bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploring bioleaching potential of indigenous Bacillus sporothermodurans ISO1 for metals recovery from PCBs through sequential leaching process
Authors: Thakur Pooja , Kumar Sudhir
Published: March 2023

The low efficiency and selectivity limitations of biohydrometallurgy technique compel the researchers to explore novel microbial strains acclimated to metal existence site with higher toxicity tolerance and bioleaching capability in order to improve the role of bioleaching process for e-waste management. The current study aimed to explore bioleaching potential of indigenous Bacillus sporothermodurans ISO1; isolated from metal habituated site. The statistical approach was utilized to optimize a variety of culture variables including temperature, pH, glycine concentration and pulp density that impact bio-cyanide production and leaching efficiency. The highest dissolution of Cu and Ag, 78% and 37% respectively, was obtained at 40 °C, pH 8, glycine concentration 5 g L−1, and pulp density 10 g L−1 through One Factor at a Time (OFAT), which was further increased up to 95% Cu and 44% Ag recovery through the interactive effect of key factors in the Response Surface Methodology (RSM) approach. Furthermore, Chemo-biohydrometallurgy approach was utilized to overwhelm the specificity limitation; as higher concentration of Cu in computer printed circuit boards (CPCBs) causes interference to recover other metals. The sequential leaching through ferric chloride (FeCl3), recovered Cu prior to bio-cyanidation by B. sporothermodurans ISO1 and resulted in the improved leaching of Ag (57%), Au (67%), Pt (60%), etc. The current work reports on B. sporothermodurans ISO1, a new Bacillus strain that exhibits highest toxicity tolerance (EC50 = 425 g L−1) than earlier reported stains and has higher leaching potential that can be implemented to large-scale biometallurgical process for e-waste treatment to achieve the agenda of sustainable development goal (SDG) under the strategies of urban mining.
Street-Level Leadership: Re-conceptualizing the Role of the Manager
Authors: Møller Anne Mette , Grøn Caroline Howard
Published: March 2023

Street-level workers are notoriously difficult to manage. Over the years, scholars have highlighted the importance of social dynamics and informal and collective leadership in street-level contexts. Yet, the question of how formal managers can support street-level workers’ performance and well-being remains underexplored. Building on insights from the street-level and generic leadership literatures, the authors seek to delineate a role for formal managers that takes seriously the particularities of the street-level context. The authors develop a concept of street-level leadership that is underpinned by a relational approach and focused on activating street-level workers’ professional knowledge and building supportive communities, with the purpose of supporting professional uses of discretion, conscientious prioritizations, and the ability to handle moral dilemmas and emotional strain. Empirical examples illustrate street-level leadership in practice. Future research should explore the proposed mechanisms and effects of street-level leadership, including important HRM outcomes such as job satisfaction, retention, and burnout.
Mindfulness for Performance and Wellbeing in the Police: Linking Individual and Organizational Outcomes
Authors: Fitzhugh Helen , Michaelides George , Daniels Kevin , Connolly Sara , Nasamu Emike
Published: March 2023

This article reports on the largest randomized control trial (with followup) to examine the effects of mindfulness among police officers and staff. The benefits of mindfulness for wellbeing are established, but less is known about long-term impact on employee wellbeing and the implications of individual outcomes at organizational level. In the RCT, both the wellbeing and performance of users of two mindfulness apps over 24 weeks improved as compared to a control group. In responding to calls for consideration of relevance alongside rigor in public administration field experiments, the study also investigated how a large-scale wellbeing intervention was implemented and applied cost-effectiveness methodology to link individual and organizational outcomes and demonstrate cost savings. This additional contextualization showed how to improve implementation of wellbeing interventions for public personnel and demonstrated a method for rigorously assessing whether interventions deliver on both an individual and organizational level.
For an Urban Politics of Looking Elsewhere: Climate Action in Rapidly Growing Chinese Cities
Authors: Castán Broto Vanesa , Westman Linda , Huang Ping
Published: March 2023

Urban areas mediate climate transformations and generate new forms of climate urbanism. Looking at climate action in the twelve fastest-growing cities in China with under one million people, this paper proposes a perspective on urban climate politics ‘from elsewhere' that foregrounds the potential role of smaller urban areas in mediating climate transformations. The analysis reveals three climate action strategies that reflect practical, institutional, and personal spheres of climate transformations. Planning action in the personal sphere provides opportunities for urban transformations. A perspective ‘from elsewhere’ calls for greater attention to planning for diverse change strategies for climate transformation.
I can Talk: Corporate Moral Responsibility, Word-of-Mouth, and Shared Values
Authors: Bhaduri Gargi , Goswami Saheli
Published: March 2023

This study investigated how inconsistencies between corporate moral responsibility (CMR) messages and CMR actions undertaken by corporations impact consumers’ positive and negative word-of-mouth (PWOM and NWOM) intentions using the expectancy violation theory. It also investigated the moderation effect of different types of CMR issues and consumers’ shared values on the relation. Analyses of data collected from 1296 U.S. consumers revealed that participants’ word-of-mouth (WOM) intentions, both positive and negative, were impacted by inconsistencies between CMR initiatives and actions. When inconsistency was absent, highest PWOM intention was generated for issues related to workers and least for shareholders. Shared values significantly moderated the relation as well. When CMR message action was consistent, PWOM intention was higher for participants with high shared value (vs. low shared value). These findings add knowledge to the literature of CMR and guide corporate CMR-related communications.
Clarifying the link between psychological need satisfaction and positive affect: Longitudinal within-person tests for bi-directional influence in two cultures
Authors: Unanue Wenceslao , Martela Frank , Vignoles Vivian L. , Dittmar Helga
Published: March 2023

Positive affect is often considered the “hallmark of well-being,” associated with better health, longevity, and success. Self-determination theory (SDT) proposes that satisfying three basic psychological needs for autonomy, competence and relatedness (BNS) fosters optimal functioning, thriving, and positive affect. Meanwhile, broaden-and-build theory suggests that positive emotions predict future psychosocial resources such as need satisfaction. Previous research on the BNS–positive affect link has not sufficiently established to what extent changes in BNS precede changes in positive affect or vice versa. We tested this in two 3-wave longitudinal studies, conducted over 2 years in the UK (Study 1: N = 958) and over 2 months in Latin America (Study 2: N = 1200). Bivariate latent trait-state-occasion models revealed that within-person fluctuations in BNS significantly predicted subsequent fluctuations in positive affect in both studies, but fluctuations in positive affect predicted subsequent fluctuations in BNS only in Study 2. These findings consistently support SDT predictions, whereas they only partially support broaden-and-build theory predictions, helping to clarify the likely causal relations between BNS and positive affect.
Exploring Collaborative Governance Processes Involving Nonprofits
Authors: Calò Francesca , Teasdale Simon , Roy Michael J. , Bellazzecca Enrico , Mazzei Micaela
Published: March 2023

Nonprofits are increasingly involved in collaborative governance mechanisms, on the premise that their proximity to end users and better understanding of the local contexts can lead to better policy outcomes. Although government–nonprofit relations have been theorized and explored by several studies, few studies have examined specifically collaborative governance, instead focusing on other phases of policy development or service delivery. In this article, we present a realist evaluation of data gathered from in-depth semi-structured interviews ( N = 41) and four focus groups with stakeholders involved in collaborative governance arrangements within “Strategic Public Social Partnerships” in Scotland. Our findings indicate that collaborative governance processes involving nonprofits can potentially lead to improved services through mechanisms such as the development of trust and the establishment of new learning dynamics, and when knowledgeable leadership and mutuality drive collaborations. However, this is only true if the long-term sustainability of these processes translates into the mainstreaming of both the resulting services and their underlying collaborative principles.
Effect of pitch and hole-hydraulic depth of perforated V-shaped baffles on the heat transfer and thermohydraulic performance of an air heater duct
Authors: Pandey Rajeev
Published: March 2023

The introduction of V-shaped or inclined perforated baffles in a heat exchanger duct influences the flow dynamics significantly and enhances its thermal performance. The appropriate spacing and perforation shape of baffles further improve the heat transfer mechanism. This work aims to experimentally compare the thermal attributes of a smooth air heater duct with those by incorporating perforated V-shaped baffles with staggered non-circular openings of a constant perforation ratio in the flow passage. The effects obtained on the Nusselt number (Nu), friction factor (f) and the thermohydraulic performance parameter (η) of the duct are studied under the turbulent airflow Reynolds number (Re) range of 5500 to 15,000 by modifying three different values of pitch ratio (p/H) and hole-hydraulic depth-to-baffle height ratio ([Formula: see text]) for both V-down and V-up arrays. The investigation also encompasses developing the correlations of criteria Nu, f and η. The results show that the Nu ameliorates by increasing [Formula: see text] at reduced p/H, whereas the f value increases by reducing the hole-hydraulic depth. The maximum Nusselt number ratio ([Formula: see text]) obtained for V-down and V-up baffles, respectively, are 3.36 and 3.58 at p/H of 1 and [Formula: see text] of 0.84 with the Re range of around 13,600. The V-down and the V-up array at p/H of 1 shows the maximum friction factor ratio ([Formula: see text]) as 11.9 and 13.14, respectively, for [Formula: see text] values of 0.74 and 0.79 at the extreme Re range. The V-up array at p/H of 3 with increased [Formula: see text] (0.84) outperforms obtaining the highest η value of 1.67. The correlations developed show good agreement between the experimental and predicted data.
Influence of sintering temperature on mechanical and tribological characteristics of copper based composite reinforced by 2D hybrid material
Authors: Nautiyal H. , Gautam R.K.S. , Singh S. , Goswami R. , Gautam G. , Raturi A. , Khatri O.P. , Tyagi R.
Published: March 2023

The effect of sintering temperature on the mechanical and tribological characteristics of 2D phase reinforced copper-based composite has been investigated in the present study. The Cu-based composites containing 2 wt. % of(GO + MoS2)NP were sintered at different temperatures (1023, 1073, 1123, and 1173 K) by microwave sintering process. The microstructural features observed by SEM and HRTEM of composites suggest that as the sintering temperature increases (GO + MoS2)NP pocket formation tendency also increases, which also governs the mechanical and tribological characteristics of composites. As the sintering temperature elevated, the ultimate tensile strength of the composite decreases, whereas friction and wear rate decrease with increase in temperature up to 1123 and beyond 1123 increase in friction and wear has been observed. The decrease in strength with increasing sintering temperature has been attributed to the grain size increment and increase in (GO + MoS2)NP pocket size at the grain boundaries. However, the decrease in friction and wear rate has been ascribed to the ease of extrusion of (GO + MoS2)NP from the pockets for the composites sintered at high temperature, rather than extrusion of (GO + MoS2)NP of fillers from the intra-grainular sites, i.e., for the composites sintered at lower temperature.
Performance prediction of a clean coal power plant via machine learning and deep learning techniques
Authors: Haddadin Mariana , Mohamed Omar , Abu Elhaija Wejdan , Matar Mustafa
Published: March 2023

Computer simulation of energy resources has led to significant achievements in the interdisciplinary fields of energy and environment. Apart from renewable resources, fossil-fuel power generation plants can be made cleaner to satisfy the future climate targets while keeping secure and stable grid. Clean coal power plants are still among the dominant options for power generation, which are committed through energy-efficient operation, carbon capture and storage, or combination of both strategies. On the other hand, machine learning and deep learning techniques have a leading integrity in the field of simulation. This paper presents accurate models of a cleaner coal-fired supercritical (SC) unit using two types of artificial neural network, which are Elman neural network (ENN) and generalized regression neural network (GRNN). The models newly embed higher coverage range and more accurate results than previously published models. Each subsystem of the models has been structured as a multi-input single-output (MISO) component to predict the behavior of significant variables in the plant, mainly the supercritical pressure in MPa, the steam temperature in °C and the production in MW. Those variables have been intentionally selected as they are clear indicators for the energy-efficient and cleaner production. Simulation results of four sets of data have indicated satisfactory performance of both models with a bit higher superiority of the GRNN that has given negligible or zero Mean Squared Error (MSE) for all outputs, whereas the minimum MSE of the deep ENN is 3.131  ×  10−3.
Spatial adaptive iterative learning control for high-speed train with unknown speed delays
Authors: Zhu Zijun , Zhang Xin
Published: March 2023

This article focuses on the high-speed train with unknown speed delays; a spatial adaptive iterative learning control (SAILC) algorithm is designed to solve the displacement-speed trajectory tracking problem by using the spatial differential operator to transform the train temporal dynamic model into a spatial model. First, parametric adaptive control is used to reduce the influence of system uncertainties. Second, a Lyapunov-Krasovskii-like spatial composite energy function (SCEF) is established, the stability of the designed controller and the convergence of the tracking error are demonstrated by verifying the differential negative definiteness and boundedness of the function. In addition, the train speed needs to be maintained within a certain range due to the speed loss when it passes through the neutral zone and overspeed protection. Therefore, the state-constrained mechanism is implanted into the train control algorithm to ensure that the train operates within the speed limits. Finally, the proposed SAILC algorithm is compared with proportional-integral-derivative (PID) and iterative learning control (ILC) algorithm; the results of the numerical simulations prove the effectiveness of the proposed method. After 20 iterations, the maximum absolute error of SAILC is 0.05 m/s, which is 4.7% of PID and 10.7% of ILC. It meets the requirements of Automatic Train Operation (ATO) that the tracking error should not be greater than 1% of the train operating speed.
Risk of Bloodstream Infection in Patients with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Exposed to Prolonged Medium-to-High-Dose Glucocorticoids
Authors: Kim Mi Hyeon , Choi Se Rim , Park Jin Kyun , Lee Eun Young , Lee Eun Bong , Park Jun Won
Published: March 2023

Objectives

This study aimed to investigate the incidence rate and risk factors of bloodstream infection (BSI) in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) exposed to medium to high doses of glucocorticoids.

Methods

This study included 1109 treatment episodes with prolonged (≥4 weeks) medium-to-high-dose glucocorticoids (≥15 mg/day prednisolone) in 612 patients with SLE for over 14 years. Clinical features regarding systemic lupus erythematosus disease activity index 2000 (SLEDAI-2K), immunosuppressant use, and laboratory results were obtained from the electronic medical database. The primary outcome of this study was the 1-year incidence of BSI. The effect of clinical factors on the outcome was investigated using a generalized estimating equation.

Results

During a total of 1078.64 person-years, 30 cases of BSI occurred, with an incidence rate of 2.78 (95% confidence interval (CI) 1.88–3.97) per 100 person-years. Mortality rate of the treatment episodes with BSI was 16.7%, which was significantly higher than that in the other episodes (incidence rate ratio (IRR) 19.59, 95% CI 7.33–52.44). When the incidence rate of BSI was stratified by baseline glucocorticoid dose and SLEDAI-2K score, a higher incidence rate of BSI occurred as disease activity or baseline glucocorticoid dose increased. In the multivariable analysis, SLEDAI-2K ≥20 (adjusted IRR (aIRR) 4.66, 95% CI 2.17–10.00), initial baseline prednisolone ≥ 60 mg/day (aIRR 2.42, 95% CI 1.11–5.32), and cumulative prednisolone dose ≥15 mg/day during the previous 6 months (aIRR 2.13, 95% CI 1.03–4.40) significantly increased the risk of BSI.

Conclusion

In patients with SLE exposed to prolonged medium-to-high-dose glucocorticoids, the 1-year incidence rate of BSI was significantly higher than previously reported in the general patients with SLE. Severe disease activity, and high-dose glucocorticoid treatment previously or at baseline increased the risk of BSI.
Illegal short-term rentals, regulatory enforcement and informal practices in the age of digital platforms
Authors: Colomb Claire , Moreira de Souza Tatiana
Published: March 2023

This article analyses the challenges of controlling short-term rentals (STR) in an era of intermediation by digital platforms, focusing on the process of regulatory enforcement. Drawing on evidence from large European cities, it investigates how public authorities identify and tackle STR deemed illegal, how operators of illegal STR seek to escape detection, and the relationships between city governments and digital platforms in the process of regulatory enforcement. The article shows what digitalisation and ‘platformisation’ do to the possibility of (local) state regulation of housing informality and illegality in the European context. As platforms have been reluctant to release individualised STR listings to local authorities, the latter have had to rely on imperfect, ‘DIY’ methods of data gathering in the physical and digital worlds, in the context of attempts to regulate STR for public interest objectives such as the protection of the long-term residential stock.
Momordica cochinchinensis Suppresses the Human Breast Cancer Cells Growth and Migration by Inhibiting Mevalonate Pathway
Authors: Buranrat Benjaporn , Kraiklang Ratthaphol
Published: March 2023

Background:

Momordica cochinchinensis (MC) is shown with high antioxidation and is used as herbal medicine in South-East countries.

Objectives:

This study aims to determine the four parts (aril, fruit, leaf, and seed) of MC extract against human breast cancer cells with underlying mechanisms of actions.

Materials and Methods:

The effects of MC extract were examined by sulforhodamine B, colony formation, wound healing, real time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), and Western blotting method.

Results:

Four parts of MC extracts significantly increased MCF-7 cells death, interestingly, seed extract had the greatest activity with IC50 values of 412.3 ± 49.8 µg/mL for 24 h and 113.3 ± 6.4 µg/mL for 48 h. MC extracts potentiated the anticancer drug effect, doxorubicin, with lower IC50 values when compared with MC treatment alone. Moreover, MC extracts decreased colony formation and accompanied by inhibited cell migration. Furthermore, Seed extract inhibited migration by reducing matrix metalloproteinases (MMP) 2, MMP 9, and vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA) inhibition. The molecular analyses revealed that seed extract inhibited cell viability by decreasing cyclin D1 consistent with activating p21, cytochrome c, and caspase-3 protein levels along with reduction of mevalonate (MVA) pathway, Rac1, and RhoA levels, it appeared to inhibit growth and migration.

Conclusion:

Taken together, MC extract induces MCF-7 cell death and decreases cell migration relatively via attenuation of MVA pathway.
Entrepreneurial Masculinity: A Fatherhood Perspective
Authors: Hytti Ulla , Karhunen Päivi , Radu-Lefebvre Miruna
Published: March 2023

This article investigates how fatherhood (or the prospect thereof) shapes entrepreneurial masculinities. Drawing on constructivist grounded theory, we analyze 22 life story interviews with Finnish men technology founders and identify three entrepreneurial masculinities enacted by men to accommodate concurrent normative ideals at the intersection of work and family life. These entrepreneurial masculinities alternatively maintain, restructure, and resist entrepreneurial and parental hegemonic masculinities and are subject to generational and situational scripts. We contribute to the gender and entrepreneurship literature by revealing that the neoliberal new father discourse blurs hegemonic masculinities leading entrepreneurial masculinities to emerge as hybrid hegemonic masculinities.
The King’s Gambit: Rationalizing the fall of the Templars
Authors: Benzecry Gabriel F. , Shera Marcus
Published: March 2023

What can the fall of the Knights Templars teach us about medieval institutions? We highlight that the Templar’s annihilation results from the institutional shock of Pope Clement V’s decision to relocate the papacy from Italy to France. Prior to the relocation, an equilibrium persisted for more than a century where the Templars made loans to more powerful kings, with the reassurance that they were protected by the Church. The decision of Pope Clement V to relocate the papacy to France altered the Church’s relationship with the French Crown and imposed substantial constraints on the Church’s ability to safeguard one of its most important monastic orders, the Knights Templar. In a dynamic game scenario, we model Clement V and Philip IV’s decision making, emphasizing important choices that led to the Knights Templar’s demise. This historical episode illustrates the relationship between credible commitments and religious legitimacy, and the precarious and personal nature of pre-modern political institutions.
Measuring Success: Integrating Number Lines Into Measurement Instruction for Students With Learning Disabilities
Authors: Gersib Jenna A. , Rojo Megan , Ghafaghazi Shadi , Uy Jasmine , Doabler Christian T.
Published: March 2023

Number lines can benefit students in learning an array of mathematical concepts. An area of mathematics where number lines are visibly underused is in teaching measurement concepts. For students in upper elementary grades, accurate measurements require the use of mathematical precision and coordination, including skills in fractions and decimals, operations, and magnitude. A robust knowledge of measurement holds significant value in students’ development of mathematical proficiency, particularly for students with learning disabilities in mathematics. Using number lines to teach and perform mathematical processes involving measurement can build fluency and conceptual understanding for all learners, including those with learning disabilities. This article demonstrates the versatility of integrating number lines into mathematical interventions involving measurement concepts for students with learning disabilities in mathematics. Measurement content discussed includes distance, time intervals, liquid volume, and mass. Scenarios with examples of how to apply number lines to each measurement form are described.
How Teachers View Inclusion of Special Education Students: A Case From South Texas
Authors: Tiwari Ashwini
Published: March 2023

This article examines contextual factors that impact inclusive education in the Rio Grande Valley region of South Texas, United States. Based on the analysis of teachers’ narratives, the study concluded that teachers perceive inclusive special education as a student's right primarily grounded in the social justice context of education. While teacher preparation and administrative support aid in implementing inclusive practices, the socio-cultural values shape teachers’ classroom practices in teaching special education students. Furthermore, implementing inclusive education practices lacks emphasis on content-area instruction for special education students, demonstrating the need for a reconceptualization of the global movement on inclusive education.
Human Factors Investigation of Ejection from a Roller Coaster
Authors: Nemire Kenneth
Published: March 2023

The Human Factors Analysis and Classification System (HFACS) was used to evaluate a complex forensic case. The use of HFACS in forensic human factors is demonstrated via a case study of the death of a roller coaster rider ejected from his seat. The analysis revealed systemic factors for the fatality throughout the amusement park and ride manufacturer organizations. Such system analyses are needed to move park management and state investigators away from their narrow focus on rider behavior as causes of injury incidents, and address systemic factors to make amusement parks safer for guests.
Recurrence Rates With Longer-Term Follow-up After Hallux Valgus Surgical Treatment With Distal Metatarsal Osteotomies: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Lalevee Matthieu , de Cesar Netto Cesar , Boublil Daniel , Coillard Jean-Yves , Nover Luca , van Rooij Floris , Saffarini Mo
Published: March 2023

Background:

Recurrence of hallux valgus (HV) following corrective surgery is a frequent concern. A recent systematic review estimated recurrence of HV in only 4.9%, which may be an underestimation, as most included studies had short- to mid-term follow-up. The purpose of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to assess long-term outcomes of distal osteotomies of the first metatarsal (M1) to treat HV without inflammatory disease or degenerative arthritis, and to assess HV recurrence rates reported in studies that had a minimum follow-up of 5 years.

Methods:

This systematic review conforms to the PRISMA guidelines. The authors conducted a search using PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials databases. Studies that report outcomes of distal osteotomies of the M1 for noninflammatory and nondegenerative HV at a minimum follow-up of 5 years.

Results:

We found 17 eligible studies comprising 18 data sets, reporting outcomes of 4 categories of osteotomies: Chevron, Mitchell, Bösch, and “others.” The HV recurrence rate was 64% considering the threshold of >15 degrees hallux valgus angle (HVA), 10% having >20 degrees, and 5% having >25 degrees.

Conclusion:

At a minimum of 5 years following distal osteotomies of the M1, the mean weighted postoperative HVA was significantly higher for Mitchell osteotomies compared with the 3 other osteotomies reviewed. There were otherwise no significant differences in recurrence rates using the 3 HVA thresholds, or intermetatarsal angle among any of the surgical techniques reported in 2 or more studies. The pooled HV recurrence rates considering the various thresholds of HVA were as follows: 64% having >15 degrees, 10% having >20 degrees, and 5% having >25 degrees. The recurrence rates in the long term for all categories of surgical procedures suggest that better understanding of pathogenesis and prognosis of HV is required before modifying or introducing new surgical techniques.

Level of Evidence:

Level IV, meta-analysis.
Children's Physical Proximity to Interparental Conflict: Resilient Process and Retrospective Perceptions of Parent–Child Relationships
Authors: Bouteyre Evelyne , Duval Pauline , Piétri Mariel
Published: March 2023

This retrospective study sought to determine (a) whether physical proximity to interparental conflict in childhood moderates the link between frequency of exposure to interparental conflict and subsequent levels of resilience in adulthood and (b) whether retrospective perceptions of parent–child relations and insecurity mediate the link between interparental conflict and resilient development. A total of 963 French students aged 18–25 years were assessed. Our study showed that the children's physical proximity to interparental conflict is a major long-term risk factor for their subsequent development and their retrospective perceptions of parent–child relations.
“Domestic Drama,” “Love Killing,” or “Murder”: Does the Framing of Femicides Affect Readers’ Emotional and Cognitive Responses to the Crime?
Authors: Schnepf Julia , Christmann Ursula
Published: March 2023

We conducted two framing experiments to test how downplaying femicide frames affect readers’ reactions. Results of Study 1 (Germany, N = 158) indicate that emotional reactions were increased when a femicide was labeled as “murder” compared to “domestic drama.” This effect was strongest among individuals with high hostile sexism. Study 2 (U.S., N = 207), revealed that male compared to female readers perceived a male perpetrator more as a loving person when the crime was labeled as “love killing” compared to “murder.” This tendency was linked to higher victim blaming. We recommend reporting guidelines to overcome the trivialization of femicides.
Compliance of a crack embedded in a transformed transversely isotropic material
Authors: Barthélémy Jean-François , Sevostianov Igor , Giraud Albert , Vilchevskaya Elena N
Published: March 2023

This paper is devoted to the analytical calculation of the contribution and opening displacement tensors of an arbitrarily oriented crack in a transformed transversely isotropic (TraTI) matrix. It generalizes a recent work considering elliptically orthotropic (EO) symmetry, as EO is a particular case of TraTI. The latter allows to explore a wider range of symmetries, including non-orthotropic symmetries. The approach is based on the linear transformation between boundary value problems with TraTI and transversely isotropic (TI) bodies. A detailed analysis shows that TraTI fourth-order tensors are described by a set of 11 parameters (5 material parameters and 6 angles defining the transformation). This is a significant enrichment beyond the set of EO tensors which depends on 7 parameters (4 material parameters and 3 angles). New analytical results are obtained for elliptical and circular cracks embedded, respectively, in TraTI, orthotropic TraTI and monoclinic TraTI matrices. It is shown that the most general case leading to analytical derivations of crack contribution and opening displacement tensors is that of a TraTI matrix with a specific restriction: the initial crack must be aligned along the isotropy plane of the TI matrix. To the best of our knowledge, this corresponds to the current largest space of matrix anisotropy allowing analytical derivation of the compliance of a single elliptical crack embedded in an infinite matrix as well as an extension of analytical 3D results showing a coupling between opening and shear modes. Numerical results are presented to illustrate potential applications of the method for the case of an arbitrarily oriented elliptical crack in an infinite uniform matrix of stiffness of arbitrary anisotropy. The best-fit problem investigated in previous papers is revisited and a new algorithm providing the closest stiffness tensor for which there exists an analytical solution to the crack opening displacement tensor is developed. Numerical applications to real TI materials are finally presented.
Bruceine D and afatinib combination inhibits ovarian cancer cells proliferation and migration through DNA damage repair and EGFR pathway
Authors: Zhu Jufan , Wang Luo , Yang Yuanjun , Han Mengfei , Yang Yiheng , Feng Renqian , Hu Yan
Published: March 2023

Owing to the high rates of relapse and migration, ovarian cancer (OC) has been recognized as the most lethal gynecological malignancy worldwide. The activity of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) signaling pathway is frequently associated with OC cell proliferation and migration. Despite this knowledge, inhibition of EGFR signaling in OC patients failed to achieve satisfactory therapeutic effects. In this study, we identified that bruceine D (BD) and EGFR inhibitor, afatinib, combination resulted in synergistic anti-OC effects. The results indicated that compared with one of both drugs alone, the combination of BD and afatinib slowed the DNA replication rate, inhibition of cell viability, and proliferation and clone formation. This resulted in cell cycle arrest and cell apoptosis. In addition, the combination of BD and afatinib possessed a stronger ability to inhibit the OC cell adhesion and migration than treatment with BD or afatinib alone. Mechanistically, the combined treatment triggered intense DNA damage, suppressed DNA damage repair, and enhanced the inhibition of the EGFR pathway. These results demonstrated that compared with each pathway inhibition, combined blocking of both DNA damage repair and the EGFR pathway appears to more effective against OC treatment. The results support the potential of BD and afatinib combination as a therapeutic strategy for OC patients.
Eosinophilic/T-cell Chorionic Vasculitis: Its Incidence Is Increasing but It Does Not Appear to Recur in Subsequent Pregnancies
Authors: Wright James R. , de Koning Lawrence
Published: March 2023

Introduction:

Eosinophilic/T-cell chorionic vasculitis (E/TCV), an incidental finding primarily in third trimester placentas, is characterized by eosinophils and CD3+ T lymphocytes infiltrating at least 1 chorionic and/or stem villous vessels. Its etiology and clinical significance are unclear.

Methods:

Placental pathology reports issued by 8 pediatric-perinatal pathologists at Alberta Children’s Hospital were retrieved from the lab information system (2010–2022), and candidate reports were identified using a Perl script searching for “eosinophil.” Candidate diagnoses of E/TCV were validated by pathologist review.

Results:

38,058 placenta reports from 34,643 patients were reviewed; 328 cases of E/TCV were identified, for an overall incidence of 0.86%. Incidence increased 23% per year, from 0.11% in 2010 to 1.5% in 2021 ( P < .01). This temporal change was observed for all pathologists; the incidence of identified multifocality also increased over time ( P < .01). Umbilical vascular involvement was exceedingly rare. No variation in incidence was attributable to season. We received more than 1 placenta from 46 mothers with an E/TCV placental diagnosis; examination of >1 placenta did not reveal any mother with >1 E/TCV diagnosis.

Conclusions:

The incidence of E/TCV increased steadily over a ~12-year period and no recurrent cases were observed.
Does Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC) Payment Create The Opportunity For the Tourism Industry?
Authors: Kim Jinkyung Jenny , Kim Seongseop (Sam) , Hailu Tadesse Bekele , Ryu Hyungseo Bobby , Han Heesup
Published: March 2023

This research investigated perceived risks associated with central bank digital currency (CBDC) payment innovations and their effect on travelers’ adoption behavior, considering personal and product characteristics. This quantitative study determined that perceived risks, including financial, performance, privacy, psychological, and time risks, have an adverse effect on attitudes toward CBDC payment, which, in turn, affects the intention to adopt. In addition, this study underlined the moderating roles of consumer innovativeness, previous experience, structural assurance, and media encouragement in the link between perceived risk and attitude. The results advanced the understanding of travelers’ intention to use CBDC to pay for tourism products and services.
Insights from Bacterial 16S rRNA Gene into Bacterial Genera and Predicted Metabolic Pathways Associated with Stool Consistency in Rectal Cancer Patients: A Proof of Concept
Authors: Gonzalez-Mercado Velda Janet , Lim Jean , Aouizerat Bradley
Published: March 2023

Purpose

To examine if gut microbial taxa abundances and predicted functional pathways correlate with Bristol Stool Form Scale (BSFS) classification at the end of neoadjuvant chemotherapy and radiation therapy (CRT) for rectal cancer.

Methods

Rectal cancer patients ( n = 39) provided stool samples for 16S rRNA gene sequencing. Stool consistency was evaluated using the BSFS. Gut microbiome data were analyzed using QIIME2. Correlation analysis were performed in R.

Results

At the genus level, Staphylococcus positively correlates (Spearman’s rho = 0.26), while Anaerofustis, Roseburia, Peptostreptococcaceae unclassified, Ruminococcaceae UBA1819, Shuttleworthia, Ca. Soleaferrea , Anaerostignum, Oscillibacter, and Akkermansia negatively correlate with BSFS scores (Spearman’s rho −0.20 to −0.42). Predicted pathways, including mycothiol biosynthesis and sucrose degradation III (sucrose invertase), were positively correlated with BSFS (Spearman’s rho = 0.03–0.21).

Conclusion

The data support that in rectal cancer patients, stool consistency is an important factor to include in microbiome studies. Loose/liquid stools may be linked to Staphylococcus abundance and to mycothiol biosynthesis and sucrose degradation pathways.
One-year follow up of a tobacco alcohol optic neuropathy case with atypical course: Conventional assessment and Laser speckle flowgraphy
Authors: Longhena Matilde , Bellucci Carlo , Delfini Elisabetta , Pareti Alessandra , Gandolfi Stefano , Mora Paolo
Published: March 2023

Purpose

To describe the unexpected one-year course of a probable Tobacco Alcohol Optic Neuropathy (TAON) and the unprecedented Laser Speckle Flowgraphy (LSFG) assessment.

Case Report

A 49-year-old Caucasian man with no family history of visual impairment referred because of unilateral and painless visual acuity (VA) decrease in the right eye (RE). Also, color vision and visual evoked potentials were unilaterally altered. Optical coherence tomography (OCT), instead, revealed bilateral thinning of the macular ganglion cell inner plexiform layer. Funduscopy, intraocular pressure, pupillary shape/reactivity and ocular motility were normal. Blood testing revealed macrocytic/normochromic anemia and low levels of vitamin B2 and folic acid. The patient admitted heavy tobacco and alcohol intake for many years. After an initial compliance to the prescribed regimen, the patient quitted the vitamin intake and resumed his smoking and drinking habits. After a 13-month follow up the VA further reduced in the RE; the fellow eye preserved normal visual function despite the bilateral and progressive alterations of the OCT assessment. Both eyes underwent LSFG examination. All the conventional nets evaluated by the instrument (i.e., Mean Tissue, Mean All and Mean Vascular perfusion) were lower in the RE.

Conclusions

Based on patient's behavior, visual deficiencies and laboratory findings, we assumed that the patient suffered from TAON. Also after one year, however, a deep discrepancy between the strictly unilateral, progressive VA impairment and the bilateral, symmetrical OCT alterations persisted. The LSFG data clearly indicate that the perfusion of the two eyes differed, especially referring to tissular vascularization in the optic nerve head area of the RE.
İstanbul Street Rhythms: A Field Guide to Short Expressive Ensembles
Authors: Kısmet Bell Jameson
Published: March 2023

This article presents the field guide as an alternate format to the anthology in documenting short literary expressions. Anthologies often isolate, collect, and remove literary forms from their habitats by representing them in a book, altering the context by which short literary expressions can be interpreted. After the Gezi Park protests in İstanbul in 2013, several print and electronic anthologies documented public expressions, yet these books offer no or only vague mention of location. Through Henri Lefebvre’s Rhythmanalysis: Space Time and Everyday Life, I emphasize the rhythms of the street that are interrupted by public expressions. After a review of Lefebvre’s work on rhythms, I offer digital annotation techniques to map the material and medium of public inscriptions of one neighborhood of Kadıköy, İstanbul called Rasimpaşa, a district historically called “Yeldeğirmeni” or “The Windmill.” The focus on public graffiti, street art, posters, signs, stickers, or other verbal traces in public space allows for an expansion of the concept of “short literature” to include their lived habitats as rhythmic ensembles.
Tactical Chor(e)ographies: Tactics of Inhibition as a Threat to Public Space in Limassol’s Seafront
Authors: Kouros Theodoros
Published: March 2023

This article explores the area that spans between the boardwalk and the Limassol Marina to highlight the tensions between two major trends in terms of the constructions of urban spaces worldwide, namely, open public spaces and segre/gated communities. Between them, lies the area of the boardwalk, one of the most successful public spaces in the island in terms of public access, openness, and inclusion. Employing ethnographic methods, this article examines walking in and other uses of these areas. It challenges de Certeau’s binary framework by suggesting that power may be more complex than simply two discrete levels, hence tactics are not a monopoly of the “powerless.” I argue that those striving to be perceived as powerful and “in control” employ a range of “tactics of inhibition” to limit possible uses of space. “Tactical chor(e)ographies” is proposed as an analytical term that can capture these processes.
A mixed-method analysis of counterfactual thinking, negative event themes, and the transtheoretical model in a community sample of smokers
Authors: Arthur Kianna M , Fields Sherecce A , Smallman Rachel
Published: March 2023

The transtheoretical model has been used as a model of behavior change for tobacco users. However, it does not account for perceptions of past behavior that may provide additional guidance toward smoking cessation. No studies have examined associations between the transtheoretical model, content themes of smoking experiences, and counterfactual thoughts (i.e. “If only. . .then. . .”). Mturk participants ( N = 178; 47.8% female) completed measures of smoking attitudes, behavior, and stage and processes of change use. Participants described a past negative smoking event and an event-related counterfactual thought-listing task. Participants in the precontemplation stage endorsed fewer processes of change. Also, participants in the action stage reported significantly more counterfactuals about cravings (e.g. If only I could have controlled my urge to smoke. . .) inferring that they may be identifying cravings or urges as relevant barriers toward smoking cessation. Identifying these self-relevant thoughts may provide additional ways to address and overcome barriers toward achieving long-term smoking cessation.
More bottoms than tops? Mediated sexual roles and masculinity assemblage in Chinese gay communities
Authors: Zhou Zhiqiu Benson
Published: March 2023

This paper examines the discursive production of “there are more 0s (bottoms) than 1s (tops)” in a mediated environment, and its implications on gay communities. It explores why many Chinese gay men perceive it as a “sexual truth.” Based on ethnographic research from 2017 to 2021, I argue that this popular discourse is produced by the higher threshold to qualify as a 1 than a 0. The unequal threshold prevents many men from self-identifying, and, more importantly, being recognized as a 1. In addition, the wide circulation of this discourse has intensified effeminophobia, and led to unequal sexual opportunities for gay men based on their embodied masculinities.
‘No one likes a grass’ Female police officers’ experience of workplace sexual harassment: A qualitative study
Authors: Davis Hannah , Lawrence Sophie , Wilson Emily , Sweeting Fay , Poate-Joyner Annabel
Published: March 2023

Sexual harassment is multifaceted and complicated, creating a hostile environment dominated by sexually motivated behaviours. It is experienced by many, particularly in the workplace. For example, many police officers experience sexual harassment from a colleague. Despite this, sexual harassment remains under-researched, with limited exploration into victims’ experiences first-hand. As such, the current study aimed to research female police officers’ experiences of sexual harassment by colleagues to investigate risk factors of sexual harassment and barriers to reporting. Seven transcripts were collected using semi-structured interviews, both in-person and online. Despite the assurance of anonymity, officers feared coming forward for research owing to identification concerns. Interpretative phenomenological analysis was used for the analysis to extract in-depth accounts from participants. Results showed that police culture contributed significantly to facilitating sexual harassment. For example, a male-dominant force, a hierarchical structure and the blue wall of silence. In addition, participants faced barriers to reporting sexual harassment. For example, a rumour mill culture and oppositional reactions from colleagues. Furthermore, the sexual harassment that the participants faced negatively affected their attitudes to work, and their physical and mental health.
The “greenfluence”: Following environmental influencers, parasocial relationships, and youth’s participation behavior
Authors: Dekoninck Heleen , Schmuck Desirée
Published: March 2023

Environmental influencers have gained immense popularity on social media, promoting a sustainable lifestyle by interweaving environmental topics with their everyday content. Drawing from the theoretical approach of parasocial opinion leaders, we investigate, for the first time, the implications of environmental influencers for different dimensions of youth’s participation behavior, and whether parasocial relationships (PSRs) with influencers moderate these associations. We used data from a cross-sectional ( N = 576) and a two-wave panel survey ( NT2 = 496) among German 16- to 25-year-olds. Findings across both studies showed that following influencers who address green topics was related to higher engagement in political sphere-oriented participation (e.g. signing a petition) as well as cause-oriented participation (e.g. politically motivated consumerism). In the long term, low to moderate PSR increased the impact of environmental content on cause-oriented participation, while high PSRs seem to overshadow the environmental content directing more attention to relational rather than informational content aspects.
Multimodal media: Framing climate change
Authors: Dancygier Barbara
Published: March 2023

The paper uses examples of multimodal discourse to show how frame analysis can account for the choices of form in a range of multimodal (image or image-plus-text) artifacts addressing issues of climate change. Relying on the concepts of frame metonymy and blending, the article discusses a selection of artifacts representing emergent frames such as Save the Planet and Hourglass, which are pervasive in multimodal representations of climate change. The article describes the advantages and disadvantages of common multimodal stylistic choices, while addressing issues of ‘persuasive bleaching/overload’. It also uncovers some frame-related specificities of multimodal discourse.