bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of Drought and Salt Stress on Activities of Antioxidant Protective Enzymes and Expression of Stress Genes in Alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) Seedlings
Authors: Chen Zhifeng , Guo Haifeng , Sui Changling , Gao Zhixi , Wang Tianhong , Luo Yong , Qin Cheng , Guan Xiaoxi
Published: October 2021

Drought and salt are main environmental factors that affect the growth, development, productivity and distribution of plants of plants. Alfalfa has a strong ability of early and salt resistance. In this work, the varieties Xinjiang Daye was used as material, the effects of drought (simulated
with PEG, polyethylene glycol-6000) and salt stress (with NaCl solution) on the antioxidant capacity of alfalfa seedlings and stress resistance genes was studied, to select alfalfa varieties with strong resistance and study its functional principle of resistance related genes. The results
showed that with the increase of drought stress, the contents of H2O2, O2−, MDA increased by 323, 247 and 235 (15% PEG treatment). The activities of SOD, CAT and APX increased by 18.01, 15.56 and 587% (15% PEG treatment), respectively. The expression
of drought resistance genes increased significantly. With the increase in NaCl stress, the activities of SOD, cat, pod and APX increased by 132.14, 315.60, 102.78 and 27.61%, respectively. The expression of two genes related to salt stress increased significantly. In conclusion, alfalfa leaves
have good survival ability under high stress, and the activities of antioxidant enzymes and the expression of related genes have adaptive changes under drought and salt stress.
Effects of Planting Density of Spring Soybean on Canopy Photosynthetically Active Radiation and Yield in Northeast China
Authors: Hou Xiaomin , Wang Cong , Dong Shoukun
Published: October 2021

Soybean is an important legume crop. Planting density of soybean directly affects the distribution of photosynthetically active radiation (PAR) in the canopy, which affects the physiological changes, such as photosynthesis of soybean, and leads to the change of yield. In this experiment,
soybean variety Heinong 84 was adopted, and five planting densities were set as 200,000 plants/ha (D20), 250,000 plants/ha (D25), 300,000 plants/ha (D30), 400,000 plants/ha (D40) and 500,000 plants/ha (D50). The canopy PAR intensity was measured based on photosynthetically active radiation
recorder, and the effects of different densities on soybean canopy PAR and yield were studied systematically. According to the results, with the extension of growth period, the PAR above and within the canopy of soybean decreased first and then increased, and the rules were consistent under
different densities. During each growth period, PAR was above that of canopy > growth point > middle stem > cotyledon scar and decreased with the increase of density. The growth point changed significantly, followed by middle stem, but no significant change happened in cotyledon scar.
The absorption photosynthetically active radiation (FPAR) showed a unimodal trend with the increase of density at V4 and R2 and had an upward trend at R4 and R6. The number of effective pods per plant and 100 seed weight of D20 are the highest, and the yield of D25 is the highest.
Mechanism of Traditional Medicine Tongfeng Li’an Granules on Hyperuricemic Rats Based on Regulating Uric Acid Transporter
Authors: Zhao Xiangpei , Li Li , Zhong Chuanmei , Teng Hongli , Huang Guodong
Published: October 2021

Hyperuricemia (HUA) is a metabolic disorder of purine metabolism which leads to the increase of serum uric acid. Tongfeng Lian granule (TFLA) is a clinical empirical traditional herb prescription in China, is biobased natural product material. To study its regulatory mechanism on uric
acid transporter in rats with HUA, the rat model of hyperuricemic was established by oral administration of potassium oxazinate (1.5 g/kg) and adenine (0.05 g/kg). The related indexes were detected to evaluate the uric Acid Transporter after treat with TFLA. In the results, compared with model
group, the high dose TFLA can reduce the levels of Related serum biochemical indexes (*P < 0.05, **P < 0.01). TFLA could reduce the levels of URAT1, GLUT9 and increase the expression of OAT3 in kidney. In conclusion, TFLA can effectively inhibit the
level of serum uric acid with hyperuricemia rats, and the possible mechanism related to TFLA inhibiting the reabsorption of uric acid by URAT1 and GLUT9, promoting the secretion of OAT3 and uric acid into urine.
Effects of Dietary Addition of Linseed Oil on the Content of Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids in Egg Yolk of Gallus domestiaus
Authors: Duan Suhu , Li Zaiqiang , Fan Zhenzhen , Qin Mengran , Yu Xiaoxue , Li Liuan
Published: October 2021

In order to study the effect of dietary supplement of linseed oil on polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) in egg yolk of Gallus domestiaus, total 160 healthy Gallus domestiaus of 26-week old were randomly selected and divided into 4 groups, each of which included 40 chickens
fed outdoors with an area of 63 m2 and free food and drinking water. The control group (CK) was fed the basic diet, and the experimental group was added 1, 3 and 5% of linseed oil in the fundamentals of diet (experimental group 1, 2 and 3, abbreviated as P1, P2, P3), respectively.
The content of PUFA and the value of n-6 PUFA and n-3 PUFA in egg yolk were determined by gas chromatography with 24 eggs randomly selected in each group after 10th, 25th and 40th days of the commence of the experiment. We found that the levels of α-linolenic acid (C18:3n3, ALA)
and docosahexaenoic acid (C22:6n3, DHA) in egg yolk were clearly higher than the CK when 3% linseed oil or 5% linseed oil were added in the diet during the three experiment periods, in which the contents of linoleic Acid (18:2n6c, LA) and arachidonic acid (C20:4n6, ARA) in egg yolk differ
little between P1, P2 and P3 and the CK while the value of n-6 PUFA and n-3 PUFA in egg yolk of the P2 and P3 groups decreased significantly. The comprehensive comparisons suggested that the content of C18:3n3 and C22:6n3 in egg yolk could be clearly increased in the P2 while the value of
n-6 PUFA and n-3 PUFA decreased. This study provides theoretical basis for the production of functional eggs enriched with C22:6n3 and C18:3n3.
Characteristics of pandemic work–life balance in Slovenian military families during the lockdown: Who has paid the highest price?
Authors: Vuga Beršnak Janja , Humer Živa , Lobe Bojana
Published: October 2021

In April 2020, a survey was conducted among Slovenian military families, being one of the first surveys to be carried out in the country after the outbreak of the pandemic. The military was labeled a crucial institution in the efforts to combat the SARS-CoV-2 virus and was appointed to various activities, leading to a considerable increase in its workload. The burden of care and unpaid work at that time also intensified, becoming shifted onto the military family, particularly civilian female spouses. The survey’s purpose was to measure how military families evaluated their success in balancing between working from home, household work, childcare, and home schooling during the pandemic lockdown. The risk factors were observed on the micro (i.e., lack of extended family support, institutional childcare, and school lockdown) and macro (i.e., military support, national support measures) social levels. The analysis reveals that when it comes to military families the greatest price has been paid by female civilian spouses. The number of children and their age influence parents’ self-evaluation of their success with work–life balance. The results show that big families and families with primary school children have been struggling the most during the lockdown. Surprisingly, dual-serving families felt the most successful.
Emerging Attitudes Regarding Decriminalization: Predictors of Pro-Drug Decriminalization Attitudes in Canada
Authors: MacQuarrie Amy L. , Brunelle Caroline
Published: October 2021

Canada and the United States have recently evaluated the decriminalization of drugs as multiple provinces and states put motions forward to consider drug decriminalization legislation. The influence of factors such as demographics, substance use, perceived substance use risk, and personality have not been widely studied in predicting attitudes toward drug decriminalization. A total of 504 participants were drawn from university ( n = 269, 53.37%) and community samples ( n = 235, 46.63%) through online social media groups and posts (i.e., Facebook, Twitter, Reddit, etc). Analyses indicated that male gender, single or non-married relationship status, living outside of Atlantic Canada, higher problematic alcohol use scores, lower Extraversion, higher Open-mindedness, and lower perceived risk of using substances emerged as significant predictors of support for drug decriminalization. These findings have important implications as public attitudes toward a substance influence drug policy.
Experimental studies on influence of temperature on relative permeability curves in sandstone reservoirs
Authors: Zhai Zhiwei , Li Kunchao , Bao Xing , Tong Jing , Yang Hongmei , Han Bo
Published: October 2021

It is crucial to obtain the representative relative permeability curves for related numerical simulation and oilfield development. The influence of temperature on the relative permeability curve remains unclear. An unsteady method was adopted to investigate the influence of temperature (range from 25–130 °C) on the oil–water relative permeability curve of sandstone reservoirs in different blocks. Then, the experimental data was analyzed by using an improved Johnson–Bossler–Naumann method. Results reveal that with the increase in temperature within a certain temperature range: (1) the relative permeability of the oil and water phases increases; (2) the irreducible water saturation increases linearly, whereas the residual oil saturation decreases nonlinearly, and the oil recovery factor increases; and (3) the saturation of two equal permeability points moves to the right, and hydrophilicity becomes stronger. The findings will aid future numerical simulation studies, thus leading to the improvement of oil displacement efficiency.
Fixing the Core, Earnings Management, and Sustainable Emergence From Financial Distress: Evidence From China’s Special Treatment System
Authors: Jing Jiao , Leung Kenneth , Ng Jeffrey , Zhang Janus Jian
Published: October 2021

Throughout their business life cycle, firms may experience financial distress. Successful emergence from such distress is important to their multiple stakeholders. Using a sample of publicly listed firms in China that emerged from Special Treatment (an indicator of delisting risk), we focus on the key actions such firms take prior to emergence, namely, fixing the core of the business and earnings management. We examine how these actions are associated with sustainable emergence, which we define as emergence from Special Treatment without reentry in the next 5 years. Consistent with the expectation that shortcut fixes to problems do not yield a long-term solution, we find that repairing the core of the business by improving operating efficiency is positively associated with sustainable emergence, whereas earnings management is negatively associated with it. We also find that the positive (negative) association between fixing the core (earnings management) and sustainable emergence is pronounced only for state-owned enterprises. Our article adds to the limited literature that examines issues related to distressed firms’ sustainable turnaround.
Policy Diffusion in a Redistributive Policy: Affordable Housing and State Housing Trust Funds
Authors: Flink Carla , Walter Rebecca J. , Xu Xiaoyang
Published: October 2021

Diffusion models explore the reasons policies transfer across governments. In this study, we focus on U.S. state level efforts in affordable housing. Drawing predominately from policy diffusion literature, our research examines the determinants of the creation of state Housing Trust Funds (HTFs). We utilize event history analysis with logit regressions and survival modeling to examine how problem severity, neighbor adoption, economic standing, elected leadership, housing investment, and demographics predict state HTF adoption. Results indicate that both problem severity and elected leadership predict the adoption of HTFs. This work improves our understanding of state policy diffusion and efforts in housing affordability.
Alternative Constructions of Partner Relationships in Chronic Illness: A Qualitative Study Exploring Concurrent Relationships
Authors: Sorber Michaela , Knecht Christiane , Meng Michael , Büscher Andreas , Schnepp Wilfried
Published: October 2021

Chronic illness can have a profound impact on couples’ relationships. In dealing with relational changes, new constructions and forms of relationships may arise. In the context of a larger grounded theory study on relational processes and practices in couples faced with chronic illness, this article focuses on concurrent relationships as an alternative form of relationship construction which embodies an additional relationship existing parallel to that of the couple confronted with chronic illness. Based on qualitative interviews with a subsample of five persons within the larger study, conditions for the development and characteristics of concurrent relationships are presented. From an individual and shared life questioned by chronic illness, concurrent relationships are formed in the attempt to be able to live on together in a new partner relationship and a continued care relationship. This can lead to new constructions of relationships, family life, and social relations in everyday life.
Regulatory Perspectives on Juvenile Animal Toxicologic Pathology
Authors: Rao Deepa B. , Hoberman Alan M. , Brown Paul C. , Varela Aurore , Bolon Brad
Published: October 2021

The Society of Toxicologic Pathology’s Annual Virtual Symposium (2021) included a session on "Regulatory Perspectives on Juvenile Animal Toxicologic Pathology." The following narrative summarizes the key concepts from the four talks included in this symposium session chaired by Drs Deepa Rao and Alan Hoberman. These encompass an overview of various global regulations impacting the conduct of juvenile animal studies in pharmaceutical drug development and chemical toxicity assessments in a talk by Dr Alan Hoberman. Given the numerous regulatory guidances and legal statutes that have covered the conduct of juvenile animal studies and the recent harmonization of these guidances for pharmaceuticals, Dr Paul Brown provided an update on the harmonization of these guidances for pharmaceuticals, in the recently finalized version of the International Council for Harmonisation of Technical Requirements for Pharmaceuticals for Human Use S11 guidance document, “Nonclinical Safety Testing in Support of Development of Pediatric Medicines.” The first two talks on regulations were followed by two talks focused on an evaluation of the postnatal development of two major organ systems relevant in juvenile animals. Dr Aurore Varela covered study design and endpoints impacting the skeletal system (bone), while Dr Brad Bolon presented a talk on the study design and conduct of neuropathology evaluations for the developing nervous system.
Parental stress among Norwegian fathers and mothers: Similarities and differences
Authors: Hukkelberg Silje S. , Nærde Ane
Published: October 2021

Although fathers are increasingly involved in childrearing, less is known about how parental stress is perceived among mothers and fathers separately. The present study investigated the construct validity of the PSS in a community-based sample of Norwegian father–mother dyads with a child aged 4. A total of 1030 mothers and fathers ( N = 515 dyads) responded to the PSS, which is a much used instrument that assesses stress related to childrearing across 18 items. Construct validity was investigated using exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses and the multitrait–multimethod approach (MTMM). The results revealed that six of the items showed extensive ceiling-effects for both parents, and were excluded from further analysis. Dimensionality was examined for the remaining 12 PSS items. The results supported a two-factor solution for both fathers and mothers, reflecting parental stressors (9 items) and lack of rewards (3 items). The MTMM approach indicated convergent and discriminant validity across traits (Parental stressors and Lack of rewards) and methods (father vs mother rating). We also explored the network of PSS items for mothers and fathers, and found both similarities and differences. Overall, the results of the factor analyses have implications for the use of the PSS. The networks of PSS suggest that some items may be especially important when addressing parental stress with mothers and fathers.
Making sense of continuous development of digital infrastructures
Authors: Osmundsen Karen , Bygstad Bendik
Published: October 2021

Continuous development extends the agile approach and focuses on bringing valuable services to users with the aim of achieving a continuous flow of learning and development in short cycles. The objective of this work is to theorize the idea of continuous development in the context of digital infrastructure evolution and explore the organizational interactions underlying continuous development. By drawing on literature on digital infrastructure theory and continuous development as it has emerged as an idea from the DevOps thinking expanded from agile, we outline main characteristics of continuous development and propose a theoretical definition of continuous development in organizational contexts. Then, in answering our research question “which patterns of interactions can be identified in the continuous development of digital infrastructures?”, we conducted a longitudinal case study at a Norwegian grid company and explored how a specific digital infrastructure evolved through continuous development. We identified generic interaction patterns with two cycles of sense-giving and sense-making between organizational actors, enabling the continuous development of the digital infrastructure. Our findings and model of interaction patterns offer a nuanced perspective on both digital infrastructure evolution and established views of sense-making and sense-giving mechanisms, as well as new ways to think about digitalization in incumbent firms.
Artificial intelligence and the conduct of literature reviews
Authors: Wagner Gerit , Lukyanenko Roman , Paré Guy
Published: October 2021

Artificial intelligence (AI) is beginning to transform traditional research practices in many areas. In this context, literature reviews stand out because they operate on large and rapidly growing volumes of documents, that is, partially structured (meta)data, and pervade almost every type of paper published in information systems research or related social science disciplines. To familiarize researchers with some of the recent trends in this area, we outline how AI can expedite individual steps of the literature review process. Considering that the use of AI in this context is in an early stage of development, we propose a comprehensive research agenda for AI-based literature reviews (AILRs) in our field. With this agenda, we would like to encourage design science research and a broader constructive discourse on shaping the future of AILRs in research.
Estimation of sex from computed tomography images of skull measurements in an adult Turkish population
Authors: Meral Orhan , Meydan Reyhan , Toklu Belkıs Betül , Kaya Ahsen , Karadayi Beytullah , Acar Türker
Published: October 2021

Background

Nowadays, data on the anthropometric measurements of populations is needed in many areas, especially forensic and legal. Using various methods, researchers obtain various data such as race, sex, and age, and thus provide identification of the material used. Morphological or metric methods are often used for identification.

Purpose

To evaluate the usefulness of the results of skull measurements using computed tomography (CT) to determine sex in a Turkish population.

Material and Methods

We analyzed 300 male and 300 female CT images of Turkish individuals with an age range of 21–50 years. Maximum cranial length, maximum cranial breadth, bimastoid diameter, bizygomatic diameter, and bigonial breadth were measured by CT tomography. All data were subjected to discriminant function analyses for estimating sex. Intra-observer and inter-observer variances of the measurements were examined using intraclass correlation coefficient analysis.

Results

Discriminant function analysis indicated that there was a significant difference between male and female with 88% accuracy. Discriminant function for estimation of sex was obtained with satisfactory accuracy rates for the parameters used.

Conclusion

This study confirms that skull measurements show sexual dimorphism in the Turkish population, and also suggests that it may be useful to use CT to assess skull anthropometric measurements.
The politics of scaling
Authors: Pfotenhauer Sebastian , Laurent Brice , Papageorgiou Kyriaki , Stilgoe and Jack
Published: October 2021

A fixation on ‘scaling up’ has captured current innovation discourses and, with it, political and economic life at large. Perhaps most visible in the rise of platform technologies, big data and concerns about a new era of monopolies, scalability thinking has also permeated public policy in the search for solutions to ‘grand societal challenges’, ‘mission-oriented innovation’ or transformations through experimental ‘living labs’. In this paper, we explore this scalability zeitgeist as a key ordering logic of current initiatives in innovation and public policy. We are interested in how the explicit preoccupation with scalability reconfigures political and economic power by invading problem diagnoses and normative understandings of how society and social change function. The paper explores three empirical sites – platform technologies, living labs and experimental development economics – to analyze how scalability thinking is rationalized and operationalized. We suggest that social analysis of science and technology needs to come to terms with the ‘politics of scaling’ as a powerful corollary of the ‘politics of technology’, lest we accept the permanent absence from key sites where decisions about the future are made. We focus in on three constitutive elements of the politics of scaling: solutionism, experimentalism and future-oriented valuation. Our analysis seeks to expand our vocabulary for understanding and questioning current modes of innovation that increasingly value scaling as an end in itself, and to open up new spaces for alternative trajectories of social transformation.
Short-term rentals as a new urban frontier – evidence from European cities
Authors: Cocola-Gant Agustin , Hof Angela , Smigiel Christian , Yrigoy Ismael
Published: October 2021

Papers in this special issue offer a wide range of political economy and sociological perspectives to explain the development and impacts of short-term rentals (STRs) in European cities. Empirically, they provide insights regarding STR providers, socio-spatial impacts, and regulation. Authors reveal the professionalization of the sector vis-à-vis the connection between STRs and the wider financialization of housing. STRs are predominantly supplied by professional property managers as well as by middle-class individuals for which renting on digital platforms is their main professional activity. Furthermore, the increasing professionalization of hosts and the intrinsic competition among them is largely stimulated by the business model of digital platforms which has progressively favoured professional operators. Understanding how STRs are shaped by platform capitalism helps to explain the socio-spatial impacts of this market as well as why current regulations have not mitigated such impacts. In terms of impacts, contributions to this special issue document processes of displacement, gentrification, and how the penetration of visitors in neighbourhoods is experienced by residents as a process of loss and dispossession. However, due to the lobbying campaigns of professional operators and industry players, regulation has led to the legitimization of this new market rather than to the limitation of the activity. Therefore, the special issue challenges the use of a ‘sharing economy' and ‘peer-to-peer platforms’ as analytical categories, and, instead, provides evidence of why the STR market should be seen as part of the wider expansion of platform capitalism, consolidating the neoliberal and financialized urban paradigm.
High Risk of New Knee Injuries in Female Soccer Players After Primary Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction at 5- to 10-Year Follow-up
Authors: Fältström Anne , Kvist Joanna , Hägglund Martin
Published: October 2021

Background:

A new anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury after ACL reconstruction is a feared outcome.

Purpose:

To study the risk of new knee injuries in female soccer players 5 to 10 years after primary unilateral ACL reconstruction and to compare players who returned to soccer with (1) players who did not return and (2) knee-healthy soccer players (controls).

Study Design:

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 2.

Methods:

Demographic, soccer-specific, and surgical data were recorded at baseline for 317 female soccer players (mean ± SD age, 20.1 ± 2.7 years) 1.6 ± 0.7 years after ACL reconstruction and for 119 matched controls (mean age, 19.5 ± 2.5 years). Data on new knee injuries and soccer-playing status were collected 5 to 10 years after ACL reconstruction via a questionnaire.

Results:

Among players with ACL reconstruction, 222 (70%) responded at a mean 6.5 ± 1.0 years after primary ACL reconstruction. We compared 3 cohorts: (1) among 163 players with ACL reconstruction who returned to soccer, 68 (42%) sustained 44 reruptures and 29 contralateral ruptures; (2) among 59 players with ACL reconstruction who did not return to soccer, 11 (19%) sustained 9 reruptures and 2 contralateral ruptures; and (3) among 113 knee-healthy controls, 12 (11%) sustained 13 ACL injuries. Players who returned had a >2-fold higher risk of a new ACL injury than players who did not return (risk ratio, 2.24; 95% CI, 1.27-3.93; P = .005) and a 4-fold higher risk than controls (risk ratio, 3.93; 95% CI, 2.23-6.91; P <.001). A new ACL, meniscal, or cartilage injury was the most frequent new knee injury. Among players who returned to soccer, 68% reported a new knee injury, and they had a 2- to 5-times higher risk of any new knee injury and knee surgery than players who did not return and controls.

Conclusion:

Two-thirds of female soccer players with ACL reconstruction who returned to soccer sustained a new knee injury within 5 to 10 years; 42% had a new ACL injury. Their risk of a new knee injury and knee surgery was 2 to 5 times greater than that for players who did not return and for knee-healthy controls. New injury may have negative consequences for long-term knee health and should be a critical consideration in the decision to return to play.
Simulation of the burning and dripping cables in fire using the particle finite element method
Authors: Marti Julio , Schartel Bernhard , Oñate Eugenio
Published: October 2021

The behavior of the cable jacket in fire characterized by the tendency to melt and drip constitutes a major source of fire hazard. The reason is that the melted material may convey the flame from one point to another, expanding fire and contributing to the fire load. In this article, the capability of a new computational strategy based on the particle finite element method for simulating a bench-scale cables burning test is analyzed. The use bench-scale test has been previously used to simulate the full-scale test described in EN 50399. As the air effect is neglected, a simple combustion model is included. The samples selected are two cables consisting of a copper core and differently flame retarded thermoplastic polyurethane sheets. The key modeling parameters were determined from different literature sources as well as experimentally. During the experiment, the specimen was burned under the test set-up condition recording the process and measuring the temperature evolution by means of three thermocouples. Next, the test was reproduced numerically and compared with a real fire test. The numerical results show that the particle finite element method can accurately predict the evolution of the temperature and the melting of the jacket.
A Qualitative Investigation of Leisure Engagement and Health Benefits Among North Korean Adolescent Refugees
Authors: Kim Junhyoung , Park Se-Hyuk , Kim May , Kim Yu-Sik , Kim Jungsun
Published: October 2021

The purpose of this study was to investigate the leisure behaviors of adolescent defectors from North to South Korea and the mental health benefits they derive from leisure participation, a topic not previously addressed in the literature. Semistructured, in-depth interviews were conducted with 17 participants. Qualitative analysis based on acculturation theory revealed three salient themes of leisure benefits: (a) creating a sense of belonging, (b) increasing psychological well-being, and (c) facilitating acculturation. The results indicate that participants gained social and psychological benefits through leisure activities. They also suggest that the provision of recreation programs that encourage inter/intragroup participation can be an important component of these young refugees’ cultural and social adjustment.
Prediction of fracture limits of IN625 alloy by coupling ductile damage models and anisotropic yielding functions with the classical Marciniak and Kuczyński model
Authors: Morchhale Ayush , Kotkunde Nitin , Singh Swadesh Kumar , Khanna Navneet
Published: October 2021

The fracture forming limit diagram (FFLD) is gaining special attention in high strength materials where the necking tendency rarely occurs during sheet metal forming processes. In the present work, the classical Marciniak and Kuczyński (MK) model has been modified by coupling it with different ductile damage models (Cockcroft and Latham, Brozzo, Oyane, Ko, Oh, Rice and Tracey, McClintock and Clift) and anisotropic yielding functions (Hill 1948 and Barlat 1989) to predict the fracture limits of Inconel 625 (IN625) alloy at different temperatures. Firstly, uniaxial tensile testing has been conducted for the determination of important mechanical properties. Consequently, stretch forming experiments have been performed to analyze the forming limits of a material. It has been found that the safe and fracture forming limits of the material increased by approximately 17.26% and 22.22%, respectively, on increasing the temperature from 300 to 673 K. From the comparative analysis of different combinations of ductile damage models and yielding functions, the Cockcroft and Latham (C-L) damage model in combination with the Barlat 1989 yielding function helped in best predicting the theoretical FFLD as it displayed the least average root mean square error (RMSE) of 0.033. The other ductile damage models used for predicting the theoretical fracture limits displayed large error; hence, they should not be considered while designing a critical component in the manufacturing industry using IN625 alloy.
A nation of bureaucrats or a nation of workers? Welfare benefits as nation-building modernization tools in interwar Romania
Authors: Delcea Sergiu
Published: October 2021

As one of the most potent hypothesis in political economy, the negative impact of ethnic diversity on the provision of public goods made the welfare state–nation state isomorphism seem a one-way connection. Against the grain of existing studies I argue, through a case-study of interwar Romania, that welfare states are constructed to proactively (re)build the nation, rather than retroactively emanate from it, once established. Rather than an ahistorical ethnolinguistic fractionalization, the article takes nationhood as historically fluid and contested because through institutionalized action, elites can and do proactively revamp the political arena, redistributing coalitions of winners and losers based on exogenously given criteria. The article therefore shows that nation forgers typically internalize the global social question through the topoi of local socio-economic problems construed as a national question. Because elites can pick and choose who becomes part of the national compact, the politicization of the perception of incomplete nationhood provides a sufficient ideational thrust for welfare policymaking, irrespective of pre-existing national solidarities. Consequently, welfare policies are typically layered as remedial or compensatory policies designed to foster a specific social mobility, deemed in a top-down fashion to be completing the nation.
A radiocarbon chronology of Holocene climate change and sea-level rise at the Delmarva Peninsula, US Mid-Atlantic Coast
Authors: Ramsey Kelvin W , Tomlinson Jaime L , Mattheus C Robin
Published: October 2021

Radiocarbon dates from 176 sites along the Delmarva Peninsula record the timing of deposition and sea-level rise, and non-marine wetland deposition. The dates provide confirmation of the boundaries of the Holocene subepochs (e.g. “early-middle-late” of Walker et al.) in the mid-Atlantic of eastern North America. These data record initial sea-level rise in the early Holocene, followed by a high rate of rise at the transition to the middle Holocene at 8.2 ka, and a leveling off and decrease in the late-Holocene. The dates, coupled to local and regional climate (pollen) records and fluvial activity, allow regional subdivision of the Holocene into six depositional and climate phases. Phase A (>10 ka) is the end of periglacial activity and transition of cold/cool climate to a warmer early Holocene. Phase B (10.2–8.2 ka) records rise of sea level in the region, a transition to Pinus-dominated forest, and decreased non-marine deposition on the uplands. Phase C (8.2–5.6 ka) shows rapid rates of sea-level rise, expansion of estuaries, and a decrease in non-marine deposition with cool and dry climate. Phase D (5.6–4.2 ka) is a time of high rates of sea-level rise, expanding estuaries, and dry and cool climate; the Atlantic shoreline transgressed rapidly and there was little to no deposition on the uplands. Phase E (4.2–1.1 ka) is a time of lowering sea-level rise rates, Atlantic shorelines nearing their present position, and marine shoal deposition; widespread non-marine deposition resumed with a wetter and warmer climate. Phase F (1.1 ka-present) incorporates the Medieval Climate Anomaly and European settlement on the Delmarva Peninsula. Chronology of depositional phases and coastal changes related to sea-level rise is useful for archeological studies of human occupation in relation to climate change in eastern North America, and provides an important dataset for future regional and global sea-level reconstructions.
Family Firms, Enterprise Development and Tacit Knowledge Transformation: Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) Innovation in Malaysia
Authors: Yew John Lee Kean
Published: October 2021

In light of the global economy, it is undeniable that small businesses such as family-owned small and medium enterprises (SMEs) affect economic performance globally. They offer a key basis of flexibility and innovation but also face some challenges along the way. Since family SMEs form a large portion in the Malaysian corporate sector, the economy of this country is highly dependent on family firms’ entrepreneurial capacity. During the past decade, although family SMEs innovation is analytically and empirically reviewed in terms of theory building, it still lacks a systematic adoption of thorough and theoretically-based frameworks to gain understanding on the evolution of knowledge transformation surrounding this topic. This study primarily focuses on the development of tacit knowledge through innovation during generational change with specific attention given to three family firms ranging from old, new and declining wealth enterprises. Besides, this article appraises the evolution of SMEs innovation when new generations attempt to transform the tacit knowledge in advancing the products innovation and quality branding in Malaysia.
Thermomechanical training and structural tests for adaptive SMA bumps with two-way shape memory effect
Authors: Zhang Chen , Ji Hongli , Chen Xing , Qiu Jinhao
Published: October 2021

In this paper, shape memory alloy (SMA) bumps with two-way shape memory effect (TWSME) are trained by simple but effective training approaches, which provides a new idea for the actuations of the shock control bump (SCB) on airfoil. Two different configurations of bump structures (2D and 3D SMA bumps) are designed and fabricated. The bumps are required to exhibit TWSME so that it can change its shape by heating and cooling between two stable states at austenitic phase and martensitic phase, respectively. To obtain the TWSME, the material is trained in the range of martensitic finish temperature and austenitic finish temperature whilst a displacement boundary condition is imposed. A set of fixtures, which can be assembled to the universal testing machine (UTM), are designed to achieve the clamped boundary condition during thermal cycles of the training process. After training, SMA bumps with the TWSME, that bulge at low-temperature and become flat at high, are obtained. Structural tests and deformation control are then carried out afterwards to show the deformation performance of the trained SMA bumps.
Durable Progression-Free Survival With the Use of BRAF and MEK Inhibitors in Four Cases With BRAF V600E-Mutated Gliomas
Authors: Fusco Michael J. , Piña Yolanda , Macaulay Robert J. , Sahebjam Solmaz , Forsyth Peter A. , Peguero Edwin , Walko Christine M.
Published: October 2021

Introduction

BRAF V600 E mutations have been identified in a subset of patients with primary brain tumors. Combination therapy with BRAF and Mitogen-activated protein kinase (MEK) inhibitors (BRAF/MEKi) targeting sequential steps in the MAPK pathway has replaced BRAFi monotherapy as the standard of care in multiple tumors with BRAF V600 E mutations, and clinical evidence for this strategy continues to grow in primary brain tumors.

Case series

We describe four patients with BRAF V600 E mutated gliomas, including a 21-year-old woman with a ganglioglioma WHO grade I, a 19-year-old man with a pleomorphic xanthoastrocytoma WHO grade III, and 21-year-old and 33-year-old women with epithelioid GBM WHO grade IV, who achieved durable progression-free survival with combination BRAF/MEKi.

Conclusion

Combination of BRAF/MEK inhibition can be a novel, promising approach as targeted therapy in gliomas with BRAF V600 E mutations, especially those that are resistant to standard therapy. Our cases, along with other early reports utilizing dabrafenib/trametinib, highlight the importance of somatic next-generation sequencing, particularly in younger patients. Interim results from clinical trials utilizing dabrafenib/trametinib have been promising thus far, and our case series suggests that durable clinical benefit is possible, even in the setting of glioblastoma, WHO grade IV.
Hydrochlorothiazide Reduces Cardiac Hypertrophy, Fibrosis and Rho-Kinase Activation in DOCA-Salt Induced Hypertension
Authors: Mondaca-Ruff David , Araos Patricio , Yañez Cristián E. , Novoa Ulises F. , Mora Italo G. , Ocaranza María Paz , Jalil Jorge E.
Published: October 2021

Background:

Thiazides are one of the most common antihypertensive drugs used for hypertension treatment and hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ) is the most frequently used diuretic for hypertension treatment. The Rho/Rho-kinase (ROCK) path plays a key function in cardiovascular remodeling. We hypothesized that in preclinical hypertension HCTZ reduces myocardial ROCK activation and consequent myocardial remodeling.

Methods:

The preclinical model of deoxycorticosterone (DOCA)-salt hypertension was used (Sprague–Dawley male rats). After 3 weeks, in 3 different groups: HCTZ, the ROCK inhibitor fasudil or spironolactone was added (3 weeks). After 6 weeks myocardial hypertrophy and fibrosis, cardiac levels of profibrotic proteins, mRNA levels (RT PCR) of pro remodeling and pro oxidative molecules and ROCK activity were determined.

Results:

Blood pressure, myocardial hypertrophy and fibrosis were reduced significantly by HCTZ, fasudil and spironolactone. In the heart, increased levels of the pro-fibrotic proteins Col-I, Col-III and TGF-β1 and gene expression of pro-remodeling molecules TGF-β1, CTGF, MCP-1 and PAI-1 and the pro-oxidative molecules gp91phox and p22phox were significantly reduced by HCTZ, fasudil and spironolactone. ROCK activity in the myocardium was increased by 54% ( P < 0.05) as related to the sham group and HCTZ, spironolactone and fasudil, reduced ROCK activation to control levels.

Conclusions:

HCTZ reduced pathologic LVH by controlling blood pressure, hypertrophy and myocardial fibrosis and by decreasing myocardial ROCK activation, expression of pro remodeling, pro fibrotic and pro oxidative genes. In hypertension, the observed effects of HCTZ on the myocardium might explain preventive outcomes of thiazides in hypertension, specifically on LVH regression and incident heart failure.
Human allergy to cats: A review for veterinarians on prevalence, causes, symptoms and control
Authors: Sparkes Andrew H
Published: October 2021

Practical relevance:

Human allergy to cats affects a substantial and growing proportion of the global population, and cat allergy is regarded as the third most common cause of human respiratory allergies, and the second most common indoor cause. Veterinarians will frequently encounter owners who are cat-allergic, and having an understanding of this disease and the methods available to help control the allergy will assist them in giving appropriate advice, alongside human healthcare professionals.

Aim:

The aim of this review is to summarise currently available data on the prevalence, causes, symptoms and control of human allergy to cats. In terms of managing cat allergy, the emphasis is on reviewing current and emerging modalities to reduce environmental exposure to cat allergens rather than on pharmacotherapy or immunotherapy, as it is in these areas in particular that the veterinarian may be able to offer help and advice to complement that of human healthcare professionals.

Evidence base:

The information in this review is drawn from the current and historical literature on human allergy to cats, and approaches to reduce exposure to cat allergens and manage symptoms of cat allergy.
Computational Evaluation of Bioactive Compounds from Colocasia affinis Schott as a Novel EGFR Inhibitor for Cancer Treatment
Authors: Balogun Toheeb A , Ipinloju Nureni , Abdullateef Olayemi T , Moses Segun I , Omoboyowa Damilola A , James Akinwumi C , Saibu Oluwatosin A , Akinyemi Wumi F , Oni Ebenezer A
Published: October 2021

Introduction:

Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) is a transmembrane protein that belongs to the ErbB/HER-family of tyrosine kinase receptors. Somatic mutations and overexpression of EGFR have been reported to play a vital role in cancer cell development and progression, including cell proliferation, differentiation, angiogenesis, apoptosis, and metastatic spread. Hence, EGFR is an important therapeutic target for the treatment of various types of epithelial cancers. Somatic mutations have led to resistance to clinically approved synthetic EGFR inhibitors. Furthermore, synthetic EGFR inhibitors have been associated with several side effects. Thus, there is a need to develop novel EGFR inhibitors with an acceptable biosafety profile and high efficacy.

Methods:

Herein, we employed structural bioinformatics and theoretical chemistry techniques via molecular docking, molecular mechanics generalized Born surface area (MM-GBSA) calculation, density functional theory analysis (DFT), and pharmacokinetic study to identify novel EGFR inhibitors.

Results:

The stringent molecular docking and MM-GBSA calculations identified MET 793, LYS 745, PHE 723, ASP 855, ARG 411, and THR 854 as principal amino acid residues for EGFR-ligands interactions. Furthermore, Colocasia affinis Schott compounds exhibited higher binding energy and more stable interactions than the reference compound (gefitinib). DFT analysis also ascertains better bioactivity and chemical reactivity of C. affinis Schott with favorable intramolecular charge transfer between electron-donor and electron acceptor groups. The pharmacokinetic profile of C. affinis Schott bioactive compounds satisfies Lipinski’s rule of five assessment.

Conclusion:

Collectively, C. affinis Schott compounds demonstrated higher inhibitory potentials against EGFR and better pharmacological properties when compared with gefitinib. C. affinis Schott compounds are therefore suggested as promising therapeutic EGFR inhibitors for cancer treatment.
Critical theory in crisis? a reconsideration
Authors: Jahn Beate
Published: October 2021

The recent rise of populism has generated a resurgence of interest in critical theory, in the wider public debate and in academia—with critical theory being variously accused of paving the way for post-truth politics, hailed as explaining the rise of populism, or criticized for failing to achieve its emancipatory political goals. Failure of the latter kind, many International Relations scholars argue, calls for a fundamental reform of critical theory if it is to address current political developments. Investigating this claim, this article makes three contributions: First, an empirical account shows that, far from failing, critical theory has been politically highly successful. Second, a theoretical reconstruction of critical theory shows that it is precisely this success that leads to the alienation of critical theorists from their own approach. In light of this analysis, third, the article concludes that the task of critical theory in times of Brexit and Trump does not lie in abandoning its core principles but in systematically applying them to a new historical conjuncture.
Airbnb as a sharing economy-enabled digital service platform: The power of motivational factors and the moderating role of experience
Authors: Tumer Kabadayi Ebru , Cavdar Aksoy Nilsah , Yazici Nihal , Kocak Alan Alev
Published: October 2021

Airbnb is one of the business models that represent the expansion of the sharing economy into digital environments. The model offers several different benefits to its own customers, who are guests and hosts. It affects the tourism and hospitality industry via its economic impact on competition and its influence on choices made by visitors. This study thus aims to explore the role of visitor motivation to use Airbnb (price value, authenticity, enjoyment, social interaction, home benefits, novelty, and sharing economy ethos) and the visitor experience (low-experienced vs. high-experienced individuals) by explaining usage intention via attitudes toward this particular business model. For this purpose, 468 people were surveyed online, and the gathered data were analyzed using structural equation modeling. Based on the results, we can offer empirical evidence of the positive effect of motivational factors on attitude, and correspondingly, also of attitude on usage intention. The moderating role of experience on the relationship between motivation and attitude is also discussed.