Rg3 induces G1 phase cell cycle arrest, concomitant with decreased cyclin D1 and CDK2 levels, suggesting a possible mechanism for inhibiting proliferation. In addition, Gs-Rg3 decreases SIRT2 levels, concomitant with enhanced global H3K18ac and H4K16ac. These findings provide a theoretical basis and a support for further preclinical study of the safety and antineoplastic molecular mechanisms of Gs-Rg3, with the goal of eventual clinical translation.
Materially Just: Virtuous Methodology in Fascist Times
Authors: Kuntz Aaron M.
Published: April 2021

In this article, I consider how our materialist inquiry might enact a sense of justice and virtue in these fascist times. I do so through the following overarching claim: addressing fascism requires a simultaneous challenge to the seductive entanglements of liberalism, humanism, and capitalism, a dense skein of ethical, ontological, epistemological, and material formations we order to conventionally live our lives. To engage such an argument, I first examine fascism as a governing force within our daily lives that works to shape the material contexts we encounter each and every day. To productively engage with the ubiquity of fascist ways of living, I examine philosophical inquiry practices that extend from a decidedly materialist orientation.
Assessment of Biomarker Heterogeneity in Sinus Versus Inferior Turbinate Tissue in Patients Without Chronic Rhinosinusitis
Authors: Carle Taylor R. , Wu Tara J. , Wung Vivian , Suh Jeffrey D. , Wang Marilene B. , Wells Christine R. , Rossetti Maura , Lee Jivianne T.
Published: April 2021

Background

Currently, no consensus exists on the appropriate control specimen site to utilize in studies evaluating for biomarkers in chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS). Studies thus far have utilized tissue from various anatomic sites despite regional heterogeneity.

Objective

We set out to quantify the differences in biomarker levels present in inferior turbinate versus sphenoid sinus mucosa in paired healthy control patients. We hypothesize that statistically significant differences in cytokine/chemokine expression exist between these two distinct sites.

Methods

A 38-plex commercially available cytokine/chemokine Luminex Assay was performed on 54 specimens encompassing paired inferior turbinate and sphenoid sinus mucosa samples from 27 patients undergoing endoscopic anterior skull base surgery. Patients with a history of CRS were excluded. Paired sample t-tests and Fisher’s exact tests were performed.

Results

Twenty-seven patients were included in the study, including 10 male and 17 female patients with an average age of 48 years. The following 8 biomarkers had statistically significant concentration differences between inferior turbinate mucosa and sphenoid mucosa sites: Flt-3L, Fractalkine, IL-12p40, IL-1Ra, IP-10, MCP-1, MIP-1β, and VEGF, with all P-values <0.01.

Conclusion

No consensus exists regarding the optimal choice of control specimen for CRS research. We present statistically significant quantitative differences in biomarker levels between paired inferior turbinate and sphenoid mucosa samples. This confirms the presence of heterogeneity between different subsites of sinonasal mucosa and highlights the need for standardization in future CRS research.
European Criminal Bar Association statement of principles on the use of video-conferencing in criminal cases in a Post-Covid-19 World
Authors: Ramos Vânia Costa , Anagnostakis Alexis , Barletta Amedeo , Tehver Jaanus , Canestrini Nicola
Published: April 2021

This is a statement by the European Criminal Bar Association on the use of Video-Conferencing in Criminal Cases in a Post-Covid-19 World. It addresses the topic using a two-fold distinction between the use of remote hearings in domestic and in cross-border cases, on one hand, and the use of such of remote technology for conducting interviews of the suspect or accused in the pre-trial stages or at trial hearings, on the other hand. Recognising that these distinctive settings impact differently upon the seriousness of the interference with the fair trial rights and the rights of defence of the suspect or accused, and also upon the circumstances that must be weighed in order to assess whether restrictions are proportionate, adequate and necessary, the European Criminal Bar Association assesses whether the use of remote technologies in those different settings is acceptable and outlines proposals for further action in the field.
Characterising the incidence and mode of visceral stent failure after fenestrated endovascular aneurysm repair (FEVAR)
Authors: Patel Shaneel R , Roy Iain N , McWilliams Richard G , Brennan John A , Vallabhaneni Srinivasa R , Neequaye Simon K , Smout Jonathan D , Fisher Robert K
Published: April 2021

Background

In FEVAR, visceral stents provide continuity and maintain perfusion between the main body of the stent and the respective visceral artery. The aim of this study was to characterise the incidence and mode of visceral stent failure (type Ic endoleak, type IIIa endoleak, stenosis/kink, fracture, crush and occlusion) after FEVAR in a large cohort of patients at a high-volume centre.

Methods

A retrospective review of visceral stents placed during FEVAR over 15 years (February 2003-December 2018) was performed. Kaplan-Meier analyses of freedom from visceral stent-related complications were performed. The outcomes between graft configurations of varying complexity were compared, as were the outcomes of different stent types and different visceral vessels.

Results

Visceral stent complications occurred in 47/236 patients (19.9%) and 54/653 stents (8.3%). Median follow up was 3.7 years (IQR 1.7–5.3 years). There was no difference in visceral stent complication rate between renal, SMA and coeliac arteries. Visceral stent complications were more frequent in more complex grafts compared to less complex grafts. Visceral stent complications were more frequent in uncovered stents compared to covered stents. Visceral stent-related endoleaks (type Ic and type IIIa) occurred exclusively around renal artery stents. The most common modes of failure with SMA stents were kinking and fracture, whereas with coeliac artery stents it was external crush.

Conclusion

Visceral stent complications after FEVAR are common and merit continued and close long-term surveillance. The mode of visceral stent failure varies across the vessels in which the stents are located.
Behcet’s Syndrome resembling complex perianal Crohn’s Disease
Authors: Mourad Ali P , De Robles Marie Shella , Winn Robert DR
Published: April 2021

Behcet’s syndrome is a systemic inflammatory disorder that involves several organ systems and is exceptionally rare in the Western world. The diagnosis is frequently difficult as it resembles several other disease processes. A 23-year-old male with a previous presumptive diagnosis of Crohn’s disease presented to our unit with genital ulceration. This is on a background of recurrent perianal abscesses requiring surgical drainage and seton placement. He subsequently developed a complex perianal fistula extending from the rectum to the perineum and left groin. After drainage and an unsuccessful trial of biologic immunosuppressive therapy, he developed several papulopustular cutaneous lesions and oral ulcerations. The diagnostic criteria for Behcet’s syndrome was met and he was referred to a rheumatologist for ongoing management.
To what extent have key recommendations from the Getting It Right First Time programme for urology in England been implemented?
Authors: Gray William K , Day Jamie , Briggs Tim WR , Harrison Simon
Published: April 2021

Objectives:

The Getting It Right First Time programme was set up to reduce unwarranted variation in healthcare practice and outcomes in England. The aim of this study was to investigate early changes in practice in urology based on the recommendations made.

Subjects and methods:

Data were extracted from the Hospital Episodes Statistics database from January 2014 to December 2019. The dates of visits by members of the Getting It Right First Time team were taken as the intervention point. Interrupted time series analysis was used to identify trends pre and post intervention.

Results:

Following the Getting It Right First Time visits, there was evidence of a significant increase in the proportion of patients seen as day cases for transurethral resection of bladder tumour and decreased use of stents and increased use of ureteroscopy or extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy on first presentation with ureteric stones. However, there was no significant change in waiting times for surgery to treat patients who had an emergency presentation with urinary retention.

Conclusions:

There is evidence that the recommendations made are already having an impact on clinical practice. The reasons why some recommendations appear to be harder to implement requires further investigation.

Level of evidence:

2b
Insights and Current Debates on Community Engagement in Higher Education Institutions: Perspectives on the University of the Western Cape
Authors: Bidandi Fred , Ambe Anthony Nforh , Mukong Claudia Haking
Published: April 2021

This study investigated the insights and current debates on community engagement in higher education institutions with specific reference to the University of the Western Cape (UWC) in South Africa. The article argues that although community engagement seems to present some challenges, it has become an integral part of higher education in South Africa and beyond. The article examines community engagement in higher education institutions and evaluates its contributions based on the research question. The article evaluates community engagement from the perspective of the UWC, community, and students. Data were collected through semi-structured with key informants. In total, 12 participants participated in the interviews. Thematic analysis was used to analyze the data. The results of the study show that community engagement is dependent on institutions’ relationships built between particular communities, which are easily lost if the people involved change. The results also show that community engagement has become a requisite for promotion and policy development. However, it reveals that issues of Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) often take time affecting students and researchers. Moreover, the findings indicate that there is no standard procedure for community engagement as departments, individual lecturers, and students have unique and different interests.
COVID-19 and orthopaedic surgery in a large trauma centre in India
Authors: Kumar Kannan Karuppiah , Chandy Thomas , Kumar MN , Ravishankar Muniramaiah , Rai Chetan , Chetan A , Girish Vijay , Kumar Krishna , Battepati Praveen S , Shivarathre Deepak G , Puranik Harish , Naleen Kumar Noel , Harshvardhan  , Deepu NK , Shetty Mayur
Published: April 2021

Background:

We are in the midst of a pandemic caused by the novel SARS-Cov-2 virus. A large percentage of the patients are asymptomatic and hospitals around the world are struggling to restart routine services. We report the results of a universal testing protocol of all patients who underwent orthopaedic surgery in the month of July 2020 in a large orthopaedic speciality hospital in Bangalore, India.

Methods:

A retrospective study of all patients who underwent orthopaedic surgery in the month of July 2020 at a tertiary care orthopaedic speciality hospital in Bangalore, India. All patients underwent nasopharyngeal swab test before surgery. A questionnaire was used to assess the patient before the RT-PCR nasopharyngeal swab test. Data regarding imaging, investigations and follow up was recorded.

Results:

In the month of July 2020, 168 patients underwent routine nasopharyngeal RT-PCR swab test for COVID-19 prior to planned orthopaedic surgical procedure (Both trauma and elective cases). 16 of the RT-PCR tests were positive. However vascular cases and absolute emergencies were done without a RT-PCR test with PPE and all universal precautions. 11 patients underwent emergency surgery without a RT-PCR test. All 16 cases who were positive were asymptomatic. The asymptomatic positive rate was 9.52%. Of the 11 patients who underwent emergency surgery without a RT-PCR test, only one patient had a positive test post-operatively.

Conclusions:

Routine nasopharyngeal RT-PCR testing revealed a high rate of asymptomatic cases. If the RT-PCR test is positive, it is best to defer the case till the test returns negative. All precautions must be taken while performing emergency surgeries. Our algorithm in managing patients has proven to be effective and can be replicated with ease to continue operating and taking care of orthopaedic patients during this pandemic.
Me, You and the Big Picture: Top Academic Managers’ Narratives of Entrepreneurship
Authors: Hirvonen Pasi , Eriksson Päivi , Montonen Tero
Published: April 2021

This case study examines how top academic managers make sense of entrepreneurship at the university. Based on semiotic analysis, the findings outline three management narratives. The entrepreneurial narrative emphasizes management by experience, the humanistic narrative focuses on management by networks and the development narrative highlights management by vision. Unpacking the dynamics of each narrative, our analysis sheds light on the conflicted role of academic managers at a crossroads between traditional academia and entrepreneurial management.

Research Questions/Objective

How top academic managers make sense of entrepreneurship at the university through narratives?

Links to Theory

The conceptual and theoretical framework of this case study is built based on academic entrepreneurship and narrative theory.

Phenomenon Studied

Academic entrepreneurship

Case Context

Academic top managers of a Finnish multidisciplinary university

Findings

The findings outline how top academic managers make sense of academic entrepreneurship through three management narratives. The entrepreneurial narrative centres around the idea of management by experience and emphasizes the manager’s own entrepreneurial experiences. The humanistic narrative centres around the idea of management by networks highlighting how the managers can guide and assist others who act as entrepreneurs. Finally, the development narrative centres around management by vision and focuses on the overall picture of the entrepreneurial university.

Discussions

The case study implies that academic entrepreneurship (AE) is understood and conceptualized by the managers in multifaceted and sometimes contradictory ways. Representing the frontline of academic management and changes in Finnish universities, the top academic managers are confronted with tensions between the ideals of traditional academia and the contemporary entrepreneurial developments in universities. This study contributes to the field of academic management by highlighting the much-needed experience-based perspective of top academic managers in relation to AE.
An Empirical Study of Delays in Large Engineering Projects: An Indian Experience
Authors: Jayaraman R.
Published: April 2021

This article analyzes factors responsible for delays in two large projects undertaken by an Indian organization over a period of 7 years. The research work critically examines the reasons for delays using questionnaires in four core areas of project work. An in depth analysis has identified 10 factors, which cause delays, viz., inept project planning practices, inadequate and inexperienced consultant personnel, recurring stakeholders interactions, incomplete understanding of the client’s requirements, unfamiliarity with documentation needs in the client country, subsequent client and inspection agency-driven change requirements, incomplete preparation at the hook-up yard, and delays in vendor mobilization/inadequate vendor expertise. The original contribution of this research is in the areas of analyzing and understanding delays due to doing work in offshore locations, doing project management work using documents in offshore country language, understanding offshore country laws and regulations, in-depth understanding of the root causes of delays using detailed, segmented questionnaires and analysis of the sequential nature of project management work.