bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Data from A Phase II Trial of the Bruton Tyrosine-Kinase Inhibitor Zanubrutinib (BGB-3111) in Patients with Relapsed/Refractory Waldenström Macroglobulinemia
Authors: An Gang , Zhou Daobin , Cheng Shu , Zhou Keshu , Li Jianyong , Zhou Jianfeng , Xie Liping , Jin Jie , Zhong Liye , Yan Lingzhi , Guo Haiyi , Du Chenmu , Zhong Jinhua , Yu Yiling , Wu Binghao , Qiu Lugui
Published: October 2024

AbstractPurpose:
Although Bruton tyrosine kinase (BTK) inhibitors have demonstrated promising efficacy in patients with Waldenström macroglobulinemia (WM), data in Asian populations are scarce. This trial is the first to investigate the effect of a BTK inhibitor in Chinese patients with relapsed/refractory (R/R) WM.
Patients and Methods:
Patients with R/R WM with at least one prior regimen were enrolled into this single-arm, multicenter, phase II study (NCT03332173) and received zanubrutinib 160 mg twice daily until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity. The primary endpoint was major response rate (MRR), as assessed by an independent review committee. Secondary endpoints included progression-free survival, overall response rate, duration of major response, and safety.
Results:
Forty-four patients were enrolled. After a median follow-up of 33.0 (range, 3.2–36.5) months, MRR in all patients was 69.8%, with very good partial response or better in 32.6% of patients. All mutation groups benefited from zanubrutinib treatment (MRR in patients with MYD88L265P mutation, 73%; MRR in patients with MYD88 wild type mutation, 50%). A higher response rate was seen in the MYD88L265P/CXCR4WT population, compared with the other populations. Median progression-free survival and median duration of major response were not reached. The most frequently reported grade ≥3 treatment-emergent adverse events (AEs) were neutrophil count decreased (31.8%), and platelet count decreased and pneumonia (20.5% each). No case of atrial fibrillation/flutter occurred.
Conclusions:
Zanubrutinib achieved a high rate of response that was durable and deep in patients with R/R WM across all subgroups, and potentially confers a positive benefit–risk profile for WM.
Data from A Randomized, Phase III Study of Lenvatinib in Chinese Patients with Radioiodine-Refractory Differentiated Thyroid Cancer
Authors: Zheng Xiangqian , Xu Zhengang , Ji Qinghai , Ge Minghua , Shi Feng , Qin Jianwu , Wang Feng , Chen Guang , Zhang Yuan , Huang Rui , Tan Jian , Huang Tao , Li Sijin , Lv Zhongwei , Lin Yansong , Guo Zhuming , Kubota Tomoki , Suzuki Takuya , Ikezawa Hiroki , Gao Ming
Published: October 2024

AbstractPurpose:
Lenvatinib has shown efficacy in treating radioiodine-refractory differentiated thyroid cancer (RR-DTC) in the multinational phase III SELECT study; however, it has not been tested in Chinese patients with RR-DTC.
Patients and Methods:
Chinese patients with confirmed RR-DTC (n = 151) were randomly assigned 2:1 to receive lenvatinib 24 mg/day or placebo in 28-day cycles. The primary endpoint was progression-free survival, and key secondary endpoints included objective response rate and safety. Analyses for progression-free survival and objective response rate were conducted using Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors v1.1 and confirmed by independent imaging review. All adverse events were assessed and monitored.
Results:
Progression-free survival was significantly longer with lenvatinib treatment [n = 103; median 23.9 months; 95% confidence interval (CI), 12.9–not estimable] versus placebo (n = 48; median 3.7 months; 95% CI, 1.9–5.6; hazard ratio = 0.16; 95% CI, 0.10–0.26; P < 0.0001). The objective response rate was 69.9% (95% CI, 61.0–78.8) in the lenvatinib arm and 0% (95% CI, 0–0) in the placebo arm. At data cutoff, 60.2% of patients receiving lenvatinib remained on treatment; treatment-emergent adverse events led to lenvatinib discontinuation in 8.7% of patients. Overall, treatment-emergent adverse events of grade ≥3 occurred in 87.4% of patients in the lenvatinib arm, the most common being hypertension (62.1%) and proteinuria (23.3%).
Conclusions:
Lenvatinib at a starting dose of 24 mg/day significantly improved progression-free survival and objective response rate in Chinese patients with RR-DTC versus placebo. There were no new or unexpected toxicities. Results are consistent with those from SELECT involving patients with RR-DTC.
Anti-Reflux Ureteroileal Anastomosis for Orthotopic Ileal Neobladder Using Wallace Technique in a Single Trough
Authors: ElSaeed Karim , Moustafa Hany , Abdelghani Sherif , ElAwady Hossam
Published: October 2024

Introduction: The aim of this study was to evaluate the modification of the subserous extramural tunnel for non-refluxing ureteroileal anastomosis in U-shaped pouches using the Wallace technique with a single trough. Methods: This prospective study was conducted from 2017 to 2022 in a single tertiary center after approval from the Research Ethics Committee of our institution (approval number: FWA 000017585). 45 patients’ candidates for radical cystectomy and orthotopic urinary diversion were included in this study. The patients were diverted using a U-shaped pouch with ureteroileal anastomosis, combining the extramural serous-lined tunnel and Wallace techniques in a single trough. Operative time and complications, including ureteric obstruction, reflux, and renal function, were recorded within 1 year. Results: The modified ureteroileal anastomosis combined with the extramural serous-lined tunnel and Wallace techniques had a relatively short operative time (mean 132.2 ± 18.3 min) and short bowel segment incorporation (30 cm). In 43 patients, vesicoureteral reflux occurred in only 2 patients (4.7%). One case of anastomotic stricture was diagnosed (2.3%), which increased to 2 cases (4.7%) after 1 year. Three patients (7%) developed pyelonephritis during the year. The mean serum creatinine level of the patients before the operation was 1.2 mg/dL, which increased to 1.4 mg/dL 6 months postoperatively. Conclusion: A modification of the subserous extramural tunnel for non-refluxing ureteroileal anastomosis in U-shaped pouch appears to be a good simple alternative that is less time consuming and using a shorter segment of bowel for orthotopic diversion with a comparable complication rate.
Current Basic Research in Normothermic Machine Perfusion
Authors: Hosgood Sarah A. , Nicholson Michael L.
Published: October 2024

Background: Normothermic machine perfusion (NMP) is gradually being introduced into clinical transplantation to improve the quality of organs and increase utilisation. This review details current understanding of the underlying mechanistic effects of NMP in the heart, lung, liver, and kidney. It also considers recent advancements to extend the perfusion interval in these organs and the use of NMP to introduce novel therapeutic interventions, with a focus on organ modulation. Summary: The re-establishment of circulation during NMP leads to the upregulation of inflammatory and immune mediators, similar to an ischaemia-reperfusion injury response. The level of injury is determined by the condition of the organ, but inflammation may also be exacerbated by the passenger leucocytes that emerge from the organ during perfusion. There is evidence that damaged organs can recover and that prolonged NMP may be advantageous. In the liver, successful 7-day NMP has been achieved. The delivery of therapeutic agents to an organ can aid repair and be used to modify the organ to reduce immunogenicity or change the structure of the blood group antigens to create a universal donor blood group organ. Key Messages: The application of NMP in organ transplantation is a growing area of research and is increasingly being used in the clinic. In the future, NMP may offer the opportunity to change practice. If organs can be preserved for days on an NMP system, transplantation may become an elective rather than an emergency procedure. The ability to introduce therapies during NMP is an effective way to treat an organ and avoid the complexity of treating the recipient.
Development of a Triplex Endpoint PCR Assay for the Detection of SARS-CoV-2: Insights on Cost-Efficiency and Method Design
Authors: Vintilă Camelia , Coșeriu Razvan Lucian , Mare Anca Delia , Ciurea Cristina Nicoleta , Togănel Radu , Simion Anastasia , Cighir Anca , Man Adrian
Published: October 2024

Introduction: Lower respiratory tract infections, including COVID-19, have a substantial global impact, making the development of diagnostic tests crucial. The study aimed to develop a new, accurate, fast, and cost-effective PCR-based detection method for SARS-CoV-2, applicable in limited settings and capable of detecting all current variants and potential future pathogens. Methods: The study was conducted between 2020 and 2022 at the molecular biology department of Mures County Clinical Hospital (MCCH), Romania. Initially, pharyngeal and nasal secretions were collected and processed using the real-time qRT-PCR method for routine COVID-19 diagnosis. Ninety-two samples were randomly selected to develop the assay, including samples from different infection periods and negative controls. Complementary DNA was prepared from the selected samples, and the presence and integrity of the extracted RNA were evaluated by amplifying the GAPDH housekeeping gene. Primers for three specific viral genes (N, ORF1ab, and S) were designed, and their efficiency was evaluated using endpoint PCR and sequencing. Finally, the method was optimized and implemented as a one-step triplex PCR assay for routine diagnostic use. Results: The molecular laboratory at the MCCH analyzed a total of 41,818 samples between June 2020 and December 2022. Among these samples, 26.15% tested positive for SARS-CoV-2, while 70.9% were negative and 2.95% were inconclusive or invalid. Three peaks of positive tests were observed in November 2020, April 2021, and February 2022. The study selected 92 preserved RNA samples for triplex PCR assay development, validating the primers’ specificity and confirming the quality of the nucleic acids. The comparative analysis showed the efficiency and accuracy of the endpoint reverse transcription triplex PCR method (RT-PCR), indicating its potential as a cost-effective alternative to real-time reverse transcription PCR (qRT-PCR) in low-income countries with limited infrastructure for COVID-19 testing. Conclusion: This method has the potential to facilitate large-scale diagnosis of SARS-CoV-2 infections, allowing for rapid and appropriate therapeutic management and ongoing monitoring of patients. Additionally, the method can be easily adapted for the detection of other pathogens.
Armas, votos e razões: um estudo de caso sobre o estatuto do desarmamento à luz da teoria e sociologia da legislação
Authors:   Universidade de São Paulo. Faculdade de Direito, Ribeiro Rodrigo Marchetti
Published: October 2024

Usando o método da codificação de argumentos legislativos, o autor reconstruiu sistematicamente todo o debate do período de 1999 a 2003 que culminou no Estatuto do Desarmamento (Lei 10.826/2003), destacando as diferentes perspectivas em disputa. Aqui, por ter sido efetivamente praticada, e não só proposta, tal metodologia ganha contornos concretos, com soluções testadas e encontradas para os problemas que o pesquisador empírico do Direito enfrenta. Como um dos artigos do Estatuto (o art. 35, que proibia o comércio de armas de fogo) ficou sujeito a referendo popular em 2005, o processo decisório foi ampliado e, com o tempo, converteu-se, segundo uma visão armamentista, em uma forma plebiscito, manifestando a contrariedade da população ao Estatuto. A pesquisa também discute os efeitos dessa legislação sobre a redução da criminalidade violenta e a ascensão de discursos armamentistas durante o governo Bolsonaro (2018-2022), os quais se servem de argumentos que remetem ao liberalismo clássico para justificar a ampliação da autotutela como exercício de direitos fundamentais.
Cardiovascular Disease Pathogenicity Predictor (CVD-PP): A Tissue-Specific In Silico Tool for Discriminating Pathogenicity of Variants of Unknown Significance in Cardiovascular Disease Genes
Authors: Ramaker Megan E. , Abdulrahim Jawan W. , Corey Kristin M. , Ramaker Ryne C. , Kwee Lydia Coulter , Kraus William E. , Shah Svati H.
Published: October 2024

BACKGROUND:

Interpretation of variants of uncertain significance (VUSs) remains a challenge in the care of patients with inherited cardiovascular diseases (CVDs); 56% of variants within CVD risk genes are VUS, and machine learning algorithms trained upon large data resources can stratify VUS into higher versus lower probability of contributing to a CVD phenotype.

METHODS:

We used ClinVar pathogenic/likely pathogenic and benign/likely benign variants from 47 CVD genes to build a predictive model of variant pathogenicity utilizing measures of evolutionary constraint, deleteriousness, splicogenicity, local pathogenicity, cardiac-specific expression, and population allele frequency. Performance was validated using variants for which the ClinVar pathogenicity assignment changed. Functional validation was assessed using prior studies in >900 identified VUS. The model utility was demonstrated using the Catheterization Genetics (CATHGEN) cohort.

RESULTS:

We identified a top-ranked model that accurately prioritized variants for which ClinVar clinical significance had changed (n=663; precision-recall area under the curve, 0.97) and performed well compared with conventional in silico methods. This model (CVD pathogenicity predictor [CVD-PP]) also had high accuracy in prioritizing VUS with functional effects in vivo (precision-recall area under the curve, 0.58). In CATHGEN, there was a greater burden of higher CVD-PP scored VUS in individuals with dilated cardiomyopathy compared with controls (
P
=8.2×10
−
15
). Of individuals in CATHGEN who harbored highly ranked CVD pathogenicity predictor VUS meeting clinical pathogenicity criteria, 27.6% had clinical evidence of disease. Variant prioritization using this model increased genetic diagnosis in CATHGEN participants with a known clinical diagnosis of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (7.8%–27.2%).

CONCLUSIONS:

We present a cardiac-specific model for prioritizing variants underlying CVD syndromes with high performance in discriminating the pathogenicity of VUS in CVD genes. Variant review and phenotyping of individuals carrying VUS of pathogenic interest support the clinical utility of this model. This model could also have utility in filtering variants as part of large-scale genomic sequencing studies.
Immunocastration caused dysfunction of Père David’s deer (Elaphurus davidianus)
Authors: Chu Pengfei , Yuan Hongping , Zhang Yichuan , Li Haotian , Wang Libo , Xie Shengbin , Yuan Baodong
Published: October 2024

The population density of Père David’s deer (Elaphurus davidianus) in Jiangsu Dafeng Milu Nature Reserve was excessively high due to an overemphasis on population recovery, while ignoring the crucial relationship between population size and habitats. This study used immunocastration to capture four Père David’s deer and observed their behavior. Their blood was collected for sex hormone testing, transcriptomics, and metabolomics analysis. In addition, six uncastrated Père David’s deer were included as control group. The results showed that reproductive behavior was absent in castrated Père David’s deer, while castrated individuals exhibited a significant decrease in blood hormone testosterone concentration compared to uncastrated Père David’s deer. Transcriptome and metabolome analyses revealed 450 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and five differentially expressed metabolites (DEMs), Combined analysis of transcriptome and metabolic data revealed a significant correlation between DEGs and DEMs. It shows that using immune castration to control the population of Père David’s deer may disrupt their cell apoptosis and disturb the cell cycle, leading to abnormal pathways and promoting the onset of many diseases. Therefore, a cautious approach should be adopted toward immune castration as a means of population control. This study can provide valuable references for the standardized management of Père David’s deer populations.
Egypt in Chinese Media
Authors: Hassan Ahmed Abdelhafiz Mohamed
Published: October 2024

In recent years, Sino-African relations have thrived and the level of co-operation between China and several African countries, including Egypt, has reached new levels. This study focuses on how China–Egypt relations are reflected in the Chinese online newspaper Xinhua’s headlines, using qualitative and quantitative methods, combining critical discourse analysis and systemic functional linguistics to explore the ideological tendencies evident in these headlines. The study finds that while the influence of the newspaper’s ideology in highlighting China’s support and efforts in Egypt was apparent, it also demonstrated Egypt’s role in regional and international engagement in Africa and the Middle East. In addition, the newspaper also paid attention to various events and topics, such as Egypt’s internal affairs, society, economy and tourism, and reported on these events extensively, reflecting the interest of the newspaper and Chinese media in Egyptian news.
Public Sector Performance Reforms in Developing Countries
Authors: Shahda Elias A.
Published: October 2024

Public service performance reform has long been a primary concern for scholars, researchers, and citizens alike. A well-functioning public sector has been considered a key element for socio-economic development, especially in developing countries. A World Bank team has been able to shed light on the successful experiences of fifteen developing countries in their improvement of the performance of public sector employees. Through this experience, the Bank’s team has been able to offer insights into the relevance of five interrelated drivers (political support, institutional capacity-building, incentives, transparency, and technology) to improving performance. This successful experience is a stepping-stone for others and an inspiration for the Lebanese government, which is continually attempting to find answers and solutions to its persistent administrative problems. The article shows that these drivers were not present in the Lebanese context and were thus unable to improve the performance of the country’s civil servants.
Qaddafi’s Downfall in Libya
Authors: Iftikhar Mohammad Hamza
Published: October 2024

Muammar Qaddafi’s downfall arguably came as a surprise to many given that he had been able to successfully run a personalist regime from 1969 to 2011. This paper examines the factors that led to Qaddafi’s downfall and seeks to determine which ones can be primarily credited with causing the end of his rule. The paper theorizes that there are four main factors that led to Qaddafi’s downfall: a) governance, b) military, c) media, and d) international intervention. It argues that governance and the military proved to be a source of strength up until the Arab Spring—which was an exogenous shock in itself. Out of the four variables, the paper also finds that during the Arab Spring, the external intervention proved to be a detrimental factor for the Qaddafi regime as it destroyed the military apparatus. The protests also brought to the fore the polarization and grievances of the people that had been simmering under the wraps of the personalistic governance model of Qaddafi. Thus, the Arab Spring converted governance and military from sources of strength into sources of weakness, thereby contributing towards Qaddafi’s downfall.
Leading the Transformation Towards the Modern State
Authors: Jaafar Mohammad Ali
Published: October 2024

This study explores a key political problem that countries suffer from and leads to a gap between the citizen and state which is the absence of the ability to affect political transformation. This should naturally result from the permanent development of citizens’ needs and the modernization of governance systems. The study discusses the importance of developing a comprehensive integrated project and the adoption of a policy-making process in a way that allows decision-makers to understand this real problem and confront it. Therefore, the study shows how the state crisis is a political transformation crisis that is expressed in mass movements, in which people strive for improvement. This requires a scientific framework approach that is consistent with the doctrine of the modern state in order to identify the problem of political transformation with its multiple dimensions to provide a practical guideline to lead political transformation.
New taxa in ancient collections: the Carboniferous Palaeodictyoptera (Insecta) from the Natural History Museum of Lille (France)
Authors: NEL ANDRÉ , OUDOIRE THIERRY , GARROUSTE ROMAIN
Published: October 2024

Some Palaeodictyoptera from the collection of the Museum of Natural History of Lille (France) are described or revised. These are the spilapterid Spilaptera belgica sp. nov. and Gallospilaptera pectinata gen. et sp. nov., the breyeriid Breyeria delruei Laurentiaux, 1949 and Breyeropsis stopai Laurentiaux & Laurentiaux-Vieira, 1951 (as junior synonym of B. delruei stat. nov.), and the lithomanteid ‘Hadroneuriopsis cf. heidi Laurentiaux, 1958’ (= Lithomantis heidi (Laurentiaux, 1950)).
New species of braconid parasitoid wasps from the subfamilies Doryctinae and Brachistinae from late Eocene Baltic amber
Authors: BELOKOBYLSKIJ SERGEY A. , PANKOWSKI MADELINE V. , ZALDÍVAR-RIVERÓN ALEJANDRO
Published: October 2024

Three new fossil species of braconid wasps are described and illustrated from late Eocene Baltic amber: Palaeorhoptrocentrus tenuicornis sp. nov. (Doryctinae), Taphaeus obscurus sp. nov. (Brachistinae: Diospilini), and Eubazus electrus sp. nov. (Brachistinae: Brachistini). Keys to the known species of Palaeorhoptrocentrus Belokobylskij, 2023 and to species of Eubazus Nees, 1812 described from Baltic amber are provided. An illustrated redescription of Blacus (Electroblacus) facialis Brues, 1933 (Brachistinae: Blacini) is also provided, along with digital photographs for the first time of the female of B. (Electroblacus) facialis, whose type material was lost during the World War II. We also provide morphological notes and digital photographs of a male belonging to an undescribed species of Meteorus (Euphorinae).
Radiographic Variants Associated With Allergic Fungal Rhinosinusitis: Key Differences for Pre-Operative Planning
Authors: Erwin Dylan Z. , Liu Matthew Y. , Krysinski Mason R. , Choi Alexander M. , Tantiwongkosi Bundhit , Chen Philip G.
Published: October 2024

Objectives:

Allergic fungal rhinosinusitis (AFRS) often results in expansion of disease beyond the paranasal sinuses, which may put important structures, such as the anterior ethmoid artery (AEA) or lateral lamella of the cribiform, at risk of injury during endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS). This study aims to compare the AEA to skull base (AEA-SB) length in patients with AFRS versus chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP), as well as additional anatomic variants.

Methods:

A single institutional retrospective chart review of patients undergoing ESS for AFRS and CRSwNP was performed. AEA-SB length were compared between the 2 groups. Other anatomic variants, including Keros measurement and presence of supraorbital ethmoid air cells (SOEC), concha bullosa (CB), sphenoethmoidal, and infraorbital ethmoid cells were measured and compared between the 2 groups.

Results:

Twenty-one patients were included in each cohort. The AFRS group was younger in age ( P = .015) and had a significantly longer AEA-SB length ( P = .014) compared to the CRSwNP group. No significant differences were observed between the 2 groups regarding Keros measurement, presence of concha bullosa, infraorbital ethmoid, sphenoethmoidal, or SOEC. No association was seen between AEA-SB length and Keros class in either group.

Conclusions:

AFRS harbors anatomical differences when compared to CRSwNP, with the former associated with a longer AEA-SB length. This key difference should be considered in preoperative planning to prevent injury to the AEA in patients undergoing ESS for AFRS.
Developing Correction Methods by Revisiting the Concept of Effective Thickness in Attenuated Total Reflection Spectroscopy
Authors: Mayerhöfer Thomas G. , Popp Jürgen
Published: October 2024

We propose a new way of deriving the effective thickness in attenuated total reflection (ATR) spectroscopy, initially introduced by Hansen and Harrick in 1965. While following Hansen's approach, our derivation is more straightforward and includes an intermediate approximation that more closely aligns with results derived from Fresnel's equations, particularly for organic and biological materials. Using this intermediate approximation, we present improved estimations for the effective thicknesses with s- and p-polarized light. These estimations enabled us to enhance a recently developed ATR correction scheme that relies on effective thickness. Additionally, we examined the wavelength dependence of the product of wavenumber and effective thickness, observing that it bears a resemblance to the refractive index function of the sample. This similarity increases with the angle of incidence and the refractive index of the ATR crystal. Based on this observation, we introduce a simple correction scheme using the Kramers–Kronig transformed absorbance. This correction has the potential to address spectral shifts, facilitating applications in pattern recognition and spectra identification.
Exploring Pharmacists’ Perceptions of Text-Based Artificial Intelligence in Resident and Student Education
Authors: Smetana Keaton S. , Postema Scott , Smetana Megan E.
Published: October 2024

Introduction: As artificial intelligence (AI) becomes increasingly integrated into various professional fields, understanding its impact on pharmacy education is crucial. This study explores pharmacists’ perceptions of AI’s role in enhancing educational and professional practices, particularly focusing on the generation of educational content and analytical tasks. Objectives: The primary objective was to assess pharmacists’ concerns and perceived benefits regarding the use of AI in pharmacy education, examining variations across different age groups and years of practice. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was completed by 446 pharmacists who actively precept pharmacy residents and students. Respondents practiced across 35 states with over half (53.4%) being in Ohio. The survey included items on concerns about AI’s quality and accuracy, human interaction, plagiarism, and its potential benefits in data analysis and research literature summarization. Responses were analyzed to identify trends across demographic categories, including age and years in practice. Results: Of the respondents, 67.9% expressed concerns about the quality and accuracy of AI-generated content, while 50.9% were concerned about plagiarism. Younger pharmacists (73.8% of those aged 20-29) showed heightened concern about accuracy compared to older groups (56.8% of those aged 60+). In contrast, 57.8% of respondents recognized AI’s potential benefits for data analysis, with experienced pharmacists (>20 years in practice) being more likely to see these advantages (62.2%). Conclusion: The findings indicate a need for targeted educational strategies to address AI literacy and ethical use in pharmacy education. Integrating AI tools that support educational objectives while addressing these concerns could enhance the efficacy and acceptance of AI in pharmacy practice. Further research should explore the development of training programs that align with the evolving expectations and technological competencies of different pharmacist demographics.
A novel control strategy for PWM rectifier based on underactuated characteristics
Authors: Huang Zixin , Wang Wei , Yu Chengsong , Lu Junjie , Zhou Yaosheng
Published: October 2024

In this paper, a double closed loop controller based on equivalent input disturbances (EID) error perturbation is proposed to solve the problem of abnormal operation of three-phase pulse width modulation (PWM) rectifier caused by load and external conditions. By analysing the buffeting problem and response time problem caused by traditional sliding mode in the current control process, a new current control method of terminal fuzzy sliding mode is designed. The system error is estimated by EID error estimation, and fuzzy control is introduced to improve the accuracy of error estimation, which solves the current buffeting and response problem. In order to solve the problem of response rate and harmonics in the voltage controller design, the extended state observer (ESO) in active disturbance rejection control (ADRC) control is improved, EID error estimation is introduced, the response rate and anti-disturbance ability of the system are further improved, and the harmonics of the system are suppressed. The experimental results show the effectiveness and superiority of the proposed method.
Retailer Differentiation in Social Media: An Investigation of Firm-Generated Content on Twitter
Authors: Lysyakov Mikhail , Kannan P.K. , Viswanathan Siva , Zhang Kunpeng
Published: October 2024

Social media platforms have been used by firms for a variety of purposes: building firms’ brand image, increasing customer engagement, and providing customer service, among others. However, there is little research on content strategies adopted by traditional rival firms competing on online social media platforms. This article seeks to fill this gap by examining whether retailers traditionally identified as close competitors mirror this rivalry in their social media content strategies on Twitter (now known as X). To this end, this study introduces a new metric for assessing competition on online social media, based on content similarity. The authors find that retailers competing closely in traditional contexts show greater divergence in their content strategies on social media, and firms whose social media content strategies are less similar to content strategies of their close traditional rivals benefit from higher engagement and acquire new followers faster. In examining the mechanism of the effect, the authors find that these divergent firms’ improved performance is attributable to their superior ability to leverage the higher-level affordances of Twitter as compared with their rivals. The results of this study offer valuable insights for firms seeking to distinguish their social media content from that of their competitors.
Editor’s Note: Nationwide problems, local solutions
Authors: Preston Teresa
Published: October 2024

Kappan’s editor-in-chief shares highlights from the November 2024 issue, which focuses on student attendance and absenteeism.
No one-size-fits-all solution to chronic absenteeism
Authors: Dee Thomas S.
Published: October 2024

As chronic absenteeism fails to ease from post-pandemic high levels, schools can turn to many reforms to promote school attendance. Commonly recommended strategies involve increasingly targeted and intensive tiers of interventions. Researcher Thomas S. Dee writes that the research base of many of these interventions is not strong. Schools facing financial and capacity restraints may have difficulty putting interventions in place. Dee suggests that educators obtain information on attendance barriers in their schools and base solutions on those data. Sharing information about attendance with families is one promising intervention.
Connections and choice for high schoolers
Authors: Vail Kathleen
Published: October 2024

Chronic absenteeism is a symptom of a lack of student engagement. Many students feel that schools are not welcoming places and that what they learn in the classroom is not applicable in the real world. Schools like Metropolitan Regional Career and Technical Center (the Met) in Rhode Island offer an alternative to educating high school students that taps into their need for connection to adults and the world outside the classroom. The Met is the first school founded by Big Picture Learning, which has grown into a network of public schools across the country and internationally. Its interest-based learning approach gives students opportunities to explore internships and projects based on their interests and passions. The students devote two days a week to internships during the school year.
PDK Connection: Organizational news about PDK International
Authors: Lane James F.
Published: October 2024

In this month’s PDK Connection, CEO James F. Lane highlights a visit to a new Educators Rising site in Pennsylvania by U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona. Lane also addresses AI in the classroom and promotes new lesson assessments for Education Rising Curriculum users. Elsewhere in this regular department, PDK members share the one change they’d like to see in today’s schools and recount this summer’s trip to Vietnam with the PDK International Travel Program.
The Effectiveness of Face Mask Mandates on COVID-19 Transmission in Utah
Authors: Horn Alicia C. , Shoemaker Holly E. , Keegan Lindsay T.
Published: October 2024

Objective:

Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, the effectiveness of face mask mandates was intensely debated. The objective of this study was to describe how face mask mandates at the state, county, and local levels differed in their effectiveness in reducing the number of COVID-19 cases in the jurisdiction where the mandate was implemented and throughout Utah.

Methods:

We used publicly available data from the Utah Department of Health and Human Services. We calculated the effectiveness of face mask mandates ( EFm) in each local health district after 3 key mandates: the enactment of face mask mandates in Salt Lake and Summit counties (SLSC) on June 28, 2020, and June 27, 2020, respectively; the enactment of a statewide face mask mandate on November 9, 2020; and the lifting of the statewide face mask mandate on April 10, 2021.

Results:

Most counties in Utah had a reduction in the growth rate of COVID-19 cases after enactment of face mask mandates. We found an average 11.9% reduction in EFm after the introduction of the SLSC face mask mandates, with 8 of 13 local health districts experiencing a reduction, and an average 12.7% reduction after introduction of the statewide mandate, with 12 of 13 local health districts experiencing a reduction. After mandates were lifted, many counties had an increase in EFm.

Conclusion:

Face mask mandates were an effective way to reduce transmission of COVID-19 in local jurisdictions and in neighboring jurisdictions in Utah. Our evidence supports the use of face mask mandates as a way to prevent disease transmission and be better equipped to respond to future pandemics.
Culture goes East: Mapping the shifting geographies of urban cultural capital through major cultural buildings
Authors: Gogishvili David , Müller Martin
Published: October 2024

Culture has become a major component of policies to put cities on the global map. This article traces the shifting geographies of urban cultural capital using the lens of major cultural buildings, such as the Guggenheim Bilbao Museum and the Louvre Abu Dhabi, which cities often mobilise to compete for attention, reputation, tourists and investment. Based on a custom-built database containing 438 major cultural buildings opened worldwide between 1990 and 2019, this article finds a strong growth in the number and total cost of these buildings throughout the three decades, far exceeding global GDP growth. What is more, there is a geographical shift from the established cities of high culture in North America and Western Europe towards Asia, with a particular concentration in China and the Gulf region. The growth of investment in culture and its fast-changing urban geographies urge a more profound integration of culture in urban studies and a deeper consideration of the role of cultural capital in making global cities.
The Son of Man and the Sea: Hydromachy and Conquest in Mark’s Sea Voyages
Authors: Vette Nathanael
Published: October 2024

This study proposes a new reading of Jesus’ confrontations with the elemental and the demonic on the sea of Galilee – the stilling of the storm (Mk 4.35–41), the Gerasene demoniac (5.1–20) and Jesus walking on water (6.45–52) – in light of literary and material records associating hydromachy (battles against sea and river gods) with the conquest of land. Taken together these episodes reveal a Galilean Messiah who by subduing demonic waters is able to go on and conquer territory long held to be part of Israel, thereby fulfilling well-documented hopes for the restoration of the land and becoming the Jewish (as opposed to Roman) ‘lord of land and sea’.
A Roadmap for Navigating Phenomenon-Based Research in Management
Authors: Lumineau Fabrice , Kong Dejun Tony , Dries Nicky
Published: October 2024

McNamara and Schleicher have identified four principal paths for contributing to the Journal of Management (JOM): theoretical insights, phenomenon-driven research, research methodologies, and review papers. This editorial focuses on phenomenon-based research, emphasizing its potential for enhancing management knowledge by offering a nuanced understanding of real-world phenomena. Unlike traditional approaches, phenomenon-based research prioritizes the complexity of phenomena over the immediate generation of theoretical contributions. Grounded in established theory, phenomenon-based research utilizes the phenomenon itself as the primary source of insight, facilitating the development of relevant organizational frameworks. We propose a multistep framework encompassing phenomenon selection, framing, data collection, and study constraints, highlighting criteria—Pertinence, Reach, Insightfulness, Magnification, and Expediency (PRIME)—to guide scholars in identifying meaningful phenomena. Additionally, we discuss constraints that may limit research, including cultural, logistical, ethical, academic, and resource-related challenges (CLEAR). By addressing these considerations, we encourage management scholars to explore diverse and impactful phenomena, ultimately aiming to position JOM as a leading platform for phenomenon-based research and its contributions to real-world organizational challenges. This editorial advocates for a balanced approach that values both theory-driven and phenomenon-driven research in advancing management scholarship.
Geological (Dis)orientations: Training Sites, Storytelling, and Fieldwork in the Chilean Andes
Authors: Fonck Martín
Published: October 2024

This article explores place-based geological storytelling by examining the role of training sites in the geoscientific learning process. Based on ethnographic work conducted with geoscientists in the Liquiñe-Ofqui Geological Fault, I illustrate how sites located in the Chilean Andes have historically been used to practice geoscientific storytelling and to learn the language and theory of plate tectonics. Building on scholarship in STS and the history of science which has documented how plate tectonics and the associated paradigm shift changed the authority of field geology, I show how, rather than replacing fieldwork, place-based observations still play a central role in helping students gain a professional vision in geology. Reflecting on fieldwork training sites and geoscientists’ negotiated attempts to tell geological stories, this article speaks to the question: from where are the stories of the earth told?
The Vajrayāna personality. A mixed quantitative-qualitative study on Tibetan Buddhism in Spain / La personalidad Vajrayāna. Estudio mixto cuantitativo-cualitativo con budistas tibetanos de España
Authors: Apud Ismael , Ortuño Victor E. C. , Vallverdú Jaume , Millet Daniel , Barreto Daniela , Mota Gonzalo , Aquino Fabricio , Gulisano Martina
Published: October 2024

This article presents a psychological study with Tibetan Buddhism from Spain. Employing a mixed quantitative-qualitative approach, the study investigates how Buddhist beliefs, meditation practices and social belongingness are related to personality traits. In the quantitative analysis, significative lower scores in Sensation Seeking-Impulsivity and Activity were found when comparing the Tibetan Buddhist group ( N = 30) with a non-Buddhist religious group ( N = 30) and a non-religious group ( N = 30). Furthermore, lower scores in Neuroticism-Anxiety and Future Anxiety were found when comparing a Buddhist group with a religious group. In-depth interviews with a subset of Buddhist participants ( N = 8) shed light on the subjective perceived psychological effects of Buddhist practices, highlighting their role in coping with problems related to Future Anxiety, Sensation Seeking-Impulsivity, Aggression-Hostility and Neuroticism-Anxiety. The qualitative analysis also reveals an ‘ascetic’ profile among participants, characterized by an energetic and empathic style, yet with less attachment to conventional social norms and materialistic achievements.
Dietary creatine and carcinogenic biomarkers in adult population
Authors: Baltic Sonja , Grasaas Erik , Ostojic Sergej M.
Published: October 2024

Background: Several reports suggest potential cytotoxic effects of creatine, possibly due to its role in facilitating the formation of food-borne chemical carcinogenic compounds. Aim: This cross-sectional study aims to investigate the relationship between creatine consumption and various carcinogenic biomarkers in blood and urine among individuals aged 18 years and older, utilizing data from the 2013–2014 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). Methods: Daily creatine intake was assessed using the Dietary Data databases, which were compiled from individual in-person 24-h food recall interviews. The concentrations of carcinogenic compounds (heterocyclic amines, acrylamide, and formaldehyde) were extracted from NHANES 2013–2014 Laboratory Data database. Results: The final analysis included 1763 adult respondents, of whom 907 (51.4%) were female. The mean daily creatine intake was 0.83 ± 0.77 grams (95% CI, from 0.80 to 0.87). Regression analysis revealed no significant relationship between daily creatine intake and most carcinogenic biomarkers, except for a significant correlation (Model 1) between creatine intake and acrylamide levels ( B = −3.999, ß = −0.088, p = 0.05). Model 2 (demographics) confirmed a significant relationship between daily creatine intake and circulating acrylamide ( B = −3.490, ß = −0.077, p = 0.02), as well as for blood levels of glycidamide ( B = −2.992, ß = −0.068, p = 0.05) and urinary 2-Amino-1-methyl-6-phenylimidazo[4,5-b]pyridine (B = 0.190, ß = 0.088, p = 0.03). However, no correlation between creatine consumption and any carcinogenic biomarkers remained significant after adjusting for nutritional factors (Model 3) ( p > 0.05). Conclusion: In conclusion, the consumption of dietary creatine may be considered safe and not associated with increased levels of above carcinogens in the general population.
The relationship between serum vitamin D, bone mineral density, and injury in collegiate acrobatics and tumbling athletes
Authors: Lee Katherine M. , Gallucci Andrew R. , Forsse Jeffrey S. , Chapman-Lopez Tomas J. , Torres Ricardo , de Souza Leticia Cherpe , Heileson Jeffery L , Funderburk LesLee K.
Published: October 2024

Background: Medical staff for indoor aesthetic sports such as acrobatics and tumbling (A&T) is often concerned with athletes’ bone mineral density (BMD), serum vitamin D (SvD), and associated injury risks. Aim: To evaluate the relationship between BMD, SvD, and injury among A&T athletes. Methods: 42 (19 tops, 23 bases) female A&T athletes aged 19.6 (±1.17) years participated. Two samples of SvD were taken. Injury and BMD data were provided by support staff. Bivariate and multivariate analysis assessed relationships between and among variables. Results: Participants experienced a decrease in SvD (6.093 ± 10.973). Spine BMD was significantly higher in bases compared to tops (p = 0.039). BMD and SvD did not differ based on injuries sustained. Conclusion: Relationships between SvD, BMD, and injury were not identified. Positional differences in BMD may be related to the demands of each role. Participants possessed low SvD and high BMDs, which may provide useful information for medical staff.
Rural-urban differentials in undernutrition among women in India: Evidence from a decomposition approach
Authors: Ali Asif , Sen Susanta , Banerjee Amit , Chakma Namita
Published: October 2024

Background: Global healthcare and nutrition policies have not eliminated the pressing public health issue of undernutrition, which remains a paramount public health concern in countries like India, coinciding with overweight and obesity, in the form of dual burden of malnutrition. Aim: This study delves into the rural-urban differential in undernutrition among reproductive-aged women in India for targeted policy interventions and to achieve universal health coverage. Methods: Data from the recent iteration of the National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5; 2019–21) were utilized to examine the factors influencing rural-urban differentials in women's undernutrition. A set of logistic regression and Fairlie's decomposition analysis are employed to identify the associated covariates and understand the factors driving these differentials. Results: The analysis reveals that rural women are significantly more vulnerable to undernutrition compared to urban counterparts, with factors such as education, wealth status, age, and dietary diversity playing key roles. The decomposition analysis of the rural-urban gap revealed that the variables considered in the study accounted for approximately 75% of the disparity. The difference in household wealth between rural and urban areas contributed about 63% of the explained gap, followed by educational status (16%), age group (11%), dietary diversity (8%), religion (5%), and media exposure (4%). Conclusion: The findings underscore the importance of targeted interventions addressing socio-economic inequalities to mitigate undernutrition among women in India. Enhancing access to education, improving economic opportunities, promoting dietary diversity, and challenging cultural norms are crucial steps towards achieving equitable nutritional outcomes and reducing the existing rural-urban disparity.
Natural matrix reinforced with a coordination compound and magnetic nanoparticles to remove organic contaminants from water
Authors: Toledo-Jaldin Helen Paola , Blanco-Flores Alien , Ávila-Márquez Delia Monserrat , Montes-Moreno Oscar Roberto , Vilchis-Nestor Alfredo Rafael , López-Téllez Gustavo , Dorazco-González Alejandro
Published: October 2024

Sugarcane bagasse, a metal-organic framework, and magnetite nanoparticles form a composite that can be used as absorbent materials for the removal of three pesticides (atrazine, carbofuran, and iprodione). Magnetite nanoparticles were synthesized, functionalized, and supported on the SCB while the metal-organic framework grew on the surface. The adsorption process was performed in water; the pH was close to 7, the room temperature was 23 °C, and the separation of the material was promoted by a magnetic field. The maximum adsorption capacities of the composite were 52.38 mg g−1 for iprodione, 55.45 mg g−1 for atrazine, and 48.03 mg g−1 for carbofuran. The adsorption process occurs through hydrogen bridges with certain steric impediments owing to the ramifications and large sizes of the molecules involved.