bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Journeying with Adorno: Passion, pathways and ethno-mimesis
Authors: O’Neill Maggie
Published: December 2024

This article discusses the central importance of Adorno in the development of my feminist research practice as ‘ethno-mimesis’, the combination of ethnographic, biographical and arts-based research, operationalised by working with artists at the borders of art and ethnography, as critical theory in practice. The concept of ethno-mimesis emerged from my engagement with Adorno's work across five main pathways (non-identity thinking, aesthetics and politics, micrology, the importance of the critical recovery of history, in ‘living a damaged life’) and is informed by my reading of Negative Dialectics and the central dialectic in Aesthetic Theory of mimesis and constructive reality, that speaks to the relationship between art and society. Two key ethno-mimetic examples are used to explore this journey with Adorno: Not all the Time…But Mostly… and The Bosnian's in Nottingham. I argue through these examples that Adorno's work is as important now as it ever was, and the concept of ‘ethno-mimesis’ can articulate Adorno's value to sociology both theoretically and methodologically by facilitating understanding of: (i) the contradictions of oppression and the utter complexity of our lived relations, the inter-relationship and mediation between the ‘micrology’ of lived experience and broader structures of power, domination and control; (ii) the importance of continuously challenging identity thinking (as Adorno articulates it) of opening and keeping open space for critical discourse and dialogue towards a radical democratic imaginary and (iii) demonstrating through ethno-mimesis the transformative role and potential of art in countering social pathologies.
A review of organic phase change materials and their adaptation for thermal energy storage
Authors: Yadav Aman , Pandey AK , Samykano M , Kalidasan B , Said Zafar
Published: December 2024

Organic phase change materials (O-PCMs) such as alkanes, fatty acids, and polyols have recently attracted enormous attention for thermal energy storage (TES) due to availability in a wide range of temperatures and high latent heat values. However, low thermal conductivity and leakage problems during the phase transition of O-PCMs are of great concern. To overcome the long-standing drawbacks of O-PCMs, we critically discussed the preparation techniques of macro encapsulation phase change (MaPCM), microencapsulation phase change materials (MPCM), shape stabilized phase change materials (SSPCM), eutectic phase change materials (EPCM), nano-enhanced phase change materials (NePCM) along with the morphological insights, thermal property enhancements & molecular dynamics (MD) simulation of the prepared composite PCMs. The article also discusses fundamental thermal property increments in phonon interaction, Van der Waals forces of attraction, aspect ratio, thermal conductive path, temperature agglomeration, surfactant effect, and thermal resistance of O-PCMs. The current ongoing review manuscript consolidates the variation in thermal properties with different concentrations of nanoparticles, considering the variety of references to provide valuable insight to the researchers. Carbon-based nanoparticles dispersed with the O-PCMs are the best way to reduce the low thermal conductivity problem. The π-π stack interaction between the O-PCMs and the nanoparticles decreased the leakage problems of O-PCMs during encapsulation and shape stabilization. The authors observed that the highest increment in the thermal conductivity and the latent heat of the OPCMs is 1008.33% and 60%, respectively. Finally, the present review provides a new vision and draws more attention to the material reliability of O-PCMs-based applications in the future, particularly regarding TES.
Analysis of the effect of roughness on the sealing performance of end faces of microporous friction pairs
Authors: Liu Lei , Ahmat Mutellip , Mutellip Shayba
Published: December 2024

To study the influence of surface roughness on the sealing performance of the end face of microporous weaving friction vice, approximate simulation of end face roughness based on fractal theory is carried out, and a calculation model of gap lubrication film flow involving surface roughness is established, and the influence of different surface roughness on the sealing performance parameter of the end face of microporous weaving is investigated, and the influence of the parameters of the microporous weaving on the sealing performance of the end face under the same roughness is analyzed. The findings indicate that as surface roughness and rotational speed rise, so do the liquid film opening force and friction coefficient. Conversely, leakage somewhat decreases as surface roughness increases and increases as rotational speed increases. In the case of surface roughness Sa = 0.6 μm, the friction coefficient is smaller. The leakage is larger in the case of microporous weave compared with that of non-microporous weave. The friction coefficient tends to decrease with the increase of weave depth and area ratio, and the leakage tends to increase with the increase of weave depth and area ratio.
Investigation of tribo-mechanical performance of nano-TiC/rGO based hybrid magnesium alloy-based metal matrix composites under dry sliding condition
Authors: Kumar Sudhir , Gupta Rajeev Nayan
Published: December 2024

The current study systematically investigated the tribo-mechanical properties of magnesium-based hybrid nanocomposites. To fabricate magnesium alloy (AZ91) based composite by reinforcing nano-sized titanium carbide (nano-TiC), with weight percentages (wt.%) varying from 0.5% to 2% while maintaining a constant 0.5 wt.% of nano-reduced graphene oxide (rGO) throughout the experiments. The hybrid magnesium metal matrix nanocomposites (HMMMNCs) were prepared via the powder metallurgy procedure. The addition of hybrid reinforcements into the AZ91 matrix has a significant impact on its physical, mechanical, and tribological properties. The microhardness of the composite samples exhibited a significant enhancement, with an increase of ∼45.9% compared to the matrix material. This improvement in strength is attributed to the synergistic reinforcement effect of both nano-TiC and rGO. Additionally, at the optimal nano-TiC concentration of 1.5 wt.%, the wear rate and coefficient of friction (COF) of the HMMMNCs were decreased by ∼40.7% and ∼49.33%, respectively. This reduction is primarily due to the formation of a hardened ceramic phase in the contact region, which mitigates heat-induced softening. Also, different analytical tools, like XRD, SEM, and surface roughness profilometer, were employed to characterize the developed composite materials and analyze the worn surfaces.
Lived nuances and challenges of a voluntarily simple life: An autoethnography
Authors: Nesterova Iana
Published: December 2024

Bringing about a genuinely sustainable post-growth society requires transformations in the domains of civil society, the state and business. In the domain of civil society, consumption needs to reduce, and humans need to adopt alternative lifestyles, such as voluntary simplicity and zero-waste. In this article, as a researcher of post-growth and a long-term practitioner of voluntary simplicity and zero-waste, I rely on an autoethnographic study to bring to the surface lived nuances and challenges associated with this mode of living. Such challenges are associated with, for example, a lack of opportunities and stability, changes in relationships, employment, health, anxiety and stress. Far from saying that sustainable lifestyles are impossible, I make gentle suggestions to create better spaces for sustainable lifestyles, while avoiding placing hope solely in individual actions. I conclude that advocating voluntary simplicity and zero-waste must be approached with care, empathy and honesty.
The ecotheological values of Christian climate change activists
Authors: Malcolm Finlay , Scott Peter Manley
Published: December 2024

Given their large number of adherents, and the land and property they own, religious communities have been identified as groups that could have an influence on achieving carbon net-zero. The theological views held by religious communities relating to ecological matters – their “ecotheological values” – play an important role in motivating their environmental concern and action. But which ecotheological ideas are most, and which are least, efficacious in this respect? This paper presents findings salient to this question from a recent survey (n = 319) conducted amongst Christian activists and advocates concerned with climate change. It reports on which ecotheological ideas are most widely and firmly held amongst samples from six Christian environmental activist and advocacy groups in the UK, and discusses the extent to which these ideas are either continuous with mainstream Christian theology, or indicate innovative theological thinking. We find examples of both: some mainstream views are popular, and some are unpopular, amongst our sample, whilst some innovative and newer ideas are becoming more popular, whilst others are resisted. These results will be useful in seeking to promote a greater pro-environmental stance within Christian communities more widely.
The effect of a coping training program on the burnout levels of ambulance staff during the COVID-19 pandemic; a clinical trial
Authors: Çelebi Ismet , Balci Elçin
Published: December 2024

Backgraund

Although there is a growing body of intervention research addressing the impact of burnout on healthcare professionals, few researchers have focused on the impact of burnout on emergency medical service staff.

Objective

This paper investigated the effect of a coping training program on the burnout levels of ambulance crew members during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods

The sample consisted of 90 ambulance crew members in Türkiye. A psychologist implemented the intervention (coping training program) for six hours. There was no significant difference in pretest Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI) total and subscale scores between the experimental and control groups.

Results

The experimental group had a significantly higher mean pretest MBI “emotional exhaustion” subscale score than the posttest (25.5 ± 35.81) and follow-up (25.55 ± 16.51) scores (p = 0.048). Although the groups had lower mean follow-up MBI “emotional exhaustion” and “depersonalization” scores and higher mean follow-up MBI “personal accomplishment” scores, the difference was statistically insignificant (p > 0.05).

Conclusions

The intervention helped reduce ambulance crew members’ emotional exhaustion levels in the long term. However, although there was a decrease in depersonalization and an increase in personal accomplishment, the difference was statistically insignificant.
The relationship between physical inactivity, excessive screen time, and health indicators among teachers working from home during the COVID-19 pandemic: A cross-sectional study
Authors: de Lima Mayra Nascimento Matias , Oliveira Gledson Tavares Amorim , Araújo Andressa de Oliveira , Pereira Lucas Camilo , Cevada Thais , e Silva Nayra Suze Souza , Oliveira Ricardo Santos , Silva Rosângela Ramos Veloso , Cureau Felipe Vogt , Elsangedy Hassan Mohamed
Published: December 2024

Background: The literature has demonstrated that teachers were susceptible to psychological issues such as anxiety, depression, and stress during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, there is a need to explore the underlying factors contributing to these psychological burdens. Objective: To investigate the independent and joint association of physical inactivity and excessive screen time with self-perceived health, quality of life, anxiety, and sadness among teachers working from home during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: This online cross-sectional study was conducted with 14,979 teachers from public schools in Minas Gerais, Brazil. Physical activity, TV viewing time, and computer/tablet use were self-reported. Health outcomes were assessed using a Likert scale. Adjusted logistic regression models examined the associations. Results: Approximately 80% of the teachers were physically inactive (<150 min/week), while 10% and 80% spent more than 5 h/day watching TV and using a computer/tablet, respectively. Physical inactivity was associated with poor health, low quality of life, sadness, and anxiety. Excessive screen time was associated with low quality of life, sadness, and anxiety. Longer TV viewing time was associated with an increased frequency of sadness and anxiety. Interaction effects between physical inactivity and excessive screen time heightened the likelihood of adverse outcomes. Conclusion: Physical inactivity and excessive screen time independently contributed to the investigated health outcomes. The combination of physical inactivity and prolonged screen time increased the risk of poor self-perceived health among teachers during the pandemic.
The vocational rehabilitation technical assistance center for quality employment: Where are we now? A project review and progress summary
Authors: Bishop Malachy , Brinck Emily A. , Tansey Timothy N. , Anderson Cayte A. , Brehmer Chelsea , Castillo Stacie L.
Published: December 2024

Background

The Vocational Rehabilitation Technical Assistance Center for Quality Employment (VRTAC-QE; H264K200003) is a national technical assistance center funded, beginning in 2020, by the Rehabilitation Services Administration and intended to provide a sustainable national platform for state vocational rehabilitation agencies (SVRAs), their affiliates, persons with disabilities, employers, and policy groups to increase capacity in their ability to improve the quality and impact of vocational rehabilitation (VR) services leading to high quality competitive integrated employment (CIE).

Objective

This program description is designed to provide an overview of the VRTAC-QE and report activities and progress toward its goals and objectives.

Methods

At the conclusion of the fourth year of this five-year project, our purpose in this article is to describe the VRTAC-QE, to update the readership on our progress to-date in meeting our goals and objectives, and to share considerations for the final year of this national technical assistance center.

Results

In this article we describe the structure of the Center, the process of identifying and delivering training and technical assistance (TTA), and summarize the delivery of TTA to date, in terms of the project's scope and in the context of program evaluation metrics.

Conclusion

We conclude the article with a review of lessons learned and next steps as we enter the final year of this project.
Development and Validation of a Brief Warzone Stressor Exposure Index
Authors: Anyan Frederick , Nordstrand Andreas Espetvedt , Hjemdal Odin , Rønning Line , Huffman Ann Hergatt , Noll Laura K. , Gjerstad Christer Lunde , Wickham Robert E. , Bøe Hans Jakob
Published: December 2024

Existing scales mainly focus on danger-based threats of death and bodily harm to assess exposure to traumatic events in war zone. However, major provocations and transgression of deeply held values and moral beliefs, as well as witnessing the suffering of others can be as traumatic as fear-inducing danger-based events. This raises the need for scales that assess both danger- and nondanger-based events among soldiers operating in modern war zones. Norwegian military personnel deployed to Afghanistan between late 2001 and end of 2020 were invited to participate in a cross-sectional survey with a final sample size of 6,205 (males: n = 5,693; 91.7%; mean age = 41.93 years). We applied data reduction techniques (e.g., exploratory factor analysis, EFA, and exploratory graph analysis, EGA, through a community detection algorithm) to develop a 12-item, three-factor model (personal threat, traumatic witnessing, and moral injury) of the Warzone Stressor Exposure Index (WarZEI). Confirmatory factor analysis showed support for the factor model, with evidence of concurrent, discriminant, and incremental validity. These results indicate the WarZEI is a reliable and valid measure for assessing exposure to warzone stressors that allows for heterogeneity and the multidimensional nature of exposure to warzone stressors.
Relationship Between Psychological Stress Scores and Urinary 5-HT Levels Over Time Under Psychological Stress
Authors: Iida Tadayuki , Ito Yasuhiro , Murayama Susumu , Yoshimaru Yuki , Tatsumi Asami
Published: December 2024

Background:

Biomarkers for psychological stress have been examined and the “gut–microbiota–brain axis” is currently attracting attention. An intervention study reported improvements in both the intestinal environment and psychological stress. However, the relationship between psychological stress scores and urinary 5-hydroxytryptamine (u-5-HT), produced by enterochromaffin cells in the intestinal tract, has not yet been investigated over time in healthy subjects under psychological stress. Therefore, the present study examined the relationship between subjective psychological stress (depression and anxiety) scores and u-5-HT levels over time in healthy women.

Methods:

The effects of the objective structured clinical examination (OSCE), considered to be a uniform source of psychological stress, on u-5-HT levels were assessed in 16 third-year female medical university students (21.3 ± 2.1 years old) in Japan with a normal menstrual cycle. A self-administered questionnaire consisting of Zung’s Self-rating Depression Scale (SDS) and State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI) was used to evaluate subjective stress 1 month, 1 week, and 1 day before and 1 week after the OSCE. Pearson’s product-momentum correlation coefficient was used to calculate the correlation coefficient between u-5-HT levels, STAI, and SDS for each examined period.

Result:

On the day before the OSCE, u-5-HT levels correlated with SDS and STAI (SDS: r = .524, P = .037, State-Anxiety: r = −.718, P = .002).

Conclusion:

A correlation was observed between subjective psychological stress scores and u-5-HT levels in healthy women under psychological stress.
Experimental investigation of tribological properties of Callophyllum Inophyllum biolubricant oil modified with nano sized MoS2
Authors: Ashraf Uzma , Hanief Mohammad
Published: December 2024

This research investigates the tribological properties (friction and wear behaviour) of a bio-lubricant derived from modified Calophyllum inophyllum (mCI) oil. The focus is on the impact of incorporating nano-sized molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) particles into the lubricant. To improve the stability of Calophyllum inophyllum oil, a transesterification process was employed. The mCI oil and MoS2 nanoparticles were then characterized using Fourier-Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) and X-ray Diffraction (XRD) techniques. Tribological testing was conducted according to the ASTM D-4172 standard, utilizing a four-ball tribometer. The results revealed that a specific weight % of MoS2 nanoparticle significantly improved the tribological characteristics of the mCI oil. Notably, the minimum wear scar diameter was reduced by 10% compared to pure mCI oil at a weight % of 0.4 wt% of MoS2 nanoparticles. Energy-Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDS) and Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FESEM) were employed to examine the surface characteristics of the test balls after lubrication. Additionally, the coefficient of friction was observed to decrease with the inclusion of MoS2 nanoparticles in the mCI oil.
Resonance in an accelerating world: Understanding the emergence and characteristics of post-digital artifacts
Authors: Jansson Johan , Thorén Claes
Published: December 2024

Modern society is characterized by technological and social acceleration. Digital devices and technologies have been integrated into nearly every aspect of our lives, from the public to the personal, transforming the material, social and mental worlds at an accelerating rate. To deal with the feeling of acceleration, carefully limiting the number of choices and features in the digital devices we use every day is central in order to facilitate and sustain creativity and focus. Under the umbrella term of post-digital artifacts, there are today several examples of ‘alternative’ products that offer limited functionality as a feature – and they seem to be growing in popularity. Using a qualitative analysis of online texts surrounding a selection of post-digital artifacts: two mobile phones (the Light Phone and the Punkt), a writing tablet (reMarkable), and a writing tool (Freewrite), the aim of this article is to understand the emergence of these post-digital artifacts and what the emergence says about a contemporary post-digital condition. The analysis results in an analytical framework identifying trajectories of opposing conceptual pairs of the digital and the post-digital. In addition, the article applies Rosa’s concept of ‘alienation’ and ‘resonance’ in order to further understand how and why these artifacts play a role in creating meaning and resonance in a digital society characterized by acceleration. Arguably, resonance (or a lack thereof) emerges as the key currency around what is at stake in the post-digital condition. Reclaiming control over knowledge, activities, spatiality and temporality emerges as essential to understanding what resonance means and what the case products produce.
Combined telemedicine-first and direct primary care as a promising model of healthcare delivery
Authors: Schlegel Daniel
Published: December 2024

Telemedicine is comparable in quality to in-person care, adequate for many primary care concerns, acceptable to patients, and can overcome barriers to care. However, patients are reluctant to pay the same for telemedicine as in-person care and uncertainty about future payor reimbursement makes it risky to base a clinical practice primarily on telemedicine. Physical exam-supported information collection and relationship-building are limited in telemedicine, but can be mitigated through remote patient monitoring and ample access to a provider and clinical team. Subscription-based direct primary care models disconnect payment from episodes of care, which can support enhanced communication between the patient and care team and support time for asynchronous tasks such as remote patient monitoring data review. A “telemedicine first, direct primary care” model in which most care is provided through telemedicine and financed via subscription would retain the convenience of telemedicine, mitigate relationship-limiting deficiencies due to the lack of physical contact, and provide a stable revenue stream to support a telemedicine-based approach to care. Paired with specialist access via eConsults and options to refer to in-person care when necessary, this model would support telemedicine as the foundation for practice and connect underserved populations to primary and specialty care.
Grey people in an ordinary world: Navigating the politics of migration at the Eurovision Song Contest
Authors: Carniel Jessica
Published: December 2024

The Eurovision Song Contest positions itself as a nonpolitical cultural event that unites Europe in song. However, politics and the representation of politicised issues permeate the song contest through a focus on values-based politics rather than state-based politics. This article uses the highly politicised issue of migration to explore how participating artists and nations navigate the Eurovision Song Contest’s rules about political expression and politicisation through these values-based politics. It argues that these values create a political space wherein politicised issues can be addressed without contravening the contest’s rules about political expression.
No safe place: Black women, state violence and Black cultural production
Authors: Macaulay Vanessa Damilola
Published: December 2024

This article explores the intersection of state violence, race and gender in the context of Black women's creative practice. Drawing on a range of examples from Black cultural production, including AI and theatre, the article demonstrates the ways in which Black women are both witnesses and victims of state-sponsored violence and offers a close examination of how Black artists are creating from this space of danger to Black life. The article ultimately argues for an intersectional approach to performance studies, one that takes seriously the experiences and perspectives of Black women and that recognises the ways in which state violence operates as a tool of oppression and control that is intimately tied to race and gender.
Re-thinking vulnerability: Research fraud and bureaucratic harm in community-engaged online research
Authors: Majic Samantha , Ditmore Melissa
Published: December 2024

Vulnerability – understood broadly as susceptibility to harm – factors into many social science research projects, including those that are qualitative, involve collaborations between scholars and members of the group under study, and engage with online research techniques and technologies. However, guidance for how researchers and communities may understand, navigate, and mitigate vulnerability in such projects is often scattered across disciplines, making it difficult for researchers to discern relevant best practices. To further understandings of vulnerability here, we reflect in this article on our experience with a mixed-method project, where we partnered with sex workers across the United States to study their experiences with the online platforms they use to facilitate and conduct their work. Based on our encounters with university bureaucracies and research fraud over the course of this project, we argue broadly that vulnerability is not a fixed, inherent attribute of certain research participants; instead, it emerges through various relations and events in the field, and all parties involved in a research project may experience it. To illustrate this argument, we demonstrate how university bureaucratic practices and research fraud may variously harm both participants and researchers by undermining community collaborations, data collection, and researcher safety and well-being. In conclusion we suggest best practices for online research and for universities, so they may better protect researchers and the integrity of such studies.
Alexithymia does not explain facial expression recognition difficulties across the dark triad spectrum
Authors: Towler John R.
Published: December 2024

The dark triad encompasses socially aversive personality traits—narcissism, psychopathy, and Machiavellianism—and has been shown to be associated with expression recognition difficulties. Alexithymia has been shown to be associated with the dark triad, and recent evidence has suggested that co-occurring alexithymia may explain facial expression recognition difficulties found in the autism spectrum. Here, I tested this alexithymia hypothesis for individuals on the dark triad spectrum. Using an individual difference approach, I assessed whether trait alexithymia was able to predict unique variance in facial expression discrimination ability and facial expression labelling ability above and beyond an individual’s level of dark triad traits. Results showed that autistic traits, alexithymic traits, and dark triad traits all correlated with expression recognition ability. However, linear regression models showed that an individual’s level of dark triad traits, their level of autistic traits, and a brief measure of general cognitive ability each predicted unique variance in facial expression discrimination and facial expression labelling ability, but an individual’s level of alexithymic traits predicted no additional unique variance. Results suggest that dark triad and autistic traits each contribute to expression recognition ability in unique ways alongside general cognitive ability.
Shaping and Reshaping Narratives: Media Coverage of the Beijing 2022 Winter Olympic Games
Authors: Kuang Xianwen , Zhang Xiaoling
Published: December 2024

The Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics offer a unique lens to examine media portrayals of China as a host nation amidst global polarisation and nationalism, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Our special issue explores these dynamics through four key themes: (1) Western English-language media sentiment towards China during the pandemic; (2) the influence of China–US relations on China's portrayal in US media across two Olympic Games; (3) Chinese social media fandoms as a method to decolonise sports communication studies; and (4) the representation of foreign athletes of Chinese origin amidst rising Chinese nationalism. We critically assess how racism, nationalism, and bilateral relations intersect to shape media narratives of the Olympics, with China as the host.
Diosgenin: A Potential Therapeutic Phytocompound for the Management of Atherosclerosis and Other Physiological Disorders
Authors: ur-Rehman Rizwan , Riaz Sania , Arooj Misha , Khan Saleha , Tariq Urwa , Fatima Maliha
Published: December 2024

The present study is aimed to explore the therapeutic attributes of diosgenin against atherosclerosis and associated health disorder. Side effects associated with synthetic drugs for the treatment and management of diseases worldwide have necessitated scientists to investigate and evaluate the therapeutic potential of phytochemicals and their pharmacological activities. Plants including Smilax China, Dioscorea alata, and the Trigonella foenum graecum are rich sources of diosgenin. In addition to being a crucial component in the creation of several steroidal medications, this bioactive phytochemical has shown great promise in the treatment of a wide range of diseases, including cancer, hypercholesterolemia, inflammation, and multiple infections. Diosgenin can reduce hyperlipidemia by lowering the amount of low-density lipoproteins, interfering with the absorption of cholesterol and increasing its excretion. Diosgenin inhibits the expression of NPCIL1 receptor, LXR-alpha, HMG CoA and SRB1, increases expression of ABC G5/G8 transporters to prevent dietary cholesterol accumulation in the body. Diosgenin exhibits antithrombotic activity by inhibiting platelet activation, and modulating anti coagulation by significantly decreasing factor Viii activity. Diosgenin inhibits the oxidation of LDLs, hence preventing atherosclerosis. It also possesses antithrombotic activity by inhibiting pancreatic lipase activity. Diosgenin provides anti-inflammatory benefits to the human body. It inhibits inflammatory markers including Interlukin-1 beta (IL-1β), Tumor necrosis factor – alpha (TNF-α), Nitric Oxide and cytokines. Moreover, it promotes the synthesis of antioxidant enzymes such as glutathione peroxidase and superoxide dismutase. By modifying the IKKβ pathway, it reduces endothelial damage linked to insulin resistance. This review discusses the recent advancements to explore diosgenin potential in reducing atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, cancer, inflammation, clinical application, pharmacokinetics underlying mechanism with existing scientific evidences.
The urban dialectic: Between distant time and thick time
Authors: Sabhlok Anu
Published: December 2024

In this commentary, I discuss the dialectic between Datta's concept of ‘distant time’ and Kentridge's visualization of ‘thick time’ to explore spatial and temporal relationships between colonial, postcolonial, and smart city urbanism in India. I am interested in extending the lines of Datta's contoured time in Shimla onto the plains of Chandigarh to see what are the different ways in which temporal distancing is maintained and challenged. The commentary elaborates on the concept metaphor of distant time by moving spatially from the lines of Shimla's contours to the Chandigarh grid. I also, introduce another temporal frame (postcolonial city) between the colonial city and the smart city to show how thick time prevails in urban crevices, simultaneously governed and ignored by distant time.
Gambling on the constitution: Abortion rights and the 2023 constitution-making process in Chile
Authors: Alemán Eduardo , Navia Patricio , Negretto Gabriel L. , González-Ocantos Ezequiel
Published: December 2024

When submitted to popular ratification, new constitutions tend to be approved. Chilean voters, however, rejected the proposal put forward by the country’s Constitutional Council in 2023. This article examines the reasons for this outcome. Leveraging an original conjoint experiment exploring voter preferences across four policy areas, we demonstrate that most voters disfavored a proposed clause protecting unborn life, which would have likely restricted access to abortion. Despite general support for other provisions in the draft, opposition to the abortion clause proved pivotal. Our analysis underscores the risks of partisan constitutional proposals dependent on the median voter for approval and highlights the importance of abortion as a mobilizing issue in contemporary democracies. The study also suggests that right-wing drafters miscalculated voter support, even as moderate members attempted to amend the controversial clause, showcasing the limitations of compromise-inducing rules when one ideological bloc controls the drafting process.
Artificial intelligence-enabled non-invasive ubiquitous anemia screening: The HEMO-AI pilot study on pediatric population
Authors: Gordon Daniel , Hoffman Jason , Gamrasni Keren , Barlev Yotam , Levine Alex , Landau Tamar , Shpiegel Ronen , Lahad Avishai , Koren Ariel , Levin Carina , Naor Osnat , Lee Hannah , Liu Xin , Patel Shwetak , Chayen Gilad , Brandwein Michael
Published: December 2024

Objective

Determine whether data collected from a smartphone camera can be used to detect anemia in a pediatric population.

Methods

HEMO-AI (Hemoglobin Easy Measurement by Optical Artificial Intelligence), a clinical study carried out from December 2020 to February 2023, recruited patients from the Pediatric Emergency Department, Pediatric Inpatient Department and Pediatric Hematology Unit of the Haemek Medical Center, Afula, Israel. A population-based sample of 823 patients aged 6 months to 18 years who had undergone a venous blood draw for a complete blood count since being admitted to the hospital were enrolled. Patients with total leukonychia, nailbed darkening or discoloration due to medication, nail clubbing, clinically indicated jaundice, subungual hematoma, nailbed lacerations, avulsion injuries, or nail polish applied on fingernails were not eligible for study recruitment. Video and images of the patients’ hand placed in a collection chamber were collected using a smartphone camera.

Results

823 samples, 531 from a 12.2 megapixel camera and 256 from a 12.2 megapixel camera, were collected. 26 samples were excluded by the study coordinator for irregularities. 97% of fingernails and 68% of skin samples were successfully identified by a post-trained machine learning model. Separate models built to detect anemia using images taken from the Pixel 3 had an average precision of 0.64 and an average recall of 0.4, whereas models built using the Pixel 6 had an average precision of 0.8 and an average recall of 0.84. Further supplementation of training data with synthetic data boosted the precision of the latter to 0.84 and the average recall to 0.87.

Conclusions

This study lays the groundwork for the future evolution of non-invasive, pain-free, and accessible anemia screening tools tailored specifically for pediatric patients. It identifies important sample collection parameters and design, provides critical algorithms for the pre-processing of fingernail data, and reports an initial capability to detect anemia with 87% sensitivity and 84% specificity.

Trial Registration

Prospectively registered on www.clinicaltrials.gov (Identifier: NCT04573244) on 15 September 2020, prior to subject recruitment.
Meta-Analysis of Learning Curve in Endoscopic Spinal Surgery: Impact on Surgical Outcomes
Authors: Álvarez de Mon-Montoliú Juan , Castro-Toral Juan , Bonome-González César , González-Murillo Manuel
Published: December 2024

Study Design

Systematic review and meta-analysis.

Objective

This meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the learning curve in endoscopic spinal surgery, including the time to mastery and challenges faced by novice surgeons, to improve learning and surgical outcomes.

Methods

Data extraction included the learning curve period and a comparison of surgeons with more experience or late period of the learning curve (late) and surgeons with less experience and in the early period of the learning curve (early) with respect to demographic, surgical, hospitalization, functional, and complication variables. Statistical analysis was performed using Review Manager 5.4.1 software.

Results

This meta-analysis included 16 studies (n = 1902). The average number of cases required to reach the learning curve was 32.5 ± 10.5. The uniportal technique required fewer cases (30.1 ± 10.2) than biportal technique (38.7 ± 10.3). There were no significant differences in demographic variables, operation level, or duration of symptoms between the advanced and novice surgeons. Advanced surgeons showed better outcomes in VAS leg pain at less than 6 months (SMD 0.18, 95% CI 0.01-0.34) and >6 months (SMD 0.14, 95% CI 0.02-0.27), as well as VAS back pain at > 6 months (SMD 0.16, 95% CI 0.04-0.29). The incidence of total complications was significantly higher in the novice surgeon group. The specific complications did not differ significantly between the 2 groups.

Conclusions

The average number of cases required to reach the learning curve was 32.5 ± 10.5. Experienced surgeons had shorter surgery and fluoroscopy times, better outcomes in leg and back pain, and a lower incidence of complications than novice surgeons.
Modified Hatchet Flap for Reconstruction of Large Full Thickness Defects of the Lower Lip
Authors: Taner Ömer Faruk , Tekin Fatih , Sürmeli Mehmet , Tekin Özlem
Published: December 2024

Reconstruction of large lower lip defects due to malignancies with good aesthetic result remains challenging. In this study we presented reconstruction of full thickness lower lip defect with modified hatchet flap. The charts of patients with 50% to 95% of the total lower lip defect due to lower lip tumor resection who had reconstruction with modified hatchet flap were reviewed. Seven of the patients had unilateral, two had bilateral modified hatchet flap. After follow-up period, it was concluded that this method provided a wide and functional mouth opening. Six of the patients stated that they were aesthetically satisfied with their appearance, while 3 patients found the result acceptable. None of the patients required additional surgical procedure. Modified hatchet flap is an easy-to-design, easy-to-remember flap with good aesthetic and functional results which makes it a reliable flap in the reconstruction of the large lower lip defects.
Efficacy and Safety of Fluconazole Mucoadhesive Patches in Human Immunodeficiency Virus-Related Oral Candidiasis
Authors: Deenadayalan Srikanth , Shenoy Ashok , Kamath Ashwin , Rathnanand Mahalaxmi , Ullal Sheetal , Shenoy Nandita
Published: December 2024

Background

Opportunistic fungal infections like oral candidiasis account for a significant amount of morbidity in HIV disease and an indicator of immune suppression. Fluconazole is a broad-spectrum antifungal agent that has been extensively used in the management of oral, candidiasis. Highly efficacious fluconazole is also known to have systemic toxicity due to high drug interaction and hence the present study focuses on the formulation of bioadhesive film as a controlled release carrier for fluconazole.

Materials and Methods

Patients were randomised, using a computer-generated list of random numbers, into one of the three groups: patients in group A received fluconazole mucoadhesive film 20 mg (sustained release) that was to be applied at bedtime and film 10 mg (intermediate release) to be applied during the day after lunch.

Results

There was a significant decrease in oral discomfort, pain and clinical improvement in group A compared to group B (Fluconazole oral tablets 100 mg/day) (P = 0.005) and group C (Fluconazole Mouth rinse) (P = 0.002). The patients who received the mucoadhesive patches had a more tolerable safety profile as expected compared to the other groups.

Conclusion

The bioadhesive films of fluconazole were used in HIV positive patients with oral candidiasis to overcome the problems of high dose requirement of the drug and reduce associated adverse reactions in an already immunocompromised patients and improve the quality of life.
Arthroscopic Autologous Minced Cartilage Implantation of Cartilage Defects in the Knee: A 2-Year Follow-up of 62 Patients
Authors: Schneider Stefan , Ossendorff Robert , Walter Sebastian G. , Berger Moritz , Endler Christoph , Kaiser René , Ilg Ansgar , Salzmann Gian M. , Holz Johannes
Published: December 2024

Background:

Symptomatic cartilage defects of the knee joint are frequently diagnosed and can be treated with different available surgical methods. Nevertheless, there is currently no gold standard treatment for all indications. Minced cartilage implantation is increasingly coming into focus as a refined surgical technique.

Purpose:

To investigate the 2-year clinical and radiological outcomes of arthroscopic autologous minced cartilage repair with the standardized commercial implantation system AutoCart.

Study Design:

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

A total of 62 consecutive patients were included and prospectively evaluated preoperatively and at 3, 6, 12, and 24 months postoperatively. Outcomes were assessed using the Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS), visual analog scale (VAS) for pain, Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC), Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation (SANE), and Tegner activity scale at all follow-up time points. The examination of preoperative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was performed using the Area Measurement and Depth and Underlying Structures (AMADEUS) score, and the examination of MRI at 24 months was performed using the Magnetic Resonance Observation of Cartilage Repair Tissue (MOCART) 2.0 score.

Results:

There were 34 male and 28 female patients (mean age, 38.79 ± 10.78 years) with symptomatic cartilage lesions with a mean defect size of 2.53 ± 1.24 cm2. Lesions were predominantly International Cartilage Repair Society grade 3 located in the region of the femoral condyles. Concomitant surgery was performed in 40.3% of patients. The total KOOS score significantly improved from 62.4 ± 13.1 at baseline to 74.4 ± 15.9 at 24 months ( P < .001). The secondary outcome measures of the VAS, WOMAC, and SANE showed a similar pattern, with score improvements in the follow-up period compared to baseline. The mean AMADEUS score was 64.75 ± 13.87, while the mean MOCART 2.0 score was 62.88 ± 9.86, among 20 available patients. The revision surgery rate was 8.1% mainly because of hypertrophy (6.5%).

Conclusion:

Among this cohort of patients, minced cartilage implantation demonstrated satisfying 2-year outcomes with increased patient-reported outcome measure scores from 3 to 24 months postoperatively. Regenerated tissue quality on MRI was comparable to that using other cartilage repair methods and showed no associations with patient characteristics or patient-reported outcome measures. Larger cohorts, longer postoperative intervals, and comparable trials are needed to further evaluate the role of this technique in treating cartilage defects.
Reduce Prenatal Maternal Stress to Improve Pregnancy and Birth Outcomes: Recommendations for U.S. Policy
Authors: Lobel Marci , Preis Heidi
Published: December 2024

High maternal stress during pregnancy is a risk factor for preterm birth and low birthweight, which endanger infant, child, and adult health and development. Interventions to alleviate the conditions that contribute to pregnant women's stress and to diminish its harmful consequences can target both societal and individual levels. Policy-relevant examples include: expanding healthcare access and screening to identify women experiencing high stress or engaged in risky behaviors, reducing the prevalence of unintended pregnancy and widening access to abortion, improving the living conditions of women in under-resourced communities, diversifying and training healthcare providers to reduce discriminatory treatment of pregnant women of color, and ensuring paid maternal leave and affordable childcare for all. Measures that alleviate stress and its harms to pregnancy promote healthier outcomes for mothers and babies and benefit society at large.
Mechanism of Hyperactive PLCγ1 Signaling in T-Cell Leukemia/Lymphoma
Authors: Zeng Longhui , Zhang Xinyan , Xiong Yiwei , Hajicek Nicole , Sondek John , Su Xiaolei
Published: December 2024

The phospholipase PLCγ1 is essential for T cell activation. It is frequently mutated in Adult T-cell leukemia/lymphoma (ATLL), Peripheral T-cell lymphomas (PTCL), and Cutaneous T-cell lymphoma (CTCL). However, the molecular mechanisms of PLCγ1 mutation in pathogenesis of these T cell malignancies remains unclear. Liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS) is an emerging principle in organizing cellular signaling. The dysregulation of LLPS derived by aberrant protein aggregation is progressively implicated as pathological mechanism in tumorigenesis. We previously reported that PLCγ1 structurally promotes LLPS of linker for activation of T cells (LAT) to form condensates in physiological TCR signaling. These lead us to hypothesize that leukemia associated PLCγ1 mutations enhanced TCR signaling and T cell growth by promoting abnormal LLPS.

Three frequent and persistent PLCγ1 mutations (R48W, S345F, and D1165H) were chosen in this study. The mutated PLCγ1 recombinant proteins significantly boosted membrane associated LAT condensation compared with wild type (WT) at physiological concentration in a membrane-based biochemical reconstitution system. Increased condensation of LAT was confirmed in live T cells through total internal reflection fluorescence (TIRF) microcopy. Consequently, the downstream signaling including calcium influx and ERK phosphorylation were enhanced in T cell cancer lines harboring PLCγ1 mutations. PLCγ1 mutations also significantly induced the secretion of cytokines and chemokines such as IL-2 and CXCL10. Ectopically expression of PLCγ1 mutants in human primary T cells promotes T cell proliferation, CD69 expression, and effector memory T cell development. Together, these results suggested that leukemia-associated PLCγ1 mutations drive abnormal LLPS to boost TCR signaling and promote T cell proliferation.

We also determined if PLCγ1 mutations render any drug resistance by testing a few T cell lymphoma drugs in clinical use. The T cell lymphoma cell line Hut78 expressing PLCγ1 mutations showed resistance to histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitors. Moreover, PLCγ1 mutations reduced apoptosis under HDAC inhibition, with a company of enhanced Bcl-2 expression. The Human protein kinase phosphorylation array assay was performed to reveal the mechanism underlying drug resistance. We found that inhibiting MAPK could reverse the HDAC inhibitor resistance at non-cytotoxicity concentrations. These results demonstrated that PLCγ1-MAPK signaling axis confers the HDAC inhibitor resistance.

In summary, leukemia-associated PLCγ1 mutations facilitate abnormal LLPS formation to enhance the T cell receptor signaling. Gain-of-function of PLCγ1 mutations cause drug resistance to HDAC inhibitors, which can be rehabilitated by inhibiting the MAPK pathway. Our work reveals molecular mechanisms underlying T cell lymphomagenesis and provides solutions to patients suffering from drug resistance.